Moisture protection cover for mattresses

Abstract

The invention relates to a moisture protection cover (1) for a mattress, which has a cover material (5) with at least one upper layer (14) and one lower layer (16), which are arranged one on top of the other, wherein the upper layer of the cover material provides a surface for a user to lie on. The moisture protection also has a layer (18) that is impermeable to liquids, which is formed on an outer side of the lower layer (16) facing away from the upper layer (14), wherein at least the upper layer (14) of the cover material (5) is made from a knitted spacer fabric, for example a 3D knitted spacer fabric, and wherein at least the upper layer (14) of the cover material has a plurality of apertures (12) for air exchange between the at least one upper layer (14) and the at least one lower layer (16) of the cover material.

Description

[0001] Moisture protection cover for mattresses

[0002] Reference to related applications

[0003] This application claims priority from German utility model application No. 20 2023 100 335.4, filed on January 24, 2023, which is incorporated in its entirety by reference into this document.

[0004] Technical area

[0005] The invention relates to a moisture protection cover for mattresses. The moisture protection cover comprises a cover material formed at least partially, in particular entirely, from a spacer knit, and a liquid-impermeable layer. Furthermore, the invention relates to a mattress with such a moisture protection cover.

[0006] Technical background

[0007] Commonly used moisture protection covers for mattresses and / or pillows typically consist of a sandwich structure of two cover layers and a moisture barrier. The moisture barrier is positioned internally between the two cover layers and is often glued or laminated to them. The cover layers are typically made of flannel, i.e., cotton, and the moisture barrier is typically formed from a plastic membrane.

[0008] While such moisture protection covers can provide reliable moisture protection for the mattress arranged beneath them, they generally have the disadvantage that, due to their sandwich structure with a moisture barrier sandwiched between the cover layers, they are inelastic and / or stiff. Such moisture protection covers also generally feel hard to the touch and can therefore reduce sleeping comfort for a user of the moisture protection cover and / or a mattress with such a moisture protection cover. Furthermore, due to the stiffness of these moisture protection covers, the effect of different ergonomic or sleeping zones of the underlying mattress can be reduced to such an extent that sleeping comfort and the sleeping experience for a user are negatively impacted. In particular, users often perceive the sleeping experience on conventional moisture protection covers as hard and uncomfortable.In addition, known moisture protection covers have reduced or no breathability, which can lead, for example, to increased sweating of the user and / or a further reduction in sleeping or lying comfort.

[0009] In addition, conventional wetness protection covers have the disadvantage that, as already mentioned above, while the mattress is protected from moisture or liquids caused by carelessness or bedwetting, the user is not protected from moisture or the liquid itself. With conventional wetness protection covers, liquid is often only inadequately drained after the wetness protection has become wet, which can also increase the drying time of the wetness protection cover, so that users sometimes have to remain on a wet or damp surface for extended periods.

[0010] Furthermore, known wet weather covers are rather unwieldy and bulky due to their stiffness and sandwich structure, which makes cleaning these wet weather covers difficult and further extends the drying time of the cleaned wet weather covers.

[0011] Summary

[0012] The present invention therefore provides an improved moisture protection cover which can at least partially overcome the disadvantages of known moisture protection covers described above.

[0013] The invention is defined in the independent claims. Further developments and embodiments of the invention are specified in the dependent claims and the following description.

[0014] One aspect of the present disclosure relates to a moisture protection cover for a mattress. The moisture protection cover may also be referred to below as moisture protection, protective cover, protective overlay, or moisture protection overlay. The moisture protection cover comprises a cover material with at least one upper layer and one lower layer, which are arranged and / or laid on top of one another, wherein the upper layer of the cover material provides a lying surface for a user. The moisture protection cover further comprises a liquid-impermeable layer, which is formed on an outer side of the lower layer facing away from the upper layer. At least the upper layer of the cover material is formed from a spacer knit, for example a 3D spacer knit. At least the upper layer of the cover material has a plurality of recesses for air exchange between the at least one upper layer and the at least one lower layer of the cover material.

[0015] The wetness protection cover can have a top side and / or a bottom side, wherein only the top side can be provided as a lying surface for a user. The bottom side of the wetness protection cover can be provided by the liquid-impermeable layer. Furthermore, the wetness protection cover can have side surfaces which extend at an angle to one another, in particular at 90°, and which can define a length and a width of the wetness protection cover. The length of the wetness protection cover can be greater than or equal to the width. The width and the length are both substantially greater than a thickness of the wetness protection cover. A thickness can be dimensioned transversely or orthogonally to the longitudinal direction and transverse direction of the wetness protection cover, for example from an outer side of the upper layer towards an outer side of the lower layer.The moisture protection cover can be attached to a mattress by means of at least one corner elastic, wherein the moisture protection cover is arranged such that it completely or at least partially covers the mattress. In particular, the moisture protection cover can be stretched over several corners of the mattress with several corner elastics, for example, over at least two diagonally opposite corners. Furthermore, the moisture protection cover can be arranged on a mattress such that the underside of the moisture protection cover and a top side of the mattress or a bottom side of the mattress, wherein the top side or the bottom side are dimensioned as a lying surface for a user, are completely or at least partially in contact.

