Protective cover with barrier layer and anti-slip layer

Abstract

Protective cover (12) for a seat cushion (10), the protective cover (12) comprising: a covering material (28) comprising an outer surface (30) and an inner surface (32), wherein the outer surface (30) and the inner surface (32) are arranged opposite each other, a barrier layer (34) arranged on the inside (32), wherein the barrier layer (34) is impermeable to liquids, and an anti-slip layer (36) for preventing the slippage of the protective cover (12), wherein the anti-slip layer (36) is arranged on the outside (30).

Description

Technical field

[0001] The invention relates to a protective cover for a seat cushion. Furthermore, the invention relates to a seat cushion with the protective cover. Technical background

[0002] Seat cushions are well-known and can be used both indoors and outdoors. Outdoors, in particular, seat cushions are exposed to various environmental influences that can damage the cushion and / or impair seating comfort.

[0003] For example, outdoor seat cushions are often used on wet, sometimes slippery surfaces. This can cause the seat cushion to get wet and slip, reducing seating comfort for the user.

[0004] Common protective covers for seat cushions, designed to shield the cushion core from environmental influences, are only conditionally suitable for outdoor use and have a number of disadvantages. For example, such covers can easily become soiled, slip on wet surfaces, are often stiff, and offer limited seating comfort. Summary of the invention

[0005] It is therefore the object of the present invention to provide a protective cover for a seat cushion with which at least one disadvantage known from the prior art can be eliminated or at least mitigated.

[0006] The problem is solved by a protective cover for a seat cushion according to claim 1.

[0007] The protective cover comprises a fabric with an outer and an inner surface. The outer and inner surfaces are oriented in opposite directions. Furthermore, the protective cover includes a barrier layer on the inner surface. This barrier layer is impermeable to liquids. Additionally, the protective cover includes an anti-slip layer on the outer surface to prevent the cover from slipping.

[0008] The core idea of ​​the present invention is to provide a protective cover that combines two functions: a moisture-resistant and an anti-slip function. The moisture-resistant function is provided by the barrier layer, which prevents liquids from penetrating the cover. This effectively protects a seat cushion core encased in the cover from liquids and thus from moisture. The anti-slip function is achieved by providing an anti-slip layer that secures the cover against slippage. In other words, the anti-slip layer ensures that the cover is slip-resistant to the surface on which it rests. Furthermore, the anti-slip layer and the barrier layer work synergistically, making the protective cover according to the invention particularly suitable for outdoor use.The anti-slip layer prevents the cover fabric from shifting on wet, sometimes slippery surfaces, such as those commonly found outdoors. Furthermore, the barrier layer prevents liquids from penetrating the fabric. Therefore, the barrier layer and the anti-slip layer together improve seating comfort because the seat cushion remains dry and securely in place, even in wet environments. The protective cover can be solid-colored or multi-colored. In particular, the protective cover can be manufactured in several different colors.

[0009] The term "impermeable to liquids" defines that the barrier layer is impermeable to liquids.

[0010] The term "barrier layer" can therefore refer to a layer impermeable to liquids, which is a layer spread over a surface of a liquid-impermeable substance or material, a liquid-impermeable mixture of substances or a liquid-impermeable fabric.

[0011] The barrier layer can be formed directly on the inside of the upholstery fabric and / or lie against it. For example, the barrier layer can be attached to the inside of the upholstery fabric using a lamination process, an adhesive process, or a sewing process.

[0012] The barrier layer can be attached completely or at least partially, e.g., at specific points, to the inside of the upholstery fabric. The inside of the upholstery fabric can be completely or at least partially covered by the barrier layer.

[0013] Liquids within the meaning of the present invention are all liquids of any viscosity at room temperature, i.e., 25°C. Examples of liquids within the meaning of the present disclosure are, but are not limited to, gastric acid, fruit juices, soft drinks, water and / or urine.

[0014] According to a first embodiment, the barrier layer is at least partially made of a plastic.

[0015] The use of plastic for the barrier layer provides reliable protection for the seat cushion core encased under the protective cover, especially against contact with liquids. This ensures a reliable protective cover.

[0016] Suitable plastics include thermoplastics, thermosets, and / or elastomers. Thermoplastics, thermosets, and / or elastomers exhibiting hydrophobic or superhydrophobic properties and / or forming surface textures are preferred. In addition to hydrophobic or superhydrophobic properties, plastics can also be heat-resistant up to 120°C and washable, i.e., insoluble in detergents.

[0017] According to another embodiment, the barrier layer is at least partially, and in particular completely, made of polyurethane.

[0018] Polyurethane can particularly increase the elasticity of the barrier layer. Furthermore, the thickness of the barrier layer can be reduced when using polyurethane, which in turn can increase the elasticity and stretchability of the entire protective covering.

[0019] According to another embodiment, the barrier layer has a thickness of 10 micrometers to 40 micrometers, for example 20 micrometers to 30 micrometers, in particular 25 micrometers.

[0020] Such dimensions and thicknesses of the barrier layer can provide comprehensive protection against moisture while simultaneously increasing elasticity and flexibility. Specifically, the elasticity of the barrier layer, ranging from 10 to 40 micrometers in thickness, can be matched to the elasticity of the cover fabric, thus increasing and / or maximizing the overall elasticity of the protective cover. In other words, a barrier layer with a thickness of 10 to 40 micrometers allows for a significant increase in the flexibility of the protective cover, while simultaneously providing reliable protection for the seat cushion core beneath the cover against liquids and moisture, particularly contact with liquids or moisture. Furthermore, the specific thickness of the barrier layer allows the protective cover to stretch while also ensuring tear resistance and robustness.Due to the significantly increased flexibility of the protective cover, it can also be crumpled and / or scrunched up.

[0021] According to a further embodiment, the barrier layer has an outer surface facing the inside and an outer surface facing away from the inside. The outer surface facing away from the inside is continuous, flat, rough, and exposed.

