CA1127324A - Coil spring and spring assembly - Google Patents
Coil spring and spring assemblyInfo
- Publication number
- CA1127324A CA1127324A CA329,821A CA329821A CA1127324A CA 1127324 A CA1127324 A CA 1127324A CA 329821 A CA329821 A CA 329821A CA 1127324 A CA1127324 A CA 1127324A
- Authority
- CA
- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- adjacent
- coil springs
- spring
- offset
- convolutions
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Expired
Links
Classifications
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47C—CHAIRS; SOFAS; BEDS
- A47C27/00—Spring, stuffed or fluid mattresses or cushions specially adapted for chairs, beds or sofas
- A47C27/04—Spring, stuffed or fluid mattresses or cushions specially adapted for chairs, beds or sofas with spring inlays
- A47C27/06—Spring inlays
- A47C27/07—Attaching, or interconnecting of, springs in spring inlays
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47C—CHAIRS; SOFAS; BEDS
- A47C27/00—Spring, stuffed or fluid mattresses or cushions specially adapted for chairs, beds or sofas
- A47C27/04—Spring, stuffed or fluid mattresses or cushions specially adapted for chairs, beds or sofas with spring inlays
- A47C27/06—Spring inlays
- A47C27/066—Edge stiffeners
Landscapes
- Springs (AREA)
- Mattresses And Other Support Structures For Chairs And Beds (AREA)
- Pivots And Pivotal Connections (AREA)
- Invalid Beds And Related Equipment (AREA)
Abstract
A B S T R A C T
An improved spring assembly and coil spring therefor is provided, for a mattress or the like. The spring assembly includes a plurality of spiral coil springs, arranged in substantially parallel rows, a plurality of cross helicals lacing together adjacent springs in the same row, and at least a pair of adjacent coil springs, with laced-together terminal convolutions, that are restricted in their movement relative each other to a maximum angle of deflection. Such pairs of coil springs have a hinging action, relative one another, about the adjacent offset portions of their terminal convolutions, until the maximum deflection angle between the offsets is reached. Further loading of one spring after this angle is reached results in compression of adjacent springs and greater resistance to loading for a given degree of spring compression, i.e.
greater firmness.
An improved spring assembly and coil spring therefor is provided, for a mattress or the like. The spring assembly includes a plurality of spiral coil springs, arranged in substantially parallel rows, a plurality of cross helicals lacing together adjacent springs in the same row, and at least a pair of adjacent coil springs, with laced-together terminal convolutions, that are restricted in their movement relative each other to a maximum angle of deflection. Such pairs of coil springs have a hinging action, relative one another, about the adjacent offset portions of their terminal convolutions, until the maximum deflection angle between the offsets is reached. Further loading of one spring after this angle is reached results in compression of adjacent springs and greater resistance to loading for a given degree of spring compression, i.e.
greater firmness.
Description
Z7 3~d9L
COIL SPRING AND SPRING ASSE~LY
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
The present invention is directed toward an improved spiral coil spring for a spring assembly suitable for a mattress innerspring unit. The present invention is also directed toward an improved spring assembly for an inner-spring unit, which assembly includes at least a pair of the improved spiral coil springs.
An innerspring unit generally includes a plurality of spiral coil springs arranged in a plurality of substantially parallel rows. The springs of each row are interconnected by lacing each spring to its adjacent springs with cross helicals. Cross helicals are spiral coils of substantially lesser cross-sectional diameter than the-coil springs.
The cross helicals extend transversely of the rows of the coil springs, in both the upper and lower surfaces of the unit, and lace about the end or terminal convolutions of adjacent coil springs. Terminal convolutions of coil springs generally are closed loops which can be formed . with two opposed offset portions. Coil springs that have offsets are arranged in an innerspring unit so that the offsets are adjacent one another in each row and encircled by the cross helicals.
It is desirable to provide an innerspring unit that conforms to the shape of a supported body. Innerspring units containing coil springs with offset portions generally have a greater conformance to a supported body than units having coil springs without such offsets. The spring conformance is attributable, at least in part, to the hinging action between adjacent springs. Conventional spring offsets are U-shaped members and a cross helical ,; ~
", ~ : :
~.~.Z~3'~
COIL SPRING AND SPRING ASSE~LY
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
The present invention is directed toward an improved spiral coil spring for a spring assembly suitable for a mattress innerspring unit. The present invention is also directed toward an improved spring assembly for an inner-spring unit, which assembly includes at least a pair of the improved spiral coil springs.
An innerspring unit generally includes a plurality of spiral coil springs arranged in a plurality of substantially parallel rows. The springs of each row are interconnected by lacing each spring to its adjacent springs with cross helicals. Cross helicals are spiral coils of substantially lesser cross-sectional diameter than the-coil springs.
The cross helicals extend transversely of the rows of the coil springs, in both the upper and lower surfaces of the unit, and lace about the end or terminal convolutions of adjacent coil springs. Terminal convolutions of coil springs generally are closed loops which can be formed . with two opposed offset portions. Coil springs that have offsets are arranged in an innerspring unit so that the offsets are adjacent one another in each row and encircled by the cross helicals.
It is desirable to provide an innerspring unit that conforms to the shape of a supported body. Innerspring units containing coil springs with offset portions generally have a greater conformance to a supported body than units having coil springs without such offsets. The spring conformance is attributable, at least in part, to the hinging action between adjacent springs. Conventional spring offsets are U-shaped members and a cross helical ,; ~
", ~ : :
~.~.Z~3'~
- 2 -encircles the base portions of these U-shaped members.
The encircled base portions of adjacent offsets both are disposed within the circumference of the cross helical, substantially parallel to its principal axis. Although they are disposed in close proximity, an extensive amount of hinging action between them is allowed; the base portions can move past one another. The hinging action permits the coil springs to be compressed somewhat independently of each other, conforming to the shape of a body being supported or other load.
It is also desirable to provide an innerspring unit having a great degree of firmness. Firmness can be defined as the extent of coil spring compression versus the applied load. Firmness of a unit is dependent upon many variables, lS such as the unit's coil count (number of coils per unit surface area) and the coil stiffness. For a given unit, raising the coil count or substituting coil springs of greater stiffness will decrease the extent of spring compression versus the applied load, but will also increase the expense of manufacturing such unit. Another method for increasing the firmness of an innerspring unit, described in U. S. Patent ~o. 3,653,082, is to crimp or compress the cross helicals about the offsets of coil springs at the longitudinal side borders of the unit. The crimps fric-tionally engage the cross helicals to the encircled offse~s,restricting the hinging action between the interconnected offsets and therefore between adjacent coil springs. This last method, however, reduces the extent of spring confor-mation to the shape of a supported body, which is dependent upon the hinging action.
It is desirable that a mattress innerspring unit be both firm and have a high degree body conformation, without significantly sacrificing one characteristic for the other. It is also desirable to maximize the firmness and the body conformation characteristics of an innerspring unit without adding substantially to the manufacturing expense for such unit. It is also desirable to provide varying degrees of firmness and body conformation ~o ~2~32~
different portions of an innerspring unit, for instance, more firmness to the longitudinal si~de borders and more body conformat;`on to the center or end portions. It may also be desirable to provide additional firmness at other regions of an innerspring unit, such as the longitudinal mid-region of a very wide mattress.
