Cushion cover for cushioning

Abstract

To provide covers for cushions that enhance the cushioning of a cushioning element.SOLUTION: A cover 20 for a cushion includes a first panel 40, a second panel 60, and a primary receptacle 80 defined between the first panel and the second panel. The primary receptacle may receive a primary cushioning element 100, such as a pillow, a pillow insert, or a fill material. At least one of the first panel and the second panel includes a secondary cushioning element 50. The secondary cushioning element may be defined from a compressible, resilient elastomeric material that defines a plurality of thin interconnected walls that in turn define an array of open cells or columns. Each cell or column may have a hexagonal shape, imparting the array of open cells or columns with a honeycomb appearance. Methods for assembling a primary cushioning element with such a cover are also disclosed.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Cross - Reference to Related Applications Priority is claimed to the filing date of Jun. 13, 2019, of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 861,138, entitled “PILLOWS AND COVERS” (the “'138 provisional application”). The entire disclosure of the '138 application is hereby incorporated herein by reference.

[0002] The present disclosure generally relates to covers for pillows and other primary cushioning elements, and more particularly to covers having panels that include secondary cushioning elements. Even more particularly, the present disclosure relates to covers having a central pocket for receiving a cushioning element, such as a pillow or a pillow insert, between a pair of secondary cushioning elements of the cover. The present disclosure also relates to cushions, such as pillows, that include such covers, as well as methods of manufacturing and using covers for pillows and other primary cushioning elements.

Summary of the Invention

Means for Solving the Problems

[0003] A cover according to the present disclosure can have a configuration that enables it to receive a primary cushioning element, such as a pillow insert or a pillow. The cover can include a first panel carrying a secondary cushioning element, a second panel, and a primary receiving portion or pocket defined between the first panel and the second panel, where the pocket can receive a primary cushioning element. In some embodiments, the second panel can also carry a secondary cushioning element.

[0004] The secondary cushioning element of the first panel can include any suitable type of cushioning element. In certain embodiments, the secondary cushioning element can include a compressible, resilient elastomeric material that defines a plurality of thin interconnected walls that define an array of cells or columns. Even more specifically, the compressible, resilient elastomeric material can define a plurality of thin walls that in turn define an array of hexagonal cells in a so-called "honeycomb" structure. Such secondary cushioning elements can be fixed (e.g., formed, joined, adhered, etc.) to a portion of the first panel.

[0005] The first panel can include an outer layer and an inner layer, and includes a secondary receiving portion defined therebetween. In some embodiments, the periphery of the inner layer can be fixed to the inner surface of the outer layer and / or to the periphery of the outer layer. The inner layer can be fixed directly to the outer layer. Alternatively, the inner layer can be fixed to the inner edge of a gasket, the outer edge of which is then fixed to the outer layer, and the gasket separates the inner layer and the outer layer from each other. The secondary receiving portion between the inner layer and the outer layer can receive or carry the secondary cushioning element. In some embodiments, the secondary cushioning element can be fixed to one or both of the outer and inner layers of the first panel. The secondary cushioning element can be permanently fixed within the secondary receiving portion in a manner that prevents access to the secondary cushioning element.

[0006] In embodiments where the second panel includes a secondary cushioning element, the secondary cushioning element of the second panel can likewise include any suitable type of cushioning element, including, without limitation, a cushioning element, and the compressible, resilient elastomeric material defines a plurality of thin interconnected walls that in turn define an array of cells or columns. In such embodiments, the second panel can likewise include an outer layer and an inner layer and a secondary receiving portion defined therebetween. In such embodiments, the periphery of the inner layer can be fixed to the inner surface of the outer layer and / or to the periphery of the outer layer. The inner layer can be fixed directly to the outer layer. Alternatively, the inner layer can be fixed to the inner edge of a gasket, the outer edge of which is then fixed to the outer layer, and the gas The cover separates the inner layer and the outer layer from each other. The secondary receiving portion between the inner layer and the outer layer can receive or support the secondary cushioning elements of the second panel. The secondary cushioning elements of the second panel can be fixed to one or both of the outer layer and the inner layer of the second panel. The secondary cushioning elements can be permanently fixed within the secondary receiving portion to prevent access to the secondary cushioning elements.