[0022] The term "continuous" is to be understood broadly and signifies that the barrier layer, or the outer surface facing away from the barrier layer, has at least a mass of a liquid-impermeable substance or mixture spread over a surface. In other words, the term "continuous" describes the fact that the liquid-impermeable substance or mixture is homogeneously distributed throughout the entire barrier layer.

[0023] In particular, the term "continuous" implies that the barrier layer can have an identical thickness across its entire surface area. Consequently, the barrier layer cannot have any gaps extending from the outer surface into the interior of the barrier layer.

[0024] The term "flat" describes that the barrier layer or the outer surface of the barrier layer facing away from it is completely flat, i.e., for example, without waves, peaks, and valleys.

[0025] The term "rough" describes the fact that the barrier layer, or the outer surface of the barrier layer facing away from it, has a structured surface. This structured surface can be uniform or random. A uniform structure, for example, includes a pattern, i.e., a repeating sequence of identical or different shapes. For instance, a skin-like, particularly a wrinkled, skin-like, structured surface can be created, such as when the liquid-impermeable layer is laminated to the inside of the cover fabric. Such a structured surface can be achieved by applying the liquid-impermeable layer to the lower layer of the cover fabric while heated, allowing the barrier layer to expand, and then cooling the barrier layer, allowing it to contract.The contraction of the barrier layer during cooling can therefore form a wrinkled, skin-like textured surface on the underside of the protective cover. Alternatively or additionally, the barrier layer can be attached to the lower layer in such a way that, in a relaxed, unloaded, and / or unconditioned state of the cover fabric, the barrier layer bulges, at least in some areas, in a wrinkle-like manner.

[0026] The term "exposed" describes the fact that the outer surface of the barrier layer facing away from the surface is exposed. In other words, the outer surface of the barrier layer facing away from the surface is not covered or concealed by any other material of the protective covering.

[0027] The continuous, flat, rough, and exposed design of the barrier layer reliably prevents the protective cover from slipping when the user sits on it on a seat cushion core. The roughness of the exposed surface increases the static friction of the opposite outer surface, thus making slippage more difficult or even impossible. Furthermore, the continuous, flat, rough, and exposed barrier layer can also increase elasticity. Specifically, the barrier layer can be designed to be at least partially or partially elastic relative to the lower layer of the cover fabric. The elasticity of the barrier layer can correspond to or equal to the elasticity of the cover fabric or the elasticity of the lower layer of the tensioning material. This increases the elasticity of the protective cover.

[0028] According to a further embodiment, the protective cover, when stretched over a cushion core, comprises a top surface designed as a seat for a user and a bottom surface designed as a floor. The anti-slip layer is provided at least partially on the floor surface.

[0029] In simpler terms, the anti-slip layer is only applied to a section or part of the protective cover, specifically the section that forms the bottom surface. This is because the bottom surface is the part of the cover that, when stretched, forms the underside and comes into contact with a surface such as a chair, bench, or floor. Therefore, the anti-slip layer can be applied selectively to those areas of the cover that contact a surface. This represents a particularly material-efficient arrangement of the anti-slip layer.

[0030] According to another embodiment, the anti-slip layer completely covers the floor surface.

[0031] This significantly increases the friction between the floor surface and the substrate, making it difficult for the protective cover to slip. This can lead to greater seating comfort, as a seat cushion core covered with such a protective cover can only be dislodged by applying considerable force. This keeps the seating position stable, which is perceived as particularly pleasant. This is especially true for outdoor use, where damp or wet surfaces are common, ensuring the protective cover remains securely in place even on such surfaces.

[0032] According to another embodiment, the anti-slip layer is not located on the top.

[0033] This ensures that seating comfort for the user remains high and is not compromised by the anti-slip layer. Anti-slip layers are typically not comfortable for sitting. Users are generally accustomed to sliding slightly on a seat cushion and find it unpleasant when this is prevented by the cushion. An anti-slip layer applied to the seat surface could cause the user to "stick" to the protective cover. Furthermore, this could increase the friction between the user and the seat surface to such an extent that it would overcome the friction on the underside of the protective cover between the floor and the surface, thus reducing or negating the effectiveness of the anti-slip layer on the underside.

[0034] According to another embodiment, the anti-slip layer is made of a non-slip material.

[0035] A non-slip material is understood to be a material that increases the static friction of the outer surface of the protective cover. This reliably prevents the protective cover, and in particular any seat cushion enclosed within it, from slipping against a surface.

[0036] Suitable examples of non-slip materials include plastic, microfiber, and cork. These materials can be used alone or in combination.

[0037] According to another embodiment, the anti-slip layer is made of a plastic.

[0038] Plastics offer the advantage of being inexpensive and widely available. Furthermore, plastics can be easily incorporated into covering materials using various processing techniques. For example, plastics can be laminated onto fabrics.

[0039] Suitable plastics include rubber, silicone, PVC, nitrile rubber, and polyurethane. These materials can be used alone or in combination.

[0040] According to another embodiment, the anti-slip layer is at least partially, and in particular completely, made of polyurethane.

[0041] Polyurethane is a particularly lightweight and chemically resistant material that is also mechanically durable. It also offers high abrasion resistance and is therefore particularly suitable for use in anti-slip applications.

[0042] According to another embodiment, the anti-slip layer is formed as several raised areas that project outwards from the covering fabric. These raised areas can alternatively or synonymously be referred to as nubs.

[0043] The multiple raised areas create increased friction between the outer surface of the cover fabric and the substrate on which they rest. In particular, these raised areas ensure that the cover fabric, which typically has lower static friction than the raised areas, does not come into contact with the substrate. Furthermore, the raised areas offer the advantage that the anti-slip layer does not completely cover the cover fabric, thus allowing for air circulation. In this respect, the multiple raised areas can also be understood as targeted contact points that, upon contact with a surface, generate static friction to prevent the protective cover from slipping.Furthermore, the multiple raised sections offer the advantage of creating spaces between them, which serve to better drain liquids and allow air circulation, thus increasing the breathability of the protective cover.