Accordingly, the present invention seeks to provide an improved spiral coil spring and a spring assembly containing such coil springs, which is firmer than units having conventional spring offsets and yet has the desired degree of body conformation.
The invention also seeks to provide a spring assembly with improved coil springs in which spring conformation and firmness characteristics are optimized without substantially increasing the cost of the unit.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
The inven'ion broadly provides spiral coil springs with offset configurations that allow hinging action between adjacent coil springs to a predetermined degree and thereafter, upon further loading, transfer a part of the pressure to the surrounding springs, causing a greater resistance to the load, i.e. greater firmness. The present invention also provides a spring assembly with at least some of its coil springs having such an offset configuration, to optimize both the characteristics of spring conformation and firmness.
The improved spiral coil springs each have at least one offset~ on at least one of its two terminal convolutions, that has alternating projections forming a sinuous or serpentine configuration. A spring assembly of the invention includes at least a pair of such coil springs positioned adjacent one another so that the projections of their adjacent offsets are substantially superimposed on one another. The projections preferably extend beyond the circumference of the encircling cross helical. Such offsets are free to hinge relative one another until a ' ,''
The encircled base portions of adjacent offsets both are disposed within the circumference of the cross helical, substantially parallel to its principal axis. Although they are disposed in close proximity, an extensive amount of hinging action between them is allowed; the base portions can move past one another. The hinging action permits the coil springs to be compressed somewhat independently of each other, conforming to the shape of a body being supported or other load.
It is also desirable to provide an innerspring unit having a great degree of firmness. Firmness can be defined as the extent of coil spring compression versus the applied load. Firmness of a unit is dependent upon many variables, lS such as the unit's coil count (number of coils per unit surface area) and the coil stiffness. For a given unit, raising the coil count or substituting coil springs of greater stiffness will decrease the extent of spring compression versus the applied load, but will also increase the expense of manufacturing such unit. Another method for increasing the firmness of an innerspring unit, described in U. S. Patent ~o. 3,653,082, is to crimp or compress the cross helicals about the offsets of coil springs at the longitudinal side borders of the unit. The crimps fric-tionally engage the cross helicals to the encircled offse~s,restricting the hinging action between the interconnected offsets and therefore between adjacent coil springs. This last method, however, reduces the extent of spring confor-mation to the shape of a supported body, which is dependent upon the hinging action.
It is desirable that a mattress innerspring unit be both firm and have a high degree body conformation, without significantly sacrificing one characteristic for the other. It is also desirable to maximize the firmness and the body conformation characteristics of an innerspring unit without adding substantially to the manufacturing expense for such unit. It is also desirable to provide varying degrees of firmness and body conformation ~o ~2~32~
different portions of an innerspring unit, for instance, more firmness to the longitudinal si~de borders and more body conformat;`on to the center or end portions. It may also be desirable to provide additional firmness at other regions of an innerspring unit, such as the longitudinal mid-region of a very wide mattress.
Accordingly, the present invention seeks to provide an improved spiral coil spring and a spring assembly containing such coil springs, which is firmer than units having conventional spring offsets and yet has the desired degree of body conformation.
The invention also seeks to provide a spring assembly with improved coil springs in which spring conformation and firmness characteristics are optimized without substantially increasing the cost of the unit.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
The inven'ion broadly provides spiral coil springs with offset configurations that allow hinging action between adjacent coil springs to a predetermined degree and thereafter, upon further loading, transfer a part of the pressure to the surrounding springs, causing a greater resistance to the load, i.e. greater firmness. The present invention also provides a spring assembly with at least some of its coil springs having such an offset configuration, to optimize both the characteristics of spring conformation and firmness.
The improved spiral coil springs each have at least one offset~ on at least one of its two terminal convolutions, that has alternating projections forming a sinuous or serpentine configuration. A spring assembly of the invention includes at least a pair of such coil springs positioned adjacent one another so that the projections of their adjacent offsets are substantially superimposed on one another. The projections preferably extend beyond the circumference of the encircling cross helical. Such offsets are free to hinge relative one another until a ' ,''
3~4 maximum deflection angle, between the planes of the projec-tions, is reached. This deflection angle is dependent upon the dimensions of the projections and the internal diameter of the encircling cross helical. When this maximum angle is reached, hinging action between the springs is retarded by the cross helical and loading pressure on one of the coil springs will be partially transferred to the other coil spring. This transference of loading pressure results in a lessening of spring compression relative to the amount of load. Greater firmness is therefore provided without sacrificing the desirable amount of a hinging action between springs and therefore the conformation characteristic of the unit.
The coil springs of the invention, when laced together by cross helicals, can be considered restricted pairs of coil springs or springs having restricted pairs of adjacent offsets.
The offset projections lie substantially in the same plane as the other portions of the spring's terminal convolution and extend alternately in opposite directions.
Adjacent offsets are configured so as to be substantially superimposed on one another. If pressure is applied to an overlying coil spring of a restricted pair, its inwardly-extending offset projection will be prevented from substan-tial movement downward by the underlying projection ofthe other coil spring while its outwardly-extending projec-tion will move in an upward arc until restricted by the encircling cross helical. Thereafter, further loading pressure will be partially transferred to the other coil springs, lessening the extent of compression of the loaded coil spring per amount of load. A similar but opposite action occurs when pressure is applied to a coil spring having an underlying offset.
In a preferred embodiment a terminal convolution of a coil spring will be formed with alternating projections on both of lts opposed offsets. Moreover, a coil spring may be formed with both of its terminal convolutions so con-figured.
~27329~
The invention comprehends in one claimed aspect a coil spring for a spring assembly comprising, a plurality of convolutions ending in a closed-loop terminal convolution with the terminal convolution being Eormed with at least one offset portion configured to interact with an adjacent offset portion of a terminal convolution of an adjacent coil spring forming with the coil spring a pair of adjacent coil springs in a spring assembly to define with the adjacent offset portion means for allowing substantially unre-stricted hinging motion between the convolutions of the pair of adjacent coil springs, about an axis substantially defined by the adjacent offset portions, to a maximum predetermined degree upon loading of the coil spring, and for transferring part of the loading to the adjacent coil spring upon further loading of the coil spring when the hinging motion between the pair of adjacent coil springs becomes restricted to the maximum predetermined degree.
The invention pertains to another claimed aspect for a spring assembly for an innerspring unit comprising, a plurality of spiral coil springs including first and second adjacent coil springs, with each of the first and second coil springs being formed with at least one terminal convolution, the convolutions of the first and second coil springs lying adjacent each other and having respectively a first and a second offset portion.
Means are provided for restricting hi.nging movement between the first and second terminal convolutions to a predetermined maximum degree. The first and second offset portions and the restricting means interact to allow substantially unrestricted hinging move-ment between the terminal convolutions of the first and second coil springs about an axis substantially defined by the first and second offset portions to a predetermined maximum degree upon loading of the first coil spring, and to restrict the hinging movement to cause a transfer of a part of the load to the second coil spring upon further loading of the first coil spring.
,, ~Z~ 4 The invention and its objects, method of operation, features, and advantages will be more fully understood by reference to the following drawings and detailed description.