[0007] The perimeters of the first panel and the second panel of the cover can be fixed to each other in a manner that defines a primary receiving portion between the first panel and the second panel. In some embodiments, portions of the perimeters of the first panel and the second panel that are inseparably fixed to each other can be directly fixed to each other. In other embodiments, portions of the perimeters of the first panel and the second panel that are inseparably fixed to each other can be indirectly fixed to each other. As an example, the perimeter of the first panel of the cover (e.g., the upper panel, etc.) can be fixed to the first edge of the gusset (e.g., the upper edge, etc.), and the perimeter of the second panel of the cover (e.g., the bottom panel, etc.) can be fixed to the second edge of the gusset (e.g., the bottom edge, etc.), and the gusset defines the perimeter of the cover, and thus is referred to herein as a "peripheral gusset". In embodiments where the first panel includes an inner layer and an outer layer and the second panel includes an inner layer and an outer layer, the inner layers of the first panel and the second panel can at least partially define the primary receiving portion. In embodiments where the cover further includes a peripheral gusset, the peripheral gusset can also define a part of the primary receiving portion.

[0008] The cover can also include a primary opening that provides access to the primary receiving portion. The primary opening can be defined by edges of the cover that are separable from each other. For example, portions of the edges that define the primary opening can be separated from each other to open the primary opening and provide access to the primary receiving portion of the cover. As another example, a zipper between portions of the edges that define the primary opening can be selectively unzipped to open the primary opening to the primary receiving portion. In yet another example, buttons or other fasteners that fix portions of the edges that define the primary opening to each other can be unbuttoned or otherwise unfastened to open the primary opening and provide access to the primary receiving portion.

[0009] When the primary opening of the cover is open, the primary receiving portion can receive the primary cushion element. More specifically, the primary opening of the cover can facilitate the introduction (and removal) of a primary cushion element such as a pillow filling, a pillow insert, a pillow, or the like into (or out of) the primary receiving portion. The primary receiving portion can receive the primary cushion element such that each secondary cushion element at least partially or more fully covers the corresponding face of the primary cushion element.

[0010] In another aspect, a cover according to the present disclosure and a cushion such as a pillow including cushion elements within the interior of the cover are disclosed.

[0011] A method for enhancing the cushioning of a cushion element is also disclosed. A primary cushion element such as a pillow filling, a pillow insert, an existing pillow, or the like can be introduced into the primary receiving portion of a cover that includes secondary cushion elements on one or both of its panels (i.e., major faces). When the primary cushion element is introduced into the primary receiving portion, each secondary cushion element of the cover can at least partially overlap the pillow or filling. The resulting cushion can then be used to support a body part (e.g., an individual's head, back, legs, etc.). The overlaying of the secondary cushion element over at least a portion of the primary cushion element can change or enhance the manner in which the primary cushion element cushions the body part.

[0012] Other aspects of the disclosed subject matter, as well as features and advantages of various aspects of the disclosed subject matter, will become apparent to those skilled in the art through consideration of the ensuing disclosure, the accompanying drawings, and the appended claims.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0013]

Figure 1

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[0014] Referring to FIGS. 1, 1A, and 1B, an embodiment of a cushion 10 according to the present disclosure is shown. The cushion 10 can include a pillow or any other type of cushion. The cushion 10 includes a cover 20 having a first panel 40, a second panel 60, and a primary receiving portion 80 between the first panel 40 and the second panel 60. The first panel 40 and the second panel 60 can include opposite sides (e.g., top and bottom, etc.) of the cover 20. The primary receiving portion 80, which may also be referred to herein as a "pocket," is configured to receive a primary cushion element 100.

[0015] The first panel 40 can support or otherwise include a secondary cushion element 50. The second panel 60 can similarly support or otherwise include a secondary cushion element 70. Each secondary cushion element 50, 70 can include any suitable cushioning material. The secondary cushion elements 50, 70 can be relatively thin. In various embodiments, the secondary cushion elements 50, 70 can have a maximum thickness and a minimum thickness, the maximum thickness may be towards the centers 56, 76 (FIG. 3) of the secondary cushion elements 50, 70, and the minimum thickness may be towards the outer peripheries 58, 78 of the secondary cushion elements 50, 70. and the maximum thickness can be towards the centers 56, 76 of the secondary cushion elements 50, 70, and the minimum thickness can be towards the outer peripheries 58, 78 of the secondary cushion elements 50, 70.