[0016] A corner rubber can have an elastic band which extends from two adjacent and / or mutually adjoining side surfaces, e.g. diagonally across a corner of the wetness protection cover. Corner rubbers can be arranged in at least one corner of the wetness protection cover. Alternatively, a corner rubber can have an elastic band which extends from two opposite, parallel side surfaces of the wetness protection element across the length or width of the wetness protection cover. Corner rubbers here extend, for example, over the underside of the wetness protection cover. Such corner rubbers can be arranged in at least one of the head region, i.e. the region on which the user's head can rest, of the wetness protection cover and / or a foot region, i.e. the area on which the user's feet can rest, of the wetness protection cover.As an alternative to corner elastics, the moisture protection cover can also be attached to the mattress using elastic tabs, snap fasteners, Velcro, zipper and / or other means.

[0017] The term "liquid-impermeable layer" is to be understood broadly here and includes all layers and plies that are impermeable to liquids or fluids, i.e., impermeable. The liquid-impermeable layer can be a flat, spread-out layer of a liquid-impermeable substance or material, a liquid-impermeable mixture of substances, or a liquid-impermeable fabric, but is not limited to this. The liquid-impermeable layer can be formed and / or arranged directly on an outer side of the lower layer facing away from the upper layer. Furthermore, the liquid-impermeable layer can be attached to the outer side of the lower layer facing away from the upper layer by means of a lamination process, an adhesive process, or a sewing process. The liquid-impermeable layer can be completely or at least partially, e.g.The outer side of the lower layer of the cover material, facing away from the upper layer, can be attached at specific points. The outer side of the lower layer of the cover material, facing away from the upper layer, can be completely or at least partially covered by the liquid-impermeable layer, e.g., only in the buttocks area of ​​a mattress.

[0018] Liquids within the meaning of the present invention are all liquids of any viscosity at room temperature. Examples of liquids within the meaning of the present disclosure include, but are not limited to, stomach acid, fruit juices, soft drinks, water, and / or urine.

[0019] The spacer fabric used for the cover material of the moisture protection cover and / or mattress protector differs in several respects from the spacer fabrics regularly used for covers. For example, spacer fabrics are regularly produced on so-called warp knitting machines, while spacer knits are generally produced on a knitting machine, with an additional distinction being made between flat and circular knitting machines. In the production of a spacer fabric, stitches are arranged around a warp (hence the name warp knitting machine). The stitches are strung together vertically. Due to this arrangement of stitches around a warp, the spacer fabric is stable, rigid, inelastic, and non-stretchable. In contrast, the stitches of a spacer fabric are not strung together around a warp; rather, the stitches themselves can be elastic and stretchable, both horizontally and vertically.Compared to a spacer fabric, a spacer knit can be particularly distinguished by being elastic and stretchable in both horizontal and vertical directions, whereas a spacer knit, in comparison, is completely inelastic and non-stretchable. Spacer knits are therefore static and rigid fabric structures that exhibit little to no elasticity. Furthermore, a spacer knit has a rigid, hard, and plastic-like feel, whereas a spacer knit can have a textile or fabric-like and soft feel. Furthermore, in a spacer knit, fiber ends regularly protrude from the surface of the knit, creating a scratchy and rough feel.In contrast, spacer knits generally have a much softer feel, which is sometimes caused by the increased elastic properties of the spacer knit and a much finer processing compared to spacer knits.

[0020] The cover material can generally be two-layered, three-layered, or multi-layered. In particular, the cover material can be made and / or formed entirely from spacer knit and / or 3D spacer knit. In a two-layered design of the cover material, the upper and lower layers can be at least partially connected and / or knitted with threads from the upper and / or lower layers, for example at specific points. Alternatively or additionally, connecting threads can be used to connect the upper and lower layers. In a three- or multi-layered design of the cover material, one or more middle layers of the cover material can be connected and / or knitted with the upper and / or lower layers. Alternatively or additionally, connecting threads can also be used here to connect at least two layers of the cover material, for example the upper and lower layers and / or one or more middle layers.The cover fabric can be produced in a simple manner, for example on a large circular knitting machine operating according to the so-called 3-way technology, with a high throughput and therefore high cost-effectiveness.

[0021] By using a spacer knit, the breathability of the moisture protection cover can be greatly increased. This, in turn, can increase sleeping comfort for the user, as the moisture protection cover can have a pleasantly soft feel. Furthermore, liquids can be easily absorbed by the spacer knit and thus distributed more effectively within the moisture protection cover. The moisture protection cover can therefore feel dry again after a short time and / or the drying time of the moisture protection cover, for example, after wetting or washing the cover, can be significantly reduced. Furthermore, the support properties of the mattress, especially individual ergonomic zones of the mattress, are hardly or not at all affected by the moisture protection cover, which can further increase overall sleeping comfort for the user.

[0022] The cover fabric can also be constructed in three layers, with a middle layer, for example, one knitted with the upper layer, containing a monofilament yarn as a filler. This can achieve stabilization and a tactile voluminization of the spacer fabric, which is often desired, while simultaneously maintaining high air and moisture permeability. The monofilament yarn can, for example, be made at least partially of polyester, polyamide, and / or polyethylene, although other synthetic fibers can also be used.

