ADAPTABLE MATTRESS COVER ASSEMBLY

Abstract

 The present disclosure relates to an adaptable cover assembly for covering of an acid reflux mattress, which is a mattress for treatment of symptoms related due to gastroesophageal reflux or regurgitation. The present disclosure further relates to set comprising said assembly and an adaptable acid reflux mattress. Also methods for use and manufactory of said assembly are disclosed herein.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an adaptable cover assembly for covering of an acid reflux mattress, which is a mattress suitable for treatment of symptoms related due to gastroesophageal reflux or regurgitation. The present disclosure further relates to a set comprising said assembly and an adaptable mattress. Also methods for using and manufacturing of said assembly are disclosed herein.

BACKGROUND

[0002] Infants are often confronted with gastroesophageal reflux, or regurgitation. This condition is of particular importance as it inhibits normal growth and nutrition of the infant. In fact, the solution from the stomach may reflux up through the infant's oesophagus resulting in aspiration of the solution into the lungs, causing apnoea, respiratory infections and lung damage. Also adults suffering from gastroesophageal reflux report great discomfort and may even develop secondary pathologies such as heartburn or acid indigestion.

[0003] To minimise the severity of reflux-related symptoms, physicians recommend maintaining an inclined sleeping position with the surface supporting the head being elevated as high as comfortably possible to enable the force of gravity to work against the reflux impulse. To this extent, the provision of a sloped mattress has provided a suitable mechanical solution. However, daily sleeping on a sloped mattress may cause difficulties for its user to fall asleep or can disrupt normal sleeping patterns, so the user is prone to revert to a normal sleeping position, i.e., on a horizontal mattress, when not experiencing any reflux-related symptoms.

[0004] Due to the difference in geometry between a normal and a sloped mattress, the corresponding rectangular shaped mattress cover does not fit over a sloped mattress. For example, as shown in FIG 1, a prior art (PA) mattress cover only fits a single shape of mattress, i.e., either a normal or a sloped mattress. Hence, the user is forced to purchase each cover twice, one fitting each type of mattress, which presents an economical burden. Moreover, when switching from a normal to an inclined sleeping position, the user has to look for another cover which, especially during night-time, is impractical and needlessly timewasting. There is accordingly a need for a solution for the shortcomings of the prior art.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0005] The present disclosure aims to provide a solution to the needs of the prior art as described above . Specifically, in the present disclosure a cover assembly is described which allows a user to easily switch from a planar configuration that fits over a normal i.e. horizontal mattress, to a sloped configuration that fits over an inclined mattress. The disclosed cover assembly has the advantage that a single product needs to be purchased to fit the different mattress types. Moreover, when used in combination with a mattress that can be freely switched between a horizontal and inclined arrangement, the need to look for another cover is avoided. Hence, the disclosed cover assembly has the advantage of being more economical, timesaving and practical compared to prior art mattress covers. Embodiments of the herein disclosed cover assembly have the further advantages of making the cover assembly more user friendly and intuitive to use.

[0006] A first overview of various components of the invention of the present disclosure is given hereinbelow, after which specific embodiments will be described in more detail. This first overview is meant to aid the reader in understanding the technological concepts more quickly, but it is not meant to identify the most important or essential features thereof, nor is it meant to limit the scope of the present invention. Moreover, it is to be understood that, even though the present disclosure describes a cover assembly with relation to acid reflux mattress suitable for treatment of symptoms related due to gastroesophageal reflux or regurgitation, the application of the described assembly is not limited to this therapeutic treatment. Specifically, the herein described cover assembly might also be implemented for other medical or even non-medical applications wherein the provision of an adaptable horizontal / inclined lying surface can be regarded as advantageous. Other applications may include, for example, increasing the lying comfort of disabled, elderly or bedridden persons who are forced to reside in the bed for extended periods of time. Alternatively, persons suffering from back or lower body problems might benefit from lying on an inclined surface with their feet raised above their head or torso. The skilled person understands that the herein described cover assembly can be easily implemented for such applications, requiring little to no modifications, and hence are also contemplated within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0007] In a first aspect, the present disclosure describes a cover assembly comprising:

• a top piece 1, a bottom piece 2 and a fastening device 3 configured for fastening the top piece 1 to the bottom piece 2;
• wherein each one of the top and bottom pieces 1,2 are comprised of a planar side 11,21, two oppositely arranged lateral sides having a straight outer edge 12,13,22,23 and two oppositely arranged lateral sides having a sloped outer edge 14,15,24,25;
• wherein one straight edged lateral side 13,23 has a higher height than the opposite straight edged lateral side 12,22 such that it extends past it, and wherein said difference in height determines the slope angle of the sloped edged lateral sides 14,15,24,25;
• wherein the cover assembly 10 is configured for free assembly in one of at least two configurations:
• a planar configuration, wherein the higher straight edged side 13 of the top piece 1 is aligned with the shorter straight edged side 22 of the bottom piece 2, and the shorter straight edged side 12 of the top piece 1 is aligned with the higher straight edged side 23 of the bottom piece 2; and,
• a sloped configuration, wherein the higher straight edged side 13 of the top piece 1 is aligned with the higher straight edged side 23 of the bottom piece 2, and the shorter straight edged side 12 of the top piece 1 is aligned with the shorter straight edged side 22 of the bottom piece 2.

[0008] In some embodiments the sloped outer edge of the sloped edged lateral sides 14,15,24,25 of the top and/or bottom pieces 1,2 have a slope angle of at least 2.5° to at most 15.0° relative to its planar side 11,21; preferably 3.5° to 12.5°, more preferably 5.0° to 10.0°, for example 6.0° or 7.5°.

[0009] In some embodiments the upper surface 11 of the cover assembly 10 when arranged in the sloped configuration has a slope of at least 5.0° to at most 30.0° relative to its bottom surface 21); preferably 7.5° to 25.0°, more preferably 10.0° to 20.0°, for example 11.0° or 15.0°.

[0010] In some embodiments the upper surface 11 of the cover assembly 10 when arranged in the planar configuration has a slope of less than 5.0° relative to its bottom surface 21); preferably less than 4.0°, more preferably less than 3.0°, even more preferably less than 2.0°, even more preferably less than 1.0°, for example 0.5° or 0°.

[0011] In some embodiments the planar side 11 of the top piece substantially overlaps with the planar side 21 of the bottom piece, preferably has substantially the same surface area.

[0012] In some embodiments fastening device 3 comprises a zipper, a series of buttons, a hook and loop fastener, a series of strips or straps, and/or a combination thereof.

[0013] In some embodiments fastening device 3 comprises a two-way zipper which can be closed or opened in two opposite directions at the same time.

[0014] In some embodiments one straight edged lateral side 12,22 of the top and/or bottom pieces 1,2 has a height of at least 0.5 cm to at most 5.0 cm, preferably 1.0 cm to 4.5 cm, more preferably 1.5 cm to 4.0 cm, more preferably still 2.0 cm to 3.5 cm, more preferably still 2.0 cm to 3.0 cm, for example 2.5 cm; and the opposite straight edged lateral side 13, 23 of the same top and/or bottom pieces 1,2 has a height of at least 5.5 cm to at most 10.0 cm, preferably 6.0 cm to 9.5 cm, more preferably 6.5 cm to 9.0 cm, more preferably still 7.0 cm to 8.5 cm, more preferably still 7.0 cm to 8.0 cm, for example 7.5 cm.

