COVER FOR A BED

Abstract

In order to provide a cover for bed or resting place for a child, to exclude light to aid sleep, the present invention provides a structure (2, 3) which has at least two positions or which is movable. The structure supports a light excluding material (6, 7) so that, in one position, the structure (2, 3) support the light excluding material (6, 7) so as to cover and substantially exclude light from the interior of the bed or sleeping place.

Description

The present invention relates to a cover for a bed or for a resting place for a child.

Covers for beds, particularly in the form of mosquito nets are widely known. Covers for sleeping places for children are also known, for example for protection against weather such as wind and rain or against biting insects.

The present invention is concerned with aiding sleep, particularly for infants but also for adults. Ensuring good quality sleep is of great importance to everyone, but is particularly a concern for the parents of young infants.

The present inventor has realised that a key problem is associated with the light level in the place where a person is trying to get to sleep. If the light level is too high, it can be very difficult for a person to get to sleep. If people are moving around in a room with even a low level of light, this can be very disturbing for a sleeper.

The present inventor has realised that this can be particularly problematic when travelling with young children. In the first place, it can be expensive to book enough rooms for the adults to occupy a lit room with a darkened room being available for a child to sleep in. When it is necessary to leave a child with a child minder, the child minder may not be able to occupy their time usefully, for example by reading, whilst in the same room as the child, because the light level required will disturb the child.

The present inventor has realised that there is a need for a cover for a bed for a resting place for a child which can substantially exclude light from the interior of the bed or sleeping place.

The present inventor has further realised that, for travelling and for use in modern homes, that such a cover must comprise a structure for supporting a light excluding material, the structure being movable or adjustable, or the combination of structure and bed or resting place must be readily portable. This will allow the cover to be used throughout the day and in all the circumstances where it is needed.

Accordingly, the present invention provides a cover for a bed or for a resting place for a child, comprising a structure capable of adopting at least two positions with respect to the bed or resting place, or which is movable, light excluding material being provided, wherein in at least one position of the structure, the light excluding material is supportable so as to substantially exclude light from the interior of the bed or sleeping place.

In a further aspect, the present invention provides a bed or child's resting place comprising a structure supporting a light excluding material to substantially exclude light from the interior of the sleeping place, the resting place being portable

In a further aspect, the present invention provides structure for providing a cover for a bed or resting place for a child, the structure comprising means for attaching to a bed or resting place for a child and means for supporting light excluding material so as to cover the interior of the bed or resting place to substantially exclude light therefrom.

Preferred and optional features of the present invention will be described further below.

The present invention may be used for any sleeper, for example, an adult human, a child such as an infant, or even an animal. It may be used in any environment, for example the home, a hospital, in holiday accommodation or (particularly in the case of a resting place for child) in a means of transport such as an aircraft, coach, car or ship.

Light Exclusion

The cover of the present invention, in at least one position, is supported so as to substantially exclude light from the interior of the bed or sleeping place. By the “interior” of the bed or sleeping place, it is meant the part occupied by a sleeper, or at least the head of the sleeper. Preferably, the cover substantially completely covers at least part of the bed or sleeping place, particularly preferably the interior. It may additionally cover other parts of the bed or resting place if necessary; to exclude light.

The light excluding material must be capable of excluding light emanating from outside the bed or resting place to a level at which it will not interfere with the sleep of the sleeper. This level will in fact vary from sleeper to sleeper. For some people, very low light levels are required. Accordingly, it is preferred that the light excluding material should have a very strong light excluding effect so that it can be used for many different sleepers. Preferably, it can substantially completely exclude light.

Light intensity is usually measured in lux (lumen per sq. meter). The light excluding material is preferably capable of reducing the light level in the interior of the bed or resting place to below 1 lux, preferably below 0.1 lux, when placed in a white painted, 2 m×2 m×2 m room which is otherwise illuminated with a 100 watt (or equivalent) incandescent light bulb. Further, it is preferred that the light excluding material should be such that movement in the illuminated zone cannot be detected from the interior of the bed of sleeping place.

By “cover” it is meant that there are substantially no gaps between the light excluding material and other parts of the structure or bed or resting place through which substantial levels of light can intrude.

The light excluding material may include material referred to as black-out material.

