US20240268557A1

US20240268557A1 - Cushion Tether Device

Info

Publication number: US20240268557A1
Application number: US18/418,433
Authority: US
Inventors: Paul Hill
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2023-02-14
Filing date: 2024-01-22
Publication date: 2024-08-15

Abstract

A cushion tether device is provided. The device is comprised of a chain, a first end comprising at least one fastener mechanism, and a second end comprising at least one fastener mechanism. The device allows users to secure chair cushions, furniture covers, grill covers, and other outdoor lawn ornaments to prevent shifting or blowing away in various outdoor weather conditions.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

The present application claims priority to, and the benefit of, U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/445,487, which was filed on Feb. 14, 2023, and is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates generally to the field of cushions. More specifically, the present invention relates to a cushion tether device preferably comprised of a chain with a loop at one end and a fastener at the opposite end to secure patio cushions into place. Accordingly, the present disclosure makes specific reference thereto. Nonetheless, it is to be appreciated that aspects of the present invention are also equally applicable to other like applications, devices, and methods of manufacture.

BACKGROUND

When using outdoor lawn items and ornaments like chair cushions, patio furniture covers, and grill covers, these items are often not secure. On a warm day, patio chair cushions are often used to provide a comfortable environment while enjoying a cookout on the grill. It is important to secure and protect these items after use to prevent the high cost of purchasing replacements. With moderate winds, chair cushions and covers often blow off these items forcing users to chase after them. In some cases, these items can be lost permanently. This could lead to uncomfortable and damaged patio seating or a damaged grill while users try to relax outdoors.
Moreover, the long-term consequences of constant exposure to the outdoor elements cannot be ignored. While lawn items are not in use, it is important to make sure they are securely covered. Over time, exposure to outdoor elements can cause rust, stains, faded colors, and warped materials. By securing these lawn items along their covers, a user can ensure their outdoor furniture and ornaments are secure and protected.
However, existing chair cushions and covers known in the art do not provide additional means of securing the furniture or outdoor equipment. This is undesirable, as some extremely windy environments require a stronger attachment. In addition, securing furniture and equipment covers to items will allow the items to be protected from additional damage caused in various outdoor environments.
Therefore, there exists a long-felt need in the art for a device that secures outdoor lawn items and ornaments. More specifically, there exists a long-felt need in the art for a cushion tether device that can secure patio chair cushions into place. Furthermore, there exists a long-felt need in the art for a cushion tether device that can prevent chair cushions, patio furniture covers, and grill covers from being exposed to the outdoor elements.
The subject matter disclosed and claimed herein, in one embodiment thereof, comprises a cushion tether device. The device is comprised of a chain with a first end and a second end that is easily looped around a chair. Each end includes a fastener to attach the device to the chair and a cushion. The fasteners help keep the cushion secure and in place for easy and convenient use.
In this manner, the cushion tether device of the present invention accomplishes all the foregoing objectives and provides a device that secures chair cushions into place. More specifically, the chair tether device can be applied to an outdoor chair cushion to prevent the cushion from moving or blowing away. Furthermore, the device can be universally applied to all chair cushions along with outdoor furniture and grill covers.