[0015] In some embodiments the planar and/or lateral sides of the top and/or bottom pieces 1,2 are comprised of a thermoplastic, preferably a polysulfone PES.

[0016] In some embodiments the planar and/or lateral sides of the top and/or bottom pieces 1,2 are comprised of PES with a material density of at least 250 g/m² to at most 350 g/m², preferably 260 g/m² to 340 g/m², preferably 270 g/m² to 330 g/m², preferably 280 g/m² to 320 g/m², for example 290 g/m² or 300 g/m².

[0017] In some embodiments the planar and/or lateral sides of the top and/or bottom pieces 1,2 are comprised of comprised of a mixture of a thermoplastic and Polyurethane PU, preferably PES and PU, such that said side is water resistant, preferably waterproof.

[0018] In some embodiments the planar and/or lateral sides of the top and/or bottom pieces 1,2 are comprised of a mixture comprising at least 80% PES to at most 20% PU, preferably 85% PES to 15% PU, more preferably 90% PES to 10% PU, for example 91% PES to 11% PU.

[0019] A further aspect of the present disclosure relates to a cover and mattress set comprising:

• an adaptable mattress 30 comprising two mattress components 31, 32 which form a mattress when one is placed on top of the other, each component 31, 32 comprising an inclined surface and an opposite planar surface; and
• the cover assembly 10 according to any embodiment as described in the present disclosure.

[0020] In some embodiments the cover assembly 10 can be assembled in a planar or sloped configuration so as to correspond with the level or inclined arrangement of said mattress 30; specifically, the planar configuration of said assembly on the level arrangement of said mattress, and the sloped configuration of said assembly on the inclined arrangement of said mattress.

[0021] In some embodiments the upper surface of the mattress 30 when in the inclined arrangement has a slope of at least 5.0° to at most 30.0° relative to its bottom surface; preferably 7.5° to 25.0°, more preferably 10.0° to 20.0°, for example 11.0° or 15.0°.

[0022] In some embodiments the upper surface of the mattress 30 when in the horizontal arrangement has a slope of less than 5.0° relative to its bottom surface 21; preferably less than 4.0°, more preferably less than 3.0°, even more preferably less than 2.0°, even more preferably less than 1.0°, for example 0.5° or 0°.

[0023] A further aspect of the present disclosure relates to method for manufacturing a cover assembly 10 according to one of claims 1 to 11, the method comprising the steps of:

• manufacturing a top piece 1 comprising a planar side 11, two oppositely arranged lateral sides having a straight outer edge 12,13 and two oppositely arranged lateral sides having a sloped outer edge 14,15;
• manufacturing a second piece 2 comprising a planar side 21, two oppositely arranged lateral sides having a straight outer edge 22,23 and two oppositely arranged lateral sides having a sloped outer edge 24,25); and,
• providing fastening device 3 configured for fastening the top piece 1 to the second piece 2 along the outer edges of the corresponding lateral sides.

[0024] A further aspect of the present disclosure relates to a method for arranging the herein disclosed cover assembly in a sloped configuration, optionally starting from a planar configuration, the method comprising the steps of:

• providing a mattrass cover assembly 10 as described herein, optionally arranged in a planar configuration;
• optionally, unfixing a top piece 1 from a bottom piece 2 by means of a fastening device 3;
• arranging the top piece against the bottom piece in such a way that a higher straight edged side 13 of the top piece is aligned with the shorter straight edged side 22 of the bottom piece and the shorter straight edged side 12 of the top piece is aligned with the higher straight edged side 23 of the bottom piece; and;
• fixing the top piece to the bottom piece by means of the fastening device to obtain a mattrass cover assembly in a sloped configuration.

[0025] A further aspect of the present disclosure relates to a method for arranging the herein disclosed cover assembly in a planar configuration, optionally starting from a sloped configuration, the method comprising the steps of:

• providing a mattrass cover assembly 10 as described herein, optionally arranged in a sloped configuration;
• optionally, unfixing a top piece 1 from a bottom piece 2 by means of a fastening device 3;
• arranging the top piece against the bottom piece in such a way that a higher straight edged side 13 of the top piece is aligned with the higher straight edged side 23 of the bottom piece and the shorter straight edged side 12 of the top piece is aligned with the shorter straight edged side 22 of the bottom piece; and;
• fixing the top piece 1 to the bottom piece 2 by means of the fastening device 3 to obtain a mattrass cover assembly 10 in a planar configuration.

[0026] A further aspect of the present disclosure relates to a use of the cover assembly for covering an inclined or inclinable mattress, preferably a mattress for raising the upper body, such as an acid reflux mattress, or a mattress for disabled, elderly or bedridden persons, and/or a mattress for raising the lower body, such as the feet or legs.

DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0027] The following description of the figures of specific embodiments of the disclosure are merely exemplary in nature and is not intended to limit the present teachings, their application or uses.

[0028] Throughout the drawings, the corresponding reference numerals indicate the following parts and features: top piece (1); bottom piece (2); fastening device (3); cover assembly (10); top planar side (11) of the top piece; shorter, straight edged lateral side (12) of the top piece; higher, straight edged lateral side (13) of the top piece; sloped edged lateral side (14) of the top piece; sloped edged lateral side (15) of the top piece; bottom planar side (21) of the bottom piece; shorter straight edged lateral side (22) of the bottom piece; higher straight edged lateral side (23) of the bottom piece; sloped edged lateral sides (24) of the bottom piece; sloped edged lateral sides (25) of the bottom piece; adaptable mattress (30); first mattress component (31); second mattress component (32).

FIG. 1 shows a mattress cover according to the prior art (PA).

FIG. 2 shows an embodiment of the cover assembly (10) in a planar configuration.

FIG. 3 shows an embodiment of the cover assembly (10) in a sloped configuration.

FIG. 4A schematically shows the side of the cover assembly (10) in a planar configuration.

FIG. 4B schematically shows the opposite side of the cover assembly (10) of Figure 4A.

FIG. 4C schematically shows the front of the cover assembly (10) of Figure 4A.

FIG. 4D schematically shows the rear of the cover assembly (10) of Figure 4A.

FIG. 5A schematically shows the side of the cover assembly (10) in a sloped configuration.

FIG. 5B schematically shows the opposite side of the cover assembly (10) of Figure 5A.

FIG. 5C schematically shows the front of the cover assembly (10) of Figure 5A.

FIG. 5D schematically shows the rear of the cover assembly (10) of Figure 5A.

FIG. 6 schematically shows an embodiment of the adaptable mattress (30) in a level arrangement.

FIG. 7 schematically shows an embodiment of the adaptable mattress (30) in an inclined arrangement.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0029] The present disclosure will be described with respect to particular embodiments, but the disclosure is not limited thereto but only by the claims. Any reference signs in the claims shall not be construed as limiting the scope thereof.

