US20160332023A1

Movatterモバイル変換

Info

Publication number: US20160332023A1
Application number: US15/140,985
Authority: US
Inventors: Mark Christopher Taylor; Benton Winfield Peret
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2015-05-12
Filing date: 2016-04-28
Publication date: 2016-11-17

Abstract

A system includes an exercise mat and an absorbent cover for the exercise mat. The absorbent cover is at least partially formed from a liquid absorbing material. Attachment mechanisms affixed to the absorbent cover engage with attachment mechanisms affixed to the exercise mat to attach the absorbent cover to the exercise mat.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION(S)

The present disclosure is a non-provisional of and claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/160,214 filed on May 12, 2015, and entitled “Attachment System for Adhesion of Absorbent Towels to Exercise Mats/Work Pads”, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

FIELD

The present disclosure is generally related to attachment mechanisms for an absorbent cover for an exercise mat.

BACKGROUND

The popularity of body weight exercises that combine strength, flexibility, and coordination has rapidly grown over the last decade. Traditional sports such as running, cycling, resistance training, and swimming have long been common forms of exercise. More recently, however, people wanting to stay in shape have embraced a more cross-functional means to achieve and maintain a desired level of fitness that combines physical as well as mental health, choosing to incorporate flexibility and mindfulness as a quintessential aspect of their training regimen.

For example, yoga and Pilates, which incorporate aspects of physical and mental health training, are rapidly growing in popularity. The physical benefits of yoga are known to increase strength and flexibility. The mental benefits of yoga include relaxing the mind through breathing exercises while holding certain physically demanding poses. As a result, people participating in such activities on a regular basis can benefit from increased strength, flexibility, mental wellness, and balance. Various forms of Pilates and most forms of yoga utilize mats, which provide a soft surface for the various poses.

During such activities, the physical demand of balancing while holding various poses for minutes at a time, can cause participants to perspire onto the mats, causing the mats to become slippery, which can increase the likelihood of injury. Since the mats are generally non-absorbent, participants often lay absorbent towels over the mat to reduce the risk of falling from slipping.

SUMMARY

In some embodiments, a system may include an absorbent cover for an exercise mat. The absorbent cover is at least partially formed from a liquid absorbing material. Attachment mechanisms may be affixed to the absorbent cover engage with corresponding attachment mechanisms affixed to the exercise mat to releasably secure the absorbent cover to the exercise mat.

In other embodiments, a system may include an exercise mat that can be formed at least partially from a cushioning material. The exercise mat may include at least one attachment mechanism configured to engage corresponding attachment mechanisms affixed to an absorbent cover to secure the absorbent cover to the exercise mat.

In still other embodiments, a method for attaching an absorbent cover to a mat may include affixing first attachment mechanisms to the absorbent cover. The method may also include affixing second attachment mechanisms to the mat. The method may further include coupling the first attachment mechanisms to the second attachment mechanisms to releasably secure the absorbent cover to the mat.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The novel features of this disclosure, both with respect to the structure and operation of the mat and corresponding cover, can best be understood from the accompanying drawings, taken in conjunction with the accompanying description, in which reference characters may be re-used to refer to similar parts.

FIG. 1A is a diagram of an apparatus including an absorbent cover coupled to a mat by a plurality of attachment mechanisms, in accordance with certain embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 1B is an exploded perspective view of the apparatus ofFIG. 1A, in accordance with certain embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIGS. 2A and 2B are diagrams of an apparatus including an absorbent cover that may be coupled to a mat by a plurality of attachment mechanisms, in accordance with certain embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIGS. 3A and 3B are diagrams of an apparatus including a mat may be attached to an absorbent cover by a plurality of attachment mechanisms, in accordance with certain embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 4A is a diagram of an apparatus including an absorbent cover that may be attached to a mat using a plurality of attachment mechanisms, in accordance with certain embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 4B is a diagram of the engagement of attachment mechanisms ofFIG. 4A, in accordance with certain embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIGS. 5A and 5B depict a magnetic snap type of attachment mechanism, in accordance with certain embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 6 is a diagram of an apparatus including an absorbent cover that may be attached to a mat, in accordance with certain embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 7 is a diagram of an apparatus including a mat and an absorbent cover, in accordance with certain embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 8 is a diagram of an apparatus including an absorbent cover and a mat, in accordance with certain embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIGS. 9A and 9B are diagrams of an apparatus including an absorbent cover and a mat, in accordance with certain embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIGS. 10A, 10B, and 10C are diagrams of an apparatus including covers and mats, in accordance with certain embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 11 is a diagram of an apparatus including an absorbent cover that may be attached to a mat using a plurality of attachment mechanisms, in accordance with certain embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 12 depicts a flow diagram of a method of forming an apparatus, in accordance with certain embodiments of the present disclosure.