[0044] According to another embodiment, the surveys are arranged regularly and / or in a regular pattern.

[0045] By providing raised areas arranged in a regular pattern, the static friction on a section of the outer surface of the protective covering can be easily increased. In particular, this allows a section to be reliably provided with multiple raised areas.

[0046] According to another embodiment, the protrusions are honeycomb-shaped.

[0047] A honeycomb-like design or arrangement of the raised elements offers the advantage of covering a large portion of the protective covering in a space-saving manner. In particular, a honeycomb arrangement can generate sufficient friction with minimal material consumption, thus significantly reducing weight.

[0048] According to another embodiment, the protrusions have a round, rounded, square, quadrilateral, rectangular, polygonal, triangular, elliptical, oval and / or polygonal cross-section.

[0049] All of the aforementioned cross-sectional shapes of the raised areas are suitable for creating static friction between the outside of the covering material and a substrate.

[0050] According to a further embodiment, the covering material comprises a base layer, in particular wherein the covering material is formed only from the base layer.

[0051] In other words, the cover fabric consists of only a single layer, making it particularly light, flexible and malleable.

[0052] According to another embodiment, the base layer is made of polyester.

[0053] Polyester is a durable and mechanically resistant material that makes the upholstery fabric resistant to wear, tear, and other damage. In particular, polyester is water-repellent, so a base layer forms a water-repellent layer in addition to the barrier layer. Furthermore, polyester is easy to care for, as it is resistant to stains and easy to clean. Polyester is also inexpensive to produce and is an economical material for mass production.

[0054] According to a further embodiment, the cover fabric has at least one upper layer and one lower layer arranged one above the other. The upper layer of the cover fabric provides a seating surface for a user. The locking layer is formed on the outer side of the lower layer facing away from the upper layer. The anti-slip layer is formed on the outer side of the upper layer facing away from the lower layer. At least the upper layer of the cover fabric is made of a spacer fabric, for example, a 3D spacer fabric. At least the upper layer of the cover fabric has several openings for air exchange between the at least one upper layer and the at least one lower layer of the cover fabric.

[0055] The spacer fabric used for the protective cover differs in several ways from spacer knit fabrics regularly used for covers. For example, spacer knit fabrics are typically produced on warp knitting machines, while spacer knit fabrics are usually produced on a knitting machine, with a further distinction made between flat and circular knitting machines. In the production of a spacer knit fabric, stitches are arranged around a warp (hence the name warp knitting machine). The stitches are arranged vertically next to each other.

[0056] Because of this arrangement of stitches around a warp, spacer fabric is stable, rigid, inelastic, and non-stretchable. In contrast, the stitches of a spacer knit are not arranged around a warp; rather, the stitches themselves can be elastic and stretchable in both horizontal and vertical directions. Compared to a spacer knit, a spacer knit is therefore characterized by being elastic and stretchable in both horizontal and vertical directions, whereas a spacer knit is completely inelastic and non-stretchable. Spacer knits are thus static and rigid fabric structures that exhibit little to no elasticity.

[0057] Furthermore, a spacer fabric has a rigid, hard, and plastic-like feel, whereas a spacer knit fabric can have a textile-like or fabric-like and soft feel. Additionally, with a spacer fabric, fiber ends regularly protrude from the surface of the knit, resulting in a scratchy and rough feel. In contrast, spacer knit fabrics generally have a much softer feel, which is partly due to the increased elastic properties of the spacer knit fabric and a significantly finer manufacturing process compared to spacer fabrics.

[0058] The cover fabric, designed as a spacer fabric, can be two-layered, three-layered, or multi-layered. In particular, the cover fabric can be made entirely of spacer fabric and / or 3D spacer fabric.

[0059] In a two-layer design of the cover fabric, the upper and lower layers can be at least partially connected and / or intertwined with threads from the upper and / or lower layer, for example at points.

[0060] Alternatively or additionally, connecting threads can be used to join the upper and lower layers. In the case of a three- or multi-layered cover fabric, one or more middle layers of the cover fabric can be connected and / or interwoven with the upper and / or lower layers.

[0061] Alternatively or additionally, connecting threads can also be used here, which can connect at least two layers of the cover fabric, such as the top, the bottom layer and / or one or more middle layers.

[0062] The cover fabric can be produced in a simple way, for example on a large circular knitting machine operating according to the so-called 3-way technique, with high throughput over time and therefore high economic efficiency.

[0063] Using a spacer fabric can significantly increase the breathability of the protective cover. This, in turn, can improve seating comfort for the user, as the cover can have a pleasantly soft feel. Furthermore, liquids are easily absorbed by the spacer fabric and thus distributed more effectively within the cover. As a result, the cover can feel dry again after a short time, and / or the drying time, for example after washing, can be significantly reduced.

[0064] The cover fabric can also be three-layered with a middle layer, such as a layer interwoven with the top layer, and a monofilament yarn as filler.

[0065] This allows for stabilization and a volumizing effect of the spacer fabric, which is often desired from a haptic perspective, while maintaining high air and moisture permeability.

[0066] The monofilament yarn can, for example, be made at least partially from polyester, polyamide and / or polyethylene, but other synthetic fibers can also be used.

[0067] The cutouts can be open to the outside, i.e., towards the user or the seat, and / or have an open cross-section. These cutouts can thus be considered openings. They can be advantageous in terms of air exchange, moisture wicking, and the compensation of temperature fluctuations. Furthermore, the cutouts can provide increased elasticity, offering a soft feel to the user and allowing the cover to adapt optimally to the user lying on it, without the discomfort often caused by brittle spacer threads found in spacer fabrics.

