Spreader-Bar Hammock with Concave Support Surface and Modular Attachment System

This application claims the benefit of priority of U.S. provisional application No. 63/648,508, filed May 16, 2024, the contents of which are herein incorporated by reference.

The present disclosure relates to the field of relaxation and therapeutic equipment, and particularly to hammock designs that enhance ease of use, hygienic maintenance, and versatility in resting positions, including the ability to support a user in a transverse position relative to the longitudinal axis defined by the hammock's hang points.

Hammocks have long been popular for leisure and relaxation, offering a unique experience of comfort and tranquility. In recent years, hammocks have also gained recognition as therapeutic tools in environments focused on nervous system regulation and sensory integration. However, conventional hammock designs often pose limitations where hygienic considerations, positional adaptability, and ease of setup are essential.

Most existing hammocks, whether of the gathered-end or spreader-bar variety, restrict users to a horizontal resting orientation. While certain specialized hammocks allow for perpendicular (transverse) lying, these designs typically sacrifice the ability to also support horizontal or diagonal positions, reducing their overall adaptability. For recreational users, variability in body orientation enhances comfort and enjoyment. For therapeutic users, the ability to lie perpendicularly enables a distinctive front-to-back swinging motion in the sagittal plane, as opposed to the side-to-side (coronal plane) swing experienced during horizontal lying. This sagittal swinging motion has been associated with calming effects on the vestibular and proprioceptive systems, which play a central role in sensory processing and emotional regulation. In therapeutic practices-such as occupational therapy, somatic therapy, or trauma-informed car—this kind of linear motion can facilitate nervous system modulation, promote relaxation, and enhance a user's sense of spatial grounding.

In many current hammock designs, positional instability during use can interfere with user comfort, safety, and the consistent delivery of therapeutic care. Furthermore, the installation requirements for traditional hammocks often necessitate substantial space, which is not always available in clinical or therapeutic environments. Some existing systems attempt to address these issues with complex frames or rigid enclosures, but such additions tend to reduce the overall experience of openness, mobility, and ease of use. Hygiene is another critical concern, particularly in shared or clinical contexts, yet many current hammock designs do not allow the support surface (the hammock element the user lies on) to be removed for laundering or replaced as needed.

These limitations highlight the need for a compact and adaptable hammock design that supports transverse lying as well as other orientations, including horizontal, diagonal, and semi-upright, while offering enhanced safety, comfort, and a cleanable, easily detachable support surface. Such a configuration would be suitable for a wider range of environments and applications, including therapeutic, recreational, wellness, and commercial use. The ideal design should also address installation constraints by enabling a compact footprint with minimal hang-point spacing, without sacrificing comfort, safety, or versatility in use.

As can be seen, there is a need for a spreader-bar hammock assembly with transverse lying capability, modular suspension components, and removable support surfaces that facilitate hygienic maintenance and interchangeability. A design that combines compactness, modularity, and enhanced user experience across multiple resting orientations would represent a significant advancement over existing hammock systems.

The hammock assembly disclosed herein addresses limitations in existing designs and is well suited for therapeutic, recreational, wellness, and professional environments where a secure, comfortable, and adaptable support surface is desired. The assembly enables transverse (perpendicular) positioning relative to the longitudinal axis defined by the hammock's hang points, as well as diagonal, horizontal, and semi-upright user orientations. The curved suspension geometry allows for fluid, natural movement while minimizing the risk of positional instability, whether side-to-side or front-to-back. The compact design allows for installation between hang points spaced as little as eight feet apart, and the modular suspension system facilitates the support surface to be easily detached for cleaning or replacement. Current solutions fail to provide a hammock that combines compactness, modularity, and enhanced multi-orientation user experiences.