In the following discussion, the same reference numbers are used in the various embodiments to indicate the same or similar elements.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF ILLUSTRATIVE EMBODIMENTS

In some embodiments, an absorbent cover may include one or more attachment mechanisms that may be configured to engage corresponding attachment mechanisms of a mat. In an example, the absorbent cover can be removably attached to the mat by one or more attachment mechanisms during use such that the absorbent cover absorbs perspiration and is held in place by the attachment mechanisms. In some embodiments, the absorbent cover may be decoupled from the mat, for example, to wash the absorbent Cover.

In some embodiments, the absorbent cover and mat can have the same or similar size and shape. In some embodiments, one or more attachment mechanisms can be affixed to the absorbent cover and can be positioned to be substantially aligned with the positions of corresponding attachment features or mechanisms affixed to the mat. When brought into proximity or contact, the attachment mechanisms of the absorbent cover and mat may automatically engage to secure the absorbent cover to the mat. In some embodiments, the attachment mechanisms may be permanently affixed to the absorbent cover, the mat, or any combination thereof. In other embodiments, some or all of the attachment mechanisms may be removably or temporarily affixed to the absorbent cover, the mat, or any combination thereof.

Examples of attachment mechanisms may include, but are not limited to, riveted snaps, riveted magnetic snaps, sewn buttons, sewn snaps, sewn magnetic snaps, hook and eye fabric, magnetic strips, metal/magnet rivets, zippers, other elements, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, the attachment mechanisms may be located at a plurality of points around the edge of the absorbent cover and mat. For example, one or more attachment mechanisms may be coupled to the mat and corresponding attachment mechanisms may be coupled to corresponding locations about the periphery or edges of the absorbent cover. The attachment mechanisms on the absorbent cover may engage corresponding attachment mechanisms associated with the mat to releasably secure the cover to the mat. An example of an apparatus including an absorbent cover coupled to a mat is described below with respect toFIG. 1A.

FIG. 1A is a diagram of anapparatus100 including anabsorbent cover102 coupled to amat104 in an unrolled configuration on a supporting surface, such as the ground orfloor106. Theabsorbent cover102 includes a first side (side A108) and a second side (side B110). The mat includes104 a first side (side A112) and a second side (side B114). In the illustrated view, theabsorbent cover102 includes

attachment mechanisms

116 and118 positioned adjacent to the second side (side B)110, and themat104 includes

attachment mechanisms

120 and122 positioned adjacent to the first side (side A)112. The

attachment mechanisms

116 and118 may be affixed or secured, at least in part to the second side (side B)110 of theabsorbent cover102 and configured to align with and couple to the

attachment mechanisms

120 and122, respectively, which can be affixed or secured at least in part toside A112 of themat104.

In some embodiments, the

attachment mechanisms

116 and118 associated with theabsorbent cover102 may be aligned with the

attachment mechanisms

120 and122 of themat104. The

attachment mechanisms

120 and122 may be magnetic, while the

attachment mechanisms

116 and118 may be formed from metal. The magnetic fields provided by the

attachment mechanism

120 and122 may attract the

attachment mechanism

116 and118 to secure and align theabsorbent cover102 to themat104. In addition, such an embodiment may allow for thorough cleaning of theabsorbent cover102, for example, when machine washed. In contrast, if

attachment mechanisms

116 and118 are magnets, the magnets may attach to the drum of a washing machine. In such a case, theabsorbent cover102 may be prevented from turning in the wash so that theabsorbent cover102 may not be as thoroughly cleaned.

FIG. 1B is a perspective view of theapparatus100 before theabsorbent cover102 is coupled to themat104. In addition to the attachment mechanisms116-120 inFIG. 1A,FIG. 1B depicts

additional attachment mechanisms

124 and126 on theabsorbent cover102 and

attachment mechanisms

128 and130 on themat104. As illustrated, the

attachment mechanisms

116,118,124, and126 onside B110 of theabsorbent cover102 can couple to the

attachment mechanisms

120,122,128, and130 onside A112 of themat104 when theabsorbent cover102 is placed on top of themat104.