[0030] As used herein, the singular forms "a", "an", and "the" include both singular and plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

[0031] The terms "comprising", "comprises" and "comprised of" as used herein are synonymous with "including", "includes" or "containing", "contains", and are inclusive or open-ended and do not exclude additional, non-recited members, elements or method steps. The terms "comprising", "comprises" and "comprised of" when referring to recited members, elements or method steps also include embodiments which "consist of" the recited members, elements or method steps.

[0032] The recitation of numerical ranges by endpoints includes all numbers and fractions subsumed within the respective ranges, as well as the recited endpoints.

[0033] Furthermore, the terms first, second, third and the like in the description and in the claims, are used for distinguishing between similar elements and not necessarily for describing a sequential or chronological order, unless specified. It is to be understood that the terms so used are interchangeable under appropriate circumstances and that the embodiments of the disclosure described herein are capable of operation in other sequences than described or illustrated herein.

[0034] Unless otherwise defined, all terms used in disclosing the invention, including technical and scientific terms, have the meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure belongs. By means of further guidance, definitions for the terms used in the description are included to better appreciate the teaching of the present invention. The terms or definitions used herein are provided solely to aid in the understanding of the invention.

[0035] Reference throughout this specification to "one embodiment" or "an embodiment" means that a particular feature, structure or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present invention. Thus, appearances of the phrases "in one embodiment" or "in an embodiment" in various places throughout this specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment. Furthermore, the features, structures or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner, as would be apparent to a person skilled in the art from this disclosure, in one or more embodiments. Furthermore, while some embodiments described herein include some, but not other features included in other embodiments, combinations of features of different embodiments are meant to be within the scope of the invention, and form different embodiments, as would be understood by those in the art. For example, in the following claims and description, any of the claimed or described embodiments can be used in any combination.

[0036] The terms "left," "right," "front," "back," "top," "bottom," "over," "under," and the like in the description and in the claims, if any, are used for descriptive purposes and not necessarily for describing permanent relative positions. It is to be understood that the terms so used are interchangeable under appropriate circumstances such that the embodiments described herein are, for example, capable of operation in other orientations than those illustrated or otherwise described herein. The term "coupled," as used herein, is defined as directly or indirectly connected in an electrical or nonelectrical (i.e. physical) manner Objects described herein as being "adjacent to" each other may be in physical contact with each other, in close proximity to each other, or in the same general region or area as each other, as appropriate for the context in which the phrase is used. Occurrences of the phrase "in one embodiment," or "in one aspect," herein do not necessarily all refer to the same embodiment or aspect.

[0037] As used herein, the term "substantially" refers to the complete or nearly complete extent or degree of an action, characteristic, property, state, structure, item, or result. For example, an object that is "substantially" enclosed would mean that the object is either completely enclosed or nearly completely enclosed. The exact allowable degree of deviation from absolute completeness may in some cases depend on the specific context. However, generally speaking the nearness of completion will be so as to have the same overall result as if absolute and total completion were obtained. The use of "substantially" is equally applicable when used in a negative connotation to refer to the complete or near complete lack of an action, characteristic, property, state, structure, item, or result. For example, a composition that is "substantially free of" particles would either completely lack particles, or so nearly completely lack particles that the effect would be the same as if it completely lacked particles. In other words, a composition that is "substantially free of" an ingredient or element may still actually contain such item as long as there is no measurable effect thereof.

[0038] As used herein, the term "about" is used to provide flexibility to a numerical range endpoint by providing that a given value may be "a little above" or "a little below" the endpoint. Unless otherwise stated, use of the term "about" in accordance with a specific number or numerical range should also be understood to provide support for such numerical terms or range without the term "about". For example, for the sake of convenience and brevity, a numerical range of "about 50 angstroms to about 80 angstroms" should also be understood to provide support for the range of "50 angstroms to 80 angstroms." Furthermore, it is to be understood that in this specification support for actual numerical values is provided even when the term "about" is used therewith. For example, the recitation of "about" 30 should be construed as not only providing support for values a little above and a little below 30, but also for the actual numerical value of 30 as well.

[0039] Reference in this specification may be made to devices, structures, systems, or methods that provide "improved" performance. It is to be understood that unless otherwise stated, such "improvement" is a measure of a benefit obtained based on a comparison to devices, structures, systems or methods in the prior art. Furthermore, it is to be understood that the degree of improved performance may vary between disclosed embodiments and that no equality or consistency in the amount, degree, or realization of improved performance is to be assumed as universally applicable.

[0040] The present disclosure aims to provide a solution to the needs of the prior art as described above . Specifically, in the present disclosure a mattress cover assembly or simply cover assembly is described which allows a user to easily switch from a planar configuration that fits over a normal i.e. horizontal mattress, to a sloped configuration that fits over an inclined mattress. The disclosed cover assembly has the advantage that a single product needs to be purchased to fit the different mattress types. Moreover, when used in combination with a mattress that can be freely switched between a horizontal and inclined arrangement, the need to look for another cover is avoided. Hence, the disclosed cover assembly has the advantage of being more economical, timesaving and practical compared to prior art mattress covers.

[0041] Embodiments of the herein disclosed cover assembly have the further advantages of making the cover assembly more user friendly and intuitive to use.

[0042] The cover assembly in the present disclosure is described with relation to an acid reflux mattress which is suitable for treatment of symptoms related due to gastroesophageal reflux or regurgitation. However, it is to be understood that this application is merely exemplary in nature and is not meant to limit the scope of the present invention. Specifically, the herein described cover assembly might also be implemented for other medical or even non-medical applications wherein the provision of an adaptable horizontal / inclined lying surface can be regarded as advantageous. Other applications may include, for example, increasing the lying comfort of disabled, elderly or bedridden persons who are forced to reside in the bed for extended periods of time. Alternatively, persons suffering from back or feet problem might benefit from lying on an inclined surface with their feet raised above their head or torso. The skilled person understands that the herein described cover assembly can be easily implemented for such applications, requiring little to no modifications, and hence are also contemplated within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0043] A first overview of various components of the invention of the present disclosure is given hereinbelow, after which specific embodiments will be described in more detail. This first overview is meant to aid the reader in understanding the technological concepts more quickly, but it is not meant to identify the most important or essential features thereof, nor is it meant to limit the scope of the present invention.

[0044] FIG. 2 shows one possible embodiment of the cover assembly 10 comprising a top piece 1 and a bottom piece 2 which are fastened together by a fastening device 3 to form a mattress cover. The shown cover assembly 10 is placed over a horizontal mattress. As can be seen, the top piece 1 comprises a planar side 11 forming the top surface, and four lateral sides, specifically, two oppositely arranged lateral sides having a straight outer edge 12,13 and two oppositely arranged lateral sides having a sloped outer edge 14,15. Likewise, the bottom piece 2 is comprised of a planar side 21 forming the bottom surface not shown and four lateral sides, specifically, two oppositely arranged lateral sides having a straight outer edge 22,23 and two oppositely arranged lateral sides having a sloped outer edge 24,25. Additionally, the planar side 11 of the top piece 1 has the same surface area as the planar side 21 of the bottom piece so as to properly overlap when the piece are fastened together.