[0023] The cutouts can be open towards the outside, i.e., towards the user or towards the lying surface, and / or have an outwardly open cross-section. The cutouts can thus denote openings. The cutouts can be generally advantageous with regard to air exchange and moisture removal, as well as the compensation of temperature fluctuations. The cutouts can also provide increased elasticity, which offers a user a soft feel and can also allow the cover to adapt optimally to the user or head lying on it, without the latter being impaired by brittle spacer threads that are often noticeable in spacer fabrics.

[0024] The cutouts formed at least on the outer side of the upper layer can further provide and / or form a mesh structure of the cover material. In other words, the cover material can have a mesh structure, such as a honeycomb mesh structure, with the cutouts at least on the outer side. The cutouts of the mesh structure and / or the cover material can, for example, be arranged in a regular arrangement on the outer side of the cover material. In other words, the cutouts can be arranged regularly and / or in a regular pattern.

[0025] The recesses, such as those open to the outside, can be variable in terms of their geometry, for example, they can be round, square, oval, polygonal, elliptical, or any other shape with regard to their open cross-section. In the context of the present disclosure, the recesses formed at least on the outer side of the upper layer of the cover material are to be strictly distinguished from meshes from which the cover material, the lower layer, and / or the upper layer can be formed. Compared to the meshes, the recesses can be larger; for example, the recesses can have a cross-sectional area that can be many times larger (approximately 5 to 100 times or more) than an average cross-sectional area of ​​the meshes of the cover material.

[0026] To give the outward-facing surface or outer side of the spacer fabric a particularly smooth and pleasant feel, the surface or outer side of the cover fabric surrounding the cutouts can be formed from finer knit stitches than the other areas of the outer side. The cutouts can, for example, extend at least substantially across the entire thickness of the upper layer, i.e., from the outer side to the inner or lower layer or close to it, for example, to enable optimal climate control with regard to air and moisture exchange between the two sides of the cover fabric.Alternatively, the cutouts can extend at least substantially across the entire thickness of the cover fabric, i.e., from the outer side of the upper layer to or close to the outer side of the lower layer, for example, to enable optimal climate control with regard to air and moisture exchange between the two sides of the cover fabric. Furthermore, the depth of the cutout can increase the softness of the upper layer of spacer knit, thus resulting in an improved feel.

[0027] The moisture protection cover according to the invention therefore uses the advantages of a spacer knit, which for example has a spacer structure with loops, for example at least partially made of knitted monofilament or multifilament spacer threads, as well as the advantages of a liquid-impermeable layer. The moisture protection cover according to the invention has the advantage that the spacer knit and the liquid-impermeable layer used can provide soft moisture protection covers or moisture protection pads with improved flexibility and extensibility. Due to the improved flexibility, the effect or effectiveness of the ergonomic zones of the underlying mattress is retained, i.e. not reduced, or improved, thereby greatly improving sleeping comfort and the lying feeling for a user. In addition, the combination of the cover material with a spacer knit and the liquid-impermeable layer can prevent any moisture orLiquids which are applied to the wetness protection covers according to the invention through carelessness or bedwetting, a mattress can be protected from liquid or wetness and at the same time the user can also be protected from wetness or liquid. This is achieved by using the cover material with a spacer knit, since the spacer knit distributes the liquid entering the spacer knit over a large area, in particular completely over the entire area of ​​the wetness protection cover, and transports the liquid entering from the top side, i.e. the upper layer, of the cover material to an underside, i.e. the lower layer, of the cover material bordering the liquid-impermeable layer. This can ensure that a user does not lie or sit in a puddle after a liquid-providing event (i.e. wetting or carelessness).In addition, the improved flexibility can improve the handling of the wetness protection cover. Furthermore, the flexibility of the wetness protection cover according to the invention can facilitate cleaning. The cover material, in particular the recesses formed on the exterior, enables increased air circulation, increased breathability, and / or increased moisture wicking, thus shortening the drying time of the cleaned wetness protection cover and reliably preventing user perspiration.

[0028] According to one embodiment of the moisture protection cover, the liquid-impermeable layer is at least partially made of a plastic.

[0029] Examples of plastics include thermoplastics, thermosets, and / or elastomers that exhibit hydrophobic or superhydrophobic, i.e., liquid-repellent, properties and / or form surfaces. In addition to their hydrophobic or superhydrophobic properties, plastics can also be heat-resistant up to 120°C and wash-resistant, i.e., insoluble in detergents.

[0030] The use of plastic for the impermeable layer enables reliable protection of a mattress underneath the moisture protection cover from liquid, especially from contact with liquid. This provides a reliable moisture protection cover.

[0031] According to one embodiment of the moisture protection cover, the liquid-impermeable layer is formed at least partially, in particular entirely, from polyurethane. Polyurethane can, in particular, increase the elasticity of the liquid-impermeable layer. When using polyurethane, the thickness of the liquid-impermeable layer can also be reduced, which in turn can increase the elasticity and extensibility of the entire moisture protection cover.