The Structure

Preferably, the structure is attached to or attachable to the bed or resting place and is capable of adopting at least two positions or configurations with respect to the bed or resting place. It is preferred that one position will allow the structure to support the light excluding material for complete coverage of the interior of the bed or resting place and the second position will allow the structure to support the light excluding material so that it does not completely cover the interior of the bed or resting place or in which it does not support the light excluding material. In this way, the bed can also be used for a child to rest in but not be asleep.

In one preferred embodiment, the structure is capable of being attached to the bed or resting place in the said one configuration, to support the light excluding material to cover the interior of the bed or sleeping place, the structure being detachable from and removable from the bed or sleeping place. In this way, the structure can be completely removed from the bed or resting place to leave it completely unencumbered when coverage is not required.

The structure may be movable between a position in which it covers the bed or resting place like a lid and a second position in which it is removed from the bed or sleeping place. Preferably, the structure is portable. That is, it is preferred that the structure may be moved by one adult user without the use of special tools.

In an alternative embodiment, the structure has a first position or configuration in which it is attached to the bed or resting place for supporting the light excluding material to exclude light from the interior and a second position, in which the structure is attached to the bed or sleeping place, and in which it supports the light excluding material so as not to cover the interior of the sleeping place, or in which it does not support the light excluding material.

The structure may be movable so as to prevent it encumbering the user of the bed or resting place in at least one position. For example, whereas it is preferred for the structure in the said one position to extend over at least part of the bed or resting place in order to allow the light excluding material to cover it, this may prevent easy access to and exit from the bed or resting place in other circumstances.

The structure may comprise a plurality of structural members which are movable or removably attachable to one another. This is one way of providing the necessary movability for the structure.

The structure may comprise an engagement member for attaching to a bed or sleeping place. Preferably, the attachment is configured to allow a structural member which supports the light excluding material to slide with respect to the attachment or with respect to the bed or resting place or to pivot with respect to the attachment or with respect to the bed or sleeping place.

In this way, any conventional bed or resting place can be adapted by providing a cover according to the present invention, the structure being fixable to the bed or resting place by the attachment.

There may be further structural members. For example, many children's sleeping places already comprise a hood or handles. These can be adapted to function as the structure of the present invention or they may be retained alongside the structure of the present invention. The further structural member may also support the light excluding material. The further structural member may be movable.

Preferably, the structure supports the light excluding material in such a way that the light excluding material will come to rest in a position in which it is displaced from the face of a sleeper sleeping in the bed or sleeping place, for comfort for the sleeper. For example, it may be displaced by at least 5 cm, more preferably at least 10 cm. It is suitably displaced by a distance which is sufficient for the comfort of the sleeper. It may provide sufficient space for a child to move their arms around within the space defined by the structure and light excluding material.

The light excluding material may be supported so that it adopts the shape of a pyramid, tent or dome.

A latch may be provided for holding the structure in the said at least one position or configuration. The latch may comprise:

• • a locking member having a locking position and an unlocked position; or
  • a ratchet, so that when sufficient force is applied to structure, it moves from a first position to a second position; or
  • frictional means for gripping the structure, such as a clamp, preferably an adjustable clamp.

In a preferred embodiment, the structure comprises an arch member extending, in the said one position, from one side of the bed or resting place to the other. There may be one or more arches.

This provides a particularly convenient design of structure which gives good support for the light excluding material. Preferably, the arch is pivoted to the bed or resting place at each end. This allows it to be moved very simply from the said one position to another position. The arch may be pivoted at an attachment which is attachable to a bed or sleeping place.

Preferably, the light excluding material comprises a fixing for engaging the bed or sleeping place. In this way, it can be fixed in position so that it is not accidentally dislodged, for example during movement. For example, the fixing for engaging the bed or resting place may comprise a member which is removably attachable to the bed or resting place and which has an engagement part for engaging the light excluding member. The member may comprise a clip or grip. It may comprise gripping members which are urged together by resilient means, for example a spring, for example in a manner of a clothes peg.

An engagement part for use in this and in any other feature of the invention may comprise a fastener selected from:

• • a button and button hole or button loop;
  • a zipper;
  • a touch and hold fastener, such as Velcro (trade mark);
  • a magnetic fastener;
  • a snap fastener;
  • a tie, such as a ribbon or lace;

The structure may form part of the light excluding material or it may be separate component to the light excluding material. When it is a separate component, there is preferably at least one engagement part for attaching the light excluding material to the structure.

The engagement part may be selected from the list set out above.

