Dual-Function Convertible Cushion

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/815,578, filed on May 31, 2025.

SUBSTITUTE SPECIFICATION

This substitute specification is submitted in response to the Notice to File Missing Parts mailed Jan. 6, 2026. The substitute specification contains no new matter.

STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT

[Not Applicable]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

(1) Field of the Invention

This invention relates generally to cushions and seating accessories, and more particularly to a convertible cushion that can function both as a decorative throw pillow and as a two-panel seat pad. The invention encompasses a cushion design with a novel magnetic closure mechanism that enables quick transformation between a pillow configuration and a flat seat cushion configuration.

(2) Description of Related Art

Portable seat cushions and throw pillows are common household items, but they traditionally exist as separate products. A need exists for a dual-function cushion that serves as an attractive pillow when not in use as a seat, thereby saving space and providing convenience.

Prior attempts at convertible cushions have demonstrated the feasibility of combining these functions, but they often involve cumbersome closures or aesthetic compromises. For example, some earlier designs used overlapping fabric flaps and tie strings to convert a chair pad into a decorative pillow. While functional, such methods require manual tying, and the exposed ties can detract from the pillow's appearance.

Another challenge is maintaining shape and comfort. Traditional pillows with loose fillings tend to compress, flatten, and lose shape, making it difficult for closure systems to align properly. A more structurally supportive core is needed to ensure the cushion is comfortable and retains its shape.

While magnetic closures are known in other fields, such as foldable bags, they have not been applied to solve these specific problems in convertible cushions. A concealed magnetic closure could eliminate the need for visible straps or zippers, preserving the look of a normal pillow while providing a secure, self-aligning, and effortless fastening method.

The present invention provides such a solution by incorporating structurally supportive panels and a magnet-based closure for effortless conversion.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention is a Dual-Function Convertible Cushion that transforms from a decorative pillow into a two-panel seat pad. It is distinguished by a releasable magnetic closure system that securely and invisibly holds it in the folded pillow configuration.

The core of the invention is a hinged, two-panel construction where each panel contains a resilient, supportive core. This core provides structure and comfort, ensuring the cushion maintains its shape for both seating and proper alignment of the closure mechanism. While the preferred embodiment utilizes a high-density foam core, the inventive concept applies to any resilient material that provides the necessary structure.

An integrated magnetic fastening system is built into the cushion's periphery. When the cushion is folded, embedded magnetic elements automatically attract and secure the two panels together, forming a unified pillow. The closure is concealed, preserving the cushion's aesthetic as a standard throw pillow. This system allows for nearly effortless conversion: the user simply pulls the panels apart to create a seat pad and folds them back together, letting the magnets snap the cushion shut automatically.

The invention overcomes the limitations of prior art by combining a supportive internal structure with a seamless, concealed magnetic closure, resulting in a dual-function cushion that is practical, comfortable, and aesthetically superior.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWING

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the cushion in the closed pillow configuration, appearing as a conventional decorative throw pillow.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the cushion in the open seat pad configuration, showing the exterior faces.

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the cushion in an open chair-support configuration.

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the cushion in the open seat pad configuration, showing the interior faces and the location of the magnetic elements.

FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional side view of the cushion in the closed configuration, showing the internal components.

FIG. 6 is a detail view of an edge seam showing an embedded magnet housing.

FIG. 7 is a view of an alternative embodiment showing a continuous magnetic strip.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Referring now to the drawings, wherein like reference numbers indicate corresponding parts throughout the several views, a preferred embodiment of the convertible cushion (generally indicated as 10) of the present invention is described in detail.

Structure

The convertible cushion (10) comprises a first cushion panel (12) and a second cushion panel (14) that are connected by a flexible hinge portion (16). Each panel contains a resilient filling or core (18) enclosed within an outer fabric cover (20). The core (18) is preferably a slab of medium-to-high density foam (for example, polyurethane foam or memory foam) but could also be layered composites, semi-rigid closed-cell foam, inflatable bladders, or other resilient inserts that provide structural support and maintain a generally planar shape. The fabric cover (20) of each panel is joined at the hinge (16). In the closed configuration, the exterior of the fabric cover is decorative and styled to resemble an ordinary throw pillow.

Magnetic Closure

A critical feature is the magnetic closure system. A plurality of magnetic elements (30) are disposed within the cushion. These elements may be located adjacent to seams, within edge channels, or in interior regions of the panels (12, 14). The elements may be discrete magnets, continuous strips, or combinations thereof. In a preferred embodiment, magnets are arranged in pairs with opposite polarity so they attract firmly when the cushion is closed. The magnetic force is sufficient to keep the cushion closed during normal handling, yet allows a user to separate the panels by hand. The magnetic elements (30) are fully concealed within the fabric or cushion structure, invisible from the exterior, ensuring that in its closed configuration the cushion is indistinguishable from a conventional decorative throw pillow.

Alternative Embodiments

The invention is not limited to the preferred embodiment described above and encompasses several variations. For example, the panel configuration is not limited to two panels; a tri-fold or multi-fold design using three or more hinged panels is also contemplated. Similarly, the resilient core (18) can be any material that provides sufficient structure to maintain the alignment necessary for the magnetic closure, including but not limited to memory foam, layered composites, semi-rigid closed-cell foam, or even inflatable structures for enhanced portability.

The magnetic closure system itself can be implemented in various ways. While the preferred embodiment illustrates discrete magnets, the closure can also consist of elongated flexible magnetic strips, as shown in the alternative embodiment of FIG. 7. In another embodiment, if the cushion includes decorative piping along the closing edges, the magnetic elements (such as a flexible magnetic strip) may be integrated directly into the piping itself. In this configuration, the magnetic piping of one panel would attract the corresponding magnetic piping on the other panel to secure the cushion in its closed form.

Additional features may also be incorporated, such as gusseted hinges to provide a cleaner and more uniform edge when the cushion is folded, concealed deployable straps for securing the cushion to a chair, or the use of durable, non-slip fabrics on the seat-facing sides of the panels to enhance functionality.

Operation

In the closed configuration (FIG. 1), the panels (12, 14) are folded together and the magnetic elements (30) automatically engage, creating a stacked cushion that appears as a standard decorative pillow. To use as a seat, the user unfolds the panels into an open configuration. This can be a flat seat pad where the panels lie coplanar (FIG. 2), or a seat and backrest support (FIG. 3), where one panel lies on a horizontal surface and the second extends upward against a vertical surface to provide back support.