[0045] As further shown in FIG. 2, the straight edged lateral sides 13,14 of the top piece have a different height, specifically, the shown straight edged lateral side 12 has a lower height than the opposite straight edged lateral side 13. The same is true for the bottom piece 2, specifically, the shown straight edged lateral side 22 has a higher height than the opposite straight edged lateral side 23. This difference in height determines the slope angle of the sloped edged lateral sides of the top piece 14,15 and the bottom piece 24,25.

[0046] Accordingly, the cover assembly 10 can be freely arranged between two different configuration depending on the positioning of the top piece 1 and the bottom piece 2 relative to each other. The two configurations can be easily understood by comparing FIG. 2, which shows a planar configuration that can fit onto a horizontal mattress, with FIG. 3, which shows a sloped configuration that can fit onto an inclined mattress. Specifically, in the planar configuration of FIG. 2 the higher straight edged side 13 of the top piece is aligned with the shorter straight edged side 22 of the bottom piece while the shorter straight edged side 12 of the top piece is aligned with the higher straight edged side 23 of the bottom piece. Further, in the sloped configuration of FIG. 3 the higher straight edged side 13 of the top piece is aligned with the higher straight edged side 23 of the bottom piece while the shorter straight edged side 13 of the top piece is aligned with the shorter straight edged side 23 of the bottom piece.

[0047] In a first aspect, the present disclosure describes a cover assembly, the cover comprising a top piece, a bottom piece and a fastening device configured to fasten the top piece to the bottom piece; wherein each one of the top and bottom pieces are comprised of a planar side, two oppositely arranged lateral sides having a straight outer edge and two oppositely arranged lateral sides having a sloped outer edge; wherein one straight edged lateral side has a higher height than the opposite straight edged lateral side so that it extends past it and which height difference determines the slope angle of the sloped edged lateral sides; wherein the cover assembly is configured for free arrangement between: a planar configuration, wherein the higher straight edged side of the top piece is aligned with the shorter straight edged side of the bottom piece and the shorter straight edged side of the top piece is aligned with the higher straight edged side of the bottom piece; and, a sloped configuration, wherein the higher straight edged side of the top piece is aligned with the higher straight edged side of the bottom piece and the shorter straight edged side of the top piece is aligned with the shorter straight edged side of the bottom piece.

[0048] A further aspect of the present disclosure relates to a cover assembly for a substantially rectangular mattress comprising: a top piece, a bottom piece and a fastening device; wherein the top piece comprises a top planar side adjoined along its length by two opposite short lateral sides and adjoined along its width by two opposite long lateral sides, wherein the two short lateral sides have different heights such that one greater, short lateral side is greater than the opposite smaller, short lateral side, and wherein the long lateral sides have a sloped surface relative to the top planar side; wherein the bottom piece comprises a bottom planar side adjoined along its length by two short lateral sides and two long lateral sides, wherein the two short lateral sides have different heights such that one greater, short lateral side is shorter than the opposite smaller, short lateral side, and wherein the long lateral sides have a sloped surface relative to the bottom planar side; wherein the fastening device is configured to fasten the top piece with the bottom piece along the length of the short and/or long lateral sides; wherein the cover assembly is configured for free arrangement between: a planar configuration, wherein the greater, short lateral side of the top piece is aligned with the smaller, short lateral side of the bottom piece, and the smaller, short lateral side of the top piece is aligned with the greater, short lateral side of the bottom piece; and a sloped configuration, wherein the greater, short lateral side of the top piece is aligned with the greater, short lateral side of the bottom piece, and the smaller, short lateral side of the top piece is aligned with the smaller, short lateral side of the bottom piece.

[0049] A further aspect of the present disclosure relates to a mattress and cover set comprising: the cover assembly as described in the present disclosure; and, a switchable mattress. In an embodiment, the switchable mattress comprises two mattress components which form a mattress when one is placed on top of the other, each component comprising an inclined surface and an opposite planar surface; wherein said mattress can be freely switched between a horizontal arrangement and an inclined arrangement by rotating the components relative to each other. Preferably, the cover assembly can be assembled in the planar configuration in accordance with the level arrangement of said mattress, and in the sloped configuration in accordance with the inclined arrangement of said mattress.

[0050] A further aspect of the present disclosure relates to an acid reflux mattress and cover set comprising: a cover assembly as described in the present disclosure; and, an acid reflux mattress. In an embodiment, the acid reflux mattress comprises: a first element comprising a top planar side adjoined along its length by two opposite short lateral sides and adjoined along its width two opposite long lateral sides, wherein the two short lateral sides have different heights such that one greater, short lateral side is greater than the opposite smaller, short lateral side, and wherein the long lateral sides have a sloped surface relative to the planar side; a second element comprising a bottom planar side adjoined its length by two short lateral sides and two long lateral sides, wherein the two short lateral sides have different heights such that one greater, short lateral side is shorter than the opposite smaller, short lateral side, and wherein the long lateral sides have a sloped surface relative to the planar side. The acid reflux mattress is preferably configured for free arrangement between: a planar configuration, wherein the greater, short lateral side of the first element is aligned with the smaller, short lateral side of the second element, and the smaller, short lateral side of the first element is aligned with the greater, short lateral side of the bottom piece and vice versa; and, a sloped configuration, wherein the greater, short lateral side of the first element is aligned with the greater, short lateral side of the bottom piece, and the smaller, short lateral side of the first element is aligned with the smaller, short lateral side of the bottom piece and vice versa.

[0051] The term "user" as used throughout the present disclosure refers to an infant or an adult making use of the herein disclosed the cover assembly and/or mattress, unless otherwise specified. As will become clear from the further discussion, the difference between an infant and adult mattress is primarily related to the mattress / cover size and slope angle, but the technological concept underlying the disclosed mattress / cover is not limited to any specific dimension thereof or slope angle.

[0052] A typical rectangular mattress has two planar sides which form the top and bottom of said mattress, and four lateral sides spacing apart said planar sides . As used herein, "planar" or "level" refers to a surface or side having a substantially horizontal or a level surface, whereas "sloped" or "inclined" surface or side that leans away from the horizontal at an angle with reference to the horizontal reference plane.

[0053] The terms "top" and "bottom" with reference to the pieces of the cover assembly indicate a preferred positioning of the pieces relative to the covered mattress, e.g. the top is preferably positioned on the top of the mattress and the bottom is preferably positioned on its bottom. However, it should be understood that these words are used illustratively; the top and bottom piece are not functionally limited to a top and bottom position, respectively, but can be used interchangeably, e.g., the top piece can be placed on the bottom and the bottom piece can be placed on the top of the mattress, unless otherwise specified. Further, "top" and "bottom" with reference to a surface indicate the positioning of these surfaces relative to each other, e.g., the top surface may form the uppermost surface. Specifically, the top surface of the cover assembly or mattress may typically form the sleeping side, i.e., the side on top of which the user lies down to sleep. As such the opposite bottom side may typically form the side that is in contact with the sleeping furniture, such as the bed frame or foundation.