The engagement part preferably allows the structure to support the light excluding material in a way in which it is unlikely to be displaced in use. Preferably, there are a plurality of engagement parts between the light excluding material and the structure. In a preferred embodiment, the structure comprises a longitudinally extending member received within a sleeve formed in the light excluding material. The structure may be stitched into the light excluding material. It may adhere to the light excluding material.

The structure may support the light excluding material from below, from above or from within the material itself. The structure may extend from the bed or sleeping place, through a hole in the light excluding material so that it extends above the light excluding material for supporting it. The hole is preferably light sealed.

In one preferred embodiment, the structure comprises an arm for supporting a canopy comprising the light excluding material, the arm extending from the bed or resting place or from a freestanding structure placeable adjacent to the bed or sleeping place.

The arm may extend in the manner of a cantilever from or side or end of the bed or resting place.

Preferably, the canopy comprises structural parts for holding the light excluding member in a desired configuration. For example, the light excluding member may resemble an umbrella in form. The structural parts may fold with respect to one another. This is particularly useful for convenient storage and transport of the light excluding member when not in use.

Preferably, the light excluding material comprises at least a part which is openable to allow the interior to be viewed. The openable part may be closable with respect to the rest of the light excluding material. For example, it may comprise a flap or screen. It may be held closed by an engagement part, for example as set out above.

The light excluding material may be formed of any suitable material, for example natural material such as cotton or synthetic material such as nylon, polyester or blends or natural and synthetic material. Preferably, the light excluding material is made of a material which is easy to clean or which has been treated so that it is easy to clean. Preferably, the light excluding material is breathable, to allow ventilation.

The cover may comprise non-light excluding material, for example a sun shade or mesh, for at least partially covering the bed or child's resting place in at least one configuration, to provide protection from direct sun, from biting insects or the like, without completely excluding light. This will be useful when the child is not asleep. The non-light excluding material may be used in place of the light excluding material or it may be coverable by the light excluding material.

Preferably, the light excluding material comprises at least a first layer of material capable of excluding light and at least a second layer of another material, for example a mesh material. The first and second layers may be fixed to one another. Alternatively, they may be separable from one another. For example, it may be possible to remove the light excluding layer but leave the mesh layer in position so that the bed or resting place can be used without exclusion of light, but with protection against biting insects.

Preferably, the cover of the present invention allows ventilation. This can be achieved by forming the light excluding material of a suitable breathable material. Alternatively a ventilation path may be provided. The ventilation path is preferably designed so as to exclude the intrusion of light. For example, it may comprise a passage of convoluted form. Mechanical ventilation may be provided, though this is generally not preferred, because of the increased noise level.

The structure may be a separate component to the light excluding material. Alternatively, the effect of structural support may arise from the design of the light excluding material itself. That is, the structure may comprise a part or the whole of the light excluding material. For example, the light excluding material may be comprised partially or wholly of a material which is sufficiently rigid to maintain its own weight and shape. Alternatively, the light excluding material may include at least one stiffening member, for example a wire, rod, strip or the like which, when engaged with the light excluding material, provides the light excluding material with sufficient support to hold it in position. For example, the stiffening member may be fixed to the light excluding member by an engagement part, preferably selected from the list set out above, or it may be held in a channel formed in the light excluding material.

The light excluding material may comprise a plurality of panels which can be held together in the said one position to substantially exclude light but which can be moved apart from one another to allow access. The panels be held together by any suitable means, for example an engagement part, for example as set out above.

There may be a first panel or set of panels for covering the top of the bed or resting place and, optionally, at least one side panel for covering a side of a bed or sleeping place. The at least one side panel may have a first configuration in which it can cover a side of a bed or resting place and a second configuration, in which does not completely cover the side of the bed or sleeping place. The side panel may be held in the second position, for example by an engagement part set out above. It may be rolled or folded in the second position.

Attachment means may be provided for attaching the structure to a bed or sleeping place, comprising a first part for engaging the bed or resting place and a recess into which a stiffening member for example in the form of a rod, wire or strip can be received

The cover of the present invention may comprise supports for other equipment, for example supports for toys, pockets for carrying additional materials, or any other suitable addition.

In one embodiment of the invention, the structure need not be attached to the bed or sleeping place, but may be a free standing structure which can be placed next to a bed or sleeping place, or over it. For example, it may be in a form like a tent.

The light excluding material may be decorated on the inside or the outside, with a suitable aesthetic finish.