DESCRIPTION OF T~IE DRAWINGS
FIGURE 1 is a partially cut-away perspective view of a mattress having an innerspring unit embodying the features of the present invention;
FIGURE 2 is a fragmentary top plan view of the inner-spring unit of FIGURE 1 embodying the features of the present invention;
FIGURE 3 is an enlarged fragmentary top plan view of the innerspring unit of FIGURE l;
FIGURE 4 is a cross-sectional side view of the inner-spring unit of FIGURE 1, taken along line 4-4 of FIGURE 3;
FIGURE 5 is a diagrammatic side view of two inter-connected coil springs of the innerspring unit of FIGURE l;
FIGURE 6 is a diagrammatic side view of two inter-connected coil springs of the innerspring unit of FIGURE
FIGURE 7 is a diagrammatic side view of two inter-connected coil springs of the innerspring unit of FIGURE
l;
FIGURE 8 is a diagrammatic side view of two inter-connected coil springs of the innerspring unit of FIGURE
1; and FIGURE 9 is a top plan view of a preferred spring of the innerspring unit of FIGURE 1.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF T~E DRAWINGS
Referring now to the drawings, particularly FIGURE 1, there is illustrated a mattress embodying the features of the present invention, indicated generally by the reference numeral 10, The mattress 10 includes an innerspring unit, designated generally by the reference numeral 12, which is enclosed in a suitable mattress~ cover 14. The innerspring unit 12 includes a plurality of spiral coil springs, designated by the reference numeral 16, which springs 16 are aligned in a plurality of rows. Each spiral coil 16 is 73'~4 formed of a series of convolutions ending in end or terminal convolutions 20 and is interconnected to adjacent coil springs 16 by cross helicals 22 which lace about the terminal convolutions 20. Each terminal convolution 20 is formed with two opposed offset portions 24 which are encircled by the cross helicals 22. The cross helicals 22 restrict movement of adjacent offset portions 24, relative to one another, to a maximum deflection angle, retarding hinging action between springs 16. Loading pressure on one coil spring 16 will be partially transferred to adjacent coil springs 16, increasing the firmness of the unit 12.
The hinging action allowed between springs 16 before the maximum deflection angle is reached is, however, sufficient for a desirable amount of spring conformation to a supported body.
Referring now to FIGURE 2 also, the spiral coil springs 16 of the innerspring unit 12 are arranged in a plurality of rows that extend longitudinally of the inner-spring unit 12. Adjacent coil springs 16 in each row are sufficiently close to one another so that their adjacent offset portions 24 at least partially overlap. The cross helicals 22 extend transversely of the innerspring unit 12 and lace about the overlapped offset portions 24 of pairs of coil springs 16 in each row, from one longitudinal side of the innerspring unit 12 to the other.
Each coil spring 16 has a terminal convolution 20 at both of its opposite ends and the terminal convolutions 20 of the coil springs 16 form both the upper and lower surfaces of the innerspring unit 12. The cross helicals 22 lace together the offset portions 24 of the coil springs 16 in both the upper and lower surfaces of the unit 12 in the same manner. For simplicity and clarity, only one of the two terminal convolutions 20 of the coil springs 16 are illustrated and the opposite terminal convolutions 20 can be considered identical.
Referring now to FIGURES 3 and 4 also, the offset portions 24 of the terminal convolutions 20 are formed with alternating projections, designated generally 26, at 7.
, 3'~4 least some of which extend beyond the circumference of the encircling cross helical 22. Each terminal convolution 20, including its opposed offset portions 24, lies substan-tially in a single plane. Adjacent coil springs 16 are disposed with their adjacent alternating projections 26 at least partially overlapped, and the interco~mecting cross helical 22 partially encircles the projections 26. Although other arrangements can be envisioned, each coil spring 16 is preferably positioned so that one of its offset portions 24 overlies the offset portion 24 of the adjacent coil spring 16 and its other offset portion 24 underlies the offset portion 24 of the opposite adjacent coil spring 16.
The alternating projections 26 of the offset portions 24 are preferably formed so as to include a base member 28, a first or inwardly-extending projection 30, and a second or outwardly~extending projection 32. The first and second projections 30, 32, therefore, extend in opposite directions relative to one another. If the offset portions 24 are first envisioned as having conventional U-shaped configurations, the alternating-projection configuration deviates from this U-shaped configuration by having the first and second projections 30, 32 extend on opposite sides of the base of the hypothetical U-shaped offset.
The cross helical 22 preferably encircles the overlapped offsets 24 so that their base portions 28 lie within its circumference, substantially aligned with the cross helical's principal axis, and portions of both the first and outside of its circumference. The effects of such construction will be described in detail below.
The two opposed offsets 24 of a terminal convolution 20 are formed as superimposable mirror images of one another. The right-hand offset portion 24 of a coil spring 16 will coincide with the left-hand offset portion 24 of the adjacent coil springs 16. Adjacent, overlapped offset portions 24 will, therefore, be superimposed on one another;
Referring now to FIGURES 5, 6, 7, and 8 also, when a coil spring 16 is subjected to loading, i.e. compressed, ~ ~273'~gL
g its offset portions 24 will hinge relative to the offset portions 24 of the adjacent springs 16. More specifically, an offset po\rtion 24 that overlies the adjacent offset portion 24 will begin to rotate. Its Eirst or inwardly-e~tending projection 30 will be substantially preventedfrom downward movement by the underlying second or outwardly-extending projection 32 of the adjacent offset portion 24.
Its second projection 32 will be free to move in an upward arc relative the underlying offset portion 24. Its base member 28 will also move in an upward arc. The planes of these overlapped offset portions 24, which are substantially parallel to one another when the springs 26 are under zero load, will form an angle, the angle of the deflection.
In a similar manner, when the coil spring 16 of an underlying offset portion 24 is compressed, the second or outwardly-extending projection 32 is prevented from movemen~
upward by the first or inwardly-extending projection 30 of the overlying offset portion 24. The underlying offset portion 24, however, rotates relative to the overlying offset portion 24 because its base member 28 and first projection 32 is allowed to move in a downward arc.
Again, the planes of the offset portions 24 will move from a relative parallel position to form an angle of deflection.
This movement of one offset portion 24 relative its adjacent offset portioh 24 when its coil spring 16 is compressed provides a hinging action between the adjacent springs 16. The hinging action provides a degree of independent spring compression, allowing the innerspring unit 12 generally to conform to the shape of a reclined body. This conformation characteristic of the innerspring unit 12 results in a desirable degree of comfort to a body reclined thereon. If total hinging action was allowed, that is, if the angle of deflection was unrestricted, an innerspring unit would be less firm, for a given coil count and coil stiffness, than the unit 12 of the present invention. The coil springs 16 of the innerspring unit 12 are not allowed a complete hinging action, as described in detail below; the hinging action is allowed only until a ~ ~73'~
predetermined, maximum deflection angle is reached. ~en a given coil spring 16 is further compressed or loaded, the adjacent coil springs 16 wi.ll be compressed along with it. The more coil springs 16 that are placed under compres-sion for a given load, the greater the resistance to thatload will be; the innerspring unit 12 will have a greater degree of firmness.