[0016] As a non-limiting example, each of the secondary cushion elements 50, 70 can include a compressible elastic elastomeric material (e.g., materials such as those described by U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,994,450, 6,797,765, and 7,964,664, the entire disclosures of which are hereby incorporated herein by reference), and the elastomeric material defines a plurality of thin interconnected walls 52, 72, which in turn define an array of cells or columns 54, 74 (e.g., cushion elements such as those described by U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,749,111 and 6,026,527, the entire disclosures of which are hereby incorporated herein). The cells or columns 54, 74 of each secondary cushion element 50, 70 can be hexagonal in shape, as illustrated by FIGS. 3 and 3A, although any circular or polygonal shape (e.g., square, rhombus, triangle, etc.) is contemplated as being within the scope of the present disclosure. Secondary cushion elements 50, 70 with other shapes or configurations are within the scope of the present disclosure (e.g., solid sheets, adhesive multi-component structures, etc.). Other materials can also be used to define each secondary cushion element 50, 70, including, without limitation, other oil-extended block copolymers, foamed rubbers (e.g., natural latex, polyurethane, viscoelastic foams, etc.), and the like.

[0017] In some embodiments, the primary receiving portion 80 can be configured to allow a consumer to place the primary cushion element 100 within the primary receiving portion 80 and to remove the primary cushion element 100 from the primary receiving portion 80. Such a primary receiving portion 80 can be made accessible through the primary opening 90 of the cover 20, thus allowing insertion of the primary cushion element 100 into the primary receiving portion 80 and removal of the primary cushion element 100 from the primary receiving portion 80. In other embodiments, the primary cushion element 100 may be permanently fixed within the primary receiving portion 80.

[0018] As shown in FIG. 1A, in some embodiments, the cover 20 can include a pair of long sides 24 and 25 and a pair of short sides 26 and 27. As shown in FIG. 1B, the primary opening 90 that provides access to the primary receiving portion 80 of the cover 20 may extend along the entire length of the short side 26 of the cover 20. Alternatively, the primary opening 80 can extend along the long side 24 of the cover 20 or along a plurality of edges (including corners) of the cover 20 that can provide easy access to the primary receiving portion 80, such that the primary cushion element 100 can be easily introduced into and removed from the primary receiving portion 80 of the cover 20. In some embodiments, the primary opening 90 can be made expandable to the extent that the material defining the primary opening 90 allows (e.g., through its elasticity or stretchability, etc.). A fastener 95 (e.g., a zipper, button, VELCRO® fastener, etc., that may be seen under or hidden by one or more flap materials) can be associated with the primary opening 90 to enable closing and reopening of the primary opening 90.

[0019] Continuing to refer to FIGS. 1, 1A, and 1B, the primary receiving portion 80 can be made inaccessible or even hidden when the primary opening 90 of the cover 20 is closed (e.g., zipped, fastened, folded, etc.). The primary receiving portion 80 can enable the secondary cushion elements 50, 70 of the first panel 40 and the second panel 60 to at least partially cover the corresponding surfaces of the primary cushion element 100, respectively. In some embodiments, the secondary cushion elements 50, 70 can extend over the entire length and width of the primary cushion element 100, providing additional cushioning layers on each of the surfaces 105, 107 of the primary cushion element 100.

[0020] The cover 20 can be rectangular, although it can be of any suitable plurality of shapes (e.g., regular polygons Shapes, irregular polygons, stars, round shapes (e.g., circular, oval, elliptical, etc.), and other shapes) are also within the scope of the present disclosure. In an embodiment where the cover 20 has a rectangular shape, the perimeters of three sides of the first panel 40 can be fixed to the perimeters of three corresponding sides of the second panel 60, while the perimeters of the fourth side of the first panel 40 and the fourth side of the second panel can define a primary opening 90 (FIG. 1B). The primary opening 90 can remain continuously open and / or can be selectively closed (e.g., via a fastener (e.g., button, zipper, etc.) that allows closing and reopening, etc.). The dimensions of the first panel 40 and the second panel 60 of such a cover 20 can vary, but with reasonable deviations, they can be approximately 20 inches (about 51 cm) × about 26 inches (about 66 nm), i.e., approximately the same as the dimensions of a standard-sized pillowcase or pillow cover. However, other dimensions are contemplated and intended for larger pillows (i.e., queen-sized pillows (20 inches × 30 inches, i.e., about 51 cm × about 76 cm), king-sized pillows (20 inches × 36 inches, i.e., about 51 cm × about 91 cm), euro pillows (26 inches × 26 inches, i.e., about 66 cm × about 66 cm), and smaller pillows.