SUMMARY

The following presents a simplified summary to provide a basic understanding of some aspects of the disclosed innovation. This summary is not an extensive overview, and it is not intended to identify key/critical elements or to delineate the scope thereof. Its sole purpose is to present some general concepts in a simplified form as a prelude to the more detailed description that is presented later.
The subject matter disclosed and claimed herein, in one embodiment thereof, comprises a cushion tether device comprised of a chain with a first end and a second end. The device is designed to secure chair cushions to the desired chair to prevent them from blowing away or shifting while in use.
The device comprised of a chain is preferably made from a stainless steel or metal-like material that provides durability and strength. The chain is preferably maneuverable to allow for different widths of chair arms. Further, the chain contains a first end and a second end. In one embodiment, the first end allows the device to connect to the desired chair cushion. In this embodiment, the first end is comprised of at least one fastener mechanism to secure the chair cushion into place.
The first end fasteners are preferably made from a metal or weather-resistant plastic to provide durability while exposed to the outdoor elements. The fasteners are preferably a clip-like mechanism to allow a secure clamp onto the desired chair cushion. Further, the fasteners secure the device to the chair arm while providing the optimal length to keep the cushion in place.
Further, the chain contains a second end. In one embodiment, the second end wraps around the desired chair arm to secure the device to the chair. In this embodiment, the second end is comprised of at least one loop-like fastener mechanism to secure the device onto the chair and secure the desired length of the device. In a different embodiment, the second end fastener may be hook and loop, magnetic, adhesive, or any attaching mechanism known in the art to attach to the chair frame.
The chain is also comprised of at least one cover that protects the chain. The cover is preferably made from a weather-resistant fabric that provides durability and protection. Additionally, the chain will be exposed to outdoor elements that may lead to rust or wear on the material. At least one cover will protect the chain from outdoor element exposure leading to longevity.
The present invention is also comprised of a method of using the device. First, a device is provided comprised of a chain, a first end comprising at least one fastener, and a second end comprising at least one fastener. Then, a user can wrap the second end around the desired chair arm. Next, a user can place the first end through the fastener of the second end. Then a user can connect the first end to the desired chair cushion using at least one fastener of the first end. Finally, a user can select the desired length of the chain using at least one second end fastener for minimal movement of the chair cushion.
The present invention is also comprised of a method of using the device in a different embodiment. First, a device is provided comprised of a chain, a first end comprising at least one fastener, and a second end comprising at least one fastener. Then, a user can attach the second end to the chair frame using the fastener of the second end. Finally, a user can secure the first end using at least one fastener to the chair cushion.
Accordingly, the cushion tether device of the present invention is particularly advantageous as it provides a device that secures patio furniture cushions and covers in outdoor environments. More specifically, the cushion tether device eliminates the need to retrieve outdoor furniture cushions if they fall off or blow away in moderate winds. Furthermore, the device can be universally applied to any furniture cushion, grill cover, or outdoor furniture cover leading to long-lasting protection in various weather conditions. In this manner, the cushion tether device provides a solution for preventing chair cushions from moving or blowing away.
To the accomplishment of the foregoing and related ends, certain illustrative aspects of the disclosed innovation are described herein in connection with the following description and the annexed drawings. These aspects are indicative, however, of but a few of the various ways in which the principles disclosed herein can be employed and are intended to include all such aspects and their equivalents. Other advantages and novel features will become apparent from the following detailed description when considered in conjunction with the drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The description refers to provided drawings in which similar reference characters refer to similar parts throughout the different views, and in which:

FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of one potential embodiment of a cushion tether device of the present invention in accordance with the disclosed architecture;

FIG. 2 illustrates an enhanced perspective view of a first end of one potential embodiment of a cushion tether device of the present invention in accordance with the disclosed architecture;

FIG. 3 illustrates an enhanced perspective view of a second end of one potential embodiment of a cushion tether device of the present invention in accordance with the disclosed architecture;

FIG. 4 illustrates a perspective view of one potential embodiment of a cushion tether device of the present invention while attached to a chair frame and cushion in accordance with the disclosed architecture;

FIG. 5 illustrates a flowchart of a method of using one potential embodiment of a cushion tether device of the present invention in accordance with the disclosed architecture; and