[0054] As used herein, planar configuration with reference to the cover assembly refers to a configuration in which the top surface of the cover assembly or mattress is substantially parallel to its bottom surface. Substantially parallel as used herein refers to a slope angle between said top and bottom surfaces that is equal to or at most 5.0°, preferably at most 4.0°, more preferably at most 3.0°, even more preferably at most 2.0°, even more preferably at most 1.0°, for example 0.5° or even 0°. The same definition extends to a mattress when it is referred to as being horizontal or having a horizontal arrangement.

[0055] As used herein, sloped configuration refers to a configuration in which the top planar side of the cover assembly is substantially angled to the bottom planar side, preferably with a difference of at least 2.0°, preferably at least 4.0°, more preferably at least 5.5°, even more preferably at least 11.0°, even more preferably at least 15.0°, for example 20.0°. It may be appreciated that the preferred slope angle can be different whether the user is an infant or an adult, specifically, an adult user may benefit from having a higher sloped angle compared to an infant user, as will be elaborated further below. The same definition extends to a mattress when it is referred to as being inclined or having an inclined arrangement.

[0056] As used herein, the term "fastening device" refers to a technical provision for reversibly connecting two different pieces of the mattress assembly. Specifically, the fastening device is intended to connect the top piece and bottom piece to each other for the entire mattress outline, such that the top and bottom pieces can be super-positioned onto each other, and such that surface of the top piece is substantially congruent with respect to the surface of the bottom piece.

[0057] The fastening device preferably fastens the top piece with the bottom piece along the length of the short and/or along the long lateral sides. The fastening device is preferably operative in two opposite directions, preferably revolving around the outline of the top and bottom piece. The fastening device preferably fastens the top piece to the bottom piece at any point of the outline of the top piece and bottom piece. The fastening device preferably operates in at least two opposite directions, such that the top piece and the bottom piece can be effectively fastened ensuring an effective connection between top and bottom pieces.

[0058] In some embodiments, the fastening device comprises one or more zippers, a series of buttons, a hook and loop, a series of strips and/or a combination thereof. The provision of a zipper may be regarded as more beneficial for improving the safety of the assembly such that the pieces to not disconnect during use. In a more preferred embodiment the fastening device comprises a two-way zipper, which is a zipper that that can be closed or opened in two opposite directions at the same time. The provision of a two-way zipper may be regarded as particularly beneficial for making the assembly more user friendly and intuitive to use.

[0059] In some embodiments of the cover assembly the sloped outer edge of the sloped edged lateral sides of the top piece has a slope angle of at least 2.5° to at most 15.0° relative to its planar side; preferably 1.5° to 19.0°, more preferably still 2.0° to 18.0°, more preferably still 2.5° to 17.0°, more preferably still 3.0° to 16.0°, more preferably still 3.5° to 15.0°, more preferably still 4.0° to 14.0°, more preferably still 4.5° to 13.0°, more preferably still 5.0° to 12.0°, more preferably still 5.0° to 11.0°, more preferably still 5.0° to 10.0°, for example 6.0°, 7.5° or 9.0°.

[0060] In some embodiments of the cover assembly the sloped outer edge of the sloped edged lateral sides of the bottom piece has a slope angle of at least 1.0° to at most 20.0° relative to its planar side; preferably 1.5° to 19.0°, more preferably still 2.0° to 18.0°, more preferably still 2.5° to 17.0°, more preferably still 3.0° to 16.0°, more preferably still 3.5° to 15.0°, more preferably still 4.0° to 14.0°, more preferably still 4.5° to 13.0°, more preferably still 5.0° to 12.0°, more preferably still 5.0° to 11.0°, more preferably still 5.0° to 10.0°, for example 6.0°, 7.5° or 9.0°.

[0061] In some embodiments of the cover assembly in the sloped configuration, the upper surface of said cover has a slope of at least 2.5° to at most 30.0° relative to its bottom surface, preferably 5.0° to 27.5°, more preferably 7.5° to 25.0°, more preferably still 10.0° to 22.5°, more preferably still 10.0° to 20.0°, for example 12.5°, 15.0° or 17.5°.

[0062] In some embodiments of the mattress in the inclined arrangement, the upper surface of said mattress has a slope of at least 2.5° to at most 30.0° relative to its bottom surface, preferably 5.0° to 27.5°, more preferably 7.5° to 25.0°, more preferably still 10.0° to 22.5°, more preferably still 10.0° to 20.0°, for example 12.5°, 15.0° or 17.5°.

[0063] The above-listed angles are suitable for a more generic embodiment of the cover assembly / mattress to minimise the occurrence of acid reflux symptoms in most types of user while still ensuring sufficient sleeping comfort. Nonetheless, the skilled person understands that realised slope may deviate from the above-listed values in real life applications, for example because of specific user wishes. For example, in case of extreme acid reflux the angle may exceed 30°. Accordingly, the list maximal values should be interpreted as a guideline rather than an absolute maximum.

[0064] In some embodiments of the cover assembly in the planar configuration, the upper surface of said cover is substantially parallel to its bottom surface. Preferably, the upper surface has a slope of at most 5.0° relative to its bottom surface; more preferably at most 4.0°, more preferably still at most 3.0°, more preferably at most 3.0°, more preferably still at most 1.0°, preferably at most 0.5°, preferably at most 0.2°, preferably at most 0.1°.

[0065] In some embodiments of the mattress in the horizontal arrangement, the upper surface of said mattress is substantially parallel to its bottom surface. Preferably, the upper surface has a slope of at most 5.0° relative to its bottom surface; more preferably at most 4.0°, more preferably still at most 3.0°, more preferably at most 3.0°, more preferably still at most 1.0°, preferably at most 0.5°, preferably at most 0.2°, preferably at most 0.1°.

[0066] The above-listed angles are suitable for a more generic embodiment of the cover assembly / mattress to allow for easier falling asleep and not disrupting disrupt normal sleeping patterns when not experiencing any reflux-related symptoms. Nonetheless, the skilled person understands that realised slope may deviate from the above-listed values in real life applications, for example due to wear and tear.

[0067] In some embodiments of the cover assembly in the planar configuration for an infant mattress, the upper surface of said cover has a slope of at least 5.0° to at most 15.0° relative to its bottom surface, preferably 7.0° to 15.0 °, more preferably 8.0° to 14.0°, more preferably still 9.0° to 13.0°, more preferably still 10.0° to 12.°, for example 11.0°. The listed angles are particularly suitable for minimizing the occurrence of acid reflux in infants because the infant's body has more difficulty to tolerate higher slope angles.

[0068] In some embodiments of the cover assembly in the planar configuration for an infant mattress the upper surface of said cover has a slope of at least 15.0° to at most 25.0° relative to its bottom surface, preferably 16.0° to 24.0 °, more preferably 17.0° to 23.0°, more preferably still 18.0° to 22.0°, more preferably still 19.0° to 21.°, for example 20.0°. The listed angles are particularly suitable for minimizing the occurrence of acid reflux in adults because the adult body can tolerate higher slope angles.