[0021] The primary cushion element 100 can include any suitable cushion element. In an embodiment where the cushion 10 (FIGS. 1, 1A, and 1B) includes a pillow, the primary cushion element 100 can include a filling material, a pillow insert, or a standard pillow. In some embodiments, an individual can select a particular primary cushion element 100 that he or she wishes to place within the primary receiving portion 80 of the cover 20 to provide a customized cushion 10 that achieves a particular or desired cushioning effect.

[0022] FIG. 1 shows a particular embodiment of the primary cushion element 100. The primary cushion element 100 can be formed from a compressible elastic foam material. As a non-limiting example, the primary cushion element 100 can be formed from a natural latex foam (e.g., Talalay latex foam, etc.), a polyurethane foam, or a foam rubber such as the like. An array of channels 102 can extend through the thickness of the primary cushion element 100. The channels 102 can facilitate an air flow through the primary cushion element 100 and through the cushion 10 of which the primary cushion element 100 is a part. Alternatively, the primary cushion element 100 can include a compressible elastic elastomeric material (e.g., materials described by U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,994,450, 6,797,765, and 7,964,664, the entire disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference, etc.). The elastomeric material defines a plurality of thin interconnected walls, and the interconnected walls then define an array of cells or columns (e.g., cushion elements described by U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,749,111 and 6,026,527 and U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018 / 0305199A1, the entire disclosures of which are incorporated herein, etc.).

[0023] In embodiments where the primary cushion element 100 includes a filling material, the filling material can include any material suitable for use as a cushion (e.g., for use when cushioning an individual's head, back, legs, etc.). The filling material can be introduced directly into the primary receiving portion 80 to define the primary cushion element 100 of the cushion 10. Alternatively, the filling material can be incorporated into a separate cover that defines the primary cushion element 100 (e.g., an existing pillow, etc.) along with the filling material prior to its placement into the primary receiving portion 80.

[0024] Turning now to FIG. 2, the first panel 40 and the second panel 60 of a particular embodiment of the cover 20 are illustrated in more detail. The first panel 40 can include an outer layer 42 and an inner layer 46. The outer layer 42 and the inner layer 46 can include thin layers that are fixed to each other in the vicinity of their outer perimeters 44, 48. As illustrated in FIG. 2, the outer perimeters 44, 48 of the outer layer 42 and the inner layer 46 can be fixed directly to each other (e.g., by stitch threads, bonding, etc.). Alternatively, the outer perimeters 44, 48 of the outer layer 42 and the inner layer 46 can be fixed to corresponding edges of a gusset (not shown in FIG. 2) that indirectly fixes the outer layer 42 and the inner layer 46 to each other.

[0025] The second panel 60 can similarly include an outer layer 62 and an inner layer 66. The outer layer 62 and the inner layer 66 can include thin layers that are fixed to each other in the vicinity of their outer perimeters 64, 68. As illustrated in FIG. 2, the outer perimeters 64, 68 of the outer layer 62 and the inner layer 66 can be fixed directly to each other (e.g., by stitch threads, bonding, etc.). Alternatively, the outer layer 62 and the inner layer 66 can be indirectly fixed to each other by fixing their outer perimeters 64, 68 to corresponding edges of a gusset (not shown in FIG. 2).

[0026] In some embodiments, the outer layers 42, 62 and the inner layers 46, 66 can be breathable, or air can flow through them. The outer layers 42, 62 and the inner layers 46, 66 can be formed from a flexible material such as a fabric. The fabric can be enabled to stretch elastically (e.g., the fabric can include up to 10% spandex, or elastin, etc.). The fabric can include a moisture wicking material, which can provide a cooling effect when the body portion is placed in contact therewith. Without limitation, the outer layers 42, 62 can be formed from stretch nylon, which can include visible perforations therethrough (i.e., nylon mesh), while the inner layers 46, 66 can be formed from a soft, light and lofted fabric such as cotton or a cotton-polyester blend. Other examples of fabrics that can be used to define the outer layers 42, 62 and the inner layers 46, 66 include, but are not limited to, cotton fabric, cotton blend fabric, rayon, polyester, other synthetic fabrics, and bamboo fabric.

[0027] In the first panel 40 of the cover 20, the secondary cushioning element 50 can be positioned between the outer layer 42 and the inner layer 46. The second panel 60 of the cover 20 can similarly include a secondary cushioning element 70 positioned between the outer layer 62 and the inner layer 66 of the second panel 60. Each secondary cushioning element 50, 70 can include a compressible elastic elastomeric material, which defines a plurality of thin interconnected walls 52, 72, which in turn define an array of cells or columns 54, 74. The thin interconnected walls 52 and the array of cells or columns 54 of the secondary cushioning element 50 of the first panel 40 can be offset with respect to the thin interconnected walls 72 and the array of cells or columns 74 of the secondary cushioning element 70 of the second panel 60.