[0068] The cutouts, at least on the outer surface of the top layer, can further provide and / or form a mesh structure in the cover fabric. In other words, the cover fabric can have a mesh structure, such as a honeycomb-like mesh structure, with the cutouts, at least on the outer surface.

[0069] The cutouts in the mesh structure and / or the cover fabric can, for example, be arranged in a regular pattern on the outside of the cover fabric. In other words, the cutouts can be arranged regularly and / or in a regular pattern.

[0070] The cutouts, such as those open to the outside, can vary in their geometry, for example, being round, angular, oval, polygonal, elliptical, or having any other open cross-section. In the context of this disclosure, the cutouts formed at least on the outside of the upper layer of the covering fabric must be strictly distinguished from the meshes from which the covering fabric, the lower layer, and / or the upper layer may be formed. Compared to the meshes, the cutouts can be larger; for example, the cutouts can have a cross-sectional area that is many times (approximately 5 to 100 times or more) larger than the average cross-sectional area of ​​the meshes of the covering fabric.

[0071] In order to give the outward-facing surface or outside of the spacer fabric a particularly smooth and pleasant feel, the surface or outside of the cover fabric surrounding the cutouts can be made of finer knit stitches compared to other areas of the outside.

[0072] The cutouts can, for example, extend at least substantially over the entire thickness of the upper layer, that is, from the outside to the inner or lower layer or close to it, for instance to allow optimal climate control with regard to air and moisture exchange between the two sides of the cover fabric.

[0073] Alternatively, the cutouts can extend, for example, at least substantially across the entire thickness of the cover fabric, that is, from the outer edge of the top layer to or very close to the outer edge of the bottom layer, to allow for optimal air and moisture exchange between the two sides of the cover fabric. Furthermore, the depth of the cutout can increase the softness of the top layer made of spacer fabric, thus improving the feel.

[0074] The protective cover thus utilizes the advantages of a spacer fabric, which, for example, has a spacer structure with loops, perhaps at least partially made of knitted mono- or multifilament spacer threads, as well as the advantages of a liquid-impermeable barrier layer. The protective cover has the advantage that, thanks to the spacer fabric and the barrier layer, soft protective covers with improved flexibility and elasticity can be provided. Furthermore, the combination of the cover fabric with a spacer fabric and the barrier layer protects the seat cushion core from moisture or liquids that may be applied to the protective covers according to the invention through carelessness or a wet surface, and simultaneously protects the user from moisture or liquids.This is achieved by using a spacer fabric in the cover material, as the spacer fabric distributes any liquid penetrating the cover material over a large area, in particular completely over the entire surface of the protective cover, and transports the liquid from the top layer of the cover material to a bottom layer adjacent to the liquid-impermeable layer. This ensures that the user does not get wet while sitting. Furthermore, the improved flexibility enhances the handling of the protective cover. Additionally, the flexibility of the protective cover according to the invention facilitates cleaning.The cover fabric, particularly the cutouts on the outer surface, allows for increased air circulation, breathability, and / or moisture wicking, thus reducing the drying time of the cleaned waterproof covers and reliably preventing user perspiration. Furthermore, the anti-slip layer prevents the soft spacer fabric from shifting against the surface, thereby improving seating comfort.

[0075] According to another embodiment, the upper layer and / or the lower layer of the covering material is at least partially made of a natural fiber.

[0076] The use of natural fibers, which can be incorporated into and / or woven into the spacer fabric, can increase the sustainability and / or ecological impact of the protective cover, for example, because the natural fibers can be derived from renewable resources. Natural fibers can also be characterized by increased resilience and / or durability. Furthermore, natural fibers can provide a pleasant, soft feel for the user. They can also be distinguished by improved skin compatibility, breathability, and / or odor neutrality. In addition, natural fibers can enable cost-effective production of the cover.

[0077] According to one embodiment of the protective cover, the natural fiber is an animal hair fiber, a wool fiber, a cotton fiber, a hemp fiber, a eucalyptus fiber, a bamboo fiber, a linen fiber, a wood fiber, a viscose fiber, a flax fiber, a silk fiber, a plant fiber, or a combination thereof. Such natural fibers can be distinguished, compared to synthetic fibers, by increased sustainability, odor neutrality, skin compatibility, durability, and / or robustness.

[0078] According to one embodiment, the top layer, the bottom layer, and / or one or more middle layers of the cover fabric have a weight percentage of natural fibers, based on the respective layer or the entire cover fabric, of 2% to 99%, for example, at least 5%, at least 10%, at least 15%, at least 20%, and / or at least 25%. At least 30%, 35%, 40%, 45%, 50%, 55%, 60%, 65%, 70%, or 75% of natural fibers are also conceivable.

[0079] According to one embodiment, the proportion, for example, the weight percentage and / or the volume percentage, of natural fibers, based on the respective layer or the entire cover fabric, in the upper layer is greater than the proportion, for example, the weight percentage and / or the volume percentage, of natural fibers in the lower and / or one or more middle layers. For example, the proportion in the upper layer can be at least twice as large as the corresponding proportion of natural fibers in the lower and / or one or more middle layers.

[0080] According to one embodiment of the protective cover, the upper layer consists essentially and / or almost entirely, for example completely, of natural fibers, and the lower layer, as well as optionally one or more middle layers, consist essentially and / or almost entirely, for example completely, of synthetic fibers.

[0081] According to another embodiment, the recesses are arranged regularly and / or in a regular pattern.

[0082] According to another embodiment, the recesses are honeycomb-shaped. Alternatively or additionally, the recesses have a round, rounded, square, quadrilateral, rectangular, polygonal, triangular, elliptical, oval and / or polygonal cross-section.

[0083] According to another embodiment, the upper layer and / or the lower layer of the cover fabric is at least partially made of textured, twisted yarn, in particular multifilament yarn.