The inner diameter of the encircling cross helical 22, relative to the dimensions of the alternating projections 26, defines the maximum angle of deflection. As described above, either the first or inwardly-extending projection 30 will rotate in a downwardly-extending arc, or the second or outwardly-extending projection will rotate in an upward arc upon compression of its coil spring 16. The extent of movement, relative to the overlying or underlying adjacent offset portion 22, will be restricted by the encircling cross helical 22. Each of the projections 30, 32 have leg portions 34 and tip or peak portions 36. The peak portions 36 lie outside of the encircling cross helical 22 while the leg portions 34 are disposed within its circumference. As the angle of deflection increases upon movement of a given offset 24, the leg portions 34 will approach the inner surfaces of the encircling cross helical 22 until they abut, preventing further movement of the offset portion 24 relative its adjacent offset portion 24. The maximum angle of deflection between the offset planes is reached; no substantial movement of the offset portions 24, relative one another, is possible.
The innerspring unit 12 has the desirable degree of conformation to a reclined body because of the hlnging action between adjacent coil springs 16. The innerspring unit 12 also has a greater degree of firmness. A similar unit that does not have offset portions 24 formed with alternating projection 26, for instance a U-shaped offset portion, would be substantially less firm. The optimum firmness is provided without the expense of increasing the coil count of the unit or the stiffness of the individual coils, and without sacrificing the desired degree of spring conformation to the shape of a supported body.
~273'~4 The preferred angle of deflection is from about 0 to about 15 degrees. The angle chosen would however depend upon the degree of firmness desired and the other variables contributing to the firmness of the unit 12. A preferred coil spring 16, with offset portions that extend 1 to 1-1/4 inches from end-to-end (base line), would have alter-nating projections 30, 32 exten~in~ appro~imately 1/4 inch from the base line.
In a preferred embodiment, illustrated in FIGURE 9, the opposed offset portions of a coil spring 42 can differ from one another. This preferred coil spring 42 has a first and a second offset portion 44, 46 with different lengths. The first offset 44 has a first and a second projection 48, 50 but substantially no base member. The second offset portion 46 has a first and a second projection 52, 54 and a base member 56. The second offset portion 46 is about 25% longer than the first offset portion 44.
The configurations of offset portions illustrated and described herein are considered the preferred configurations, although other configurations may be envisioned which would provide the restricted spring hinging action of the present invention. Moreover, the invention has been described and illustrated for an innerspring unit 12 wherein all of the interconnected, adjacent coil springs 16 have offset portions 24 formed with alternating projections 26, in both the upper and lower surfaces of the unit 12.
This construction may, however, be provided only in a portion of the unit 12 where a controlled degree of spring conformation and firmness is desired. The construction of any given innerspring unit 12 may also be varied as to maximum angle of deflection in various portions of the unit 12, so as to provide different degrees of spring conformation and firmness to different portions of the unit 12.
It will be understood that changes may be made in the details of construction, arrangement and operation without departing ~rom the spirit of the invention, particularly as defined in the following claims.
,= .
i~ ,i
The coil springs of the invention, when laced together by cross helicals, can be considered restricted pairs of coil springs or springs having restricted pairs of adjacent offsets.
The offset projections lie substantially in the same plane as the other portions of the spring's terminal convolution and extend alternately in opposite directions.
Adjacent offsets are configured so as to be substantially superimposed on one another. If pressure is applied to an overlying coil spring of a restricted pair, its inwardly-extending offset projection will be prevented from substan-tial movement downward by the underlying projection ofthe other coil spring while its outwardly-extending projec-tion will move in an upward arc until restricted by the encircling cross helical. Thereafter, further loading pressure will be partially transferred to the other coil springs, lessening the extent of compression of the loaded coil spring per amount of load. A similar but opposite action occurs when pressure is applied to a coil spring having an underlying offset.
In a preferred embodiment a terminal convolution of a coil spring will be formed with alternating projections on both of lts opposed offsets. Moreover, a coil spring may be formed with both of its terminal convolutions so con-figured.
~27329~
The invention comprehends in one claimed aspect a coil spring for a spring assembly comprising, a plurality of convolutions ending in a closed-loop terminal convolution with the terminal convolution being Eormed with at least one offset portion configured to interact with an adjacent offset portion of a terminal convolution of an adjacent coil spring forming with the coil spring a pair of adjacent coil springs in a spring assembly to define with the adjacent offset portion means for allowing substantially unre-stricted hinging motion between the convolutions of the pair of adjacent coil springs, about an axis substantially defined by the adjacent offset portions, to a maximum predetermined degree upon loading of the coil spring, and for transferring part of the loading to the adjacent coil spring upon further loading of the coil spring when the hinging motion between the pair of adjacent coil springs becomes restricted to the maximum predetermined degree.
The invention pertains to another claimed aspect for a spring assembly for an innerspring unit comprising, a plurality of spiral coil springs including first and second adjacent coil springs, with each of the first and second coil springs being formed with at least one terminal convolution, the convolutions of the first and second coil springs lying adjacent each other and having respectively a first and a second offset portion.
Means are provided for restricting hi.nging movement between the first and second terminal convolutions to a predetermined maximum degree. The first and second offset portions and the restricting means interact to allow substantially unrestricted hinging move-ment between the terminal convolutions of the first and second coil springs about an axis substantially defined by the first and second offset portions to a predetermined maximum degree upon loading of the first coil spring, and to restrict the hinging movement to cause a transfer of a part of the load to the second coil spring upon further loading of the first coil spring.
,, ~Z~ 4 The invention and its objects, method of operation, features, and advantages will be more fully understood by reference to the following drawings and detailed description.
DESCRIPTION OF T~IE DRAWINGS
FIGURE 1 is a partially cut-away perspective view of a mattress having an innerspring unit embodying the features of the present invention;
FIGURE 2 is a fragmentary top plan view of the inner-spring unit of FIGURE 1 embodying the features of the present invention;
FIGURE 3 is an enlarged fragmentary top plan view of the innerspring unit of FIGURE l;
FIGURE 4 is a cross-sectional side view of the inner-spring unit of FIGURE 1, taken along line 4-4 of FIGURE 3;
FIGURE 5 is a diagrammatic side view of two inter-connected coil springs of the innerspring unit of FIGURE l;
FIGURE 6 is a diagrammatic side view of two inter-connected coil springs of the innerspring unit of FIGURE
FIGURE 7 is a diagrammatic side view of two inter-connected coil springs of the innerspring unit of FIGURE
l;
FIGURE 8 is a diagrammatic side view of two inter-connected coil springs of the innerspring unit of FIGURE
1; and FIGURE 9 is a top plan view of a preferred spring of the innerspring unit of FIGURE 1.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF T~E DRAWINGS
Referring now to the drawings, particularly FIGURE 1, there is illustrated a mattress embodying the features of the present invention, indicated generally by the reference numeral 10, The mattress 10 includes an innerspring unit, designated generally by the reference numeral 12, which is enclosed in a suitable mattress~ cover 14. The innerspring unit 12 includes a plurality of spiral coil springs, designated by the reference numeral 16, which springs 16 are aligned in a plurality of rows. Each spiral coil 16 is 73'~4 formed of a series of convolutions ending in end or terminal convolutions 20 and is interconnected to adjacent coil springs 16 by cross helicals 22 which lace about the terminal convolutions 20. Each terminal convolution 20 is formed with two opposed offset portions 24 which are encircled by the cross helicals 22. The cross helicals 22 restrict movement of adjacent offset portions 24, relative to one another, to a maximum deflection angle, retarding hinging action between springs 16. Loading pressure on one coil spring 16 will be partially transferred to adjacent coil springs 16, increasing the firmness of the unit 12.
The hinging action allowed between springs 16 before the maximum deflection angle is reached is, however, sufficient for a desirable amount of spring conformation to a supported body.