In one aspect of the present subject disclosure, a spreader-bar hammock assembly is configured to enable transverse lying capability using a specific concave support surface geometry. The support surface includes two opposing longitudinal edges that are at least eight feet apart when in a flat condition, and a longitudinal midline that is longer than the opposing edges, such that when suspended, the support surface assumes a concave configuration configured to support a user in a transverse (perpendicular) position relative to the longitudinal axis defined by the hang points. Unlike traditional spreader-bar hammocks, which typically restrict user orientation to a single axis, the disclosed geometry permits safe, supported transverse positioning within a spreader-bar format.

In another aspect of the subject disclosure, the hammock assembly includes a modular suspension system comprising two spreader bars positioned between hang points, each spreader bar integrating one or more interconnectors configured to enable attachment and detachment of the support surface. The suspension system allows for easy installation, removal, and replacement of the support surface, and may include flexible interconnectors formed from ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene cordage (such as, but not limited to, Amsteel®-Blue) configured as soft shackles secured through one or more openings in the spreader bars.

In yet another aspect of the subject disclosure, the support surface includes a plurality of reinforced attachment sites positioned along the opposing lateral margins. Each attachment site has an overlapping box pleat formed by folding and stacking multiple layers of fabric to create a reinforced zone. The pleats are adapted to distribute tensile loads across the layers, increase weight-bearing capacity, and maintain structural integrity during use. In some embodiments, each pleat includes at least three stacked layers and is reinforced with stitching to retain its shape and load-bearing function under tension.

In one embodiment, the spreader-bar hammock assembly includes a support surface having a concave geometry that enables transverse positioning, with a longitudinal midline longer than its opposing lateral span. The support surface may define a generally hexagonal shape when flat and may be constructed from a two-way stretch tricot material.

In another embodiment, the support surface is suspended between two spreader bars using a modular suspension system having flexible interconnectors. The interconnectors may be adapted as soft shackles formed from ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene cordage, removably securing the support surface to each bar.

In a further embodiment, the support surface includes reinforced attachment sites positioned along opposing lateral margins. Each site may include an overlapping box pleat with at least three stacked fabric layers, optionally stitched to maintain the pleat structure and enhance load distribution.

These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the present subject disclosure will become better understood with reference to the following drawings, description, and claims.

The following detailed description is of the best currently contemplated modes of carrying out exemplary embodiments of the subject disclosure. The description is not to be taken in a limiting sense but is made merely for the purpose of illustrating the general principles of the subject disclosure, since the scope of the subject disclosure is best defined by the appended claims.

Referring to, the subject disclosure includes a hammock assemblycomprising a support surfaceconfigured to enable a userto position themselves transversely—i.e., perpendicularly relative to the longitudinal axis between the hammock's end points—as well as in other resting orientations, such as horizontal, diagonal, or semi-upright. The longitudinal axis of the support surfaceextends between opposing hammock end points, which are configured to be rigged to external hang points, such as trees, wall anchors, or a freestanding frame, in order to suspend the support surfaceabove the ground or floor.

A pair of spreader barsare positioned at opposite ends of the support surfaceand help maintain a semi-open configuration, allowing the support surfaceto remain accessible for seated or horizontal lying positions. When the user lies transversely, the body stretches the support surfaceto a width sufficient to support their full body length, dynamically expanding the hammock into its fully open and concave resting geometry. This enables a user to establish and maintain a safe and comfortable transverse lying position conducive to therapeutic applications.

In one embodiment, each spreader bar may be constructed from tam vong bamboo, cut into 42-inch lengths. Tam vong is a dense, high-strength bamboo species known for its exceptional load-bearing capacity and natural resilience, making it well suited for applications that benefit from both strength and dynamic responsiveness. Other embodiments may utilize appropriately dimensioned materials such as hardwoods, aluminum, steel, or titanium, provided the material can bear the dynamic load of a suspended user. Dimensions and material selection may vary depending on the intended use, desired portability, and environmental conditions.

Referring to, the subject disclosure provides a suspension systemdesigned to removably attach and detach the support surfacefrom the spreader bars, thereby enabling the ability to easily change and clean the support surface. In some embodiments, the support surfacemay comprise, but is not limited to, tricot material.