[0028] As depicted by FIG. 3, each of the secondary cushion elements 50, 70 can include a larger profile center 56, 76 and a smaller profile outer periphery 58, 78. The cushion elements 50, 70 can have longer or taller cells or columns 54, 74 at and around the centers 56, 76, and shorter cells or columns 54, 74 at and near the outer peripheries 58, 78. In some embodiments, the outer surfaces 51, 71 of the secondary cushion elements 50, 70 can be gradually tapered downward from their centers 56, 76 or central portions 57, 77 to their outer peripheries 58, 78. Such tapers can be linear or curved. Stated another way, the length or height of the cells or columns 54, 74 can form a gradient that decreases from the center 56, 76 toward the outer periphery 58, 78, or increases from the outer periphery 58, 78 toward the center 56, 76. Such cushion embodiments are illustrated by U.S. Design Patent Applications Nos. 29 / 694,846 and 29 / 694,851, the entire disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference. Such a configuration can enable the centers 56, 76 or central portions 57, 77 of the secondary cushion elements 50, 70 to provide greater support and cushioning than provided by the outer locations and outer peripheries 58, 78 of the secondary cushion elements 50, 70. By way of non-limiting example, the thickness of each secondary cushion element 50, 70 at its center 56, 76 can be from about 1 / 2 inch (about 1 and 1 / 4 cm) to about 2 inches (about 5 cm), while the thickness of each secondary cushion element at its outer periphery 58, 78 The thicknesses of 50 and 70 can range from about 1 / 16 inch (about 1.5875 mm) to about 1 inch (about 2.54 cm). In a more specific embodiment, the thickness of each secondary cushion element 50, 70 at its center 56, 76 can be about 1 inch (about 2.54 cm), while the thickness of each secondary cushion element 50, 70 at its outer periphery 58, 78 can be about 1 / 8 inch (about 3.175 mm). Such secondary cushion elements 50, 70 can be tapered outwardly over a distance of about 5 and 3 / 4 inches (about 14.6 cm) from any location on the outer periphery 58, 78 toward the center 56, 76. Thus, the central portions 57, 77 of the secondary cushion elements 50, 70 having a substantially uniform thickness can have a length greater than the width, which means that the region of maximum thickness can have substantially the same shape as the secondary cushion elements 50, 70. Even in a standard-sized pillow having dimensions of about 20 inches × 26 inches (about 51 cm × about 66 cm), the central portion 57, 77 having a substantially uniform thickness can include most of the region of the secondary cushion elements 50, 70.

[0029] Returning to FIG. 2 for reference, each of the secondary cushion elements 50, 70 can be fixed to the corresponding inner layers 46, 66 of its corresponding panel (i.e., the first panel 40 or the second panel 60, respectively). The secondary cushion elements 50 and 70 can be manufactured simultaneously by placing overlapping layers of fabric or scrim between the two sides of the mold and then molding each of the secondary cushion elements 50, 70 onto the corresponding scrim. Once the secondary cushion elements 50, 70 are molded, each scrim can continue to adhere to its respective secondary cushion element 50, 70, while the individual corresponding inner layers 46, 66 are removed from their mutual adhesion, and thus can function as the inner layers 46, 66 of the panels of the cover 20 (i.e., the first panel 40 and the second panel 60, respectively). Alternatively, the secondary cushion elements 50, 70 can be fixed to one or both of their respective outer layers 42, 62 and inner layers 46, 66 by any other suitable technique (e.g., heating and melting of an elastomeric material, ultrasonic welding, adhesion, stitching, etc.). Furthermore, the first cushion element 14 can be fixed to the upper panel 18 by similar means. It will be understood that an open knit or woven fabric can be utilized as a scrim or other fabric portion to allow for breathability and air flow.

[0030] In some embodiments, such as those shown by FIG. 2, the plurality of interconnected walls 52 and the array of cells or columns 54 of the secondary cushion element 50 can be laterally offset from the plurality of interconnected walls 72 and the array of cells or columns 74 of the secondary cushion element 70. Such embodiments of secondary cushion elements are illustrated in U.S. Design Patent Applications Nos. 29 / 694,846 and 29 / 694,851.

