Pillow Cap

Abstract

A protective pillow cover for protecting a pillow against germs and microbes. A barrier component is constructed with at least two layers configured in a generally cuboid shape defining a cavity. An inner layer employs an anti-microbial component creating a barrier between the user and the pillow. An outer layer is constructed with a material designed for the user's comfort. The layers terminate in a perimeter. A securing component shorter than the perimeter is integrated into the perimeter and is stretchable to allow the barrier component to partially encapsulate the pillow. A middle layer of the barrier component may be used to provide cooling or a pleasing olfactory experience.

Claims

1. A protective pillow cover comprising: a barrier component configured in a generally cuboid shape comprising an inner layer and an outer layer terminating in a perimeter and defining a cavity adapted to receive a pillow; and a securing component attached to the perimeter of the barrier component; and wherein the securing component is stretchable to allow the barrier component to partially encapsulate the pillow within the cavity.

2. The protective pillow cover of claim 1, wherein the inner layer comprises an antimicrobial additive.

3. The protective pillow cover of claim 2, wherein the antimicrobial additive comprises an antibiotic agent, an antifungal agent, and an antiviral agent.

4. The protective pillow cover of claim 1, wherein the protective pillow cover is washable.

5. The protective pillow cover of claim 1, wherein the barrier component is biodegradable.

6. The protective pillow cover of claim 1, wherein the generally cuboid shape is rectangular.

7. The protective pillow cover of claim 1, wherein the securing component comprises an elastic band integrated into a channel attached to the perimeter of the barrier component.

8. The protective pillow cover of claim 1, wherein the inner and outer layers are laminated together.

9. The protective pillow cover of claim 1, wherein the inner layer is a nonbreathable material and the outer layer is a breathable fabric.

10. A protective pillow cover comprising: a barrier component configured in a generally cuboid shape comprising an inner antimicrobial layer and an outer comfort layer terminating in a perimeter and defining a cavity adapted to receive a pillow; and a securing component comprising a channel and an elastic element integrated into the perimeter of the barrier component; and wherein the securing component is stretchable to allow the barrier component to partially encapsulate and retain the pillow within the cavity.

11. The protective pillow cover of claim 10, wherein the inner antimicrobial layer is impregnated with an antimicrobial additive.

12. The protective pillow cover of claim 10, wherein the inner antimicrobial layer is layered with an antimicrobial additive coating.

13. The protective pillow cover of claim 10, wherein the inner and outer layers are secured together along the perimeter.

14. The protective pillow cover of claim 10, wherein the elastic element is adjustable in length.

15. A protective pillow cover comprising: a barrier component configured in a generally cuboid shape comprising an antimicrobial inner layer, a middle layer, and an outer comfort layer terminating in a perimeter and defining a cavity adapted to receive a pillow; and a securing component comprising an elastic element integrated into the perimeter of the barrier component; and wherein the securing component is stretchable to allow the barrier component to partially encapsulate and retain the pillow within the cavity.

16. The protective pillow cover of claim 15, wherein the inner antimicrobial layer is impregnated or coated with an antimicrobial agent, an antibiotic agent, an antifungal agent, and an antiviral agent.

17. The protective pillow cover of claim 15 further comprising an olfactory element insertable into a pocket of the middle layer.

18. The protective pillow cover of claim 15, wherein the middle layer is impregnated or coated with an olfactory element.

19. The protective pillow cover of claim 15, wherein the middle layer is a layer of cooling gel.

20. The protective pillow cover of claim 15, wherein the middle layer is removable.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0024] The description refers to provided drawings in which similar reference characters refer to similar parts throughout the different views, and in which:

[0025] FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective underside view of a protective pillow cover of the present invention for protecting a pillow in accordance with the disclosed architecture.

[0026] FIG. 2 illustrates a perspective topside view of the protective pillow cover of the present invention for protecting a pillow in accordance with the disclosed architecture.