[0032] According to one embodiment of the moisture protection cover, the liquid-impermeable layer has a thickness of 10 micrometers to 40 micrometers, for example, 20 micrometers to 30 micrometers, in particular 25 micrometers. Such dimensions or thicknesses of the liquid-impermeable layer can provide comprehensive protection against moisture while simultaneously increasing elasticity and flexibility. In particular, the elasticity of the liquid-impermeable layer, due to the thickness between 10 micrometers and 40 micrometers, can be matched to the elasticity of the cover material, so that the overall elasticity of the moisture protection cover can be increased and / or maximized.In other words, the design of the liquid-impermeable layer with a thickness of 10 micrometers to 40 micrometers can significantly increase the flexibility of the moisture protection cover, while simultaneously providing reliable protection for the mattress underneath the moisture protection cover against liquid and moisture, especially against contact with liquid or moisture. On the other hand, the special thickness of the moisture protection cover allows for stretchability of the moisture protection cover while simultaneously ensuring tear resistance and robustness. Due to the significantly increased flexibility of the moisture protection cover, it can also be crumpled and / or scrunched up.

[0033] According to one embodiment of the moisture protection cover, the liquid-impermeable layer has an outer surface facing the lower layer and an outer surface facing away from the lower layer, wherein the facing away outer surface is continuous, flat, rough and exposed.

[0034] The term "continuous" is to be understood broadly and represents that the liquid-impermeable layer or the remote outer surface of the liquid-impermeable layer has at least one areally spread mass of a liquid-impermeable substance or substance mixture. In other words, the term "continuous" describes that the liquid-impermeable substance or the liquid-impermeable substance mixture of the liquid-impermeable layer is homogeneously distributed throughout the entire liquid-impermeable layer. In addition, the term "continuous" encompasses that the liquid-impermeable layer can have an identical thickness over the entire areal extent of the layer. Consequently, the liquid-impermeable layer cannot have any recesses extending from the remote outer surface into the interior of the liquid-impermeable layer.The term “flat” describes that the liquid-impermeable layer or the opposite outer surface of the liquid-impermeable layer is completely flat, i.e., for example, without waves with peaks and valleys. The term “rough” describes that the liquid-impermeable layer or the opposite outer surface of the liquid-impermeable layer has a structured surface. The structured surface can be uniform or random. A uniform structuring here includes, for example, a pattern, i.e., a repeating sequence of identical or different shapes. For example, a skin-like, in particular a wrinkled skin-like, structured surface can be provided, for example when the liquid-impermeable layer is provided by lamination to the lower layer of the cover material.Such a structured surface can be created by applying the liquid-impermeable layer in a heated state to the lower layer of the cover material, whereby the liquid-impermeable layer can expand, and then cooling the liquid-impermeable layer, whereby the liquid-impermeable layer can contract. The contraction of the liquid-impermeable layer during cooling can therefore form a shriveled, skin-like structured surface on the underside of the moisture protection cover. Alternatively or additionally, the liquid-impermeable layer can be attached to the lower layer in such a way that, when the cover material is relaxed, unstressed and / or unconditioned, the liquid-impermeable layer bulges in a fold-like manner, at least in some areas. The term "exposed" describes that the opposite outer surface of the liquid-impermeable layer is exposed.In other words, the outer surface facing away from the liquid-impermeable layer is not covered or covered by any other material of the waterproof cover.

[0035] The continuous, flat, rough, and exposed formation of the liquid-impermeable layer reliably prevents the wetness protection cover from slipping when the user lies on the wetness protection cover on a mattress. The roughness of the exposed surface can increase the static friction of the opposite outer surface, thus making slipping more difficult or even impossible. In addition, the continuous, flat, rough, and exposed formation of the liquid-impermeable layer can also further increase elasticity. Specifically, the liquid-impermeable layer can be configured to be elastically movable, at least partially or in certain regions, relative to the lower layer of the cover material. The elasticity of the liquid-impermeable layer can correspond to or be equal to the elasticity of the cover material or the elasticity of the lower layer of the tension material. Thus, the elasticity of the wetness protection cover can be increased.

[0036] According to one embodiment of the moisture protection cover, the upper layer and / or the lower layer of the cover material is at least partially made of a natural fiber.

[0037] The use of natural fibers, which can be incorporated and / or knitted into the spacer fabric, for example, can increase the sustainability and / or ecology of the moisture protection cover, for example, because the natural fibers can be obtained from renewable raw materials. Natural fibers can also be characterized by increased resilience and / or durability. Furthermore, natural fibers can result in a pleasant, soft feel for the user. Natural fibers can also be characterized by increased skin compatibility, breathability, and / or odor neutrality. Furthermore, natural fibers can enable cost-efficient production of the cover.

[0038] According to one embodiment of the moisture protection 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 characterized by increased sustainability, odor neutrality, skin compatibility, durability, and / or robustness compared to synthetic fibers.

[0039] According to one embodiment, the upper layer, the lower layer, and / or one or more middle layers of the cover material have a weight fraction of natural fibers, approximately based on the respective layer or the entire cover material, 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 is also conceivable.

[0040] According to one embodiment, the proportion, for example the weight proportion and / or volume proportion, of natural fibers, for example based on the respective layer or the entire cover material, in the upper layer is greater than the proportion, for example the weight proportion and / or volume proportion, 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.