[0031] FIG. 4 shows an embodiment of the cover 20', which can include many or all of the same features and elements as the embodiment of the cover 20 shown in FIG. 2. The main difference between the cover 20' and the cover 20 is that the plurality of interconnected walls 52' and the array of cells or columns 54' of the secondary cushioning element 50' of the first panel 40' of the cover 20' are substantially aligned with the plurality of interconnected walls 72', the array of cells or columns 74' of the secondary cushioning element 70' of the second panel 60' of the cover 20', respectively.

[0032] FIG. 5 shows an embodiment of the cover 20'', and each secondary cushioning element 50'', 70'' includes a first half 50a'', 70a'' and a second half 50b'', 70b''. The halves 50a'' and 50b'', 70a'' and 70b'' define the opposing faces of the secondary cushioning elements 50'', 70''. The first halves 50a'', 70a'' include a compressible elastic elastomeric material, and the elastomeric material defines a plurality of thin interconnected walls 52a'', 72a'', and then the interconnected walls 52a'', 72a'' define an array of cells or columns 54a'', 74a'' and the second halves 50b'', 70b''. The second halves 50b'', 70b'' also include a compressible elastic elastomeric material, and the elastomeric material includes another plurality of thin interconnected walls 52 Define "b" and "72b", and then the interconnecting walls 52b" and 72b" define another array of cells or columns 54b" and 74b". The first halves 50a" and 70a" and the second halves 50b" and 70b" have patterns that are offset from each other. More specifically, the plurality of thin interconnecting walls 52a" and 72a" of the first halves 50a" and 70a" can be laterally offset from the other plurality of thin interconnecting walls 52b" and 72b" of the second halves 50b" and 70b", such that the array of cells or columns 54a" and 74a" of the first halves 50a" and 70a" can be laterally offset from the other array of cells or columns 54b" and 74b" of the second halves 50b" and 70b", as illustrated by FIG. 5 and as well as by FIGS. 3A and U.S. Design Patent Applications Nos. 29 / 694,846 and 29 / 694,851. Alternatively, the plurality of thin interconnecting walls 52a" and 72a" and the array of cells or columns 54a" and 74a" of the first halves 50a" and 70a" can be aligned with the other plurality of thin interconnecting walls 52b" and 72b" and the other array of cells or columns 54b" and 74b" of the second halves 50b" and 70b".

[0033] FIG. 6 shows an example of the secondary cushioning elements 50" and 70", where the first halves 50a" and 70a" have a variable thickness from their central positions 57a" and 77a" to their outer perimeters 58a" and 78a", such as the taper previously described herein with reference to FIG. 3. The second halves 50b" and 70b" of such secondary cushioning elements 50" and 70" can have a substantially uniform thickness over the entire area occupied by the second halves 50b" and 70b".

[0034] FIG. 7 shows another example of the secondary cushion elements 50", 70", and the first halves 50a", 70a" have a variable thickness from their central positions 57a", 77a" to their outer peripheries 58a", 78a", such as the taper previously described with reference to FIG. 3 herein. The second halves 50b", 70b" of such secondary cushion elements 50", 70" similarly have a variable thickness from their central positions 57b", 77b" to their outer peripheries 58b", 78b". Thus, both halves 50a" and 50b", 70a" and 70b" of each secondary cushion element 50", 70" of the cover 20" can be thicker at the center than at their outer peripheries.

[0035] The secondary cushion elements 50", 70" with an offset arrangement such as that shown by FIGS. 5 - 7 can provide greater support than other embodiments of secondary cushion elements, while at the same time allowing air to flow through the secondary cushion elements 50", 70". A fabric or scrim can be formed in a fixed position between the first halves 50a", 70a" and the second halves 50b", 70b" of each secondary cushion element 50", 70", and the halves 50a" and 50b", 70a" and 70b" can be fixed to their respective scrims. The scrim can include a single continuous piece of fabric extending through the thickness of the secondary cushion elements 50", 70" across the entire area occupied by the secondary cushion elements 50", 70". The scrim can be perforated, cut, or modified to enhance the breathability, supportability, and / or stability of the secondary cushion elements 50", 70". The scrim can also have an effect on the cushioning characteristics of the secondary cushion elements 50", 70", for example, the stretchability and elasticity of the scrim can contribute to the feel of the secondary cushion elements 50", 70" across all of its outer surfaces.