Referring now to FIGURE 2 also, the spiral coil springs 16 of the innerspring unit 12 are arranged in a plurality of rows that extend longitudinally of the inner-spring unit 12. Adjacent coil springs 16 in each row are sufficiently close to one another so that their adjacent offset portions 24 at least partially overlap. The cross helicals 22 extend transversely of the innerspring unit 12 and lace about the overlapped offset portions 24 of pairs of coil springs 16 in each row, from one longitudinal side of the innerspring unit 12 to the other.
Each coil spring 16 has a terminal convolution 20 at both of its opposite ends and the terminal convolutions 20 of the coil springs 16 form both the upper and lower surfaces of the innerspring unit 12. The cross helicals 22 lace together the offset portions 24 of the coil springs 16 in both the upper and lower surfaces of the unit 12 in the same manner. For simplicity and clarity, only one of the two terminal convolutions 20 of the coil springs 16 are illustrated and the opposite terminal convolutions 20 can be considered identical.
Referring now to FIGURES 3 and 4 also, the offset portions 24 of the terminal convolutions 20 are formed with alternating projections, designated generally 26, at 7.
, 3'~4 least some of which extend beyond the circumference of the encircling cross helical 22. Each terminal convolution 20, including its opposed offset portions 24, lies substan-tially in a single plane. Adjacent coil springs 16 are disposed with their adjacent alternating projections 26 at least partially overlapped, and the interco~mecting cross helical 22 partially encircles the projections 26. Although other arrangements can be envisioned, each coil spring 16 is preferably positioned so that one of its offset portions 24 overlies the offset portion 24 of the adjacent coil spring 16 and its other offset portion 24 underlies the offset portion 24 of the opposite adjacent coil spring 16.
The alternating projections 26 of the offset portions 24 are preferably formed so as to include a base member 28, a first or inwardly-extending projection 30, and a second or outwardly~extending projection 32. The first and second projections 30, 32, therefore, extend in opposite directions relative to one another. If the offset portions 24 are first envisioned as having conventional U-shaped configurations, the alternating-projection configuration deviates from this U-shaped configuration by having the first and second projections 30, 32 extend on opposite sides of the base of the hypothetical U-shaped offset.
The cross helical 22 preferably encircles the overlapped offsets 24 so that their base portions 28 lie within its circumference, substantially aligned with the cross helical's principal axis, and portions of both the first and outside of its circumference. The effects of such construction will be described in detail below.
The two opposed offsets 24 of a terminal convolution 20 are formed as superimposable mirror images of one another. The right-hand offset portion 24 of a coil spring 16 will coincide with the left-hand offset portion 24 of the adjacent coil springs 16. Adjacent, overlapped offset portions 24 will, therefore, be superimposed on one another;
Referring now to FIGURES 5, 6, 7, and 8 also, when a coil spring 16 is subjected to loading, i.e. compressed, ~ ~273'~gL
g its offset portions 24 will hinge relative to the offset portions 24 of the adjacent springs 16. More specifically, an offset po\rtion 24 that overlies the adjacent offset portion 24 will begin to rotate. Its Eirst or inwardly-e~tending projection 30 will be substantially preventedfrom downward movement by the underlying second or outwardly-extending projection 32 of the adjacent offset portion 24.
Its second projection 32 will be free to move in an upward arc relative the underlying offset portion 24. Its base member 28 will also move in an upward arc. The planes of these overlapped offset portions 24, which are substantially parallel to one another when the springs 26 are under zero load, will form an angle, the angle of the deflection.
In a similar manner, when the coil spring 16 of an underlying offset portion 24 is compressed, the second or outwardly-extending projection 32 is prevented from movemen~
upward by the first or inwardly-extending projection 30 of the overlying offset portion 24. The underlying offset portion 24, however, rotates relative to the overlying offset portion 24 because its base member 28 and first projection 32 is allowed to move in a downward arc.
Again, the planes of the offset portions 24 will move from a relative parallel position to form an angle of deflection.
This movement of one offset portion 24 relative its adjacent offset portioh 24 when its coil spring 16 is compressed provides a hinging action between the adjacent springs 16. The hinging action provides a degree of independent spring compression, allowing the innerspring unit 12 generally to conform to the shape of a reclined body. This conformation characteristic of the innerspring unit 12 results in a desirable degree of comfort to a body reclined thereon. If total hinging action was allowed, that is, if the angle of deflection was unrestricted, an innerspring unit would be less firm, for a given coil count and coil stiffness, than the unit 12 of the present invention. The coil springs 16 of the innerspring unit 12 are not allowed a complete hinging action, as described in detail below; the hinging action is allowed only until a ~ ~73'~
predetermined, maximum deflection angle is reached. ~en a given coil spring 16 is further compressed or loaded, the adjacent coil springs 16 wi.ll be compressed along with it. The more coil springs 16 that are placed under compres-sion for a given load, the greater the resistance to thatload will be; the innerspring unit 12 will have a greater degree of firmness.
The inner diameter of the encircling cross helical 22, relative to the dimensions of the alternating projections 26, defines the maximum angle of deflection. As described above, either the first or inwardly-extending projection 30 will rotate in a downwardly-extending arc, or the second or outwardly-extending projection will rotate in an upward arc upon compression of its coil spring 16. The extent of movement, relative to the overlying or underlying adjacent offset portion 22, will be restricted by the encircling cross helical 22. Each of the projections 30, 32 have leg portions 34 and tip or peak portions 36. The peak portions 36 lie outside of the encircling cross helical 22 while the leg portions 34 are disposed within its circumference. As the angle of deflection increases upon movement of a given offset 24, the leg portions 34 will approach the inner surfaces of the encircling cross helical 22 until they abut, preventing further movement of the offset portion 24 relative its adjacent offset portion 24. The maximum angle of deflection between the offset planes is reached; no substantial movement of the offset portions 24, relative one another, is possible.
The innerspring unit 12 has the desirable degree of conformation to a reclined body because of the hlnging action between adjacent coil springs 16. The innerspring unit 12 also has a greater degree of firmness. A similar unit that does not have offset portions 24 formed with alternating projection 26, for instance a U-shaped offset portion, would be substantially less firm. The optimum firmness is provided without the expense of increasing the coil count of the unit or the stiffness of the individual coils, and without sacrificing the desired degree of spring conformation to the shape of a supported body.
~273'~4 The preferred angle of deflection is from about 0 to about 15 degrees. The angle chosen would however depend upon the degree of firmness desired and the other variables contributing to the firmness of the unit 12. A preferred coil spring 16, with offset portions that extend 1 to 1-1/4 inches from end-to-end (base line), would have alter-nating projections 30, 32 exten~in~ appro~imately 1/4 inch from the base line.
In a preferred embodiment, illustrated in FIGURE 9, the opposed offset portions of a coil spring 42 can differ from one another. This preferred coil spring 42 has a first and a second offset portion 44, 46 with different lengths. The first offset 44 has a first and a second projection 48, 50 but substantially no base member. The second offset portion 46 has a first and a second projection 52, 54 and a base member 56. The second offset portion 46 is about 25% longer than the first offset portion 44.
The configurations of offset portions illustrated and described herein are considered the preferred configurations, although other configurations may be envisioned which would provide the restricted spring hinging action of the present invention. Moreover, the invention has been described and illustrated for an innerspring unit 12 wherein all of the interconnected, adjacent coil springs 16 have offset portions 24 formed with alternating projections 26, in both the upper and lower surfaces of the unit 12.