[0084] This can provide a soft and pleasant feel.

[0085] According to a further embodiment, the upper and / or lower layer of the cover fabric is at least partially made of monofilament yarn, in particular polyester yarn, smooth polyester yarn, polyethylene yarn, smooth polyethylene yarn, polyamide yarn, and / or smooth polyamide yarn. If the cover fabric is made of monofilament yarn on the underside of the cover fabric facing the cushion core, removing or inserting the seat cushion core can be facilitated.

[0086] For example, the cover fabric made of spacer fabric can be at least two-layered, with an upper layer forming the outer surface and a woven layer forming an inner or lower layer, preferably made of polyester fiber, polyethylene fiber, and / or polyamide fiber. Optionally, one or more middle layers can be provided, which can be sandwiched between the upper and lower layers.

[0087] The inner or lower layer can, for example, be a smooth woven fabric layer, which may also be jacquard and / or patterned, upon which the upper layer of the spacer fabric, made of textured, twisted yarn, especially multifilament yarn, can be built. "Smooth" here means that the woven fabric layer has no raised areas or bulges that would increase the surface area or friction of the fabric layer.

[0088] According to a further embodiment, the covering material also has a middle layer which is intertwined at least at points and / or partially with the upper layer and / or the lower layer.

[0089] The middle layer can be used to add volume to the upholstery fabric. This can also increase seating comfort.

[0090] According to a further embodiment, the middle layer is at least partially made of a monofilament yarn, in particular polyester yarn, smooth polyester yarn, polyethylene yarn, smooth polyethylene yarn, polyamide yarn, and / or smooth polyamide yarn.

[0091] According to another embodiment, the middle layer is at least partially made of a multifilament yarn, for example a textured, twisted multifilament yarn.

[0092] According to another embodiment, the middle layer is at least partially made of a natural fiber.

[0093] This offers the advantages explained above regarding natural fibers.

[0094] According to one embodiment of the protective cover, the recesses extend at least substantially through the thickness of the top layer and, optionally, the middle layer of the cover fabric. In particular, the recesses can extend completely through the top layer and, optionally, through the at least one middle layer, so that the recesses effectively form and / or represent openings in the top layer and, optionally, the at least one middle layer. This advantageously allows for optimal climate control with regard to air and moisture exchange between the two sides of the cover fabric. Furthermore, the depth of the recess can increase the softness of the top layer made of spacer fabric, thus improving the feel.

[0095] According to another embodiment, the upper layer has a weight fraction of 50% to 70%, in particular 55% to 60%, of the covering material.

[0096] Studies have shown that this weight percentage is particularly advantageous in terms of comfort and microclimate control.

[0097] According to another embodiment, the lower layer has a weight fraction of 20% to 30%, in particular 25% to 30%, of the covering material.

[0098] According to a further embodiment, a middle layer, wherein a middle layer has a weight fraction of 10% to 20%, in particular of 15% to 20%, of the cover material.

[0099] According to another embodiment, the covering fabric has a weight of 250 g / m². 2 - 300 g / m 2 has.

[0100] This allows the upholstery fabric to have the required durability while also being easy to handle in terms of its weight during both production and use.

[0101] According to a further embodiment, the proportion of natural fibers in the top layer is greater than the proportion of natural fibers in the bottom and / or one or more middle layers. In particular, the proportion of natural fibers in the top layer is twice as high as the proportion of natural fibers in the bottom and / or one or more middle layers.

[0102] According to another embodiment, the upper layer consists essentially of natural fibers and the lower layer, as well as optionally one or more middle layers, consists essentially of synthetic fibers.

[0103] According to another embodiment, the protective cover has at least one zipper with which the protective cover can be attached to a seat cushion core.

[0104] The problem is further solved by a seat cushion with a protective cover according to one of the preceding embodiments. The protective cover is arranged on a seat cushion core. Optionally, the seat cushion has a further cover, in particular made of a 3D spacer fabric.

[0105] For example, the protective cover can enclose the pillow cover, thus forming an outer cover, with the pillow cover forming an inner cover.

[0106] The seat cushion cover can be made of a fabric that is either identical or different from the protective cover. Therefore, the seat cushion cover and the protective cover can have different constructions, although both can be made of a spacer fabric, particularly a 3D spacer fabric with two or three layers.

[0107] According to one embodiment, the covering material of the protective cover and the covering material of the further cover are identical.

[0108] Further advantages and advantageous developments of the invention result from the claims and the exemplary embodiment described in principle with reference to the drawing. Character description

[0109] The figures are schematic only and not to scale. If the same reference symbols are used in different figures in the following description, these denote identical, equivalent, similar, or similarly acting elements.

[0110] The invention is explained below with reference to various embodiments shown in the accompanying drawings. These show: Fig. Figure 1 shows an isometric front view of a seat cushion according to the invention with detail A, wherein the seat cushion according to the invention has a protective cover according to the invention; Fig. 2 shows detail A from Fig. 1, where detail A is an isometric view of the underside of the seat cushion made of Fig. 1 shows, and the underside shows detail B; Fig. 3 shows detail B from Fig. 2, where detail B shows a schematic front view of the protective cover with section plane AA and detail C; Fig. 4 shows a section view along the section plane AA from Fig. 4 on the protective cover, wherein the protective cover comprises an anti-slip layer, a cover fabric and a barrier layer; Fig. Figure 5 shows a photographic illustration of the protective cover made of Fig. 4; Fig. 6 shows detail C from Fig. 3, where detail C shows a schematic front view of the upholstery fabric with section plane BB; and Fig. Figure 7 shows a section view along the section plane BB. Fig. 6 on the cover fabric, wherein the cover fabric is a spacer fabric.

[0111] Fig. Figure 1 shows a seat cushion 10 with a protective cover 12 and a seat cushion core 14.