Preferably, the cover of the present invention is foldable so that it can be packed away when not in use. It may be manufactured using materials and structures which are commonly used for the manufacture of tents. A container, such as a bag or box may be provided for storing or carrying the cover when folded or when in kit form.

In a further aspect, the present invention provides a bed or resting place for a child, comprising a cover according to the invention attached thereto.

The bed may comprise any form of bed, including a conventional bed, hospital bed, mattress, inflatable mattress, lilo, camp bed, folding bed, stretcher etc. The present invention may take the form of a kit for assembling the cover according to the present invention.

Preferably, the kit comprises at least a structure according to the present invention and, preferably, also the light excluding material. However, the light excluding material may be provided by the user.

The resting place for a child may comprise any place where an infant may rest, including a place to sit or be still or sleep, for example a moses basket, child carrier (pouch or back pack), cot, bassinet, perambulator, stroller, pushchair, toddler bed, car seat or aircraft seat.

In a further embodiment of the invention, the present invention provides a bed or child's resting place comprising a structure supporting a light excluding material to substantially exclude light from the interior of the sleeping place, the resting place being portable. By “portable” it is meant that the resting place can be carried by one adult. It may be provided with a carrying attachment, such as a handle, strap or the like.

It is possible for the present invention to include at least one light source which, in use, will provide light for the interior of the bed or resting place. This may be provided in case additional lighting is required for looking into the bed or resting place when it is dark. Alternatively, it may be provided where a child or sleeper requires a certain familiar light level in order to sleep. This is entirely consistent with the aim of the present invention to exclude extraneous light, which can interfere with sleep, if it is varying, unfamiliar or otherwise disturbing for the sleeper.

The present invention will be further described by way of example only with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

FIG. 1 is a sketch perspective view of a first embodiment of the present invention, with the structure in a first position.

FIG. 2 is a sketch perspective view of the embodiment of FIG. 1, with the structure in a second position.

FIG. 3 is a sketch perspective view of a second embodiment of the invention, in a first, closed position.

FIG. 4 is a sketch perspective view of the embodiment of FIG. 3 in a second, open position.

FIG. 5 is a sketch isometric view of a first embodiment of an attachment for use in the present invention.

FIG. 6 is a sketch isometric view of a second embodiment of an attachment according to the present invention.

FIG. 7 is sketch perspective view of a third embodiment of cover of the present invention.

FIGS. 8, 9 and 10 show three further embodiments of an attachment for use with the present invention.

FIG. 11 is a sketch perspective view of the embodiment of FIG. 7, being assembled.

FIG. 12 is a sketch perspective view of a fourth embodiment of the present invention in a first, closed configuration.

FIG. 13 is a sketch perspective view of the fourth embodiment of the invention, in an open configuration.

FIG. 14 is a sketch perspective view of a fifth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 15 is a sketch perspective view of a sixth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 16 is a sketch perspective view of a seventh embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 17 shows a further embodiment of an attachment for use in the present invention.

FIG. 18 shows an eighth embodiment according to the present invention during assembly.

FIG. 19 shows a ninth embodiment of the present invention, during assembly.

FIG. 20 is a sketch perspective view of the ninth embodiment in the closed configuration.

FIGS. 21 to 24 are schematic right side, end, left side and top views of a tenth embodiment of cover according to the invention.

FIGS. 25 and 26 are end and side views respectively of a third embodiment of attachment for use with the present invention.

FIGS. 27, 28 and 29 are schematic side, front and plan views respectively of an eleventh embodiment of cover according to the present invention in a closed position.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 shows a sketch perspective view of a resting place for a child, in the form of a moses basket. Optional features of a moses basket, such as a portable stand and handles are omitted for clarity. The moses basket 1 comprises a structure comprising two arches 2, 3 of rigid material which are pivoted at either side of the basket at pivots 4 and 5. The arches 2 and 3 each support a respective section of light excluding material in the form of a cloth 6, 7. At its lower edge, each area of light excluding material 6, 7 is fixed to the upper edge of the moses basket 1. When the arches 2 and 3 are drawn together so that one fits inside other, the interior of the moses basket 1 is completely enclosed. The light excluding material 6 and 7 will be chosen to achieve the desired light level in the position shown in FIG. 1. This may be substantially zero or as low a level as is necessary for uninterrupted sleep of an infant.