[0036] In addition to the configuration of the secondary cushion elements 50''' and 70''', the embodiment of the cover 20''' shown in FIG. 8 can include many or all of the same elements and features as the embodiment of the cover 20 shown in FIG. 2, the embodiment of the cover 20' shown in FIG. 4, and the embodiment of the cover 20'' shown in FIG. 5. Referring additionally to FIG. 9, each of the secondary cushion elements 50''', 70''' of the cover 20''' can have a substantially uniform thickness across the entire area it occupies, i.e., from its center 56''', 76''' to its outer periphery 58''', 78''' across its central location 57''', 77'''.

[0037] FIG. 10 provides a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of a cushion cover 120 according to the present disclosure. A first panel 140 including a secondary cushion element 150 and a second panel 140 including a secondary cushion element 170 are fixed to each other via a peripheral gusset 130 but are spaced apart from each other. The peripheral gusset 130 can include an elongated flexible element (e.g., a strip of breathable material, a strip of fabric, etc.), and has a first edge 134 along the length of the peripheral gusset 130 and a second edge 136 along the length of the peripheral gusset 130. The first edge 134 and the second edge 136 can face each other. The first edge 134 of the peripheral gusset 130 can be fixed to the outer peripheral edge 141 of the first panel 140, and the second edge 136 of the peripheral gusset 130 can be fixed to the outer peripheral edge 161 of the second panel 160.

[0038] The peripheral gusset 30 can carry at least a portion of a fastener (not shown in FIG. 10) to provide selective access to the primary opening 90 (FIG. 1B) of the cover 120.

[0039] Figures 4, 5, 8, and 10 each illustrate embodiments of covers 20′, 20″, 20″′, and 120, respectively, but secondary cushion elements 50′ and 70′, 50″ and 70″, 50″′ and 70″′, and 150 and 170 are substantially the same as or identical to each other, and embodiments of cover 20 that include different combinations of cushion elements 50 and 70 are also within the scope of the present disclosure and are as merely illustrated to a limited extent in FIG. 2. The use of cushion elements 50, 70 that differ in flexibility, thickness, material, or other characteristics can provide for individual use of cover 20 with respect to primary cushion element 10 with the ability to experience different cushioning effects with the same cushion 10 (FIGS. 1, 1A, and 1B).

[0040] FIG. 11 shows an embodiment of assembled cushion 10 and includes any embodiment of cover 20 according to the present disclosure, and secondary cushion element 50 is visible through cover 20.

[0041] Referring to FIG. 12, another embodiment of cushion 210 is illustrated. Cover 220 of the cushion includes a first panel 240 and a second panel 260 and has a primary receiving portion 280 therebetween. Only the first panel 240 of cover 220 includes secondary cushion element 250. The first panel 240 and its secondary cushion element can be configured in any suitable manner including those described hereinabove. The second panel 260 can include one or more layers of a flexible material such as fabric (e.g., breathable fabric, moisture wicking fabric, etc.). Primary receiving portion 280 can receive primary cushion element 100.

[0042] Embodiments of the cushions described herein include a primary receiving portion that removably receives a primary cushion element, a closed system that includes a cover according to the present disclosure, and a primary cushion element that is permanently fixed therein, but it is considered that lacking modularity is also within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0043] The above description, while including many specificities, should not be construed as limiting the scope of the invention as defined by any of the appended claims, but rather as merely providing information related to some specific embodiments that can fall within the scope of the appended claims. Features from different embodiments can be adopted in combination. Additionally, other embodiments may also be within the scope of the appended claims. All additions, deletions, and modifications of the disclosed subject matter that fall within the scope of the claims should be encompassed by the claims.

Claims

1. A first panel, an outer layer, an inner layer, and a secondary cushion element including a molded compressible elastic elastomeric material adhered to the inner layer, the secondary cushion element being located between the outer layer and the inner layer, the inner layer including a scrim fabric, the secondary cushion element including a plurality of interconnected walls being formed on and adhered to the scrim fabric of the inner layer of the first panel, the secondary cushion element; a first panel including; a second panel over which the first panel is laid, the outer peripheral edge of the second panel being fixed to the corresponding outer peripheral edge of the first panel, the second panel; a primary receiving portion for receiving a primary cushion element defined between the first panel and the second panel; A cover for a cushion, including.

2. The cover according to claim 1, wherein the plurality of interconnected walls of the secondary cushion element define an array of cells.

3. The cover according to claim 2, wherein a central region of the secondary cushion element is thicker than an outer periphery of the secondary cushion element.