[0112] The protection reference 12 is in Fig. 1 shown in the stretched state and completely encloses the seat cushion core 14.

[0113] Specifically, the protective cover 12, when stretched, has a top surface 16 which is designed as a seat 18 for a user.

[0114] Furthermore, the protective cover 12, when stretched, has a bottom surface 20 opposite the top surface 16, which serves as a base surface 22 for resting the protective cover 12 on a substrate.

[0115] Between the top surface 16 and the bottom surface 20 are arranged four transverse faces 24, each extending from the top surface 16 to the bottom surface 20. Each of the transverse faces 24 has a side surface 26.

[0116] Overall, the in Fig. The seat cushion 10 shown has a cuboid geometry, meaning that the protective cover 12 also has a cuboid geometry when stretched.

[0117] Consequently, the seat surface 18 of the upper surface 16 and the floor surface 22 of the lower surface 20 are congruent to each other.

[0118] In particular, the seat surface 18 and the base surface 22 have the same basic shape. However, it is also conceivable that the seat surface 18 and the base surface 22 have different basic shapes.

[0119] For example, the seat 18 and the floor 22 can have a round, circular, or polygonal base shape. Preferred polygonal base shapes are rectangular, square, and rectangular. In the present example, in the Fig. 1 and Fig. 2. The seat area is 18 and the floor area is 22 square.

[0120] As in Fig. As can be clearly seen in Figure 2, the protective cover 12 is designed differently for different surfaces of the seat cushion 10. In the example shown, the underside 20 has a different protective cover compared to the transverse sides 24 and the top 16. The protective cover 12, as shown on the underside 20 of the seat cushion 10, will be described below.

[0121] An enlarged view of the protective cover 12 of the underside 20 of the seat cushion 10 is shown in the Fig. 3 shown in a top view. A cross-sectional view of the protective cover 12 of the underside 20 of the seat cushion is shown in Fig. 4 shown.

[0122] As in Fig. As can be clearly seen, the protective cover 12 includes a cover fabric 28.

[0123] The cover fabric 28 has an outer surface 30 and an inner surface 32, which are arranged opposite each other.

[0124] Specifically, the inner side 32 is arranged such that, in the stretched state of the protective cover 12, it rests against or faces the seat cushion core 14.

[0125] The outer surface 30 faces away from the inner surface 32 and, in the example shown, forms part of the floor area 22.

[0126] Furthermore, the protective cover 12 includes a barrier layer 34, which is arranged on the inside 32, and an anti-slip layer 36, which is arranged on the outside 30.

[0127] Barrier 34 is designed to be impermeable to liquids.

[0128] Furthermore, the anti-slip layer 36 is designed to mitigate and / or prevent the floor surface 22 from slipping relative to a substrate.

[0129] First, the restricted area 34 will be described in more detail.

[0130] The barrier layer 34 has an outer surface 38 facing the inside 32 and an outer surface 40 facing away from the inside 32.

[0131] The outer surface 40, facing away from the inner side 32, is flat, rough and exposed.

[0132] The inner surface 32 facing the outer surface 38 is facing the cover fabric 28 or is in contact with it.

[0133] Furthermore, the barrier layer 34 can be at least partially made of a plastic.

[0134] Preferably, the barrier layer 34 is at least partially, and in particular completely, made of polyurethane.

[0135] The barrier layer 34 can have a thickness of 10 micrometers to 40 micrometers, for example 20 micrometers to 30 micrometers, in particular 25 micrometers.

[0136] The anti-slip layer 36 is described in more detail below.

[0137] The anti-slip layer 36 is made of a non-slip material.

[0138] Preferably, the anti-slip layer 36 is made of a plastic.

[0139] The anti-slip layer 36 is particularly preferred if it is at least partially, and especially completely, made of polyurethane.

[0140] As in the Fig. 3 and Fig. As shown in Figure 4, the anti-slip layer 36 has several raised areas 42.

[0141] Basically, the elevations 42 can have a round, rounded, square, quadrilateral, rectangular, polygonal, triangular, elliptical, oval and / or polygonal cross-section.

[0142] In the examples shown, the elevations 42 have a round cross-section and a knob-shaped base form.

[0143] Between the surveys 42, open spaces 44 have been formed. These are particularly evident in the Fig. 4 clearly visible.

[0144] The surveys 42 can be arranged regularly or irregularly. In the example shown, surveys 42 are arranged in a pattern 46. For example, in Fig. 3. The elevations 42 are arranged in a checkerboard pattern. However, a hexagonal or honeycomb arrangement is also conceivable.

[0145] The in Fig. The three-layer arrangement described in section 4, consisting of a barrier layer 34, a cover fabric 28, and an anti-slip layer 36, is preferably provided exclusively on the bottom surface 22 of the protective cover 12. In particular, the anti-slip layer 36 can be provided at least partially on the bottom surface 22.

[0146] Preferably, the anti-slip layer 36 is not arranged on the top surface 16. More preferably, the anti-slip layer 36 is not arranged on the transverse sides 24. In this respect, the protective covering 12 on the top surface 16 and / or the transverse sides 24 comprises only the covering fabric 28 and the barrier layer 34.

[0147] A concrete example of the protective cover 12, which is arranged on the underside 20 of the seat cushion 10, is shown in the Fig. Figure 5 is shown, which is a photographic representation.

[0148] In the example shown, the protective cover 12 is folded over at a zipper 48, so that the outer side 30 and the inner side 32 of the cover fabric 28 are shown. As in Fig. As can be clearly seen in Figure 5, the barrier layer 34 is arranged as a continuous membrane-like layer on the inside 32. On the outside 30, the anti-slip layer 36 is formed as several indentations 42.

[0149] In the Fig. In the example shown, the elevations 42 are arranged in a hexagonal pattern.

[0150] The following section explains the upholstery fabric 28 in more detail.

