"A COT"

THE PRESENT INVENTION relates to a cot, and most preferably to a cot of the type which is generally used for babies or small infants to sleep in.

However, it should be appreciated that aspects of the present invention may be applicable to other similar types of products such as, for example, travel cots, cribs, travel cribs, cot-beds, play pens and the like, and the term "cot" used hereinafter should be interpreted accordingly, so as to encompass such products.

Traditionally, cots have been made predominantly of wood and are generally rectangular in configuration with four fixed sides, although some previously- proposed arrangements have three fixed sides and one side that can be lowered and raised to provide improved access to a baby lying in the "cot space" of the cot. Some examples have a side panel which is lowered and which can then slide underneath the base of the cot, thereby enabling a parent to place the cot beside his or her own bed so as to have open access to the baby in the cot, from the bed. Unfortunately, it has been known for such "travelling" side panels to entrap and even strangle a baby.

Such access from an adult bed encourages a parent to nurse and otherwise care for a baby in close proximity, whilst ensuring that the baby does not remain in the adult bed to sleep. This may be referred to as "good co- sleeping", whereas the practice of allowing a baby to sleep in an adult bed is

fraught with dangers such as suffocation, strangulation and possible overheating, and may, therefore, be referred to as "bad co-sleeping".

When a cot is positioned beside an adult bed in the general manner mentioned above, it is important to seek to reduce any significant gaps between the cot and the bed, as gaps in this area could entrap and harm the baby. Additionally, the sleeping surface provided by the cot needs to be at substantially the same level as the sleeping surface defined by the mattress of the main adult bed. Since adult beds can vary significantly in height, and because their mattresses can also vary in thickness, cot manufacturers have tried to achieve this levelling by providing means for the cot mattress to be fixed at a variety of different levels within the cot. Most prior proposed examples provide a predetermined number of discrete levels at which the cot mattress can be positioned.

The aesthetics of cots have traditionally been very drab and plain, and some attention has therefore been paid more recently to brightening them up. However, little has been done to improve their ease of use and functionality, and indeed very little has been done to improve the levels of hygiene that they could support. Prior proposed cots can only generally be cleaned by wiping them with damp or disinfectant-soaked cloth. This may not always be sufficient to eliminate all germs and allergens, even if the cot is wiped regularly

Much of the above-mentioned brightening-up has been achieved by the introduction of highly-coloured, design co-ordinated cot bumpers, pillows and bed clothes/duvets, and the use of soft toys, sheepskins and other nonessential items.

Current medical and other professional advice on safety and hygiene for babies and toddlers is generally unfavourable to cots and accessories such as all of those mentioned above. In 1990, the US Consumer Products Safety

Commission published advice called "Preventing Infant Deaths from Soft Bedding", concluding that the safest way for a baby to be put down for sleep was for the baby to be lightly dressed inside a sleeping suit or bag, and put to sleep on a firm mattress that fits well within the cot, and that no additional accessories should be introduced to the cot space. This advice has since been endorsed in further Europe-wide studies.

Traditionally, cots have been seen as pieces of furniture for the home and, as such, were rather staid and solid, giving the impression of being durable and reliable. In more recent times, changes in parents' lifestyles have led to a rapid and large growth in the popularity of collapsible and somewhat more portable travel cots. Some of these can double up as play pens, and this reflects the modern trend towards multi-functional products that save time and effort. However, although many of these are cheap to buy, they can be rickety when erected, and therefore have been found to be unsuitable for continued use, being clearly suitable only for short periods of use rather than regular overnight sleeping.

An improved arrangement for a cot mattress, that meets the requirements of the public notices and research publications mentioned above, is disclosed in

WO97/29667. The arrangement disclosed in this prior document comprises a box-frame structure over which an elasticated cover can be stretched so as to define a very thin, tightly-stretched and preferably permeable sleeping surface.

The elasticated cover of the arrangement in WO97/29667 can be completely removed from the frame and so is conveniently launderable at sufficiently high temperatures to kill house dust mites, destroy allergens produced by these, and remove bacteria, mould, bodily fluids and general spills and dirt.

It is an object of the present invention to provide an improved cot.