Further, the light excluding material 6, 7 is made of a breathable material which will allow the passage of air or moisture so that the interior is ventilated and comfortable. During times when the infant is not asleep, the basket 1 can be opened by moving the arch 3 away from the arch 2 into a position in which it does not support the light excluding material so as to cover the interior of the moses basket.

FIG. 3 shows a second embodiment of the invention. It comprises a conventional cot 8 to the top of which a cover according to the second embodiment of the invention has been fixed. The cover 9 comprises two structures 10, 11 which between them support areas of light excluding material 12, 13. The structures 10 and 11 are pivoted together at pivots 14, 15 which are fixed to attachments 16, 17 which will be described further below.

In FIG. 3, the structure 10 has been moved into a position in which it supports the light excluding materials so as to cover and substantially exclude light from the interior of the cot 8. FIG. 4 shows a position in which the structure has been lifted up by pivoting at pivots 14 and 15 so that the interior is opened.

FIG. 5 shows a first embodiment of combined pivot and attachment which can be used for the arrangement shown in FIG. 3 or 4. In FIG. 5, a resilient grip formed of thermoplastic material 18 which has the shape of an open bottomed arch which can be clipped into position engaging the top of a cot. An axle 19 is provided which passes through the top of the grip 18. The arch members 10 and 11 are each pivotally mounted on the axle 19 independently of one another. A cover 20 is provided which may include means for holding the arches in a selected position. For example, the arches 10 and 11 may be fixed in position by friction. There may be means for clamping the arches with respect to one another and with respect to the cover 20. A ratchet may be provided for holding each arch 10, 11 in a selected position until sufficient force is provided to overcome the ratchet force and move it to another position.

FIG. 6 shows a second embodiment of attachment for use with the present invention.

It comprises a resilient clip member 21 for clipping over the edge of a cot or similar device. The clip may be formed of any suitable material and may be moulded. It comprises a bearing 22, which may be integrally moulded with the clip 21 and which comprises a socket 23 into which a pin 24 of a bearing assembly 25 may be inserted. The bearing of assembly 25 is shown comprising three mutually relatively rotatable discs 26, 27, 28 each of which has at least one receiving hole 29 for receiving a rod 30 which forms part of the structure for supporting the light excluding material. Each rod 30 can be inserted into a respective hole 29. Clamping means (not shown) may be provided for fixing the respective rod in position so that it cannot be easily removed without releasing the fixing means. As each disc 26, 27, 28 can be rotated with respect to the other, each arch 31 (only shown in part) defined by each rod 30 can be rotated with respect to the other arches to move the light excluding material from a position in which it covers the cot or similar structure to one in which it is opened. Gripping means may be provided between the bearing 22 and the discs 26, 27, 28. For example, frictional means may be provided a releasable clamp may be provided for providing a gripping force between the bearing 22 and the discs 26, 27, 28. Ratchet means may be provided for allowing each respective disc 26, 27, 28 to be held in a pre-selected position until sufficient force is applied to move it to a different position.

The first and second embodiments of the invention are shown with an attachment of the type shown in FIG. 5 but may equally be produced with an attachment of the type shown in FIG. 6.

FIG. 7 shows a third embodiment of resting place for a child according to the invention.

It comprises an upper cover member 32, which, in use, will cover the top of sleeping place, here represented by a cot 33. Attached to the upper cover member 32 and extending thereform, there are side members 34. The side members 34 are divided from one another at the edges 35. This has two effects. In the first place, different sizes of cot 33 can be engaged by varying the degree to which the side pieces 34 overlap one another. In use, there would preferably be no gap at all at the edges 35. Closure members 36 are provided for holding the side portions 34 close to one another to prevent light entering the cot between them. They may be formed of any suitable engagement part, for example, they may comprise clips, ribbons, touch and hold fasteners such as Velcro or the like.

The division between the side members 34 also allows a space for clip members 37 which will be described further below. The clip members 37 are designed to clip onto the top of the resting place 33 with a retainer facing upwards, the retainer being configured to hold the edge 38 of the upper cover member 32. The edge 38 may be reinforced or it may be defined by a stiffening member such as a rod. This may be of generally circular form. Preferably, the shape of the socket of the clip 37 is designed to match the contour of the edge 38 of the upper cover member 32. The cover 32 is also shown with an openable flap 39. This can be opened to allow a carer to look into the interior of the resting place 33. It can be closed and held closed and light-sealed by any engagement part, for example, buttons, poppers, zippers or touch and hold fasteners such as Velcro™.