[0151] As already mentioned in the Fig. As shown in Figure 4, the cover material 28 can comprise a base layer 50.

[0152] In particular, the cover fabric 28 can consist exclusively of the base layer 50. The base layer can be, for example, polyester.

[0153] Alternatively, the cover fabric can also be multi-layered. The cover fabric 28 is particularly preferably a spacer fabric 52. This is described below in the Fig. 6 and Fig. 7 shown.

[0154] In Fig. Figure 6 shows an enlarged view of the cover material 28 of the protective cover 12. Fig. Figure 7 shows a cross-sectional view of it.

[0155] As from the Fig. 6 and Fig. As can be seen in Figure 7, the cover fabric 28 is formed with a spacer fabric 52, such as a 3D spacer fabric, up to its outer surface 54.

[0156] The cover fabric 28 has a honeycomb-like mesh structure with outwardly open cutouts 56 in a regular, finely structured arrangement.

[0157] The recesses 56 preferably have a round, rounded, elliptical and / or oval cross-section to the outside, which in the unstressed state can be dimensioned, for example, 2 mm to 4 mm in width and about 3 mm to 5 mm in length.

[0158] The material webs 58 made of spacer fabric 52 located between the offset and regularly arranged recesses 56 can be dimensioned at least approximately the same width.

[0159] The cover fabric 28 of the protective cover 28 is in this case formed as a three-layer spacer fabric 52 with an upper layer 60 forming the outer surface 54, a middle layer 62 forming part of the spacer fabric 52 and interwoven with the upper layer 60, and an inner or lower layer 64 that is interwoven with the upper layer 60 and / or the middle layer 62. Several middle layers 62 may also be provided.

[0160] The recesses 56 can be separated and / or spaced apart from each other by material webs 58 made of spacer fabric 52 in the longitudinal and / or transverse direction of the protective cover 12.

[0161] The material webs 58 can consist of 3D spacer fabric with the upper layer 60, the lower layer 64 and one or more middle layers 62.

[0162] The recesses 56, their cross-section, perimeter, and / or geometry can therefore be defined by the material webs 58. Each of the recesses 56 can extend from the outer surface 54 to adjacent to the lower layer 64 of the covering material, i.e., through the upper layer 60 and optionally one or more middle layers 62 of the covering material.

[0163] The top layer 60 can consist of a monofilament yarn, such as smooth monofilament yarn, or a multifilament yarn, such as textured, twisted multifilament yarn.

[0164] Similarly, the lower layer 64 can also consist of a monofilament yarn, such as smooth monofilament yarn, or a multifilament yarn, such as textured, twisted multifilament yarn.

[0165] Likewise, the middle layer 62 can be at least partially made of monofilament yarn or multifilament yarn.

[0166] One or more of the upper layer 60, the middle layer 62 and the lower layer 64 may optionally also contain natural fibers and / or be at least partially made of natural fibers, as described above.

[0167] Natural fibers can include animal hair, wool, cotton, hemp, eucalyptus, bamboo, linen, wood, viscose, flax, silk, plant fibers, or a combination thereof. Compared to synthetic fibers, such natural fibers can offer advantages such as increased sustainability, odor neutrality, skin compatibility, durability, and / or robustness.

[0168] The upper layer 60 also has a fine knit structure 66 on the outside 54, which gives the surface a soft feel.

[0169] With regard to thickness, the upper layer 60 in the advantageous embodiment shown is dimensioned such that it occupies at least 70% to 80% of the total thickness of the cover fabric 28 in order to make the most of the microclimatic advantages of the spacer fabric 52.

[0170] Furthermore, the seat cushion can be used for 10 of the Fig. 1 and Fig.2. A cover (not shown here) made of 3D spacer fabric, wherein the cover fabric of the protective cover and the cover fabric of the seat cushion are identical. Reference symbol list 10 seat cushions 12 Protection reference 14 seat cushion cores 16 Top 18 seats 20 Subpage 22 floor area 24 horizontal pages 26 side surfaces 28 Upholstery fabric 30 Outside 32 Inside 34 Blocking position 36 anti-slip layers 38 facing exterior surface 40 facing exterior surface 42 surveys 44 open spaces 46 patterns 48 zipper 50 Baseline 52 spacer fabric 54 Outside 56 cutouts 58 material walkways 60 upper layer 62 medium position 64 lower layer 66 Fine knit structure