This construction may, however, be provided only in a portion of the unit 12 where a controlled degree of spring conformation and firmness is desired. The construction of any given innerspring unit 12 may also be varied as to maximum angle of deflection in various portions of the unit 12, so as to provide different degrees of spring conformation and firmness to different portions of the unit 12.
It will be understood that changes may be made in the details of construction, arrangement and operation without departing ~rom the spirit of the invention, particularly as defined in the following claims.
,= .
i~ ,i
Claims (23)
1. An improved spring assembly for an innerspring unit comprising:
a plurality of spiral coil springs arranged in a plurality of substantially parallel rows, said coil springs having opposed terminal convolutions forming the upper and lower surfaces of the unit;
a plurality of cross helicals extending transversely of the rows of coil springs, lacing together a plurality of adjacent springs about the adjacent portions of their terminal convolutions;
wherein at least a pair of said adjacent portions of the terminal convolutions of said coil springs that are laced together by a cross helical are each formed as offsets having a plurality of alternating projections, portions of which are encircled by said cross helical; and wherein said alternating projections of one offset substantially overlie the alternating projections of the second offset of said pair and movement of the offsets of a pair, relative to each other about an axis substantially parallel to said encircling cross helical, is substantially restricted to a maximum angle of deflection by said encircling cross helical.
a plurality of spiral coil springs arranged in a plurality of substantially parallel rows, said coil springs having opposed terminal convolutions forming the upper and lower surfaces of the unit;
a plurality of cross helicals extending transversely of the rows of coil springs, lacing together a plurality of adjacent springs about the adjacent portions of their terminal convolutions;
wherein at least a pair of said adjacent portions of the terminal convolutions of said coil springs that are laced together by a cross helical are each formed as offsets having a plurality of alternating projections, portions of which are encircled by said cross helical; and wherein said alternating projections of one offset substantially overlie the alternating projections of the second offset of said pair and movement of the offsets of a pair, relative to each other about an axis substantially parallel to said encircling cross helical, is substantially restricted to a maximum angle of deflection by said encircling cross helical.
2. The spring assembly of claim 1 wherein each offset of a restricted pair of adjacent offsets has a base portion and at least first and second oppositely-extending projections that extend beyond the circumference of said encircling cross helical when said base member is substantially aligned with the principal axis of said encircling cross helical.
3. The spring assembly of claim 2 wherein said base members and said first and second projections of offsets of a restricted pair overlap each other in substantially contiguous relationship.
4. The spring assembly of claim 3 which further includes a plurality of restricted pairs of adjacent offsets in both the upper and lower surfaces of the unit.
5. An improved spiral coil spring for a spring assembly, comprising:
a plurality of convolutions ending in two opposed terminal convolutions wherein at least one of said terminal convolutions includes at least one offset portion formed with alternating projections lying in the same plane;
said offset portion configured to interact with an adjacent offset portion of a terminal convolution of an adjacent coil spring forming with said coil spring a pair of adjacent coil springs in a spring assembly, to define with said adjacent offset portion means for allowing substantially unrestricted hinging motion to a maximum predetermined degree between said terminal convolutions of said pair of adjacent coil springs about an axis substantially defined by said adjacent offset portions upon loading of said coil spring, and for transferring part of the load to said adjacent coil spring upon further loading of said coil spring when said hinging motion becomes restricted to the maximum predetermined degree by a cross helical positioned to encircle parts of said adjacent offset portions.
a plurality of convolutions ending in two opposed terminal convolutions wherein at least one of said terminal convolutions includes at least one offset portion formed with alternating projections lying in the same plane;
said offset portion configured to interact with an adjacent offset portion of a terminal convolution of an adjacent coil spring forming with said coil spring a pair of adjacent coil springs in a spring assembly, to define with said adjacent offset portion means for allowing substantially unrestricted hinging motion to a maximum predetermined degree between said terminal convolutions of said pair of adjacent coil springs about an axis substantially defined by said adjacent offset portions upon loading of said coil spring, and for transferring part of the load to said adjacent coil spring upon further loading of said coil spring when said hinging motion becomes restricted to the maximum predetermined degree by a cross helical positioned to encircle parts of said adjacent offset portions.
6. The spiral coil spring of claim 5 wherein said offset with alternating projections includes at least a first and a second oppositely-extending projection.
7. The spiral coil spring of claim 6 wherein at least one of said terminal convolutions includes two opposed offset portions formed with alternating projections.
8. The spiral coil spring of claim 7 wherein said opposed offset portions of a terminal convolution have substantially mirror-image configurations.
9. The spiral coil spring of claim 7 wherein at least one of said offset portions includes a base member extending perpendicularly from a line bisecting either of said first and second alternately-extending projections.
10. An improved spring assembly for an innerspring unit comprising:
a plurality of spiral coil springs arranged in a plurality of substantially parallel rows, said spiral coil springs being formed of a plurality of convolutions ending in two opposed terminal convolutions;
said opposed terminal convolutions of said spiral coil springs lying substantially in opposed parallel planes when said spiral coil springs are substantially under zero load;
said spiral coil springs in a row being interconnected to the adjacent spiral coil springs, and said substantially parallel rows being interconnected to maintain said spiral coil springs in said assembly;
at least two adjacent terminal convolutions of said spiral coil springs each including at least one offset portion formed with at least two alternating projections lying in substantially the plane of the terminal convolution, said offset portions of said adjacent terminal convolutions being disposed in overlapping relationship; and means for encircling at least a portion of said alternating projections of each of said overlapped offset portions, said offset portions of said adjacent terminal convolutions and said encircling means cooperating to allow substantially free hinging movement about an axis substantially defined by said overlapping offset portions to a maximum deflection angle between said adjacent terminal convolutions upon loading of one of said adjacent coil springs, and to retard said hinging movement to cause a transfer of a part of the load to the other of said adjacent coil springs upon further loading of the one of said adjacent coil springs.
a plurality of spiral coil springs arranged in a plurality of substantially parallel rows, said spiral coil springs being formed of a plurality of convolutions ending in two opposed terminal convolutions;
said opposed terminal convolutions of said spiral coil springs lying substantially in opposed parallel planes when said spiral coil springs are substantially under zero load;
said spiral coil springs in a row being interconnected to the adjacent spiral coil springs, and said substantially parallel rows being interconnected to maintain said spiral coil springs in said assembly;
at least two adjacent terminal convolutions of said spiral coil springs each including at least one offset portion formed with at least two alternating projections lying in substantially the plane of the terminal convolution, said offset portions of said adjacent terminal convolutions being disposed in overlapping relationship; and means for encircling at least a portion of said alternating projections of each of said overlapped offset portions, said offset portions of said adjacent terminal convolutions and said encircling means cooperating to allow substantially free hinging movement about an axis substantially defined by said overlapping offset portions to a maximum deflection angle between said adjacent terminal convolutions upon loading of one of said adjacent coil springs, and to retard said hinging movement to cause a transfer of a part of the load to the other of said adjacent coil springs upon further loading of the one of said adjacent coil springs.
11. The spring assembly of claim 10 wherein a first of said offset portions having alternating projections is formed with two projections directed in substantially opposite directions and is overlapped and encircled by said encircling means together with a second adjacent offset portion formed with at least two projections substantially superimposable on said first offset portion.