In the illustrated example ofFIG. 1B, theabsorbent cover102 may be coupled to the surface ofside A112 of themat104, which may be impermeable to water. In some embodiments, themat104 may be a yoga mat, other sports mat, or work pad such as those including closed or open-cell foam, for use during yoga, Pilates, or other sporting exercises or stretches. Further, thesurface106 can be any type of flooring material, a table or other furniture, the ground, or any other type of supporting surface.

The dimensions of theabsorbent cover102 may vary. Theabsorbent cover102 may be sized to be substantially similar to the surface to which theabsorbent cover102 is to be attached. In some embodiments, theabsorbent cover102 may have dimensions of approximately twenty-four (24) inches by sixty-eight (68) inches, which may be the approximate dimensions of a standard-sized yoga mat. Additionally, theabsorbent cover102 may have dimensions of approximately twenty-four (24) inches by seventy-two (72) inches or approximately twenty-six (26) inches by seventy-two (72) inches, which are the approximate dimensions of extra-long yoga mats and some premium yoga mats, respectively. However, theabsorbent cover102 may have dimensions that are larger or smaller than these types of yoga mats and may have dimensions selected to fit other sizes of mats. For example, theabsorbent cover102 can be sized for use as a washcloth, a hand towel, a beach towel, a bath towel, a bath mat, a dish towel, a gym towel, a golf towel or other sport towel, a drop cloth, a throw rug, a baby-changing mat, another type of towel, or any combination thereof.

Further, although theabsorbent cover102 is discussed herein in the context of a non-clothing item, theabsorbent cover102 may be used in other applications where absorbency is beneficial. For example, theabsorbent cover102 may be incorporated into or manufactured for use as clothing, such as a bathrobe, a shirt, pants, a hat, a scarf, socks, or any other suitable clothing or non-clothing item. With this design, any moisture such as perspiration, precipitation or incidental moisture can be absorbed b theabsorbent cover102.

Theabsorbent cover102 may be formed from relatively absorbent materials that can vary from implementation to implementation. For instance, theabsorbent cover102 may include any absorbent natural fibers or fabrics, such as cotton, silk, wool, hemp, other natural materials, or any combination thereof. Further, theabsorbent cover102 may include synthetic materials such as acrylics, polyester, microfiber, nylon, rayon, other materials, or any combination thereof. The microfiber material can be made from polyesters, polyamides (e.g., nylon, Kevlar, Nomex, trogamide), or a combination of polyester, polyamide, polypropylene (Prolen), other material, or any combination thereof. The shape, size, and combinations of synthetic fibers can be selected for specific characteristics, including softness, toughness, absorption, water repellency, and so on. In some embodiments, theabsorbent cover102 may include both synthetic materials and natural materials.

Further, theabsorbent cover102 may have a wide range of thicknesses, weights, and densities depending upon the desired absorbency and intended usage of theabsorbent cover102. Theabsorbent cover102 may also include different colored materials as well as different color patterns, images and the like. Additional discussion of example appearances of theabsorbent cover102 is provided below with regard toFIGS. 2A and 2B.

The dimensions of themat104 may vary. In some embodiments, themat104 may have dimensions of approximately twenty-four (24) inches by sixty-eight (68) inches, which are the approximate dimensions of a standard sized yoga mat. Additionally, themat104 may have dimensions of approximately twenty-four (24) inches by seventy-two (72) inches or approximately twenty-six (26) inches by seventy-two (72) inches, which are the approximate dimensions of extra-long yoga mats and some premium yoga mats, respectively. In some examples, themat104 may have other sizes, which may be larger or smaller than these types of yoga mats or may be sized for other types of mats. Themat104 may be sized to be substantially similar to the surface upon which themat104 is placed or may be sized based on various other considerations. For example, themat104 can be sized for use with a gym pad, Pilates mat, mechanic's work mat, kitchen mat, a baby changing mat, or another type of mat.