[0069] In some embodiments, one straight edged lateral side of the top piece has a height of at least 0.5 cm to at most 5.0 cm, preferably 1.0 cm to 4.5 cm, more preferably 1.5 cm to 4.0 cm, more preferably still 2.0 cm to 3.5 cm, more preferably still 2.0 cm to 3.0 cm, for example 2.5 cm; and the opposite straight edged lateral side of the same top piece has a height of at least 5.5 cm to at most 10.0 cm, preferably 6.0 cm to 9.5 cm, more preferably 6.5 cm to 9.0 cm, more preferably still 7.0 cm to 8.5 cm, more preferably still 7.0 cm to 8.0 cm, for example 7.5 cm.

[0070] In some embodiments, one straight edged lateral side of the bottom piece has a height of at least 0.5 cm to at most 5.0 cm, preferably 1.0 cm to 4.5 cm, more preferably 1.5 cm to 4.0 cm, more preferably still 2.0 cm to 3.5 cm, more preferably still 2.0 cm to 3.0 cm, for example 2.5 cm; and the opposite straight edged lateral side of the same bottom piece has a height of at least 5.5 cm to at most 10.0 cm, preferably 6.0 cm to 9.5 cm, more preferably 6.5 cm to 9.0 cm, more preferably still 7.0 cm to 8.5 cm, more preferably still 7.0 cm to 8.0 cm, for example 7.5 cm.

[0071] In some embodiments, the top and bottom piece short sides' height is preferably at least 1.0 cm to at most 10.0 cm, more preferably at least 1.5 cm to at most 9.0 cm, even more preferably at least 2.0 cm to at most 8.0 cm, and wherein the top and bottom piece long sides' height is preferably at least 1.0 cm to at most 10.0 cm, more preferably at least 1.5 cm to at most 9.0 cm, and even more preferably at least 2.0 cm to at most 8.0 cm. Such a cover assembly is particularly suited for infant's mattresses.

[0072] In some embodiments, the top and bottom piece short sides' height is preferably at least 1.0 cm to at most 16.0 cm, more preferably at least 2.0 cm to at most 14.0 cm, even more preferably at least 3.0 cm to at most 12.0 cm, and wherein the top and bottom piece long sides' height is preferably at least 1.0 cm to at most 16.0 cm, more preferably at least 2.0 cm to at most 14.0 cm, and even more preferably at least 3.0 cm to at most 12.0 cm. Such a cover assembly is particularly suited for adult's mattresses.

[0073] In some embodiments, preferably for an infant mattress cover, the top and bottom piece short sides' height is preferably at least 1.0 cm to at most 10.0 cm, more preferably at least 1.5 cm to at most 9.0 cm, even more preferably at least 2.0 cm to at most 8.0 cm.

[0074] In some embodiments, preferably for an adult mattress cover, the top and bottom piece long sides' height is preferably at least 2.0 cm to at most 22.0 cm, more preferably at least 4.0 cm to at most 20.0 cm, and even more preferably at least 6.0 cm to at most 18.0 cm.

[0075] In some embodiments, the top piece and the bottom piece have the same height difference between the short side and the long side. This allows for the mattress to obtain a perfectly planar configuration. Preferably, the height difference between the short side and the long side of the top piece differs from the height difference between the short side and the long side of the bottom piece in at most 2.0 cm, preferably at most 1.5 cm, preferably at most 1.0 cm, preferably at most 0.5 cm, for example 0.1 cm or 0 cm.

[0076] In some embodiments, preferably for an adult mattress, the top and bottom piece short sides' height has a difference with the top and bottom piece long sides' height of at least 2.0 to at most 22.0 cm, preferably of at least 4.0 to at most 20.0 cm, preferably about 6.0 to at most 18.0 cm. The height difference between the top and bottom piece short sides' height enables the assembly cover to be flexibly deployed in both sloped and planar configurations.

[0077] In some embodiments, preferably for an infant mattress, the top and bottom piece short sides' height has a difference with the top and bottom piece long sides' height of at least 2.0 to at most 10.0 cm, preferably of at least 4.0 to at most 8.0 cm, preferably about 6.0 cm. The difference in height between the top and bottom piece short sides' height enables the assembly cover to be flexibly deployed. In some embodiment, preferably for an infant user, the height of the mattress in a planar configuration is 10.0 cm. In some embodiments, preferably for an adult mattress, the top and bottom piece short sides' height has a difference with the top and bottom piece long sides' height of at least 2.0 to at most 10.0 cm, preferably of at least 4.0 to at most 8.0 cm, preferably about 16.0 cm. The height difference between the top and bottom piece short sides' height enables the assembly cover to be flexibly deployed in both sloped and planar configurations. In some embodiment, preferably for an adult users, the height of the mattress in a planar configuration is 24.0 cm.

[0078] In some embodiment, the top and/or bottom pieces of the assembly cover, preferably the planar and/or lateral sides of said pieces, are comprised of a thermoplastic polymers, preferably a polysulfone (PES). Thermoplastic polymers are known for their toughness and stability at high temperatures making them a particularly suitable material for a mattress cover. PES has the added benefit of improving the breathability and washability of the cover pieces. This is particularly important for infant applications due to increased risk of overheating and staining of the cover. Advantageously, the materials selected is compliant to fire testing certifications in accordance with EN597/1 and EN597/2.

[0079] In some preferred embodiment the cover piece material is PES with a material density of at least 250 g/m² to at most 350 g/m², preferably 260 g/m² to 340 g/m², preferably 270 g/m² to 330 g/m², preferably 280 g/m² to 320 g/m², for example 290 g/m² or 300 g/m². This advantageously enables the top and bottom planar sides to have improved breathability, and to grant improved airflow from all directions. This also enables the top and bottom planar sides not to be flattened with a larger surface (e.g. an adult body, or an infant body), such that the user experiences a good airflow in the fabric under the user body which provides a cool feeling. Moreover, PES has the additional advantage of being completely recyclable, which allows for providing an eco-friendly product to the consumer.

[0080] In some embodiment, the top and/or bottom pieces of the assembly cover, preferably the planar and/or lateral sides of said pieces, are comprised of a mixture of a thermoplastic and Polyurethane (PU), preferably PES and PU, such that said side is water resistant, preferably waterproof. Preferably, the mixture comprises at least 80% PES to at most 20% PU in wt.%, preferably 85% PES to 15% PU, more preferably 90% PES to 10% PU, for example 91% PES to 11% PU, or 95% PES to 5% PU.

[0081] In some preferred embodiment the cover piece material is a mixture of PES and PU with a material density of at least 300 g/m² to at most 370 g/m², preferably 310 g/m² to 360 g/m², preferably 320 g/m² to 350 g/m², preferably 330 g/m² to 340 g/m², for example 335 g/m² or 337 g/m². This advantageously enables the top and bottom planar sides to have improved water resistance while maintaining a good air flow in the fabric under the user body.

[0082] In some embodiment, the edges of the top and/or bottom pieces of the assembly cover, preferably connecting the planar and lateral sides of said pieces, have a seam which is comprised of a thermoplastic polymer, preferably PES.

[0083] In a preferred embodiment the seam is PES with a density of at least 270 g/m² to at most 370 g/m² , preferably 290 g/m² to 350 g/m², more preferably 280 g/m² to 360 g/m², more preferably still 290 g/m² to 350 g/m², more preferably still 300 g/m² to 340 g/m², more preferably still 310 g/m² to 330 g/m², for example 320 g/m². This enables sufficient tensile strength, such that the profile of the cover can be retained more easily.