FIG. 6 illustrates a flowchart of a method of using one potential embodiment of a cushion tether device of the present invention in accordance with the disclosed architecture.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The innovation is now described with reference to the drawings, wherein like reference numerals are used to refer to like elements throughout. In the following description, for purposes of explanation, numerous specific details are set forth to provide a thorough understanding thereof. It may be evident, however, that the innovation can be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known structures and devices are shown in block diagram form to facilitate a description thereof. Various embodiments are discussed hereinafter. It should be noted that the figures are described only to facilitate the description of the embodiments. They are not intended as an exhaustive description of the invention and do not limit the scope of the invention. Additionally, an illustrated embodiment need not have all the aspects or advantages shown. Thus, in other embodiments, any of the features described herein from different embodiments may be combined.
As noted above, there is a long-felt need in the art for a device that secures cushions and covers to furniture while outside. More specifically, there exists a long-felt need in the art for a cushion tether device that can secure cushions to chairs to prevent wind from blowing them away or simply falling out of place while in use. Furthermore, there exists a long-felt need in the art for a cushion tether device that protects furniture covers from blowing off during various weather environments.
The present invention, in one exemplary embodiment, is comprised of a cushion tether device. The device is comprised of a chain, with a first end containing at least one fastener, and a second end containing at least one fastener. The device is designed to secure outdoor furniture cushions and covers which prevents them from blowing away in extreme weather conditions.
The device comprised of a chain is preferably made from a stainless steel or metal-like material that provides durability and strength. The chain is preferably maneuverable to allow for different widths of chair arms. Further, the chain contains a first end and a second end. In one embodiment, the first end allows the device to connect to the desired chair cushion. In this embodiment, the first end is comprised of at least one fastener mechanism to secure the chair cushion into place.
The first end fasteners are preferably made from a metal or weather-resistant plastic to provide durability while exposed to the outdoor elements. The fasteners are preferably a clip-like mechanism to allow a secure clamp onto the desired chair cushion. Further, the fasteners secure the device to the chair arm while providing the optimal length to keep the cushion in place.
Further, the chain contains a second end. In one embodiment, the second end wraps around the desired chair arm to secure the device to the chair. In this embodiment, the second end is comprised of at least one loop-like fastener mechanism to secure the device onto the chair and secure the desired length of the device.
The chain is also comprised of at least one cover that protects the chain. The cover is preferably made from a weather-resistant fabric that provides durability and protection. Additionally, the chain will be exposed to outdoor elements that may lead to rust or wear on the material. At least one cover will protect the chain from outdoor element exposure leading to longevity.
The present invention is also comprised of a method of using the device. First, a device is provided comprised of a chain, a first end comprising at least one fastener, and a second end comprising at least one fastener. Then, a user can wrap the second end around the desired chair arm. Next, a user can place the first end through the fastener of the second end. Then a user can connect the first end to the desired chair cushion using at least one fastener of the first end. Finally, a user can select the desired length of the chain using at least one second end fastener for minimal movement of the chair cushion.
The present invention is also comprised of a method of using the device in a different embodiment. First, a device is provided comprised of a chain, a first end comprising at least one fastener, and a second end comprising at least one fastener. Then, a user can attach the second end to the chair frame using the fastener of the second end. Finally, a user can secure the first end using at least one fastener to the chair cushion.
Accordingly, the cushion tether device of the present invention is particularly advantageous as it provides a device that secures patio furniture cushions and covers in outdoor environments. More specifically, the cushion tether device eliminates the need to retrieve outdoor furniture cushions if they fall off or blow away in moderate winds. Furthermore, the device can be universally applied to any furniture cushion, grill cover, or outdoor furniture cover leading to long-lasting protection in various weather conditions. In this manner, the cushion tether device provides a solution for preventing chair cushions from moving or blowing away.
Referring initially to the drawings, FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of one potential embodiment of a cushion tether device 100 of the present invention in accordance with the disclosed architecture. The device 100 is comprised of at least one chain 110, a first end 120 comprised of at least one fastener 122, and a second end 130 comprised of at least one fastener 132. The device 100 is designed to secure cushions (and other covers of the like) to furniture (or other items) while in an outdoor environment.
The chain 110 is preferably made from a stainless steel or metal material that provides durability and strength. However, the chain 110 may be made from any chain or rope material known in the art. The chain 110 is preferably comprised of a weather-resistant material to withstand various outdoor conditions. In one embodiment, the chain 110 is comprised of at least one cover 112 that protects the chain 110 from various weather conditions. The cover 112 may be removable or non-removable. The cover 112 is preferably made from a weather-resistant, fabric material. However, the cover 112 may be made from any weather-resistant material known in the art. In one embodiment the cover may be adjusted or removed from the chain 110. In this embodiment, the cover 112 shields the chain 110 from various environments protecting the chain from rust or decay. Moreover, the cover 112 can shield the chain 110 from damaging the chair cushion or user clothing. Further, the cover 112 may be placed over the first end fastener 122 once in place to protect the clip from damage.
The first end 120 comprises at least one fastener 122. The fastener 122 is preferably made from a durable plastic, metal, or weather-resistant material. However, the fastener 122 may be made from any material known in the art. The fastener 122 is a spring-loaded clip, but may be any fastener type such as, but not limited to, hook, loop, adhesive, magnet, clamp, etc.
The second end 130 is comprised of at least one fastener 132. The fastener 132 is preferably made from a durable plastic, metal, or weather-resistant material. The fastener 132 is preferably a ring. As a result, the chain 110 can be looped around a structure (ex. the arm 12 of an outdoor chair) and run back through the ring 132 to secure the chain 110 around the chair. The fastener 132 may be any type known in the art that may receive the chain 110 in this manner. In a different embodiment, the fastener 132 is a clip, hook, loop, adhesive, magnet, clamp, etc.
The present invention is also comprised of a method of using 200 the device 100 as seen in FIG. 4 . First, a device 100 is provided comprised of a chain 110, a first end 120 comprising at least one fastener 122, and a second end comprising at least one fastener 132 [Step 202]. Then, a user can wrap the second end 130 around a chair arm 12 (or other structure) [Step 204]. Next, a user can run the first end 120 and chain 110 through the fastener 132 to secure the device 100 to and around the chair frame 12 [Step 206]. Then, a user can connect the first end 120 to the desired chair cushion 10 using the fastener 122 [Step 208].
The present invention is also comprised of a method of using 300 the device 100 in a different embodiment, as seen in FIG. 5 . First, a device 100 is provided comprised of a chain 110, a first end 120 comprising at least one fastener 122, and a second end comprising at least one fastener 132 [Step 302]. Then, a user can attach the second end 130 to the chair frame 12 (or other structure) using the fastener 132 [Step 304]. Then, a user can secure the first end 120 to a chair cushion 10 via at least one fastener 122 [Step 306].
Certain terms are used throughout the following description and claims to refer to particular features or components. As one skilled in the art will appreciate, different persons may refer to the same feature or component by different names. This document does not intend to distinguish between components or features that differ in name but not structure or function. As used herein “cushion tether device” and “device” are interchangeable and refer to the cushion tether device 100 of the present invention.
Notwithstanding the foregoing, the cushion tether device 100 of the present invention and its various components can be of any suitable size and configuration as is known in the art without affecting the overall concept of the invention, provided that they accomplish the above-stated objectives. One of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the size, configuration, and material of the cushion tether device 100 as shown in the FIGS. are for illustrative purposes only, and that many other sizes and shapes of the cushion tether device 100 are well within the scope of the present disclosure. Although the dimensions of the cushion tether device 100 are important design parameters for user convenience, the cushion tether device 100 may be of any size, shape, and/or configuration that ensures optimal performance during use and/or that suits the user's needs and/or preferences.
Various modifications and additions can be made to the exemplary embodiments discussed without departing from the scope of the present invention. While the embodiments described above refer to particular features, the scope of this invention also includes embodiments having different combinations of features and embodiments that do not include all the described features. Accordingly, the scope of the present invention is intended to embrace all such alternatives, modifications, and variations as fall within the scope of the claims, together with all equivalents thereof.
What has been described above includes examples of the claimed subject matter. It is, of course, not possible to describe every conceivable combination of components or methodologies for purposes of describing the claimed subject matter, but one of ordinary skill in the art may recognize that many further combinations and permutations of the claimed subject matter are possible. Accordingly, the claimed subject matter is intended to embrace all such alterations, modifications, and variations that fall within the spirit and scope of the appended claims. Furthermore, to the extent that the term “includes” is used in either the detailed description or the claims, such term is intended to be inclusive in a manner similar to the term “comprising” as “comprising” is interpreted when employed as a transitional word in a claim.