According to one aspect of the present invention, there is provided a cot comprising a substantially rigid frame and a fabric element; the fabric element and frame being configured so that the fabric element is securable to the frame such that a portion of the fabric element defines a sleep-surface, the remainder of the fabric element defining at least one fabric panel extending upwardly from the sleep-surface to form a wall of the cot, wherein said panel can be selectively lowered from its upwardly extending position, so as to provide access to the cot-space from the side of the cot.

In a preferred embodiment, a portion of the fabric element defines the sleep-surface and the remainder of the fabric element defines at least two fabric panels, each extending upwardly from the sleep-surface to form a respective wall of the cot, wherein at least one of the panels can be selectively lowered from its upwardly extending position.

Conveniently, the two fabric panels defined by the fabric element form opposing walls of the cot, defining the cot-space therebetween.

In one embodiment, the two fabric panels form opposing side walls of the cot.

In an alternative embodiment, the two fabric panels form opposing end walls of the cot.

Advantageously, the fabric element may define four fabric panels, the panels extending upwardly from the fabric sleep-surface to form opposing side walls of the cot and opposing end walls of the cot, wherein at least one of the panels can be selectively lowered from its upwardly extending position.

Preferably, the sleep-surface constitutes the base of the cot.

Conveniently, the fabric element comprises a pair of elongate base-passages such that, when the fabric element is secured to the frame, the passages

extend along opposed edges of the fabric base, wherein said frame comprises a pair of base-beams, each said base beam being sized so as to pass through a respective base-passage.

Conveniently, the fabric element further comprises a top-passage extending along the edge of each panel such that, and said frame comprises top-beams, each top-beam being sized so as to pass through a respective top-passage when the fabric is secured to the frame.

Advantageously, the top-passage extending along the or each panel defining a selectively lowerable side panel is permanently formed as an elongate loop of fabric closed along substantially its entire length, and the or each other passage is formed as an elongate loop of fabric that is selectively openable along substantially its entire length.

In a preferred embodiment, the fabric element comprises a central region formed integrally between a pair of opposed side flaps, wherein said flaps define the fabric side panels.

According to a further aspect of the invention there is provided a cot comprising a substantially rigid support frame and a flexible fabric element; the fabric element comprising a central region formed integrally between a pair of opposed side flaps; the fabric element and the frame being configured so that the fabric element is securable to the frame such that said central region defines a substantially horizontal fabric sleep-surface , and said side flaps define a pair of opposed fabric side panels, each said side panel extending upwardly from a respective side of the sleep-surface so as to define a cot-space therebetween; wherein at least one of said side panels can be selectively lowered from its upwardly-extending position, so as to provide access to the cot-space from the side of the cot.

Preferably, said fabric element is removable from the frame.

Advantageously, said fabric element is launderable.

Conveniently, said fabric element further comprises a pair of integral end flaps configured to define a pair of opposed fabric end panels, each said end panel extending upwardly from a respective end of the sleep-surface defined by the central region, when the fabric element is secured to the frame.

Preferably, said fabric element further comprises releasable fasteners arranged to releasably secure an end edge of each side flap to a respective side edge of an adjacent end flap when said flaps are in their respective upwardly-directed positions.

Advantageously, said releasable fasteners are either zips (or zippers), fabric hook-and-loop fasteners of the type commonly recognised under the trade name Velcro, poppers or any other suitable releasable fastener.

Conveniently, said frame comprises a plurality of support legs, each leg being adjustable in length.

Preferably, the cot further comprises a removable mattress configured to rest on the fabric sleep-surface defined by said fabric element, between said panels.

Preferably, the sleep-surface constitutes the base of the cot.

Advantageously, said fabric element comprises a pair of elongate base- passages extending along opposed edges of the central region, where the central region meets the two side flaps; and said frame comprises a pair of

base-beams, each said base-beam being sized so as to pass through a respective base-passage when the fabric element is secured to the frame.

Conveniently, said fabric element further comprises a respective top-passage extending along the edge of each flap, and said frame comprises top-beams, each top-beam being sized so as to pass through a respective top-passage when the fabric element is secured to the frame.

Preferably, each, or at least one said passage is permanently formed as an elongate loop of fabric, closed along substantially its entire length, but open at both ends.

Advantageously, at least one of said passages is formed as an elongate loop of fabric that is selectively openable along substantially its entire length.

Conveniently, the top-passage extending along the or each flap defining a selectively lowerable side panel, is permanently formed as an elongate loop of fabric closed along substantially its entire length, and the or each other passage is formed as an elongate loop of fabric that is selectively openable along substantially its entire length.