[0084] In some preferred embodiments, the mattress set further comprises a mattress protector for covering the top surface of the cover assembly and/or mattress. Preferably, the mattress protector substantially overlaps with the cover assembly's top surface, specifically, the top planar side. This enables the first protecting layer to be in perfect adherence to the assembly cover top or bottom planar sides, improving the comfort as well as minimizing the occurrence of possible deformations on the cover top and/or bottom planar sides.

[0085] Additionally, the mattress protector may further cover the lateral sides of the cover assembly and/or mattress. Preferably, the mattress protector substantially overlaps with the assembly cover's short and/or long lateral sides. This enables the first protecting layer to be in perfect adherence to the assembly cover sides, increasing ease-of-use of the mattress protector.

[0086] A further aspect of the present disclosure relates to a use of a cover assembly as described in the present disclosure for use as a mattress cover, preferably for use as a mattress cover for an adaptable mattress. A further aspect of the present disclosure relates to a method for arranging the herein disclosed cover assembly in a sloped configuration, optionally starting from a planar configuration. An example of such sloped configuration is shown in FIGs. 4 A-D, which schematically illustrate the cover assembly in a sloped configuration from different viewing sides. Specifically, FIG. 4A is a view from one of the long sides of said assembly. FIG. 4B is a view from one of the short sides of the cover assembly, 4C is a view from the other long side of the cover assembly, and FIG. 4D is a view from the other short side of the cover assembly.

[0087] The method preferably comprises the steps:

• providing a mattrass cover assembly 10 as described herein, optionally arranged in a planar configuration;
• optionally, unfixing a top piece 1 from a bottom piece 2 by means of a fastening device 3;
• arranging the top piece against the bottom piece in such a way that a higher straight edged side 13 of the top piece is aligned with the shorter straight edged side 22 of the bottom piece and the shorter straight edged side 12 of the top piece is aligned with the higher straight edged side 23 of the bottom piece; and;
• fixing the top piece to the bottom piece by means of the fastening device to obtain a mattrass cover assembly in a sloped configuration.

[0088] A further aspect of the present disclosure relates to a method for arranging the herein disclosed cover assembly in a planar configuration, optionally starting from a sloped configuration. An example of such planar configuration is shown in FIGs. 5 A-D, which schematically illustrate the cover assembly 10 in a planar configuration from different viewing sides. Specifically, FIG. 5A is a view from one of the long sides of said assembly and 5B is a view from the other long side of the cover assembly. Further, FIG. 5C is a view from one of the short sides of the cover assembly and FIG. 5D is a view from the other short side of the cover assembly. In it understood that the figures illustrate a preferred embodiment of the cover assembly 10 for the purpose of discussion, but the method is by no means limited to the illustrated embodiment. With reference to FIGs. 5 A-D, the method preferably comprises the steps:

• providing a mattrass cover assembly 10 as described herein, optionally arranged in a sloped configuration;
• optionally, unfixing a top piece 1 from a bottom piece 2 by means of a fastening device 3 ;
• arranging the top piece against the bottom piece in such a way that a higher straight edged side 13 of the top piece is aligned with the higher straight edged side 23 of the bottom piece and the shorter straight edged side 12 of the top piece is aligned with the shorter straight edged side 22 of the bottom piece; and;
• fixing the top piece 1 to the bottom piece 2 by means of the fastening device 3 to obtain a mattrass cover assembly 10 in a planar configuration.

[0089] A further aspect of the present disclosure relates to a method for manufacturing a cover assembly as described in the present disclosure, the method preferably comprising the steps of:

• manufacturing a top piece comprising a planar side, two oppositely arranged lateral sides having a straight outer edge and two oppositely arranged lateral sides having a sloped outer edge;
• manufacturing a second piece comprising a planar side, two oppositely arranged lateral sides having a straight outer edge and two oppositely arranged lateral sides having a sloped outer edge; and,
• providing fastening device configured for fastening the top piece to the second piece along the outer edges of the corresponding lateral sides.

[0090] The herein disclosed method deviates from a standard manufacturing method in that the pieces are manufactured from asymmetrical materials, e.g., fabrics. Specifically, the pieces may be manufactured by stitching together asymmetrical materials or alternatively by manufacturing a single asymmetrical materials. The former embodiment is advantageous due to easier manufacturing. In comparison, in prior art manufacturing methods the pieces are typically produced from symmetrical materials

EXAMPLES

[0091] To better illustrate the properties, advantages and features of the present disclosure some preferred embodiments of the system are disclosed as examples with reference to the enclosed figures. However, the scope of the present disclosure is by no means limited to one the illustrative examples presented below.

[0092] FIG. 2 illustrates a perspective view of a preferred embodiment of the cover assembly 10, comprising a top piece 1, a bottom piece 2 and a fastening device 3, shown from the top planar side 11, adjoined along its length by two opposite short lateral sides 12,13 and adjoined along its width two opposite long lateral sides 14,15. The two short lateral sides 12, 13 have a height of 2.0 cm and 8.0 cm respectively for an infant mattress, and have a height of 4.0 cm and 20.0 cm respectively for an adult mattress. The long lateral sides 14,15 have a sloped surface relative to the top planar side 11, at an angle of 11.0° for an infant mattress and an angle of 20.0° for an adult mattress. The bottom piece 2 comprises a bottom planar side 21 adjoined along its length by two short lateral sides 22,23 and two long lateral sides 24,25. The two short lateral sides 22, 23 have a height of 2.0 cm and 8.0 cm respectively.

[0093] As further shown in FIG. 2 the cover assembly comprises a fastening device 3, herein illustrated as a zipper, which fastens the top piece 1 with the bottom piece 2 along the length of the short 12,13 and/or along the long lateral sides 12,13. The zipper 3 is operative in two main directions, revolving around the outline of the top 1 and bottom piece 2. The zipper 3 fastens the top piece 1 to the bottom piece 2 at any point along the outline of the top piece 1 and bottom piece 2. Specifically, the zipper 3 operates in at least two opposite directions, such that the top piece 1 and the bottom piece 2 can be fastened in a different configurations, as will be described below.

[0094] FIG. 3 shows the same embodiment of the cover assembly 10 of FIG. 2 but in a different configuration. Specifically, the cover assembly 10 as shown in FIG. 2 is in a planar configuration while FIG. 3 shows it in a sloped configuration. The different configuration will hereafter.

[0095] In the planar configuration shown in FIG. 2, the greater, short lateral side 12 of the top piece 1 is aligned with the smaller, short lateral side 23 of the bottom piece 2, and the smaller, short lateral side 13 of the top piece 1 is aligned with the greater, short lateral side 22 of the bottom piece 21. Top planar side 11 is parallel to the bottom planar side 21.

[0096] In the sloped configuration shown in FIG. 3, the greater, short lateral side 12 of the top piece 1 is aligned with the greater, short lateral side 22 of the bottom piece 2, and the smaller, short lateral side 13 of the top piece 1 is aligned with the smaller, short lateral side 23 of the bottom piece 2 and vice versa. The top planar side 11 is now at an angle that is the sum of the two angles of the two pieces to the bottom planar side 21, in this case 10.0° for an infant mattress and 25.0° for an adult mattress.