Themat104 may be formed from relatively non-absorbent materials depending on the implementation. For instance, themat104 can include any material with cushioning properties such as polyvinyl chloride (PVC) foam, nibber, cork, polyurethane, latex, other material, or any combination of suitable materials, as non-limiting examples. Further, themat104 can have a wide range of thicknesses, weights and densities depending upon the amount of cushioning desired and the intended usage. Themat104 can also include different colored materials, different colored patterns, images and the like. Additional discussion of example appearances of themat104 is provided below with regard toFIGS. 3A and 3B

Embodiments are not limited to the illustrated system. For example, theabsorbent cover102 andmat104 may be reversible and each may include attachment mechanisms on both side A and side B. In another example, the attachment mechanisms may be affixed to theabsorbent cover102 andmat104 such that one or more portions of the attachment mechanisms are visible on both sides ofabsorbent cover102 and mat104 (e.g. affixed by rivets that pierce throughabsorbent cover102 or the mat104). Moreover, while the embodiments illustrated and described herein show theabsorbent cover102 andmat104 being coupled by the attachment mechanisms around the perimeter edge of theabsorbent cover102 andmat104, embodiments are not so limited. In addition, attachment mechanisms utilized in embodiments of the subject matter disclosed herein are not limited to those listed. Rather, embodiments according to this disclosure may utilize any attachment mechanism known to one of ordinary skill in the art for securing thecover102 to themat104.

FIGS. 2A and 2B are diagrams of

apparatuses

200 and210 in which absorbent covers202 and212 may be attached to a mat by a plurality of attachment mechanisms.FIGS. 2A and 2B illustrate embodiments in which sides A204 and214 of the absorbent covers202 and212 include

focal regions

206 and216, respectively. In some embodiments, the

focal regions

206 and216 may be related to the usage of the mat to which the absorbent cover is to be attached. As illustrated,

focal regions

206 and216 may have a color, geometric shape, or pattern that is different from other portions of the absorbent covers202 and212. With this design, an individual performing yoga, martial arts or other sporting activities can focus his or her attention on the focal region to assist with concentration and focus during participation in such exercises. The

focal regions

206 and216 may be formed from the same material used to form the remainder of the absorbent cover, or the

focal regions

206 and216 can be formed from a different material.

In the illustrated example ofFIG. 2A, thefocal region206 is a circle; however, other shapes are possible, such as a foot print or hand print indicating a position or placement of a part of the user's body for an intended exercise. In some examples, thefocal region206 may be sized small enough to allow the user to focus on thefocal region206 without substantial movement of the user's eyes during exercise. For example, thefocal region206 can be between approximately 1.0 centimeter and 6.0 centimeters in diameter. However, thefocal region206 may be of various sizes and located at various positions on the absorbent cover.

In the illustrated example ofFIG. 2B, thefocal region216 includes a configuration of lines and a geometric shape. In some embodiments,focal region216 and similar focal regions may allow the user to focus on proper alignment of the feet and hands during exercise without substantial movement of the user's eyes during exercise. However, the size and relative location of thefocal region216 may vary.

Other embodiments are also possible. For example, the

focal regions

206 and216 may have other configurations (e.g., rectangular, triangular, linear, oval, or another geometric shape). Further, various shapes, patterns and colors may be used in combination to help to capture the user's focus when exercising or stretching.

FIGS. 3A and 3B are diagrams of

apparatuses

300 and310 in which

mats

302 and312 may be attached to an absorbent cover by a plurality of attachment mechanisms. In this example, sides A304 and314 of the

mats

302 and312, respectively, include

focal regions

306 and316. In some embodiments, the

focal regions

306 and316 may be related to the usage of the mat. As illustrated, the

focal regions

306 and316 may have a color, geometric shape, or pattern that is different from other portions of the

mats

302 and312. With this design, an individual performing yoga, martial arts or other sporting or stretching activities can focus his or her attention on the

focal regions

306 and316 to assist with concentration or focus during participation in such exercises. The

focal regions

306 and316 can be formed from the same material used to form the remainder of the

mats

302 and312, or the

focal regions

306 and316 can be formed from a different material.

In the illustrated example ofFIG. 3A, thefocal region306 is a circle; however, other shapes are possible, such as a foot print or hand print indicating a position or placement of a part of the user's body for an intended exercise. In some example, thefocal region306 may be sized small enough to allow the user to focus on thefocal region306 without substantial movement of the user's eyes during exercise. For example, thefocal region306 may be between approximately 1.0 centimeter and 6.0 centimeters in diameter. However, thefocal region306 may be of various sizes and located at various positions on themat302.

In the illustrated example ofFIG. 3B, thefocal region316 is a configuration of lines. In some embodiments,focal region316 and similar focal regions may allow the user to focus on proper alignment of the feet and hands during exercise without substantial movement of the user's eyes during exercise. However, the size and relative location of thefocal region316 may vary.

Other embodiments are also possible. For example, the

focal regions

306 and316 may have other configurations (e.g., rectangular, triangular, linear, oval or another geometric shape).