[0041] According to one embodiment of the moisture protection cover, the upper layer consists essentially and / or almost entirely, for example entirely, of natural fibers and the lower layer, as well as optionally one or more middle layers, consist essentially and / or almost entirely, for example entirely, of synthetic fibers.

[0042] According to one embodiment of the moisture protection cover, the recesses are arranged regularly and / or in a regular pattern. However, an irregular arrangement, for example, forming a pattern, is also conceivable.

[0043] According to one embodiment of the moisture protection cover, the recesses are honeycomb-shaped. Alternatively or additionally, the recesses have a round, rounded, angular, square, rectangular, polygonal, triangular, elliptical, oval, and / or polygonal cross-section.

[0044] According to one embodiment of the moisture protection cover, the upper layer and / or the lower layer of the cover material is at least partially made of textured, twisted yarn, in particular multifilament yarn, for example, polyester yarn, polyethylene yarn, polyamide yarn, polyethylene yarn, and / or polyamide yarn. This can provide a soft and pleasant feel.

[0045] According to one embodiment of the moisture protection cover, the upper layer and / or the lower layer of the cover material 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. Forming the cover material from monofilament yarn on the underside of the cover material facing the mattress core or the pillow core can facilitate the removal or insertion of the mattress or pillow core.

[0046] For example, the cover fabric made of spacer knit can be formed of at least two layers, with an upper layer forming the outer side and a fabric 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 accommodated between the upper and lower layers.

[0047] The inner or lower layer can, for example, be a smooth fabric layer, which can also be jacquarded and / or provided with a pattern, for example, onto which the upper layer of the spacer knit made of textured, twisted yarn, especially multifilament yarn, can be built. Smooth here means that the fabric layer has no elevations or bulges that would increase the surface area or friction of the fabric layer.

[0048] According to one embodiment of the moisture protection cover, the cover material of the moisture protection cover further comprises at least one middle layer, which is at least partially and / or at least partially knitted with the upper layer and / or the lower layer. The middle layer can serve to voluminize the cover material. This can also increase sleeping comfort.

[0049] According to one embodiment of the moisture protection cover, the middle layer is at least partially formed from a monofilament yarn, in particular polyester yarn, smooth polyester yarn, polyethylene yarn, smooth polyethylene yarn, polyamide yarn, and / or smooth polyamide yarn.

[0050] According to one embodiment of the moisture protection cover, the middle layer is at least partially formed from a multifilament yarn, for example a textured, twisted multifilament yarn, for example from polyester yarn, polyethylene yarn, polyamide yarn, polyethylene yarn and / or polyamide yarn.

[0051] According to one embodiment of the moisture protection cover, the middle layer is made at least partially of a natural fiber. This offers the advantages explained above with regard to natural fibers.

[0052] According to one embodiment of the moisture protection cover, the cutouts extend at least substantially across the thickness of the upper layer and, optionally, the middle layer of the cover material. In particular, the cutouts can extend completely through the upper layer and, optionally, through the at least one middle layer, so that the cutouts can form and / or represent openings in the upper layer and, optionally, the at least one middle layer.

[0053] This advantageously enables optimal climate control in terms of air and moisture exchange between the two sides of the cover fabric. Furthermore, the depth of the cutout can increase the softness of the upper layer of spacer knit, resulting in an improved feel.

[0054] Optionally, several middle layers can be provided, whereby the recesses can extend through one, several or all middle layers, approximately up to the bottom layer.

[0055] According to one embodiment of the moisture protection cover, the upper layer comprises a weight percentage of 50% to 70%, particularly 55% to 60%, of the cover material. Studies have shown that this weight percentage is particularly beneficial in terms of comfort and microclimatization.

[0056] According to one embodiment of the moisture protection cover of the moisture protection cover, the lower layer has a weight proportion of 20% to 30%, in particular of 25% to 30%, of the cover material.

[0057] According to one embodiment of the moisture protection cover, a middle layer has a weight proportion of 10% to 20%, in particular 15% to 20%, of the cover material.

[0058] When using a filler, optimal results in terms of air permeability, stabilization and volumization were determined at a weight proportion of 10% to 20%, in particular 15% to 20%, of the middle layer of the cover material.

[0059] According to one embodiment of the moisture protection cover, the cover material has a weight of 250 g / m 2 - 300 g / m 2 This allows the upholstery fabric to offer the required durability while remaining lightweight and easy to handle during production and use.

[0060] According to one embodiment of the moisture protection cover, the moisture protection cover has at least one elastic corner band, with which the moisture protection cover can be attached to a mattress core. Using an elastic corner band, the moisture protection cover can be reliably attached to a mattress core. Furthermore, pulling the moisture protection cover on and off the mattress core can be made easier, since only the corners of the mattress core need to be slightly lifted to pull the moisture protection cover on and off. Despite the possibility of making it easier to pull the moisture protection cover on and off the mattress core, the elasticity of the elastic corner bands can prevent the moisture protection cover from accidentally coming loose from the mattress core.