Preferably, each said selectively openable passage is provided with releasable fastening means to releasably close the passage along substantially its entire length.

Advantageously, said releasable fastening means comprises either a zip (or zipper), fabric hook-and-loop fastener of the type commonly known under the trade name Velcro, or poppers.

Conveniently, at least one of the top-beams of the frame is configured at each end so as to be releasably securable to a fixed part of the frame.

Preferably, each end of said at least one top-beam is provided with an outwardly-directed projection.

Preferably, , said outwardly-directed projection is a spigot extending substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the beam.

Conveniently, said fixed part of the frame is provided with a channel configured to receive the projection.

According to another aspect of the present invention, it is proposed to provide a cot as defined above as a kit of parts.

Preferably, said kit comprises at least one frame sub-assembly, the or each sub-assembly being pre-assembled.

So that the invention may be more readily understood, and so that further features thereof may be appreciated, embodiments of the invention will now be described, by way of example, with reference to the accompanying representations, in which:

FIGURE 1 is a perspective view, showing component parts of a support frame forming part of the cot of a preferred embodiment of the present invention; FIGURE 2 is a close-up view showing an extendable leg arrangement of part of the frame;

FIGURE 3 is a perspective view of a removable fabric element, forming part of the present invention, showing the element upside-down and laid out flat;

FIGURE 4 is a view corresponding generally to that of Figure 3, but illustrating beams of the frame being inserted into respective passages forming part of the fabric element;

FIGURE 5 is a perspective view of the partially-constructed frame, standing on one end;

FIGURE 6 illustrates a stage in the construction of the frame;

FIGURE 7 is a view corresponding generally to that of Figure 5, showing the fabric element mounted on the partially-constructed frame.

FIGURE 8 is a view corresponding generally to that of Figure 7, illustrating a further stage in the construction of the frame;

FIGURE 9 is an end elevational view of the fully-constructed frame, showing the fabric element in place;

FIGURE 10 is a perspective view from one side and one end, of the constructed frame, showing the fabric element in place, and a mattress; FIGURE 11 is a side view of the cot, showing one side panel in a fully- lowered position;

FIGURE 12 is a perspective view from the side and one end, of the cot, illustrating the mattress in place and a side panel in a partially-lowered position; FIGURE 13 is an enlarged perspective view showing part of the frame structure;

FIGURE 14 is a perspective view showing the lowered side panel being raised and offered up to the frame;

FIGURE 15 is a side view showing a top beam of the side panel being releasably engaged with fixed parts of the frame;

FIGURE 16 is a close-up view of one end of the beam illustrated in Figure 15, showing its engagement with a fixed part of the frame;

FIGURE 17 is a view generally corresponding to that of Figure 16, showing the beam in a fully-engaged position with respect to the fixed part of the frame;

FIGURE 18 is a view, similar to that of Figure 17, but showing the opposite end of the beam engaged with the frame;

FIGURE 19 is a close-up view of one end of the lowerable side panel; FIGURE 20 is a side view of the fully-constructed cot with the lowerable side panel in its fully-raised and engaged position;

FIGURE 21 is a close-up view of one end of the lowerable side panel, showing it in a partially-lowered position with the mattress in place;

FIGURE 22 is a cross-sectional view illustrating an alternative embodiment of the present invention; FIGURE 23 is a cross-sectional view corresponding in part to Figure 22, illustrating a locking member according to that further embodiment of the invention.

Referring initially to Figure 1 , there are illustrated a number of component parts which, when fully constructed, form a support frame for the cot of the present invention. It is to be appreciated that the cot of the present invention can be provided as a kit of parts, comprising the various components illustrated in Figure 1 , and also the fabric element illustrated in Figure 3 which will be described in more detail hereinafter.

It is envisaged that the kit of parts may, in a preferred embodiment, comprise a number of sub-assemblies which are pre-assembled, and which will form part of the support frame when the cot is fully constructed. However, in other variants, it is envisaged that the kit of parts will be provided in a completely dis-assembled condition in which every individual component will need to be assembled before the cot can be used. It is also envisaged that the entire cot arrangement could be provided at a pre-assembled unit, and not as a kit of parts at all.