FIG. 4A is a diagram of anapparatus400 including anabsorbent cover402 that may be coupled to amat404 using a plurality of attachment mechanisms. The

attachment mechanisms

410 and412 can be positioned adjacent to the edge ofside B406 of theabsorbent cover402 and the edge ofside A408 of themat404. In some examples, the

attachment mechanisms

410 and412 may be positioned in a pattern. For example, each corner of theabsorbent cover402 and each corner of themat404 may include an

attachment mechanism

410 and412 and each edge of theabsorbent cover402 and themat404 may include attachment mechanisms. In some examples, at least one attachment mechanism may be provided at the midpoint along each edge. In the illustrated example, theabsorbent cover402 includes eight attachment mechanisms (e.g.,410(1)-410(8)) and themat404 includes eight corresponding attachment mechanisms (e.g.,412(1)-412(8)).

FIG. 4A also illustrates an expanded view of the attachment mechanisms410(3) and412(3). In particular, the

attachment mechanisms

410 and412 are illustrated as male and female magnetic snaps, respectively particular, theprotrusion414 present on amale attachment mechanism410 engages therecess416 of afemale attachment mechanism412. Once theprotrusion414 engages therecess416, the attachment mechanisms410(3) magnetically couples to the attachment mechanism412(3) to releasably secure theabsorbent cover402 to themat404.FIG. 4B illustrates the engagement ofattachment mechanisms410 withattachment mechanisms412.

The magnetic properties of the attachment mechanisms may vary from implementation to implementation. For example, in some embodiments, both

attachment mechanisms

410 and412 may be magnets. In other embodiments, one of the

attachment mechanisms

410 and412 may be a magnet and the other may be formed from a material that is attracted to magnets (e.g. ferromagnetic material) but that is not necessarily magnetized. In other embodiments, the

attachment mechanisms

410 and412 may include various combinations of magnets and non-magnets.

Moreover, embodiments are not limited to a particular style of attachment mechanism.FIGS. 5A and 5B depict another magnetic snap type of attachment mechanism, in accordance with certain embodiments of the present disclosure. The illustrated

attachment mechanisms

502 and504 are similar to the

magnetic snaps

410 and412 ofFIG. 4 but, instead of including a substantially squared protrusion and a correspondingly squared recess, theprotrusion506 and arecess508 of the

attachment mechanisms

502 and504 are slanted or angled. As used herein, slanted is used to encompass protrusions and recesses that are conical, pyramidal, rounded, substantially or near conical, pyramidal or rounded, and similar shapes. For example, as used herein, slanted would encompass a protrusion that is substantially conical but which has a flat tip but would not include cube or cylindrical shaped protrusion and recesses.FIG. 5B illustrates the engagement ofattachment mechanism502 withattachment mechanism504. In particular, theprotrusion506 present on themale attachment mechanism502 engages therecess508 of thefemale attachment mechanism504.

In some embodiments, the slanted design of theprotrusion506 present on themale attachment mechanism502 and therecess508 of thefemale attachment mechanism504 may be quicker and easier to engage in comparison to

attachment mechanisms

410 and412 ofFIG. 4. For example, if misaligned, the magnetic attraction between

attachment mechanisms

502 and504 may be more likely to cause the

attachment mechanisms

502 and504 to automatically slide into a correct alignment than the magnetic attraction between

attachment mechanisms

410 and412.

FIG. 6 is a diagram of anapparatus600 including anabsorbent cover602 that may be attached to amat604 using continuous attachment mechanisms. In the illustrated example, theattachment mechanisms610 and612 are positioned around the edge ofside B606 of theabsorbent cover602 and the edge ofside A608 of themat604. In a particular example, theattachment mechanisms610 and612 may be magnetic strips that are sewn or riveted to theabsorbent cover602 ormat604.

FIG. 7 is a diagram of anapparatus700 including anabsorbent cover702 that may be attached to amat704 using a plurality of attachment mechanisms. The illustrated example ofFIG. 7 is similar to that illustrated inFIG. 4. For example, theattachment mechanisms710 are positioned around the edge ofside B706 of theabsorbent cover702 and theattachment mechanisms712 are positioned around the edge ofside A708 of themat704. However, the implementation ofFIG. 7 includes additional attachment mechanisms along the longest edges of theabsorbent cover702 andmat704. As would be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art in view of this disclosure, various other configurations and patterns for placement of attachment mechanisms may be utilized.