[0061] According to one embodiment of the moisture protection cover, the moisture protection cover has several elastic corners with which the moisture protection cover is attached to a mattress core. In particular, one elastic corner can be provided at each corner of the moisture protection cover, for example, on the outer side of the bottom layer.

[0062] The moisture protection cover may also be washable, for example at a temperature of at least 30°C, at least 40°C, at least 50°C, at least 60°C, at least 70°C, at least 80°C or at least 90°C.

[0063] Another aspect of the present disclosure relates to a mattress with a moisture protection cover as described above and below. The mattress may further comprise a mattress core on which the moisture protection cover may be arranged to protect the mattress core. Further optionally, the mattress may comprise a mattress cover made of 3D spacer knit.

[0064] The mattress cover can be made or provided from a cover material that corresponds to or is similar to the cover material of the moisture protection cover or that does not correspond to or is not similar to the cover material of the moisture protection cover. Accordingly, the cover material of the mattress cover and the cover material of the moisture protection cover can be constructed differently, although both cover materials can be made from a spacer knit, in particular a 3D spacer knit with two or three layers.

[0065] According to one embodiment of the mattress, the cover material of the moisture protection cover and the cover material of the mattress cover are identical.

[0066] Another aspect of the present disclosure relates to the use of a moisture protection cover, as described above and below, for protecting a mattress and / or a mattress core from moisture.

[0067] A further aspect of the present disclosure relates to a method for producing a moisture protection cover as described above and below, the method comprising: arranging and / or superimposing the cover material and the liquid-impermeable layer, and bonding the cover material to the liquid-impermeable layer, for example by means of lamination, gluing and / or coating.

[0068] Further advantages and advantageous developments of the invention emerge from the claims and the embodiment described in principle with reference to the drawing.

[0069] Short description of the characters

[0070] It shows:

[0071] Fig. 1 is a perspective view of a moisture protection cover according to an embodiment,

[0072] Fig. 2 is a highly simplified partial plan view of an exposed outer side of the cover material of a moisture protection cover according to an embodiment,

[0073] Fig. 3 is a partially schematic cross-sectional view through a moisture protection cover according to an embodiment,

[0074] Fig. 4 is a plan view of a folded-over wetness protection cover to show the exposed outer side of the wetness protection cover material and the liquid-impermeable layer according to an embodiment.

[0075] Fig. 5 is a perspective view of a mattress with a cover pulled over a mattress core, on which a moisture protection cover according to an embodiment is pulled.

[0076] The figures are merely schematic and not to scale. Similar or identical elements are provided with similar or identical reference numerals throughout the figures. Detailed description of embodiments

[0077] Referring to Fig. 1, a moisture protection cover 1 is shown by way of example. The moisture protection cover 1 has an upper side 3, which represents a lying surface, an opposite underside 4, and a plurality of side surfaces 7. The moisture protection cover 1 further comprises a plurality of corner rubbers 6, in particular four corner rubbers, one at each corner of the moisture protection cover, which extend from adjacent or contiguous side surfaces to one another. Each of the corner rubbers runs diagonally with respect to the moisture protection cover 1 from one of the long sides to one of the adjacent end sides. One end of each corner rubber 6 is connected to one of the long sides, and the other end of the corner rubber is connected to the adjacent end side of the moisture protection cover 1. Furthermore, each of the corner rubbers 3 can extend in a U-shape or arcuate manner over the underside 4 in the untensioned state.

[0078] The upper side 3 of the moisture protection cover 1 and thus also the lying surface for a user is provided by the cover material 5.

[0079] The section X, which represents the entire surface of the cover material 5 of the moisture protection cover 1, is shown in a detailed view in Fig. 2 and in a cross-sectional view in Fig. 3. As can be seen in Figs. 2 and 3, the cover material 5 is formed with a spacer knit 10, for example a 3D spacer knit, up to its outer side 11.

[0080] The cover fabric 5 has a honeycomb-like mesh structure with outwardly open recesses 12 arranged in a regular, finely structured pattern. The recesses 12 preferably have a round, rounded, elliptical, and / or oval cross-section, which, in the unstretched state, can be, for example, 2 mm to 4 mm wide and approximately 3 mm to 5 mm long.

[0081] The material webs 13 made of spacer fabric 10 located between the recesses 12 which are offset and regularly arranged relative to one another can be dimensioned at least approximately equally in width.

[0082] The cover material 5 of the moisture protection cover 1 is formed here as a three-layer spacer knit with an upper layer 14 forming the outer side 11, a middle layer 15 forming the spacer knit 10 and knitted with the upper layer 14, and an inner or lower layer 16 knitted with the upper layer 14 and / or the middle layer 15. Multiple middle layers 15 may also be provided.

[0083] The cutouts 12 can be separated and / or spaced apart from one another in the longitudinal and / or transverse direction of the moisture protection cover 1 by material webs 13 made of spacer knit. The material webs 13 can consist of 3D spacer knit with the upper layer 14, the lower layer 16, and one or more middle layers. The cutouts 12, a cross-section, a circumference, and / or a geometry of the cutouts 12 can therefore be defined by the material webs 13. Each of the cutouts 12 can extend from the upper side 3 to adjacent to the lower layer 16 of the cover material, i.e., through the upper layer 14 and optionally one or more middle layers 15 of the cover material.