12. The spring assembly of claim 10 wherein at least one of said terminal convolutions of one of said spiral coil springs is formed with two opposed offset portions each formed with at least two projections in substantially the plane of said terminal convolution, said offset portions each disposed in overlapping relationship to an adjacent offset portion of an adjacent terminal convolution, with adjacent portions each formed with more than one projection lying in the plane of its terminal convolution.
13. The spring assembly of claim 12 wherein a plurality of spiral coil springs formed with two opposed offset portions having said projections are present in at least specified portions of said spring assembly to provide a controlled degree of spring conformation and firmness at said specified portions.
14. The spring assembly of claim 10 wherein the maximum angle of deflection is not greater than 15°.
15. A spring assembly for an innerspring unit comprising:
a plurality of spiral coil springs including first and second adjacent coil springs;
each of said first and second coil springs being formed with at least one terminal convolution, the convolutions of said first and second coil springs lying adjacent each other and having respectively a first and a second offset portion; and means for restricting hinging movement between said first and second terminal convolutions to a predetermined maximum degree;
said first and second offset portions and said restricting means interacting to allow substantially unrestricted hinging movement between said terminal convolutions of said first and second coil springs about an axis substantially defined by said first and second offset portions to a predetermined maximum degree upon loading of said first coil spring, and to restrict said hinging movement to cause a transfer of a part of the load to said second coil spring upon further loading of said first coil spring.
a plurality of spiral coil springs including first and second adjacent coil springs;
each of said first and second coil springs being formed with at least one terminal convolution, the convolutions of said first and second coil springs lying adjacent each other and having respectively a first and a second offset portion; and means for restricting hinging movement between said first and second terminal convolutions to a predetermined maximum degree;
said first and second offset portions and said restricting means interacting to allow substantially unrestricted hinging movement between said terminal convolutions of said first and second coil springs about an axis substantially defined by said first and second offset portions to a predetermined maximum degree upon loading of said first coil spring, and to restrict said hinging movement to cause a transfer of a part of the load to said second coil spring upon further loading of said first coil spring.
16. A coil spring for a spring assembly comprising:
a plurality of convolutions ending in a closed-loop terminal convolution;
said terminal convolution being formed with at least one offset portion configured to interact with an adjacent offset portion of a terminal convolution of an adjacent coil spring forming with said coil spring a pair of adjacent coil springs in a spring assembly to define with said adjacent offset portion means for allowing substantially unrestricted hinging motion between said convolutions of said pair of adjacent coil springs, about an axis substantially defined by said adjacent offset portions, to a maximum predetermined degree upon loading of said coil spring, and for transferring part of the loading to said adjacent coil spring upon further loading of said coil spring when said hinging motion between said pair of adjacent coil springs becomes restricted to the maximum predetermined degree.
a plurality of convolutions ending in a closed-loop terminal convolution;
said terminal convolution being formed with at least one offset portion configured to interact with an adjacent offset portion of a terminal convolution of an adjacent coil spring forming with said coil spring a pair of adjacent coil springs in a spring assembly to define with said adjacent offset portion means for allowing substantially unrestricted hinging motion between said convolutions of said pair of adjacent coil springs, about an axis substantially defined by said adjacent offset portions, to a maximum predetermined degree upon loading of said coil spring, and for transferring part of the loading to said adjacent coil spring upon further loading of said coil spring when said hinging motion between said pair of adjacent coil springs becomes restricted to the maximum predetermined degree.
17. A coil spring for a spring assembly comprising:
a plurality of convolutions ending in a closed-loop terminal convolution;
said terminal convolution being formed with at least one offset portion configured to interact with an adjacent offset portion of a terminal convolution of an adjacent coil spring forming with said coil spring a pair of adjacent coil springs in a spring assembly, to define with said adjacent offset portions means for allowing substantially unrestricted hinging motion to a maximum predetermined degree between said terminal convolutions of said pair of adjacent coil springs about an axis substantially defined by said adjacent offset portions upon loading of said coil spring, and for transferring part of the load to said adjacent coil spring upon further loading of said coil spring when said hinging motion becomes restricted to the maximum predetermined degree by a cross helical positioned to encircle parts of said adjacent offset portions.
a plurality of convolutions ending in a closed-loop terminal convolution;
said terminal convolution being formed with at least one offset portion configured to interact with an adjacent offset portion of a terminal convolution of an adjacent coil spring forming with said coil spring a pair of adjacent coil springs in a spring assembly, to define with said adjacent offset portions means for allowing substantially unrestricted hinging motion to a maximum predetermined degree between said terminal convolutions of said pair of adjacent coil springs about an axis substantially defined by said adjacent offset portions upon loading of said coil spring, and for transferring part of the load to said adjacent coil spring upon further loading of said coil spring when said hinging motion becomes restricted to the maximum predetermined degree by a cross helical positioned to encircle parts of said adjacent offset portions.
18. An improved spiral coil spring for a spring assembly, comprising:
a plurality of convolutions ending in two opposed terminal convolutions wherein at least one of said terminal convolutions includes at least one offset portion formed with alternating projections lying in the same plane;
said offset portion configured to interact with an adjacent offset portion of a terminal convolution of an adjacent coil spring forming with said coil spring a pair of adjacent coil springs in a spring assembly to define with said adjacent offset portion means for allowing substantially unrestricted hinging motion between said convolutions of said pair of adjacent coil springs about an axis substantially defined by said adjacent offset portions to a maximum predetermined degree upon loading of said coil spring, and for transferring part of the load to said adjacent coil spring upon further loading of said coil spring when said hinging motion between said pair of adjacent coil springs becomes restricted to the maximum predetermined degree.
a plurality of convolutions ending in two opposed terminal convolutions wherein at least one of said terminal convolutions includes at least one offset portion formed with alternating projections lying in the same plane;
said offset portion configured to interact with an adjacent offset portion of a terminal convolution of an adjacent coil spring forming with said coil spring a pair of adjacent coil springs in a spring assembly to define with said adjacent offset portion means for allowing substantially unrestricted hinging motion between said convolutions of said pair of adjacent coil springs about an axis substantially defined by said adjacent offset portions to a maximum predetermined degree upon loading of said coil spring, and for transferring part of the load to said adjacent coil spring upon further loading of said coil spring when said hinging motion between said pair of adjacent coil springs becomes restricted to the maximum predetermined degree.
19. The apparatus of claim l, 5 or 15 wherein the maximum degree of hinging motion is an angle between said terminal convolutions of said adjacent coil springs in the range of 0° to 15°.
20. The apparatus of claim 16, 17 or 18 wherein the maximum degree of hinging motion is an angle between said terminal convolutions of said adjacent coil springs in the range of 0° to 15°.
21. The apparatus of claim 1, 5 or 10 wherein the maximum degree of hinging motion is such that said spring assembly substantially conforms to the shape of a body reclining thereon yet provides substantially firm support for said body.
22. The apparatus of claim 15, 16 or 17 wherein the maximum degree of hinging motion is such that said spring assembly substantially conforms to the shape of a body reclining thereon yet provides substantially firm support for said body.
23. The apparatus of claim 18 wherein the maximum degree of hinging motion is such that said spring assembly substantially conforms to the shape of a body reclining thereon yet provides substantially firm support for said body.