The spreader barsand the support surfaceare adapted to allow a userto lie comfortably and safely in a transverse (perpendicular) position, as well as in other orientations, within a space as small as eight feet between hang points. This compact yet functional installation is made possible by the unique geometry and material characteristics of support surfaceand the structural support provided by the spreader bars.

As shown in, the support surfacemay generally define a hexagonal shape when laid flat and in an unhemmed condition, though in some embodiments, it may instead include curved or oblong lateral edges that similarly produce a concave geometry when suspended. The shape includes two opposing longitudinal edgesand two lateral raw edges, which may be angled or curved to achieve the desired geometric transformation. The central longitudinal midline-designated as ‘X’ in—extends longer than the longitudinal edges, which are designated as ‘Y,’ and the angled or curved lateral raw edges contribute to the formation of a concave, gently cupped configuration when aligned into straight, generally parallel lines during suspension.

In one exemplary embodiment, the support surfaceis constructed from a 40-denier nylon tricot fabric measuring approximately nine feet in width from selvedge to selvedge (i.e., between opposing longitudinal edges ‘Y’). In this embodiment, each longitudinal edge (designated “Y”) measures approximately 60.75 inches in length, while the longitudinal midline (“X”) measures approximately 66 inches, creating a difference of approximately 5.25 inches. This dimensional relationship contributes to the concave geometry necessary for transverse lying while maintaining support and stretch.

When the support surface is suspended between spreader bars and the lateral margins are hemmed or tensioned into straight, generally parallel lines, the excess length of the longitudinal midline (“X”) relative to the longitudinal edges (“Y”) causes the surface to buckle downward in a predictable, curved manner. This creates a concave configuration in the vertical plane, effectively converting horizontal dimensional difference into usable depth, allowing the user's body to rest lower and more securely within the support surface.

The exemplary embodiment with “Y” at approximately 60.75 inches and “X” at approximately 66 inches (a 5.25-inch difference) is specifically effective when using a flexible, two-way stretch fabric such as 40-denier tricot. This material exhibits notable elasticity in the transverse direction (selvedge-to-selvedge), which enhances the suspended concavity when the hammock is weighted by a user. In this configuration, the stretch characteristics amplify the geometric cupping effect and provide comfort and support across multiple resting orientations. However, if a less stretchable or more rugged material is used for the support surface, such as canvas or ballistic nylon, a greater difference between “X” and “Y” may be required to produce the advantageous concave configuration disclosed herein. This is because more rigid materials rely solely on the structural geometry (rather than stretch behavior) to generate the cupped resting surface necessary for therapeutic and multi-orientation use. Accordingly, the optimal “X” dimension may vary depending on fabric characteristics and is not limited to the stretch-enabled embodiment described herein. This understanding allows the concave geometry to be adapted for use with a wide range of materials while maintaining transverse support and functional integrity.

While the perpendicular position offers particular therapeutic value, especially for nervous system regulation via front-to-back (sagittal plane) swinging, the shape and stretch properties of the support surfacealso support a wide range of safe and comfortable resting positions. These include traditional horizontal lying, diagonal reclining, and even semi-upright seated postures with the user's back braced against a spreader bar (optionally cushioned by a pillow).

This versatility is achieved not only through the geometry of the support surface, but also through its dynamic tensioning when rigged. Whether the user is centered or off-center, the concave configuration/shape gently contains and cradles the body and enhances comfort and stability, making this configuration ideal for both recreational relaxation and therapeutic use.

In addition to supporting multiple body positions, the concave configuration of the support surface facilitates smoother, more supported transitions into and out of the hammock. Its gentle cupping minimizes lateral roll and other unwanted shifts in body alignment, creating a responsive yet grounded resting environment. This concave configuration allows users to change positions-whether entering, exiting, or repositioning within the hammock-without loss of balance or undue effort, making it especially well-suited for therapeutic or clinical settings.