[0027] FIG. 3 illustrates a perspective view of the protective pillow cover of the present invention separated from a pillow in accordance with the disclosed architecture.

[0028] FIG. 4 illustrates a perspective underside view of the protective pillow cover of the present invention in place over a pillow in accordance with the disclosed architecture.

[0029] FIG. 5 illustrates a perspective topside view of the protective pillow cover of the present invention in place over a pillow in accordance with the disclosed architecture.

[0030] FIG. 6 illustrates a perspective underside view of the protective pillow cover of the present invention for protecting a pillow in accordance with the disclosed architecture.

[0031] FIG. 7 illustrates an exploded view of an outer layer and an inner layer of a barrier component of the protective pillow cover of the present invention for protecting a pillow in accordance with the disclosed architecture.

[0032] FIG. 8 illustrates a closeup end view of an outer layer, an inner layer, and a middle layer of a barrier component of the protective pillow cover of the present invention for protecting a pillow in accordance with the disclosed architecture.

[0033] FIG. 9 illustrates an exploded view of the outer layer, the inner layer, and a middle layer of the barrier component of the protective pillow cover of the present invention for protecting a pillow in accordance with the disclosed architecture.

[0034] FIG. 10 illustrates a perspective view of the middle layer of the barrier component of the protective pillow cover of the present invention for protecting a pillow in accordance with the disclosed architecture.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0035] The innovation is now described with reference to the drawings, wherein like reference numerals are used to refer to like elements throughout. In the following description, for purposes of explanation, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding thereof. It may be evident, however, that the innovation can be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known structures and devices are shown in block diagram form in order to facilitate a description thereof. Various embodiments are discussed hereinafter. It should be noted that the figures are described only to facilitate the description of the embodiments. They do not intend as an exhaustive description of the invention or do not limit the scope of the invention. Additionally, an illustrated embodiment need not have all the aspects or advantages shown. Thus, in other embodiments, any of the features described herein from different embodiments may be combined.

[0036] The subject matter disclosed and claimed herein, in one embodiment thereof, comprises a multilayered germ resistant pillow covering for consumers and travelers. The protective pillow cover may be configured to accommodate a scented insert or gel cooling layer for the user's comfort. The protective pillow cover includes a cap-like cinching component on the underside for a secure fit over any pillow. The protective pillow cover may be a reusable washable model or single-use disposable one. The protective pillow cover offers users peace of mind and eases anxiety for a better night's sleep.

[0037] The protective pillow cover is similar in appearance to a large shower cap or pillowcase consisting of two or more biodegradable layers. A top layer is where the user rests their head. The exterior is constructed from a soft textured material for comfort. A second layer may comprise a gel cooling insert for users who like to keep cool at night. Alternatively, the second layer can also be comprised of an insert with calming scents for users who have trouble sleeping. An innermost layer is composed of sterile anti-microbial material and acts as a germ resistant barrier between the pillow and the user. The protective pillow cover further comprises a cap-like cinching on the underside. This flexible elastic rim allows the cap to easily stretch and fit over the user's pillow. The protective pillow cover hugs and grips the pillow so that it stays in securely in place when in use. Dimensions of the protective pillow cover will vary depending on whether the protective pillow cover is to be used for travel pillows or standard size 18″×24″ pillows.

[0038] Referring initially to the drawings, FIGS. 1-7, the present invention, in one exemplary embodiment, is a protective pillow cover 100. The protective pillow cover 100 is configured to fit over and at least partially encapsulate a pillow 10 as illustrated in FIGS. 4 and 5. As illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2, the protective pillow cover 100 comprises a barrier component 110 and a securing component 150. The protective pillow cover 100 may be disposable or reusable and washable depending on construction.