Claims

What is claimed is:

1. A cushion tether device comprising:

a chain comprised of a first end and a second end;

a first fastener positioned at the first end; and

a second fastener positioned at the second end.

2. The cushion tether device of claim 1, wherein the chain is comprised of a metal material.

3. The cushion tether device of claim 1, wherein the chain is comprised of a rope material.

4. The cushion tether device of claim 1, wherein the first fastener is comprised of a spring-loaded clip.

5. The cushion tether device of claim 4, wherein the first fastener is comprised of a hook fastener, a loop fastener, an adhesive fastener, a magnet fastener, or a clamp fastener.

6. The cushion tether device of claim 1, wherein the second fastener is comprised of a ring.

7. The cushion tether device of claim 6, wherein the second fastener is comprised of a clip, a hook fastener, a loop fastener, an adhesive fastener, a magnet fastener, or a clamp fastener.

8. A cushion tether device comprising:

a chain comprised of a cover, a first end, and a second end;

a first fastener positioned at the first end; and

a second fastener positioned at the second end.

9. The cushion tether device of claim 8, wherein the chain is comprised of a metal material.

10. The cushion tether device of claim 8, wherein the chain is comprised of a rope material.

11. The cushion tether device of claim 8, wherein the first fastener is comprised of a spring-loaded clip.

12. The cushion tether device of claim 11, wherein the first fastener is comprised of a hook fastener, a loop fastener, an adhesive fastener, a magnet fastener, or a clamp fastener.

13. The cushion tether device of claim 8, wherein the second fastener is comprised of a ring.

14. The cushion tether device of claim 13, wherein the second fastener is comprised of a clip, a hook fastener, a loop fastener, an adhesive fastener, a magnet fastener, or a clamp fastener.

15. The cushion tether device of claim 8, wherein the chain is comprised of a cover.

16. The cushion tether device of claim 8, wherein the cover is comprised of a plastic material.

17. A method of using a cushion tether device, the method comprising the following steps:

providing a cushion tether device comprised of a chain having a first end comprised of a first fastener and a second end comprised of a second fastener;

attaching the second fastener to a structure; and

attaching the first fastener to a cushion.

18. The method of using a cushion tether device of claim 17, wherein the structure is comprised of an arm of a chair.

19. The method of using a cushion tether device of claim 17, wherein the second fastener is comprised of a ring.

20. The method of using a cushion tether device of claim 19 further comprised of a step of running the chain through the ring.