Unlike traditional hammock designs in which spreader bars serve primarily to widen the support surface and are not load-bearing, the spreader barsof the present disclosure function as primary structural elements that directly support the user's weight. Rather than allowing suspension linesto pass through the spreader bar and connect directly to the support surface—as is common in conventional configurations—the disclosed suspension system(see) connects the suspension linesdirectly to the spreader bars.

Interconnectors, which are secured to spreader bars, provide the connection to the support surface. In this configuration, the interconnectorstransfer the load from the support surfacedirectly to the spreader bars, not to the hammock ends. This structural arrangement enables the modular and detachable design of the support surface.

In one embodiment, as shown in, each interconnectoris configured as a soft shackle constructed from approximately 36 inches of Amsteel®-Blue or other ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) cordage, with a diameter of at least 7/64 inches. The soft shackle is formed by first threading one end of the cordage through a section of itself to create an adjustable loop that can be opened or closed in size, thereby serving as the attachment interface for the support surface. After forming this loop, the two free ends of the cordage are passed through corresponding holesin the spreader barand tied together on the opposite side using a secure knot, such as a diamond knot. This process secures the soft shackle to the spreader bar in a low-profile, load-bearing configuration.

Attachment sites are provided on the support surfaceto interface with the interconnectors. These sites may include reinforced holesor integrated couplerspositioned along the support surface hem. The couplers may be configured as D-rings, triangle rings, grommets, or other suitable hardware adapted for lashing or load-bearing attachment.

Referring to, the subject disclosure prevents tearing and minimizes stress at or near the support surface attachment sites, through the support surfaceincorporating overlapping box pleats. These pleatscreate a plurality of fabric layers at the locations where couplersor reinforced holesconnect with the support surface, distributing tensile loads and reducing localized strain. In one embodiment, opposing foldsof the overlapping box pleatoverlap each other in a joined/stitch condition, in a perpendicular plan view (not shown) to enable the mentioned reinforcement.

is a schematic cross-section of an attachment site, demonstrating how the overlapping box pleat—formed from the support surface fabric—is sandwiched between webbing pieces, which secure the couplerand are in turn enclosed between the outer top layerand bottom layerof the lateral hem.

As shown in, traditional box pleats, commonly used in garments and upholstery, are typically formed for decorative or aesthetic purposes. In contrast, as shown in, the overlapping box pleatsof the subject disclosure are specifically configured to reinforce the support surface fabric at load-bearing attachment sites. Each overlapping pleat is formed by folding the fabric to create multiple stacked layers, distributing tensile forces across a greater surface area to prevent tearing or material failure when the hammock is under tension.

is a schematic bottom view of a lateral hemsection of the support surface, illustrating attachment sites that include couplersin the form of D-rings. The number and spacing of the attachment points within the suspension systemare sufficient to adequately support the user's weight while allowing for easy detachment and reattachment, enhancing cleanability, transportability, and customization. In one embodiment, the suspension system comprises twelve total attachment points-six on each lateral margin of the support surface corresponding to six soft shackles on each spreader bar. This embodiment utilizes 40-denier nylon tricot material for the support surface, having a width of approximately 108 inches from longitudinal selvedge to selvedge, with each lateral raw edge folded into overlapping box pleats at six locations evenly spaced along a 62-inch hem. The spreader bar in this embodiment is 42 inches in length, resulting in greater hem length than spreader bar span; this intentional difference allows for slight sagging between couplers when suspended, enhancing flexibility and fluid motion in the support surface.

The appropriate number and spacing of attachment points may vary depending on the characteristics of the support surface fabric, including tensile strength and flexibility. In general, lighter and more flexible materials require more distributed support to prevent strain concentration. The integration of overlapping box pleats at each attachment site enables the use of fewer attachment points while maintaining load-bearing safety. Without such reinforcement, a significantly higher number of attachment sites may be necessary to achieve comparable structural integrity. Conversely, with stronger fabrics, fewer attachment points may be sufficient. The overlapping box pleat design thus supports adaptable load distribution across a range of fabric types while preserving modularity and ease of use.