In more detail, Figure 1 illustrates a pair of substantially identical frame sub- assemblies 1 ,2, each of which will define a respective end of the support

frame when it is fully constructed, as will become clear hereinafter. Figure 1 illustrates the outer side of the sub-assembly 1 , and the inner side of the sub- assembly 2, although it should be appreciated that both sub-assemblies 1 ,2 are substantially identical, although are mirror-images of one another when viewed side-by-side from their inner sides, as sub-assembly 2 is shown in Figure 1.

Each sub-assembly 1 ,2 comprises a respective top bar 3, and a pair of downwardly-extending uprights 4, each of which extends downwardly from a respective end of a top bar 3.

Between the two uprights 4 of each sub-assembly 1 ,2, there extend a pair of beams, namely a top beam 5, and a base beam 6. The two beams 5,6 of each sub-assembly 1 ,2 each run parallel to the top bar 3, the top beam 5 being spaced slightly below the top bar 3, and the base beam 6 being spaced somewhat lower, at approximately the mid-point between the top beam 5 and the lower ends 7 of each upright 4.

In the region below the beams 6, each upright 4 is provided with an elongate slot 8 which extends completely through the upright, from one side to the other. As illustrated most clearly on the sub-assembly 2 illustrated in Figure 1 , each slot 8 receives a pair of spaced-apart screws 9 therethrough, each screw

9 having its end threadedly engaged in a leg part 10. By way of the slots 8 and screws 9, each leg part 10 can be slidably moved along the lower part of each upright 4 such that the length of the leg part 10 which projects past the lower end 7 of each upright 4 can be selectively adjusted. When the correct length is selected, the screws 9 can be tightened so that the respective leg parts 10 are urged tightly against the lower parts of the uprights 4, thereby securing the leg parts 10 in position with respect to the uprights 4. In this way, the sub-assemblies 1 ,2 which, as will become clear, will define the end parts

of the frame structure of the cot, are provided with leg assemblies having adjustable lengths.

In preferred variants of the invention, it is envisaged that the surface of each leg part 10 which is directed towards the respective upright 4, may be provided with markings such as scales or other indicia 11 (as shown in Figure 1 ), in order to make it easier for a user of the cot to set the correct length for the leg assemblies, and to ensure that each leg assembly is set at the same length.

The adjustable leg assemblies are illustrated in more detail in Figure 2, where the left-hand leg assembly is shown in its shortest configuration, such that the uppermost screw 9 is located at the uppermost end of the slot 8, in which condition the sliding leg part 10 does not project past the lower end 7 of the upright 4. The right-hand leg assembly illustrated in Figure 2 is set at its fully- extended position, in which the lowermost screw 9 is positioned at the lowermost end of the slot 8, such that the sliding leg part 10 extends past the lowermost end 7 of the upright 4 by its maximum extent. Of course, the leg assemblies of the cot might not be set at different lengths in use, as this may provide an unsteady structure. The leg assemblies can be set at any convenient length between the maximum and minimum shown in Figure 2.

Returning briefly to consider Figure 1 in more detail, it can be seen that each sub-assembly 1 ,2 is provided with three holes 12,13,14, each of which extend completely through an upright 4 (only the holes provided through the sub- assembly 2 illustrated in Figure 1 being visible). The holes 12 are located slightly below the top beams 5. The holes 13 extend through the same upright 4 as the holes 12, and are located at one end of the base beam 6. The holes 14 extend through the other upright 4 of each sub-assembly 1 ,2 and are located at the opposite end of the base beams 6 to the holes 13.

As illustrated most clearly on the sub-assembly 2 illustrated in Figure 1 , each sub-assembly is also provided with three blind recesses 15,16,17 which extend into the uprights 4, from the same side of the sub-assembly as the screws 9, but which do not extend completely through the uprights 4. The recess 15 is located slightly above the hole 12, the recess 16 is located slightly above the hole 13, and the recess 17 is located slightly above the hole 14.

As also illustrated on the sub-assembly 2 shown in Figure 1 , the uprights 4 through which the hole 14 is formed are also provided with a curved groove or channel 18 which is of generally inverted L-form. Turning briefly to consider

Figure 13, the groove 18 is illustrated in more detail and can be seen to be cut into the upright 4 in the general region where the upright is connected to the top beam 5, from the inner side of the sub-assembly. The groove has an open end 19 formed along the outer edge of the upright 4, and extends from there inwardly of the outer edge of the upright, in a slightly upwards direction, whereupon, at 20, the groove turns downwardly to extend generally vertically.