[0084] The upper layer 14 can comprise a monofilament yarn, such as a smooth monofilament yarn, or a multifilament yarn, such as a textured, twisted multifilament yarn. Similarly, the lower layer 16 can also comprise a monofilament yarn, such as a smooth monofilament yarn, or a multifilament yarn, such as a textured, twisted multifilament yarn. Likewise, the middle layer 15 can be formed at least partially from monofilament yarns or multifilament yarns.

[0085] One or more of the upper layer 14, the middle layer 15, and the lower layer 16 can optionally further contain natural fibers and / or be at least partially formed from natural fibers, as described above. The natural fibers can be, for example, animal hair fibers, wool fibers, cotton fibers, hemp fibers, eucalyptus fibers, bamboo fibers, linen fibers, wood fibers, viscose fibers, flax fibers, silk fibers, plant fibers, or a combination thereof. Such natural fibers can be characterized, for example, by increased sustainability, odor neutrality, skin compatibility, durability, and / or robustness compared to synthetic fibers.

[0086] The upper layer 14 also has a fine-knit structure 17 on the outer side 11, which gives the surface a soft feel.

[0087] With regard to the thickness, the upper layer 14 in the advantageous embodiment shown is dimensioned such that it takes up at least 70% to 80% of the total thickness of the cover material 5 in order to utilize the microclimatic advantages of the spacer fabric 10 to the greatest extent possible.

[0088] To enable maximum air circulation and optimal moisture removal to the outer side 11, the honeycomb-like recesses 12 extend essentially across the thickness of the upper layer 14 and the middle layer 15, bordering the lower layer 16, so that the cover material simultaneously exhibits high flexibility and extensibility across its width thanks to the recesses 12. The elasticity in the height creates a softness that can be defined by the filler of the middle layer 14, depending on the desired degree of softness.

[0089] It is understood that, depending on the application, the cover fabric 5 can be produced using all known spacer knitting processes, for example on circular knitting machines, as well as using all known finishing processes, such as a washing, bleaching and shrinking process following the knitting process.

[0090] In addition, the moisture protection cover 1 comprises a liquid-impermeable layer 18, which is arranged, attached, and / or provided directly with the lower layer 16 or its outer surface 19. The liquid-impermeable layer 18 can be attached to the lower layer 16, for example, by means of a lamination process.

[0091] The liquid-impermeable layer 18 has a thickness of 10 micrometers to 40 micrometers, for example 20 micrometers to 30 micrometers, in particular 25 micrometers. Furthermore, the liquid-impermeable layer 18 is completely attached to the entire outer surface 19 of the lower layer 16 or of the wetness protection cover 1, which is arranged opposite the upper side 3 or lying surface of the wetness protection cover (i.e., the outer side of the upper layer 14), of the lower layer 16. With regard to its thickness, the liquid-impermeable layer 18 in the advantageous embodiment shown is dimensioned such that it occupies, for example, 1% to 5% of the total thickness of the wetness protection cover 1.

[0092] The liquid-impermeable layer 18 can, for example, consist of polyurethane and / or comprise polyurethane. In particular, the liquid-impermeable layer 18 can have an elasticity that essentially corresponds to that of the cover material 5, for example, with a deviation of less than 20%, less than 10%, in particular less than 5%. Optionally, the liquid-impermeable layer 18 can have skin-like bulges when the moisture protection cover 1 is unloaded or undeformed, and / or can be bonded to the cover material in a pre-tensioned state. This can further increase the overall elasticity of the moisture protection cover.

[0093] Fig. 4 shows a top view of the moisture protection cover 1 according to the invention, with one corner folded over. This shows the different surface structures with the respective structuring of the surfaces of the top side 3 and the bottom side 4 of the moisture protection cover 1.

[0094] The surface of the upper side 3 of the moisture protection cover 1 is provided by the cover material 5 with a plurality of cutouts 12. The underside 4 of the moisture protection cover 1 is formed by the liquid-impermeable layer 18. The liquid-impermeable layer 18 has an outer surface 20 facing away from the lower layer 16, which is continuous, flat, rough, and exposed. The surface of the outer surface 20 has a wrinkled, skin-like design. The liquid-impermeable layer 18 can be a homogeneous polyurethane layer or layer and can be completely arranged, attached, and / or formed on the entire lower layer 16. The liquid-impermeable layer 18 is not covered externally by any other material.

[0095] Fig. 5 shows a perspective view of a mattress 21 with a cover 22 or mattress cover 22 pulled over a mattress core 21, onto which a moisture protection cover 1 designed according to the invention is pulled.

[0096] The cover material of the cover 22 of the mattress 21 and the cover material 5 of the moisture protection cover 1 are identical. When the moisture protection cover 1 is pulled onto a mattress 21, the moisture protection cover 1 can be smaller, the same size, or larger than the lying surface, i.e., the top or bottom, of the mattress 21 or mattress core.

[0097] It should also be noted that “comprehensive” and “comprising” do not exclude other elements and the indefinite articles “a” or “an” do not exclude pluralities.

[0098] Furthermore, it should be noted that features described with reference to one of the above embodiments can also be used in combination with other features of other embodiments described above. Reference symbols in the claims are not to be considered as limitations.