Materials such as stretchable tricot offer greater comfort and proprioceptive fluidity, while heavier fabrics may require fewer reinforcement layers. Simplified pleat structures, e.g., accordion pleats forming three layers, may be substituted in rugged use cases.

In some embodiments, the support surface and hems may be reinforced using locked stitching with high-strength thread such as V69 or V92 polyester. Surface holes or couplers may be placed within these reinforced regions for added durability.

To use the assembly, the hammock may be suspended between hang points spaced as little as eight feet apart. Users can enter safely using a rear-facing sit-and-recline motion. The assembly supports various positions including transverse, horizontal, diagonal, and hybrid.

To clean, the support surface can be detached via the interconnectors, machine washed gently, and air or low-heat dried. Couplers may be placed in a mesh bag during wash cycles.

The subject disclosure may be adapted for a wide range of therapeutic, medical, wellness, and recreational applications. In clinical or rehabilitative settings, the hammock may assist in the prevention of pressure ulcers, improve circulation, and support physical or occupational therapy by aiding mobility and sensory regulation. In therapeutic contexts, it may enhance practices such as breathwork, meditation, or trauma-informed care by facilitating vestibular stimulation and promoting relaxation

The design may assist with nervous system regulation, potentially increasing alpha brainwave activity and supporting access to flow states, creativity, and focused rest. Applications may extend to clinical or wellness practices for the management of conditions such as insomnia, myasthenia gravis, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson's disease, autonomic dysregulation, and other conditions, under appropriate supervision. In psychotherapy or somatic therapy contexts, the configuration may be used to support co-regulation and vagal tone, as informed by polyvagal theory.

Beyond therapeutic use, adaptations of the disclosed system may serve in military, emergency, or field-based environments. For example, the hammock assembly may be used for transport or temporary rest in planes, helicopters, boats, or remote medical operations. The use of overlapping box pleats for fabric reinforcement may be integrated into military-grade hammock systems or other fabric-based suspension technologies. Similarly, the load-bearing spreader bar with integrated interconnectors may be adapted for use in fitness equipment, search and rescue systems, medical evacuation devices, or other load-bearing applications requiring rapid attachment and detachment of flexible supports.

As used in this application, the term “about” or “approximately” refers to a range of values within plus or minus 10% of the specified number. And the term “substantially” refers to up to 80% or more of an entirety. Recitation of ranges of values herein are not intended to be limiting, referring instead individually to any and all values falling within the range, unless otherwise indicated, and each separate value within such a range is incorporated into the specification as if it were individually recited herein.

For purposes of this disclosure, the term “aligned” means parallel, substantially parallel, or forming an angle of less than 35.0 degrees. For purposes of this disclosure, the term “transverse” means perpendicular, substantially perpendicular, or forming an angle between 55.0 and 125.0 degrees. Also, for purposes of this disclosure, the term “length” means the longest dimension of an object. Also, for purposes of this disclosure, the term “width” means the dimension of an object from side to side. For the purposes of this disclosure, the term “above” generally means superjacent, substantially superjacent, or higher than another object although not directly overlying the object. Further, for purposes of this disclosure, the term “mechanical communication” generally refers to components being in direct physical contact with each other or being in indirect physical contact with each other where movement of one component affect the position of the other.

The use of any and all examples, or exemplary language (“e.g.,” “such as,” or the like) provided herein, is intended merely to better illuminate the embodiments and does not pose a limitation on the scope of the embodiments or the claims. No language in the specification should be construed as indicating any unclaimed element as essential to the practice of the disclosed embodiments.

In the following description, it is understood that terms such as “first,” “second,” “top,” “bottom,” “up,” “down,” and the like, are words of convenience and are not to be construed as limiting terms unless specifically stated to the contrary.

It should be understood, of course, that the foregoing relates to exemplary embodiments of the subject disclosure and that modifications may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the subject disclosure as set forth in the following claims.