The groove 18 terminates in a blind end 20a which, as can be seen from

Figure 1 , is located generally level with the blind recess 15. The purpose of the grooves 18 will be described in more detail hereinafter.

Also illustrated in Figure 1 are four further beams 21 ,22,23,24, each of which have an outwardly-directed projection 25,26,27,28 located at each end. The outwardly-directed projections 25,26,27,28 preferably take the form of spigots which extend outwardly from each end of the respective beams in a direction generally parallel to the longitudinal axis of the beams. The beams 22,23 and 24 are substantially identical to one another, and the beam 21 is of similar form, although in the specific embodiment illustrated, its projections 25 are slightly smaller.

Turning now to Figure 3, there is illustrated a further component of the kit to form the cot, the component taking the form of a fabric element 29. The fabric element 29 is formed from flexible fabric, and preferably of a permeable fabric (such as a mesh) which can be laundered at a sufficiently high temperature to kill house dust mites, destroy allergens produced by these, and remove bacteria, mould, bodily fluids and other general spills and dirt which often find their way into cribs or cots.

The fabric element 29 is illustrated in Figure 3 in an upturned condition, in which it is laid out flat. It can be seen from Figure 3 that the fabric element comprises a generally rectangular central region 30 from which extend outwardly a pair of opposed side flaps 31 ,32, each of which are also of generally rectangular form. Extending outwardly from the ends of the central region 30 are a pair of end flaps 33,34, each of which is also of generally rectangular form, although the end flaps 33,34 of the embodiment illustrated approximate to a square form.

Along the longitudinal edges of the central region 30, where the central region 30 meets the two side flaps 31 ,32, there are provided a pair of elongate passages 35,36, each of which is open at both ends. The passages 35,36 are, in one embodiment of the present invention, permanently closed along their entire length, being formed of an elongate loop of fabric material. However, in variants of the invention, it is envisaged that each passage 35,36 may be selectively openable along substantially its entire length and, in such an arrangement, each passage 35,36 would be provided with releasable fastening means extending substantially its entire length such as, for example, a zip or zipper, fabric hook-and-loop fasteners of the type commonly known under the trade name Velcro, or poppers, each of which is generally known per se.

Along the free edge of each side flap 31 ,32, there is also provided a further respective passage 37,38, which can either be permanently formed as an elongate loop of fabric, closed along substantially its entire length, or which, in alternative embodiments, can be formed as an elongate loop of fabric that is selectively openable along substantially its entire length by the use of a suitable fastening means such as, for example, a zip or zipper, hook-and-loop fastening means, or a plurality of poppers. Each passage 37,38 is open at both of its ends.

Similarly, the free edge of each end panel 33,34 is also provided, along its free edge, with a respective passage 39, 40, each of which is substantially identical, albeit shorter, to the passages 37, 38 formed along the free edges of the side flaps 31 ,32. In similar manner to the passages 37, 38, passages 39, 40 may be permanently formed as an elongate loop of fabric; however, in the specific embodiment illustrated, the passages 39, 40 are not permanently formed, but rather are formed by loops of fabric that can be closed along substantially their entire length by suitable fastening means as mentioned above.

Figure 4 corresponds generally to Figure 3, but illustrates beams 22,23,24 each being inserted into a respective passage 35,36,38, from one end thereof. Each beam 22,23,24 is fully inserted into its respective passage 35,36,38, until only a short end region of each beam projects from each end of the respective passage. Although Figure 4 also illustrates beam 21 , this beam is not shown, at this stage, being inserted into its corresponding passage 37. This occurs during a subsequent stage of assembly.

Figure 5 illustrates the manner in which the beams 22,23,24 are secured, at their ends, to the sub-assemblies 1 ,2. For ease of illustration, the fabric element 29 is shown removed from the beams 22,23,24, although Figure 7 shows it replaced.

In a manner generally known per se, the spigots 26,27,28 of each beam 22,23,24 are each received in a respective blind recess 16,17,15 formed in the sub-assembly 1 , whereafter, as illustrated in Figure 6, a screw 41 is inserted through each hole 12,13,14 and threadedly engaged with the respective beam 22,23,24 so as to draw the beam up tightly against the uprights 4 of the sub-assembly 1.