FIGS. 8, 910 show three different embodiment of clip which may be used for the clip 37 shown in FIG. 7. Each comprises a pair of legs 40, preferably formed of a resilient material, which can clip over the edge of a resting place such as a cot 33. The legs meet at a junction 41 from which two arms 42 of a retainer extend. The arms 42 are preferably made of a resilient material or are resiliently movable with respect to another so that they can grip therebetween a part of the structure of the cover of the present invention.

The clips shown in FIGS. 8 and 9 may be suitably manufactured from metal or synthetic material such a thermoplastic. They may be extruded or moulded. They may be integrally moulded in one piece. The clip shown in FIG. 10 may be assembled from three components, a first component comprising a first leg 40 and a first arm 42, a second component comprising a second leg 40 and a second arm 42, the first and second components being joined by a connector 43. The first and second parts may be themselves formed of resilient material or they may be resiliently movable with respect to one another due to the ability to move with respect to the third component 43. Biasing means, for example a spring, may be provided for urging the first and second components into a predetermined position. In FIG. 10, the third component 43 is also shown with a hook 44 which will be explained further below with respect to FIG. 13.

FIG. 11 show the embodiment of FIG. 7 being assembled. A resting place in the form of a cot 33 can be seen. A clip 37 which is generally as shown in FIG. 9 is clipped onto each corner of the cot 33 so that it is generally fixed due to the resilient grip between the legs of the clip and the edges of the cot. The cover is held in position so that the side members 34 overlap the lateral sides of the cot 33 shown in FIG. 11. The cover is then lowered into position. It can be seen that the cover member 32 comprises apertures 45 at each corner which, during assembly, are lowered into position so that they thread over the top of one of the arms 42 of the clip 37. In this way, when it is lowered, the weight of the structure is taken and held securely through the clips 37. When in position, the closure means 36 may be engaged with each other to hold the side parts 34 in position. An additional closure member 46 in the form of a strap is shown which may extend below the cot 33 to engage a corresponding strap (not shown) on the other side. The strap 46 may comprise means for varying length, so that it can be adjusted to the exact size necessary for the type of cot 33 being engaged.

FIG. 12 shows a fourth embodiment of cover according to the present invention, engaged with a resting place 33. The cover of the fifth embodiment of the invention comprises a structure comprising an arm 47 which is configured to be clipped at one end to the edge of the cot 33 by a clip 48 as shown in FIG. 13. The structure comprises bracing members 49 which, in use, press against the internal sides of the cot 33 so that the weight of the light excluding material is evenly transferred to the sides of the cot. The light excluding material is suspended from a hook 50 formed at the other end of the arm 47. The hook 50 engages a loop 51 formed at the apex of a canopy-like structure comprising light excluding material 52 which is braced by ribs 53 which extend from the loop 51 to four corners, so that when it is opened, the canopy 52 defines a generally rectangular based pyramid. Engagement holes 54 are provided in the lower edge of the light excluding material 52.

The combination of light excluding material and ribs 53 is designed so that it can be folded when not in use, in a manner of an umbrella, for convenience of storage. It may comprise means for latching the light excluding material in an open position so that, when it is opened, it can be held in position.

FIG. 13 shows that clips 37 according to FIG. 10 are used at each corner of the cot 33. It can be seen that the hooks 43 of the clips 37 are arranged on the outside so that, when the canopy is held in position by the hook 50, the holes 54 in the canopy can be passed over the hooks 43 and held in position to define a light-tight secure closure for the edge of the cot 33.

It will be appreciated that the choice of which type of cover is suitable for any given design of cot will have to be made on the basis of knowledge of the design of cot itself FIG. 7 shows a cover which is suitable for a cot which has light permeable sides, as it is provided with side members 34 which can cover the light permeable sides. FIGS. 12 and 13 however show an embodiment which is lighter and suitable for a cot which has light excluding sides or sides which can be covered with light excluding material such as a blanket.

FIG. 14 shows a fifth embodiment according to the present invention. This comprises a pivot member 55 on one side, linked to another pivot member (not shown) on the other side through frames 56, 57 and 58 which are pivotable at the pivot with respect to one another. The pivot 59 comprises means for gripping a child car seat, booster seat or aircraft safety seat 57 of known design. The third frame 58 is configured to rest on the top of the seat 59 in use. When the frames 56, 57, 58 are pivoted with respect to one another to the maximum degree, they define a structure which is cantilevered out from the top of the seat 59 to define a cover which will extend around and above a child seated in the seat. Light excluding material extends in sections 60 and 61 between the frames 56, 57, 58. A further section 62 of light excluding material is suspended from the frame 56 so that it can be used to cover the interior of the safety seat 59. The section 62 can be held in place by gripping means 63, for example a clip, grip, strap or touch and hold fastener such as Velcro™.