[0099] List of reference symbols:

[0100] 1 moisture protection cover

[0101] 3 Top

[0102] 4 Bottom

[0103] 5 Cover material

[0104] 6 corner rubber

[0105] 7 side surfaces

[0106] 11 Outside of the cover fabric

[0107] 12 recesses

[0108] 13 material bridges

[0109] 14 upper layer

[0110] 15 middle position

[0111] 16 lower layer

[0112] 17 Fine knit structure

[0113] 18 Liquid-impermeable layer

[0114] 19 Exterior area

[0115] 20 exterior area

[0116] 21 mattress

[0117] 22 mattress cover

Claims

Patent claims 1. A moisture protection cover (1) for a mattress, the moisture protection cover comprising: a cover material (5) with at least one upper layer (14) and one lower layer (16) arranged on top of one another, wherein the upper layer of the cover material provides a lying surface for a user, and a liquid-impermeable layer (18) formed on an outer side of the lower layer (16) facing away from the upper layer (14); wherein at least the upper layer (14) of the cover material (5) is formed from a spacer knit, for example a 3D spacer knit, and wherein at least the upper layer (14) of the cover material has a plurality of recesses (12) for air exchange between the at least one upper layer (14) and the at least one lower layer (16) of the cover material.

2. Wetness protection cover (1) according to claim 1, wherein the liquid-impermeable layer (18) is formed at least partially from a plastic.

3. Moisture protection cover (1) according to claim 2, wherein the liquid-impermeable layer (18) is formed at least partially, in particular completely, from polyurethane.

4. Wetness protection cover (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the liquid-impermeable layer (18) has a thickness of 10 micrometers to 40 micrometers, for example 20 micrometers to 30 micrometers, in particular 25 micrometers.

5. A moisture protection cover (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the liquid-impermeable layer (18) has an outer surface (19) facing the lower layer (16) and an outer surface (20) facing away from the lower layer (16), wherein the facing away outer surface (20) is continuous, flat, rough and exposed.

6. Wetness protection cover (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the upper layer (14) and / or the lower layer (16) of the cover material (5) is at least partially made of a natural fiber.

7. Wetness protection cover (1) according to claim 6, 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.

8. Wetness protection cover (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the recesses (12) are arranged regularly and / or in a regular pattern.

9. A moisture protection cover (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the recesses (12) are honeycomb-shaped; and / or wherein the recesses (12) have a round, rounded, angular, square, rectangular, polygonal, triangular, elliptical, oval, and / or polygonal cross-section.

10. Wetness protection cover (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the upper layer (14) and / or the lower layer (16) of the cover material (5) is at least partially formed from textured, twisted yarn, in particular multifilament yarn.

11. Moisture protection cover (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the upper layer (14) and / or the lower layer (16) of the cover material (5) is at least partially formed from monofilament yarn, in particular polyester yarn, smooth polyester yarn, polyethylene yarn, smooth polyethylene yarn, polyamide yarn, and / or smooth polyamide yarn.

12. Wetness protection cover (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the cover material (5) further comprises a middle layer (15) which is at least selectively and / or partially knitted with the upper layer (14) and / or the lower layer (16).

13. Wetness protection cover (1) according to claim 12, wherein the middle layer (15) 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.

14. Wetness protection cover (1) according to one of claims 12 or 13, wherein the middle layer (15) is formed at least partially from a multifilament yarn, for example a textured, twisted multifilament yarn.

15. Wetness protection cover (1) according to one of claims 12 to 14, wherein the middle layer (15) is at least partially formed from a natural fiber.

16. Wetness protection cover (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the recesses (12) extend at least substantially over a thickness of the upper layer (14) and optionally a middle layer (15) of the cover material (5).

17. Wetness protection cover (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the upper layer (14) has a weight proportion of 50% to 70%, in particular 55% to 60%, of the cover material (5).

18. Wetness protection cover (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the lower layer (16) has a weight proportion of 20% to 30%, in particular of 25% to 30%, of the cover material (5).

19. Wetness protection cover (1) according to one of the preceding claims, further comprising: a middle layer, wherein a middle layer (15) has a weight proportion of 10% to 20%, in particular of 15% to 20%, of the cover material (5).

20. Wetness protection cover (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the cover material (5) has a weight of 250 g / m2 - 300 g / m2.

21. Moisture protection cover (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the proportion of natural fibers in the upper layer 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.

22. Wetness protection cover (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein 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.

23. Moisture protection cover (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the moisture protection cover has at least one corner rubber (6) with which the moisture protection cover can be attached to a mattress core (2).

24. Moisture protection cover (1) according to one of claims 1 to 23, wherein the moisture protection cover has at least one corner rubber (6) with which the moisture protection cover is attached to a mattress core (2).

25. A mattress (21) with a moisture protection cover (1) according to one of claims 1 to 24, which is arranged on a mattress core, optionally wherein the mattress (21) has a mattress cover (22) made of 3D spacer knit.

26. A mattress according to claim 25, wherein the cover material (5) of the moisture protection cover (1) and the cover material of the mattress cover (22) are identical.

Images