As indicated above, Figure 7 corresponds generally to Figure 5, but shows the fabric element 29 in place over the beams 22,23, 24. As will be appreciated, with the beams 22,23,24 positioned within the passages 35,36,38 as shown in

Figure 4,it can be quite difficult subsequently to secure the ends of the beams

22,23,24 to the sub-assembly 2, and so in embodiments where the passages are each permanently formed as a closed loop of fabric, it is envisaged that the beams 22,23,24 will be secured to the sub-assembly 2 before the fabric element 29 is mounted thereon. When the beams 22,23,24 are each properly secured to the sub-assembly 2, the passages 35,36,38 can be pulled over the beams, so that the fabric element 29 adopts the position generally illustrated in Figure 7. Then, as illustrated in Figure 8, the other sub-assembly 1 can be mounted to the ends of the beams 22,23,24 in a substantially identical manner to which the sub-assembly 2 was connected to the beams 22,23,24.

Alternatively, in embodiments of the invention where the passages 35,36,38 are openable along their length, the beams 22,23,24 and two sub-assemblies 1 ,2 can be fully constructed before the fabric element 29 is mounted thereto, because the passages 35,36,38 can simply be opened up along their lengths, wrapped around a respective beam 22,23,24 and then closed by way of the fastening means such as zips, hook-and-loop fasteners or poppers or other suitable releasable fastening means.

Once the end beams 22,23,24 have been connected to the respective sub- assemblies 1 ,2, and the fabric element 29 has been positioned such that its passages 35,36,38 extend over the beams, then the resulting structure can be turned from the position illustrated in Figure 8 so as to stand on the sliding leg parts 10. Figure 9 shows the arrangement standing in this manner, as viewed from one end. The two end flaps 33,34 of the fabric element 29 are then pulled upwardly such that their free ends are passed over top beams 5 of the sub-assemblies 1 ,2 so as to form respective top passages 39,40 which can then be closed along substantially their entire length by the fastening means. In the arrangement illustrated in Figure 9, the fastening means comprise a plurality of spaced-apart poppers, but as indicated previously, in variants of the invention, these releasable fastening means could take other forms, such as, for example, zips or zippers, or fabric hook-and-loop fasteners of the type provided under the Trade Mark Velcro, or indeed any other suitable releasable fasteners.

At this stage of its construction, the cot takes the form generally shown in Figure 10, in which the central region 30 of the fabric element 29 extends between the two beams 22,23 and defines a sleep-surface (being the surface which supports a sleeping child or animal, either directly or by means of a removable mattress) which, in the present embodiment also constitutes a substantially horizontal fabric base to the cot. The side flap 32 extends generally upwardly from the base and hence can be considered to define a fabric side panel to the cot. Similarly, the opposed end flaps 33,34 each also extend upwardly from the base and hence can be considered to define opposed fabric end panels to the cot. The side flap 31 is shown in Figure 10 hanging generally downwardly. Figure 10 also illustrates a mattress 43 of generally rectangular form which is sized and configured so as to be inserted into the cot and to rest upon the base defined by the central region 30 of the fabric element. The mattress can take any convenient form and can, for example, take the form of a mattress as disclosed in WO/97/29667.

As illustrated in Figure 11 , elongate beam 21 can then be inserted into the passage 37 of the hanging side flap 31 so that the ends of the beam 21 project a short way outwardly from the ends of the passage 37. The arrangement shown in Figure 11 is provided with a pair of zips 44, each zip arranged so as to releasably interconnect an end edge of the side flap 31 with an adjacent side edge of an end flap 33,34. As will be appreciated, Figure 11 shows the side flap 31 in a position in which it hangs completely freely from the side edge of the central region 30, with the zips 44 being completely unzipped such that the two end edges of the side flap 31 are completely disconnected from the adjacent end edges of the end flaps 33,34. In contrast, Figure 12 shows the zips 44 having been partially closed such that only the upper part of the side flap 31 hangs downwardly. Indeed, Figure 12 also shows the mattress 43 resting upon the base defined by the central region 30 of the fabric element and the zips 44 are shown having been zipped up to such a degree that the side flap 31 hangs downwardly from a position generally level with the upper part of the mattress 43.