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| US92377178A | 1978-07-12 | 1978-07-12 | |
| US923,771 | 1986-10-24 |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA1127324A true CA1127324A (en) | 1982-07-06 |
Family
ID=25449242
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA329,821A Expired CA1127324A (en) | 1978-07-12 | 1979-06-14 | Coil spring and spring assembly |
Country Status (10)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| JP (1) | JPS5514095A (en) |
| AU (1) | AU526107B2 (en) |
| CA (1) | CA1127324A (en) |
| DE (1) | DE2927262A1 (en) |
| ES (2) | ES482352A1 (en) |
| FR (1) | FR2430743A1 (en) |
| GB (1) | GB2025217B (en) |
| IL (1) | IL57646A0 (en) |
| MX (1) | MX150175A (en) |
| ZA (1) | ZA793017B (en) |
Cited By (4)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US11033114B2 (en) | 2015-12-17 | 2021-06-15 | Sealy Technology, Llc | Coil-in-coil spring with variable loading response and mattresses including the same |
| US11051631B2 (en) | 2016-01-21 | 2021-07-06 | Sealy Technology, Llc | Coil-in-coil springs with non-linear loading responses and mattresses including the same |
| US11076705B2 (en) | 2014-05-30 | 2021-08-03 | Sealy Technology, Llc | Spring core with integrated cushioning layer |
| US11480228B2 (en) | 2016-12-15 | 2022-10-25 | Sealy Technology, Llc | Open coil spring assemblies |
Families Citing this family (5)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| JPS63189107A (en) * | 1987-02-02 | 1988-08-04 | フランスベッド株式会社 | Spring assembly and bedding product using the same |
| GR20030100304A (en) * | 2003-07-16 | 2005-03-28 | Παναγιωτης Αναγνωστοπουλος | Method for the production of spring mattresses |
| EP2689695B1 (en) * | 2012-07-26 | 2016-06-08 | L & P Swiss Holding AG | Spring core |
| USD739162S1 (en) | 2012-08-22 | 2015-09-22 | L&P Swiss Holding Ag | Coil spring |
| CN110285174B (en) * | 2019-07-23 | 2024-06-18 | 大连长之琳科技股份有限公司 | Metal vibration reduction pad for aero-engine and preparation method |
Family Cites Families (6)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US1982941A (en) * | 1931-05-18 | 1934-12-04 | Moore Co | Spring assembly |
| US2143742A (en) * | 1938-04-22 | 1939-01-10 | Charles Karr Company | Spring assembly |
| GB522085A (en) * | 1939-03-31 | 1940-06-07 | Emil Spuehl | Spring unit for mattresses, seats, cushions and the like |
| GB586205A (en) * | 1944-08-22 | 1947-03-11 | Crown Bedding Company Ltd | Improvements in or relating to spring assemblies |
| GB1199388A (en) * | 1967-12-12 | 1970-07-22 | Otto Paul Molt | Upholstery Spring Cores. |
| US3653082A (en) * | 1970-08-13 | 1972-04-04 | Sealy | Mattress spring unit construction |
-
1979
- 1979-06-14 CA CA329,821A patent/CA1127324A/en not_active Expired
- 1979-06-18 ZA ZA793017A patent/ZA793017B/en unknown
- 1979-06-21 GB GB7921638A patent/GB2025217B/en not_active Expired
- 1979-06-21 AU AU48251/79A patent/AU526107B2/en not_active Ceased
- 1979-06-25 IL IL57646A patent/IL57646A0/en not_active IP Right Cessation
- 1979-07-05 DE DE19792927262 patent/DE2927262A1/en active Granted
- 1979-07-10 ES ES482352A patent/ES482352A1/en not_active Expired
- 1979-07-11 MX MX178433A patent/MX150175A/en unknown
- 1979-07-11 JP JP8800779A patent/JPS5514095A/en active Granted
- 1979-07-11 FR FR7918040A patent/FR2430743A1/en active Granted
- 1979-10-01 ES ES1979252961U patent/ES252961Y/en not_active Expired
Cited By (5)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US11076705B2 (en) | 2014-05-30 | 2021-08-03 | Sealy Technology, Llc | Spring core with integrated cushioning layer |
| US12048380B2 (en) | 2014-05-30 | 2024-07-30 | Sealy Technology, Llc | Spring core with integrated cushioning layer |
| US11033114B2 (en) | 2015-12-17 | 2021-06-15 | Sealy Technology, Llc | Coil-in-coil spring with variable loading response and mattresses including the same |
| US11051631B2 (en) | 2016-01-21 | 2021-07-06 | Sealy Technology, Llc | Coil-in-coil springs with non-linear loading responses and mattresses including the same |
| US11480228B2 (en) | 2016-12-15 | 2022-10-25 | Sealy Technology, Llc | Open coil spring assemblies |
Also Published As
| Publication number | Publication date |
|---|---|
| AU526107B2 (en) | 1982-12-16 |
| ES252961U (en) | 1981-02-16 |
| DE2927262A1 (en) | 1980-01-24 |
| IL57646A0 (en) | 1979-10-31 |
| GB2025217B (en) | 1983-01-06 |
| AU4825179A (en) | 1980-01-17 |
| FR2430743B1 (en) | 1984-06-15 |
| ES482352A1 (en) | 1980-04-01 |
| DE2927262C2 (en) | 1990-02-15 |
| JPS644763B2 (en) | 1989-01-26 |
| GB2025217A (en) | 1980-01-23 |
| ES252961Y (en) | 1981-11-16 |
| ZA793017B (en) | 1980-08-27 |
| JPS5514095A (en) | 1980-01-31 |
| FR2430743A1 (en) | 1980-02-08 |
| MX150175A (en) | 1984-03-29 |
Similar Documents
| Publication | Publication Date | Title |
|---|---|---|
| CA1305567C (en) | Spring coil and spring assembly | |
| CA1127324A (en) | Coil spring and spring assembly | |
| EP0794720B1 (en) | Innerspring construction with springs having free terminal convolutions | |
| US6398199B1 (en) | Coil spring assembly | |
| US4960267A (en) | Edge-reinforced spring bedding product | |
| US3911511A (en) | Spring assembly | |
| JP2701975B2 (en) | Interior spring | |
| US4535978A (en) | Coil spring and spring assembly | |
| US4092749A (en) | Mattress spring unit construction | |
| US5431376A (en) | Spring assembly for seating and bedding | |
| US5649332A (en) | Posturized continuous mattress spring core | |
| US4155130A (en) | Means for restraining cross helical spin-out | |
| US4124041A (en) | Method of assembling coil springs | |
| GB2215199A (en) | Mattress | |
| CA2310107C (en) | Spring mattress | |
| CA1262782A (en) | Box spring having improved coil spring modules | |
| KR830002865B1 (en) | Spring assembly | |
| US5699999A (en) | Aligned mattress spring core | |
| US5669087A (en) | Lacing wire zoned mattress | |
| AU730239B2 (en) | Spring mattress | |
| CA2117205C (en) | Border stabilizing member and method for making mattresses, cushions and the like using the same | |
| US5104099A (en) | Spring bedding product | |
| WO1988005640A1 (en) | Bedding spring assembly | |
| WO1998041127A1 (en) | Improved coil spring unit and base support |
Legal Events
| Date | Code | Title | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| MKEX | Expiry |