[0039] The barrier component 100 is configured in a generally cuboid shape defining a cavity 148 adapted to receive the pillow 10. The generally cuboid shape is typically rectangular, but may be square, oval, or circular depending on the shape of the pillow to be protected. The barrier component 110 may be constructed from biodegradable materials. A top of the pillow 10 will be completely covered and a bottom of the pillow 10 will be partially covered when the protective pillow cover 100 is in place around the pillow 10.

[0040] As illustrated in FIG. 7, the barrier component 100 comprises an inner layer 140 and an outer layer 120. The inner layer 140 comprises an exterior surface 142 and an interior surface 144. The exterior surface 142 may have a semi-rough texture to prevent sliding and abuts the pillow 10 when the protective pillow cover 100 is in place around the pillow 10. The outer layer 120 comprises an exterior surface 122 and an interior surface 124. The exterior surface 122 of the outer layer 120 is the user contact surface. The interior surface 144 of the inner layer 140 abuts the interior surface 124 of the outer layer 120.

[0041] The inner and outer layers 140 and 120 terminate in a generally rectangular perimeter 146. The inner and outer layers 140 and 120 may be laminated or adhered together or may be secured together along the generally rectangular perimeter 146 by stitching, reinforcing, bonding, welding, fusing, heat sealing, or the like, or any other type of seam construction.

[0042] The outer layer 120 is a comfort layer typically manufactured from a breathable soft material, such as a fabric. The fabric may be, but is not limited to a knit fabric, a woven fabric, a non-woven fabric, or the like. The fabric may be constructed from natural fibers such as cotton, synthetic fibers such as polyester, or a combination of natural fibers and synthetic fibers.

[0043] The inner layer 140 is constructed from a barrier or nonbreathable material, may be waterproof or water resistant, and may comprise an antimicrobial additive. The antimicrobial additive may be an antimicrobial agent or compound with antimicrobial properties, an antibiotic agent, an antifungal agent, an antiviral agent, or a combination thereof. The antimicrobial additive may impregnated or be coated or layered onto the inner layer 140 or may be applied to the yarn used for the fabric. The inner layer 140 is configured to act as a barrier to microbes. The antimicrobial additive may include an antimicrobial effective amount of copper or silver. The inner layer 140 may also be constructed from a filter material having a high degree of filtration pathogens, such as that used in medical masks or other very tightly woven material. The inner layer 140 may also be coated with a monolithic or microporous material to prevent penetration by moisture and allergens such as dust mites, mold, and bacteria.

[0044] As illustrated in FIGS. 3 and 4, the securing component 150 is attached to or integrated into the perimeter 146 of the barrier component 110. The securing component 150 is stretchable to allow the barrier component 110 to partially encapsulate the pillow 10 within the cavity 148 as illustrated in FIG. 3. The securing component 150 may comprise a channel 152 and an elastic element 154. The channel 152 and elastic element 154 may be attached to or integrated into the perimeter 146 of the barrier component 110. Alternatively, the elastic element 154 is an elastic band integrated into the channel 152 attached to the perimeter 146 of the barrier component 110. The securing component 150 is stretchable to allow the barrier component 110 to partially encapsulate and retain the pillow 10 within the cavity. As illustrated in FIG. 6, the elastic element 154 may be adjustable in length to allow for different sized pillows.

[0045] As illustrated in FIGS. 8-10, the subject matter disclosed and claimed herein, in another embodiment thereof, comprises a protective pillow cover 200. The protective pillow cover 200 is configured to partially encapsulate a pillow 10. The protective pillow cover 200 comprises a barrier component 210 and a securing component (similar to 150). The protective pillow cover 200 may be disposable or reusable and washable.

[0046] The barrier component 200 is configured in a generally cuboid shape defining a cavity (similar to 148) adapted to receive the pillow 10. As illustrated in FIGS. 8 and 9, the barrier component 200 comprises an inner layer 240, a middle layer 230, and an outer layer 220. The inner, middle, and outer layers 240, 230, and 220 terminate in a generally rectangular perimeter (similar to 146). The inner middle, and outer layers 240, 230, and 220 may be laminated together or may be secured together along the perimeter as described supra.