FIG. 15 shows sixth embodiment according to the invention. This comprises a structure 64 which defines both the cot or bed itself and the structure for supporting light excluding material to entirely enclose a resting place 65 inside the structure 64. A section 67 of the cover can be opened to allow access to the interior of the resting place 65. The section 67 can be held in a closed position by any suitable engagement part, for example, buttons, magnets, zippers, touch and hold fasteners such as Velcro (™)

FIG. 16 shows a seventh embodiment according to the present invention. It comprises two frames 68 and 69 which are pivotally movable with respect to one another at a first pivot 70 at one and at a second pivot at the other end (not shown). So that they can be opened and closed. In this case, the frames are very like those shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 3, except that they extend in a direction parallel to the long dimension of the cot 33. They support areas 71 and 72 of the light excluding material so that they cover the top of the cot 33. The pivot 70 will be held in position by an attachment for example, as shown in FIG. 5 or 6 (not shown).

Side members 73, 74 are provided for covering the sides of the cot, if the sides of the cot are not light-tight. Closure members 75 are provided for joining the side member 73, 74 at the edges.

FIG. 17 shows a fourth embodiment of clip according to the present invention. It comprises a first leg member 77 and second leg member 78, the second leg member 78 being continuously formed with an arm 79. The first and second leg members 77 and 78 are joined by a linking member 80 formed at the top of the first leg member 77. The first and second leg members 77, 78 are resiliently mounted with respect to one another, so that they can grip therebetween the edge of a cot. A socket 81 is provided for receiving a rod of the structure of a cover of the eighth embodiment of the present invention as shown in FIG. 18. In FIG. 18, it can be seen that a cot 33 has clips 76 engaged at each corner so that the sockets 81 are on the inside.

The cover comprises a structure in the form of two arches 82, 83 each defined by a rod passing through a sleeve in a section 84 of the light excluding material. The rods 82 and 83 are each received at their ends in respective sockets 81 of respective clips 76. The section of light excluding material is configured so that, when the rods 82 and 83 are held by the clips 76, it will be held above the cot 33 and covering the top and sides thereof. Side members 85 of light excluding material are provided which may be of sufficient length to cover the sides of the cot.

FIGS. 19 and 20 show a ninth embodiment according to the present invention. As shown in FIG. 19, the cot 33 can be engaged at each corner by clips 76 according to FIG. 17, with the sockets on the inside. A structure according to the ninth embodiment of the invention is provided, comprising two arches 86, 87 which cross in the middle in the form of an X. The ends 88 of the rods 87, 86 are received in respective sockets of respective clips 76 so that they are held firmly in position. The rods 86 and 87 pass through sleeves formed in a sheet of the light excluding material so that they define a structure and support the sheet 89 of light excluding material so that it covers the top and sides of the cot 33. Also shown are optional features, including an inspection panel 90 which can be opened to allow access to the interior of the cot when it is covered and a pocket 91 on the side for holding toys, tissues and other materials.

FIGS. 21, 22, 23 and 24 show right side, end, left side and plan view respectively of a tenth embodiment of a cover according to the present invention.

The cover comprises a structure 92 in the form of an arm which is fixed by an attachment (described with respect to FIGS. 25 and 26, below) and which extends in the form of an arch from the side of a cot 93 to approximately above the middle of the cot, where it suspends a light excluding material in the form of a canopy 94. The canopy comprises light excluding material which stretches from the point at which it is supported by the structure 92 to four corners 95 of a rectangular based pyramid. The canopy comprises structural members (not shown) held within sleeves formed in the light excluding material to define four edges 95 of a rectangular based pyramid. The side portions 96 cover the right and left sides and the ends of the cot. The side portions 96 can be rolled up and fixed in a partially open configuration, to allow a certain amount of indirect light and ventilation to enter the cot. They can be fixed in position using engagement parts in the form of clips 97. An inspection panel 98 is provided which is held closed normally by a clip 99 but which can be opened by a carer to look inside the cover.