FIG. 8 is a diagram of anapparatus800 including anabsorbent cover802 that may be attached to amat804 using multiple types of attachment mechanisms. In particular, the

attachment mechanisms

810 and814 are discontinuous attachment mechanisms that are positioned around the edges ofside B806 of theabsorbent cover802 andside A808 of themat804 and the

attachment mechanisms

812 and816 are continuous attachment mechanisms that are positioned around the edges ofside B806 of theabsorbent cover802 andside A808 of themat804.

In some embodiments, the attachment mechanisms may be affixed to the mat and absorbent cover directly, such as by using a riveting method, which can include riveting magnetic snaps or mechanisms into position on the mat and absorbent cover.

FIGS. 9A and 913 illustrate

views

In some embodiments, the attachment mechanisms may be affixed to the absorbent cover or mat indirectly, such as by affixing the attachment mechanisms to pieces of material and then affixing the pieces or material to the absorbent cover or mat. In some embodiments, the absorbent cover may be formed from multiple layers of the same or different materials.

FIGS. 10A, 10B, and 10C illustrate

views

1000,1020 and1040 of an apparatus in which attachment mechanisms are indirectly affixed to an absorbent cover and a mat. More particularly, views1000,1020 and1040 depict the affixing of attachment mechanisms to pieces of

fabric

1002 and1004 and then affixing the pieces of

fabric

1002 and1004 to anabsorbent cover1006 and amat1008. As depicted inview1000, the attachment mechanism to be affixed to theabsorbent cover1006 is initially two pieces, an attachment mechanism back with arivet stem1010 and an attachment mechanism with arivet cap1012. Similarly, the attachment mechanism to be affixed to themat1008 is initially two pieces, an attachment mechanism with arivet stem1014 and an attachment mechanism back with arivet cap1016. As shown inview1020, the attachment mechanisms are affixed to the pieces of

fabric

1002 and1004 through a riveting process (e.g., pressing the rivet stem through the pieces of

fabric

1002 and1004 and into the rivet cap to rivet the pieces together). As shown inview1040, the attachment mechanisms are then indirectly affixed to theabsorbent cover1006 and themat1008 by, for example, sewing the pieces of

fabric

1002 and1004 to theabsorbent cover1006 and themat1008, respectively. While discussed in the context of pieces of fabric that are sewn to theabsorbent cover1006 and themat1008, the

items

1002 and1004 are not so limited, and various other materials may be used.

Examples of alternative methods that may be used to affix the attachment mechanisms or intermediary pieces of material to the mat and absorbent cover include but are not limited to riveting, screwing, sewing, chemical bonding, adhesive, or any other manner that would be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art in view of this disclosure. For example, in some embodiments, screws may be used to affix the attachment mechanisms to the mat or absorbent cover. In another example, a bolt and nut type fastener arrangement may be used to affix the attachment mechanisms to the mat or absorbent cover instead of, or in combination with, riveting.

In addition, the riveting method depicted inFIGS. 9A-10C may be varied and other types of rivets may be used. For example, while

items

906,910,1010 and1014 are illustrated as having rivet stems and

items

908,912,1012 and1016 are illustrated as having rivet caps, is the structure is not so limited. For example, the

items

906,910,1010 and1014 and the

items

908,912,1012, and1016 may be switched. Further, other combinations of rivet stems, rivet caps, threaded attachments, or other connectable structures may be used.

FIG. 11 illustrates a diagram of anapparatus1100 including anabsorbent cover1102 that may be coupled to amat1104 using a plurality of attachment mechanisms, including attachment mechanisms affixed to asleeve1106 into which themat1104 may be inserted. The

attachment mechanisms

1112 and1114 can be positioned adjacent to the edge ofside B1108 of theabsorbent cover1102 and the edge ofside A1110 of thesleeve1106. In some examples, theattachment mechanisms1112 on theabsorbent cover1102 may be arranged in a pattern, andattachment mechanisms1114 attached to thesleeve1106 may be arranged in a corresponding pattern. For example, each corner of theabsorbent cover1102 and each corner of thesleeve1110 may include an

attachment mechanism

1112 and1114, respectively and each edge of theabsorbent cover1102 and thesleeve1106 may include

attachment mechanisms

1112 and1114, respectively. In some examples, at least one attachment mechanism may be provided at the midpoint along each edge of both theabsorbent cover1102 and thesleeve1106. In the illustrated example, theabsorbent cover1102 includes eight attachment mechanisms (e.g.,1112(1)-1112(8)) and thesleeve1106 includes eight corresponding attachment mechanisms e.g.,1114(1)-1114(8)).