4. The second panel, an outer layer, an inner layer, and a secondary cushion element including a second plurality of interconnected walls formed on and fixed to the inner layer or the outer layer of the second panel, the secondary cushion element of the second panel being located between the outer layer and the inner layer of the second panel, the secondary cushion element; The cover according to claim 1 or 2, including.

5. The cover according to claim 4, wherein the second plurality of interconnected walls of the secondary cushion element of the second panel define a second array of cells.

6. The cover according to claim 5, wherein the second plurality of interconnected walls and the second array of cells of the secondary cushioning element of the second panel are aligned with the plurality of interconnected walls and the array of cells of the secondary cushioning element of the first panel.

7. The cover according to claim 5, wherein the second plurality of interconnected walls and the second array of cells of the secondary cushioning element of the second panel are laterally offset from the plurality of interconnected walls and the array of cells of the secondary cushioning element of the first panel.

8. The cover according to any one of claims 5 to 7, wherein the inner layer of the second panel includes a fabric, and the secondary cushioning element of the second panel is formed on the fabric and impregnated with a compressible elastic elastomeric material.

9. The cover according to any one of claims 1 to 8, further including a primary opening providing access to the primary receiving portion, the primary opening enabling introduction of the primary cushioning element into the primary receiving portion.

10. The cover according to claim 9, wherein the first panel, the second panel, and each secondary cushioning element are substantially rectangular in shape.

11. The cover according to claim 10, wherein at least a portion of three outer peripheral edges of the first panel is fixed to at least a portion of three corresponding outer peripheral edges of the second panel.

12. The cover according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the outer peripheral edge of the first panel is sewn to the corresponding outer peripheral edge of the second panel.

13. A first panel, an outer layer, an inner layer, and, A secondary cushion element including a molded, compressible, elastic elastomeric material adhered to the inner layer, the secondary cushion element being located between the outer layer and the inner layer, the inner layer including a scrim fabric, the secondary cushion element including a plurality of interconnected walls being formed on and adhered to the scrim fabric of the inner layer of the first panel, the secondary cushion element. A first panel including A second panel over which the first panel is laid, the periphery of the first panel being fixed to the corresponding periphery of the second panel, the second panel; A primary receiving portion defined between the first panel and the second panel; A cover including A primary cushion element that can be located inside the primary receiving portion; A cushion including. **Claim 14** The cushion according to claim 13, including a pillow. **Claim 15** The cushion according to claim 14, wherein the primary cushion element includes a pillow that is removable from and replaceable inside the primary receiving portion. **Claim 16** The cushion according to any one of claims 13 to 15, wherein the plurality of interconnected walls of the secondary cushion element define an array of cells. **Claim 17** The cushion according to claim 16, wherein at least some of the plurality of interconnected walls include buckling walls. **Claim 18** The second panel An outer layer, An inner layer, A secondary cushion element formed on and fixed to the inner layer or the outer layer of the second panel, the secondary cushion element of the second panel being located between the outer layer and the inner layer of the second panel, the secondary cushion element; The cushion according to claim 16 or 17, comprising

19. The cushion according to claim 18, wherein the secondary cushioning element of the second panel defines a second array of cells.

20. The cushion according to claim 19, wherein the second plurality of interconnected walls and the second array of cells of the secondary cushioning element of the second panel are aligned with the plurality of interconnected walls and the array of cells of the secondary cushioning element of the first panel.

21. The cushion according to claim 19, wherein the second plurality of interconnected walls and the second array of cells of the secondary cushioning element of the second panel are laterally offset from the plurality of interconnected walls and the array of cells of the secondary cushioning element of the first panel.

22. The cushion according to any one of claims 19 to 21, wherein the inner layer of the second panel comprises a fabric, and on the fabric, the secondary cushioning element of the second panel is formed and impregnated with a compressible elastic elastomeric material.

23. Including the step of introducing a primary cushioning element inside the primary receiving portion of the cover according to any one of claims 1 to 12, The primary receiving portion is defined between a first panel of the cover and a second panel of the cover, and includes overlapping the secondary cushioning element of the first panel on a first surface of the primary cushioning element. A method for assembling a cushion.

24. The method according to claim 23, wherein the introducing step further includes overlapping another secondary cushioning element of the second panel on a second surface of the primary cushioning element.

25. The step of removing the primary cushioning element from the primary receiving portion; The step of introducing another primary cushioning element into the primary receiving portion; The method according to claim 23, further comprising

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