[0047] The outer layer 220 is a comfort layer typically manufactured from a breathable soft material, such as a fabric. The fabric may be, but is not limited to a knit fabric, a woven fabric, a non-woven fabric, or the like. The fabric may be constructed from natural fibers such as cotton, synthetic fibers such as polyester, or a combination of natural fibers and synthetic fibers.

[0048] The inner layer 240 is constructed from a barrier or nonbreathable material and comprises an antimicrobial additive. The antimicrobial additive may be an antimicrobial agent or compound with antimicrobial properties, an antibiotic agent, an antifungal agent, an antiviral agent, or a combination thereof. The antimicrobial additive may impregnated or be coated or layered onto the inner layer 240. The inner layer 240 is configured to act as a barrier to microbes. The antimicrobial additive may include an antimicrobial effective amount of copper or silver. The inner layer 240 may also be constructed from a filter material having a high degree of filtration pathogens, such as that used in medical masks or other very tightly woven material. The inner layer 240 may also be coated with a monolithic or microporous material to prevent penetration by moisture and allergens such as dust mites, mold, and bacteria.

[0049] The middle layer 230 is sandwiched between the inner and outer layers 240 and 220. As illustrated in FIG. 10, the middle layer 230 may comprise a pocket 232. The middle layer 230 may be removable and replaceable. The middle layer 230 may comprise a layer of cooling gel. Alternatively, the middle layer 230 may comprise an olfactory element impregnated in or coated on the middle layer 230. The olfactory element is a scented compound with soothing or calming odors emitted. The olfactory element may use lavender, citrus, peppermint, or other pleasing scents. Alternatively, the protective pillow cover 200 may further comprise an insertable olfactory element 260. The insertable olfactory element 260 is configured to be retained within the pocket 232 of the middle layer 230.

[0050] The securing component (similar to 150) is attached to or integrated into the perimeter of the barrier component 210. The securing component is stretchable to allow the barrier component 210 to partially encapsulate the pillow 10 within the cavity. The securing component may comprise a channel (similar to 152) and an elastic element (similar to 154). The channel and elastic element may be attached to or integrated into the perimeter of the barrier component 210. Alternatively, the elastic element is an elastic band integrated into the channel attached to the perimeter of the barrier component 210. The securing component is stretchable to allow the barrier component 210 to partially encapsulate and retain the pillow 10 within the cavity.

[0051] Notwithstanding the forgoing, the protective pillow covers 100 and 200 can be any suitable size, shape, and configuration as is known in the art without affecting the overall concept of the invention, provided that it accomplishes the above stated objectives. One of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the shape and size of the protective pillow covers 100 and 200 and its various components, as show in the FIGS. are for illustrative purposes only, and that many other shapes and sizes of the protective pillow covers 100 and 200 are well within the scope of the present disclosure. Although dimensions of the protective pillow covers 100 and 200 and its components (i.e., length, width, and height) are important design parameters for good performance, the protective pillow covers 100 and 200 and its various components may be any shape or size that ensures optimal performance during use and/or that suits user need and/or preference. As such, the protective pillow covers 100 and 200 may be comprised of sizing/shaping that is appropriate and specific in regard to whatever the protective pillow covers 100 and 200 is designed to be applied.

[0052] What has been described above includes examples of the claimed subject matter. It is, of course, not possible to describe every conceivable combination of components or methodologies for purposes of describing the claimed subject matter, but one of ordinary skill in the art may recognize that many further combinations and permutations of the claimed subject matter are possible. Accordingly, the claimed subject matter is intended to embrace all such alterations, modifications and variations that fall within the spirit and scope of the appended claims. Furthermore, to the extent that the term “includes” is used in either the detailed description or the claims, such term is intended to be inclusive in a manner similar to the term “comprising” as “comprising” is interpreted when employed as a transitional word in a claim.