While the example depicted inFIG. 11 includes asleeve1106 that covers the entirety of themat1106, the disclosure is not so limited. For example, instead of asleeve1106, the may1104 may be fitted with a form fitting edge cover in the shape of themat1104 may be provide that may include the attachment mechanisms. In another example, attachment mechanisms may be affixed to pockets of a cover, which may be formed from fabric. The corners of the mat may be inserted into the pockets, and the pockets may be secured to the mat, for example, by elastic straps, snaps, or other fasteners (such as ties) that can secure the pockets to the mat. In some examples, a tie may be provided at a midpoint along an edge of the mat to secure the cover to the mat. These and many other variations are possible.

The positioning, type and number of attachment mechanisms may vary to achieve a desired level of restriction of movement between the absorbent cover and the mat (e.g., be continuous, discontinuous or a combination of continuous and discontinuous). For example, the attachment mechanisms may run in a continuous or semi-continuous pattern on the mat and absorbent cover. If the attachment mechanisms are positioned relatively close to one another while not unduly inhibiting moisture absorption by the absorbent cover, there is less chance for the absorbent cover to move (e.g., less movement between the absorbent cover relative to the mat). Consequently, in some embodiments, injuries caused by slippage of the absorbent cover relative to the mat are reduced.

Additionally, embodiments are not limited to those in which the positioning of attachment mechanisms follows a pattern or to those in which each attachment mechanism of the absorbent cover is matched to a corresponding attachment mechanism of the mat. For example, the attachment mechanisms may be positioned in a substantially random manner on the absorbent cover and mat. In another example, different types or styles of attachment mechanisms may be engaged to attach the absorbent cover to the mat. For example, in some embodiments, magnetic snaps on the absorbent cover may engage continuous or discontinuous magnetic strips on the mat.

FIG. 12 shows a flow diagram of amethod1200 of forming the absorbent covers and mats ofFIGS. 1-11. The process is illustrated as a collection of blocks in a logical flow diagram, which represent a sequence of operations. The order in which the operations are described should not be construed as a limitation. Any number of the described blocks can be combined in any order or in parallel to implement the process, or alternative processes, and not all of the blocks need be executed. For discussion purposes, the processes herein are described with reference to the frameworks, architectures and environments described in the examples herein, although the processes may be implemented in a wide variety of other frameworks, architectures or environments.

At1202, one or more attachment mechanisms are coupled to the absorbent cover. This may be done by directly or indirectly affixing the one or more attachment mechanisms to the absorbent cover, for example, in the manners described above. In some embodiments, the attachment mechanism may be directly attached to the absorbent cover, for example, by coupling a rivet cap to a rivet stem through the absorbent cover. In other embodiments, the attachment mechanism may be indirectly attached by coupling the one or more attachment mechanisms to a first layer of the absorbent cover and by coupling the first layer to another layer of the absorbent cover.

At1204, one or more attachment mechanisms are coupled to the mat. This may be done by directly or indirectly affixing the one or more attachment mechanisms to the mat.

Items

1202 and1204 may be performed such that, when the absorbent cover is positioned on top of the mat, the attachment mechanisms align. At1206, the attachment mechanisms of the absorbent cover are coupled with the attachment mechanisms of the mat.

While the embodiments disclosed above with respect toFIGS. 1-12 describe particular illustrative embodiments, some embodiments may be combined or may include at least some variations. For example, the size of the attachment and the distance that each part of the attachment mechanism projects or extends away from the absorbent cover and mat may vary. In another example, the absorbent cover or mat can also include a strap that is removably or fixedly attached to the absorbent cover or mat. The strap can be attached to the absorbent cover or mat by any suitable means, including loop and pile, hook and loop, snaps, stitches, adhesive, other means, or any combination thereof.

Alternatively, the strap can be tied around the absorbent cover or mat to maintain the mat or absorbent cover in the rolled-up configuration. The strap can include a handle for carrying or otherwise transporting the absorbent cover or mat between locations. Further, the strap can be used for maintaining the absorbent cover or mat in the second, rolled up configuration, e.g. for storage, until the mat or absorbent cover is ready for use. These and many other variations are possible.

Although the present invention has been described with reference to preferred embodiments, workers skilled in the art will recognize that changes may be made in form and detail without departing from the scope of the invention.

Claims

What is claimed is:

1. An apparatus comprising:

an absorbent cover including a liquid absorbing material; and

one or more attachment mechanisms formed from metal and coupled to the absorbent cover and configured to mate with corresponding magnets associated with a mat to releasably secure the absorbent cover to the mat.