Claims

[1] Protective cover (12) for a seat cushion (10), the protective cover (12) comprising: a covering material (28) comprising an outer surface (30) and an inner surface (32), wherein the outer surface (30) and the inner surface (32) are arranged opposite each other, a barrier layer (34) arranged on the inside (32), wherein the barrier layer (34) is impermeable to liquids, and an anti-slip layer (36) for preventing the slippage of the protective cover (12), wherein the anti-slip layer (36) is arranged on the outside (30). [2] Protective cover (12) according to claim 1, wherein the barrier layer (34) is at least partially made of a plastic. [3] Protective cover (12) according to claim 2, wherein the barrier layer (34) is at least partially, in particular completely, made of polyurethane. [4] Protective covering (12) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the barrier layer (12) has a thickness of 10 micrometers to 40 micrometers, for example 20 micrometers to 30 micrometers, in particular 25 micrometers. [5] Protection (12) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the barrier layer (34) has an outer surface (38) facing the inside (32) and an outer surface (40) facing away from the inside (32), wherein the opposite outer surface (40) is continuous, flat, rough and exposed. [6] Protection (12) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the protective cover (12) in the stretched state on a seat cushion core comprises a top surface (16) designed as a seat surface (18) for a user and a bottom surface (20) designed as a floor surface (22), and wherein the anti-slip layer (34) is provided at least in sections on the floor surface (22). [7] Protective cover (12) according to claim 6, wherein the anti-slip layer (36) completely covers the floor surface (22). [8] Protective cover (12) according to claim 6 or 7, wherein the anti-slip layer (36) is not arranged on the top (16). [9] Protective cover (12) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the anti-slip layer (36) is formed from a non-slip material. [10] Protective cover (12) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the anti-slip layer (36) is made of a plastic. [11] Protective cover (12) according to claim 10, wherein the anti-slip layer (36) is at least partially, in particular completely, made of polyurethane. [12] Protective cover (12) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the anti-slip layer (36) is formed as several protrusions (42) which project outwards from the cover material (28). [13] Protective cover (12) according to claim 12, wherein the elevations (42) are arranged regularly and / or in a regular pattern (46). [14] Protective cover (12) according to claim 12 or 13, wherein the protrusions (42) are honeycomb-shaped. [15] Protective cover (12) according to any one of claims 12 to 14, wherein protrusions (42) have a round, a rounded, a square, a rectangular, a polygonal, a triangular, an elliptical, an oval and / or a polygonal cross-section. [16] Protective cover (12) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the cover material (28) comprises a base layer (50), in particular wherein the cover material (28) is formed only from the base layer (50). [17] Protective cover (12) according to claim 16, wherein the base layer (50) is made of polyester. [18] Protective cover (12) according to any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein the covering material (28) has at least one upper layer (60) and one lower layer (64) arranged on top of each other, wherein the upper layer (60) of the covering material (28) provides a seating surface (18) for a user, wherein the locking position (34) is formed on one of the outer sides of the lower layer (64) facing away from the upper layer (60), wherein the anti-slip layer (36) is formed on one of the outer sides of the upper layer (60) facing away from the lower layer (60); wherein at least the upper layer (60) of the cover fabric (28) is formed from a spacer fabric (52), for example a 3D spacer fabric, and wherein at least the upper layer (60) of the cover material (28) has several recesses (56) for air exchange between the at least one upper layer (60) and the at least one lower layer (64) of the cover material (28). [19] Protective cover (12) according to claim 18, wherein the upper layer (60) and / or the lower layer (64) of the cover material (28) is at least partially made of a natural fiber. [20] Protective cover (12) according to claim 18 or 19, wherein the natural fiber is an animal hair fiber, a wool fiber, a hemp fiber, a eucalyptus fiber, a bamboo fiber and / or a plant fiber. [21] Protective cover (12) according to one of claims 18 to 20, wherein the recesses (56) are arranged regularly and / or in a regular pattern. [22] Protective cover (12) according to one of claims 18 to 21, wherein the recesses (56) are honeycomb-shaped; and / or wherein the recesses have a round, rounded, square, quadrilateral, rectangular, polygonal, triangular, elliptical, oval and / or polygonal cross-section. [23] Protective cover (12) according to one of claims 18 to 22, wherein the upper layer (60) and / or the lower layer (64) of the cover material (28) is at least partially made of textured, twisted yarn, in particular multifilament yarn. [24] Protective cover (12) according to one of claims 18 to 22, wherein the upper layer (60) and / or the lower layer (64) of the cover fabric (28) is formed at least partially from monofilament yarn, in particular polyester yarn, smooth polyester yarn, polyethylene yarn, smooth polyethylene yarn, polyamide yarn, and / or smooth polyamide yarn. [25] Protective cover (12) according to one of claims 18 to 24, wherein the cover material (28) further comprises a middle layer (62) which is interlocked at least at points and / or partially with the upper layer (60) and / or the lower layer (64). [26] Protective cover (12) according to claim 25, wherein the middle layer (62) is formed at least partially from a monofilament yarn, in particular polyester yarn, smooth polyester yarn, polyethylene yarn, smooth polyethylene yarn, polyamide yarn, and / or smooth polyamide yarn. [27] Protective cover (12) according to claim 25 or 26, wherein the middle layer (62) is formed at least partially from a multifilament yarn, for example a textured, twisted multifilament yarn. [28] Protective cover (12) according to one of claims 25 to 27, wherein the middle layer (62) is at least partially made of a natural fiber. [29] Protective cover (12) according to one of claims 25 to 28, wherein the recesses (56) extend at least substantially over a thickness of the upper layer (60) and optionally a middle layer (62) of the cover material (28). [30] Protective cover (12) according to one of claims 18 to 29, wherein the upper layer (60) has a weight fraction of 50% to 70%, in particular of 55% to 0%, of the cover material (28). [31] Protective cover (12) according to one of claims 18 to 30, wherein the lower layer (64) has a weight fraction of 20% to 30%, in particular 25% to 30%, of the cover material (28). [32] Protective cover (12) according to one of claims 18 to 31, further comprising: a middle layer (62), wherein a middle layer (62) has a weight fraction of 10% to 20%, in particular 15% to 20%, of the cover material (28). [33] Protective cover (12) according to one of claims 18 to 32, wherein the cover material (28) has a weight of 250 g / m² 2 - 300 g / m 2 has. [34] Protective cover (12) according to one of claims 18 to 33, wherein the proportion of natural fibers in the upper layer (60) is greater, in particular at least a factor of two greater, than the proportion of natural fibers in the lower and / or one or more middle layers (62, 64). [35] Protective cover (12) according to one of claims 18 to 34, wherein the upper layer (60) consists essentially of natural fibers and the lower layer (64), as well as optionally one or more middle layers (62), consists essentially of synthetic fibers. [36] Protective cover (12) according to one of claims 18 to 35, wherein the protective cover (12) has at least one zipper (48) with which the protective cover (12) can be attached to a seat cushion core. [37] Seat cushion (10) with a protective cover (12) according to one of claims 1 to 36, which is arranged on a seat cushion core (14), optionally wherein the seat cushion (10) has a further cover, in particular made of 3D spacer fabric. [38] Seat cushion (10) according to claim 37, wherein the cover fabric (28) of the protective cover (12) and the cover fabric of the further cover are identical (10)

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