FIGS. 25 and 26 show, at enlarged scale, a third embodiment of attachment for use with the present invention and which can be used with the structure of FIGS. 21-24. The rod of the arm 92 can be seen extending from the body 100 of the attachment. The rod 92 is fixed in position by a clamp 101 which can be used to release the arm when it is desired to fold the cover. It can be seen from FIG. 25 that the body 100 is integrally moulded with a first grip 102 which is pivotally mounted with respect to a second grip 103, the grips being forced into a closed configuration as shown in FIG. 25 by a coil spring 104. Handles 105 and 106 can be compressed to open the grips 102, 103 to allow them to pass over the edge of the cot. When released, the grips will grip the edge of the cot.

It can be seen from FIG. 26 that there are two pairs of handles 106.

FIGS. 27, 28, 29 show the side, front and plan views respectively of an eleventh embodiment of cover according to the present invention. It is designed to engage a child's car seat, booster seat or aircraft safety seat 107 of known design. The cover comprises a pair of attachments, one of which, 108 can be seen in the side view of FIG. 27. The attachment is similar in design to that shown in FIGS. 25 and 26, except that it comprises one pair of grips 106, 105. It is designed to grip the arm of the seat 107. There is a resiliently deformable strip 109 which is designed to engage (in succession) with a first hinge 110, the attachment 108, an arch section for extending round head of the seat 107, a second attachment (not shown) of identical design to the first attachment 108 and which engages the arm on the other side of the seat 107, and finally a second hinge 111. Accordingly, when both clips 108 are in position, they will support the structure comprising the resilient deformable strip of material 109 which holds the hinges 110 and 111 above the seat at the sides thereof. The pivots support further strips of resilient material (not shown) which support sections 112, 113, 114 and 115 of light excluding material which, in the position shown in FIG. 27, completely cover the interior of the seat 107.

If it is not required to exclude light, the cover shown in FIGS. 27-29 can remain in position, with the section 115 rolled up towards the bottom edge of section 114. It may be held in this position by fixing means of conventional design. Then, the section 114 can be pivoted around pivot 110 into section 113. In addition, section 112 can be independently rolled up to the base line of section 113 so that a child sitting in the seat can see out. Section 113 can also pivot back on the pivot 110, with section 114 inside section 113. Preferably, the cover of FIGS. 27-29 is configured so that the pivot point 110 is located above the eye level of a child sitting in the seat, in use.

When it is desired to dismount the cover of FIGS. 27 to 29, the attachments 108 are unclipped from the respective arm. As a result the resiliently deformable strip 109 and the resilient frames of the sections 112, 113, 114 and 115 of light excluding material are not constrained to adopt a bowed shape anymore and can be made to lie flat so that they can be packed up in a small space or bag.

The present invention has been described above by way of example only and modifications can be made within the present invention, which extends to equivalents of the features described. The invention also consists in any individual features described or implicit herein or shown or implicit in the drawings or any combination of any such features or any generalisation of any such features or combination.

Claims

1-36. (canceled)

37. A canopy for a child's cot comprising a member attachable to a side of the cot and a sheet of light-excluding material suspended from the member and arranged to extend over the sides of the cot.

38. A canopy as claimed in claim 37, in which the member comprises an arm having a first end attachable to the side of the cot and a second end from which the material is suspended.

39. A canopy as claimed in claim 38, in which the second end of the arm is arranged over the cot, for example substantially above the middle of the cot.

40. A canopy as claimed in claim 38, in which the arm extends from the first end outside the canopy through an aperture in the material.

41. A canopy as claimed in claim 40, in which the aperture is a hole in the material.

42. A canopy as claimed in claim 37, in which the light-excluding material comprises at least one side piece arranged to cover at least one side portion of the cot.

43. A canopy as claimed in claim 37, in which the light-excluding material comprises a plurality of side pieces, each arranged to cover a corresponding side portion of the cot.

44. A canopy as claimed in claim 43, in which the side pieces are suspended from an upper part of the canopy.

45. A canopy as claimed in claim 37, in which the light-excluding material is flexible.

46. A canopy as claimed in claim 37, in which the light-excluding material is suspended from a hook connected to the member.

47. An assembly comprising a cot having a base and side portions extending upwardly from the base, and a canopy attached to one of the side portions by the member, the canopy including a member attachable to a side of the cot and a sheet of light-excluding material suspended from the member and arranged to extend over the sides of the cot, the light-excluding material of the canopy being suspended from the member and over the outer surfaces of the side portions.