2. The apparatus ofclaim 1, wherein each of the one or more attachment mechanisms includes:

a first portion including a first side having a substantially smooth surface and including a second side having a fastening mechanism; and

a second portion including a first side configured to engage the fastening mechanism to secure the attachment mechanism to the absorbent cover and including a second side including at least one of a recessed surface and a raised surface configured to engage a corresponding feature of at least one of the corresponding magnets.

3. The apparatus ofclaim 2, wherein the first portion and the second portion form a rivet extending through the absorbent cover.

4. The apparatus ofclaim 1, wherein at least one of the one or more attachment mechanisms includes at least one of steel and aluminum.

5. The apparatus ofclaim 1, further comprising the mat formed from a flexible material and including the corresponding magnets.

6. The apparatus ofclaim 5, wherein the absorbent cover includes length and width dimensions that are substantially equal to those of the mat.

7. The apparatus ofclaim 1, wherein the absorbent cover includes a microfiber material selected to have fibers configured to absorb moisture.

8. A apparatus comprising:

an absorbent cover;

a mat at least partially formed from a cushioning material, the mat including a first side and including a second side configured to engage a supporting surface during use; and

one or more first attachment mechanisms affixed to at least the first side of the mat, the one or more first attachment mechanisms configured to secure the absorbent cover to the mat.

9. The system ofclaim 8, wherein at least one of the one or more first attachment mechanisms is riveted to the mat.

10. The apparatus ofclaim 8, wherein the absorbent cover includes one or more second attachment mechanisms configured to couple to the first attachment mechanisms to secure the absorbent cover to the mat.

11. The apparatus ofclaim 10, wherein at least one of the one or more first attachment mechanisms includes a magnetized material and is configured to couple magnetically to one of the one or more second attachment mechanisms.

12. The apparatus ofclaim 10, wherein:

at least one of the one or more first attachment mechanisms includes a first material:

at least one of the one or more second attachment mechanisms includes a second material; and

the first material includes at least one of a hook material and a loop material, and the second material includes at least one of the loop material and the hook material.

13. The apparatus ofclaim 8, wherein:

at least one of the one or more first attachment mechanisms includes a magnetized material; and

wherein the absorbent cover includes one or more second attachment mechanisms including a metal and configured to couple to the one or more first attachment mechanisms.

14. The apparatus ofclaim 13, wherein:

the at least one first attachment mechanism includes a slanted protrusion; and

the one or more second attachment mechanisms include a slanted recess configured to mate with the slanted protrusion of the at least one first attachment mechanism; and

a magnetic force of the at least one first attachment and the slanted recess cooperate to align a selected one of the one or more second attachment mechanisms to the at least one first attachment mechanism.

15. The apparatus ofclaim 13, wherein:

at least one of the one or more first attachment mechanisms includes a magnetized material and includes a slanted recess; and

the one or more second attachment mechanisms include a slanted protrusion configured to mate with the slanted recess of the at least one first attachment mechanism; and

a magnetic force of the at least one first attachment and the slanted recess cooperate to align a selected one of the one or more second attachment mechanisms to the at least one first attachment mechanism

16. A method of attaching an absorbent cover to a mat, the method comprising:

coupling one or more first attachment mechanisms to the absorbent cover, the one or more first attachment mechanisms including metal;

coupling one or more second attachment mechanisms to the mat, the one or more second attachment mechanism including a magnetic material; and

selectively aligning the one or more first attachment mechanisms with the one or more second attachment mechanisms to establish a magnetic coupling.

17. The method ofclaim 16, wherein before coupling the one or more first attachment mechanisms, the method further comprising forming the absorbent cover and the mat to have substantially equal length and width dimensions.

18. The method ofclaim 16, wherein coupling the one or more first and second attachment mechanisms includes:

coupling a rivet stem and a rivet cap of a first attachment rivet through the absorbent cover to form one of the one or more first attachment mechanisms; and

coupling a rivet stem and a rivet cap of a second attachment rivet through the mat to form one of the one or more second attachment mechanisms.

19. The method ofclaim 16, wherein coupling the one or more first attachment mechanisms to the absorbent cover includes:

coupling a first portion and a second portions of a selected one of the first attachment mechanisms through a piece of material to form the first attachment mechanisms; and

coupling the piece of material to an absorbent layer to form the absorbent cover.

20. The method ofclaim 16, wherein coupling the piece of material to the absorbent cover includes sewing the piece of material to the absorbent cover.