[0097] FIGs. 4A-D schematically shows the cover assembly 10 of FIG. 2 in different side views. Specifically, FIG. 4A is a view from one of the long sides of the cover assembly. FIG. 4B is a view from the other long side of the cover assembly. FIG. 4C is a view from one of the short sides of the cover assembly. FIG. 4D is a view from the other short side of the cover assembly.

[0098] FIGs. 5A-D schematically shows the cover assembly 10 of FIG. 3 in different side views. FIG. 5A is a view from one of the long sides of the cover assembly. FIG. 5B is a view from one of the short sides of the cover assembly. FIG. 5C is a view from the other long side of the cover assembly. FIG. 5D is a view from the other short side of the cover assembly.

[0099] FIG. 6 illustrates an adaptable mattress 30 in a planar configuration according to an embodiment of the invention. Specifically, the first mattress component 31 is stacked on top of the second mattress component 32 in such as a way that the top surface is horizontal, thereby forming a horizontal mattress.

[0100] FIG. 7 illustrates an adaptable mattress 30 in a planar configuration according to an embodiment of the invention. Specifically, the first mattress component 31 is stacked on top of the second mattress component 32 in such as a way that the top surface is inclined, thus forming an inclined mattress.

Claims

1. An adaptable cover assembly (10) for an acid reflux mattress (30), the assembly (10) comprising:

- a top piece (1), a bottom piece (2), and a fastening device (3) configured for fastening the top piece (1) to the bottom piece (2);

- wherein each one of the top and bottom pieces (1,2) are comprised of a planar side (11,21), two oppositely arranged lateral sides having a straight outer edge (12,13,22,23) and two oppositely arranged lateral sides having a sloped outer edge (14,15,24,25);

- wherein one straight edged lateral side (13,23) has a higher height than the opposite straight edged lateral side (12,22) such that it extends past it, and wherein said difference in height determines the slope of the sloped edged lateral sides (14,15,24,25);

- wherein the cover assembly (10) is configured for free assembly in one of at least two configurations:

- a planar configuration, whereby the higher straight edged side (13) of the top piece is aligned with the shorter straight edged side (22) of the bottom piece, and vice versa for the other sides (12,23); and,

- a sloped configuration, whereby the higher straight edged side (13) of the top piece is aligned with the higher straight edged side (23) of the bottom piece, and vice versa for the other sides (12,22).

2. The assembly (10) according to the preceding claim, wherein the sloped outer edge of the sloped edged lateral sides (14,15,24,25) of the top and/or bottom pieces have a slope of at least 2.5° to at most 15.0° relative to its planar side (11,21); preferably 3.5° to 12.5°, more preferably 5.0° to 10.0°, for example 6.0° or 7.5°.

3. The assembly (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the upper surface (11) of the cover assembly (10) when arranged in the sloped configuration has a slope of at least 5.0° to at most 30.0° relative to its bottom surface (21); preferably 7.5° to 25.0°, more preferably 10.0° to 20.0°, for example 11.0° or 15.0°.

4. The assembly (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the upper surface (11) of the cover assembly (10) when arranged in the planar configuration has a slope of less than 5.0° relative to its bottom surface (21); preferably less than 4.0°, more preferably less than 3.0°, even more preferably less than 2.0°, even more preferably less than 1.0°, for example 0.5° or 0°.

5. The assembly (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the fastening device (3) comprises one or more zippers, a series of buttons, hook and loop fasteners, a series of strips or straps, and/or a combination thereof.

6. The assembly (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the fastening device (3) comprises a two-way zipper which can be closed or opened in two opposite directions at the same time.

7. The assembly (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein one straight edged lateral side (12,22) of the top and/or bottom pieces has a height of at least 0.5 cm to at most 5.0 cm, preferably 1.0 cm to 4.5 cm, more preferably 1.5 cm to 4.0 cm, more preferably still 2.0 cm to 3.5 cm, more preferably still 2.0 cm to 3.0 cm, for example 2.5 cm; and the opposite straight edged lateral side (13, 23) of the same top and/or bottom pieces (1,2) has a height of at least 5.5 cm to at most 10.0 cm, preferably 6.0 cm to 9.5 cm, more preferably 6.5 cm to 9.0 cm, more preferably still 7.0 cm to 8.5 cm, more preferably still 7.0 cm to 8.0 cm, for example 7.5 cm.

8. The assembly (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the planar and/or lateral sides of the top and/or bottom pieces are comprised of a thermoplastic, preferably a polysulfone (PES).

9. The assembly (10) according to claim 8, wherein the thermoplastic is PES with a material density of at least 250 g/m² to at most 350 g/m², preferably 260 g/m² to 340 g/m², preferably 270 g/m² to 330 g/m², preferably 280 g/m² to 320 g/m², for example 290 g/m² or 300 g/m².

10. The assembly (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the planar and/or lateral sides of the top and/or bottom pieces are comprised of a mixture of a thermoplastic and Polyurethane (PU), preferably PES and PU, such that said side is water resistant, preferably waterproof.

11. The assembly (10) according to claim 10, wherein the mixture comprises at least 80% PES to at most 20% PU, preferably 85% PES to 15% PU, more preferably 90% PES to 10% PU, for example 91% PES to 11% PU.

12. An adaptable mattress and cover set comprising:

- an adaptable mattress (30) comprising two mattress components (31, 32) forming a mattress when one component is placed on top of the other, each component (31, 32) comprising an inclined surface and an opposite planar surface; wherein said mattress (30) can be freely switched between a horizontal arrangement and an inclined arrangement by rotating its components (31, 32) relative to each other;

- the adaptable cover assembly (10) according to one of the preceding claims;
whereby the cover assembly can be assembled in a planar or sloped configuration so as to correspond with the level or inclined arrangement of said mattress (30), respectively.

13. The set according to claim 12, wherein the upper surface of the mattress (30) when in the inclined arrangement has a slope of at least 5.0° to at most 30.0° relative to its bottom surface; preferably 7.5° to 25.0°, more preferably 10.0° to 20.0°, for example 11.0° or 15.0°.

14. The set according to one of claims 12 or 13, wherein the upper surface of the mattress (30) when in the horizontal arrangement has a slope of less than 5.0° relative to its bottom surface (21); preferably less than 4.0°, more preferably less than 3.0°, even more preferably less than 2.0°, even more preferably less than 1.0°, for example 0.5° or 0°.

15. A method for manufacturing a cover assembly (10) according to one of claims 1 to 11, the method comprising the steps of:

- manufacturing a top piece (1) comprising a planar side (11), two oppositely arranged lateral sides having a straight outer edge (12,13) and two oppositely arranged lateral sides having a sloped outer edge (14,15);

- manufacturing a second piece (2) comprising a planar side (21), two oppositely arranged lateral sides having a straight outer edge (22,23) and two oppositely arranged lateral sides having a sloped outer edge (24,25); and,

- providing a fastening device (3) configured for fastening the top piece (1) to the second piece (2) along the outer edges of their corresponding lateral sides.

Drawing