Figure 14 illustrates the beam 21 which is inserted through the passage 37, being lifted so that the spigots 25 formed at each end of the beam 21 are offered up to respective grooves 18 at either end of the cot.

Figure 15 illustrates the spigots 25 having been inserted into the open ends 19 of the grooves 18. This is illustrated in more detail at one end of the beam 21 in Figure 16, where the spigot 25 can clearly be seen having been received in the open end 19, and being moved upwardly towards the curved turn 20 of the groove. The two ends of the beam 21 continue to be moved inwardly of the cot, so that the spigots 25 at each end of the beam 21 move upwardly towards the turn 20 of the spigots 25, whereupon the beam 21 can be dropped so that the spigots 25 fall into the downwardly-directed regions of the grooves 18, and the spigots bear against the blind ends 20a of the grooves 18. In this position,

as shown in Figure 17, it will be appreciated that sideways movement of the beam 21 is prevented, and may only be removed from its engagement with the uprights 4, if it is subsequently first lifted so that the spigots 25 are moved upwardly in the grooves and then pulled outwardly so that the spigots move outwardly out of the grooves 18 through their free ends 19.

From the above it will be appreciated therefore that, in general terms, the fabric element and frame are configured so that the fabric element 29 is securable to the frame such that a portion of the fabric element (in this case the central region 30 of the fabric element 29) defines the base of the cot (that is, the bottom of the "cot-space" in which a baby would lie), whilst the remainder of the fabric element (in this case the flaps 31 , 32, 33, 34) define at least one fabric panel (in this case four) extending upwardly from the base to form a wall of the cot, wherein the panel (in this case the panel formed by the side flap 31) can be selectively lowered from its upwardly extending position, so as to allow access to the cot-space from the side.

Figure 18 corresponds generally to Figure 17, but illustrates, for clarity, the opposite end of the beam 21 being engaged with groove 18.

Figure 19 illustrates the beam 21 fully engaged with the uprights 4 of the sub- assemblies 1 ,2, and the zip 44 in a configuration in which its lower half is zipped up, and its upper half is left un-zipped.

Figure 20 shows the zips 44 at either end of the side flap 31 in their fully- zipped positions such that the entire length of the end edges of the side flap 31 are zipped to respective side edges of the end flaps 33,34, and in this configuration, it will be seen that the side flap 31 defines a further fabric side panel, which extends substantially upwardly from the base defined by the central region of the fabric element. As will be appreciated, the side panel defined by the side flap 31 is largely identical to the side flap defined by the

opposite side flap 32, the only difference being that the side panel defined by the side flap 31 may be selectively lowered by disengaging its top beam 21 from the two uprights 4, and unzipping the zips 44. Lowering the side panel defined by the side flap 31 in this manner allows easy side access to the cot space defined between the two side panels and the two end panels of the cot.

Also, by releasing the top bar 21 , and completely removing it from the passage 37 formed along the edge of the lowerable side panel, the side panel 31 can be positioned so as to extend underneath the mattress of an adult bed when the entire cot structure is positioned substantially adjacent the adult bed. The adjustable leg assemblies allow sufficient range of adjustment for the cot to be positioned so that the top surface of its mattress 43 lies substantially level with the top surface of the mattress of the adult bed. In this way, the cot of the present invention allows "good co-sleeping".

Of course, as will be appreciated, the fabric element 29 can be completely removed from the support frame of the cot. In the event that the fabric element comprises completely closed passages which are permanently closed along substantially their entire length, removal of the fabric element 29 from the frame would necessitate at least partial disassembly of the frame structure. However, in arrangements where the passages are openable along substantially their entire length, the fastening means of each passage can be conveniently opened to allow removal of the fabric element from the support frame without necessitating disassembly of the support frame.

Figure 21 illustrates in more detail one of the zips 44 in a position in which it is sufficiently closed such that the side flap 31 hangs downwardly from a position substantially level with the top of the mattress 43. In certain embodiments of the present invention, it is proposed that the zips 44 are provided with means (not illustrated) to prevent inadvertent opening of the

zips below the level indicated in Figure 21 , but which allows further opening of the zips if required. j( FiQures 22 and 23 illustrate an alternative embodiment of the present invention. For the purposes of clarity and conciseness, the reference numerals used in connection with Figures 1 to 21 have been retained to denote like features as appropriate.

The embodiment shown in Figures 22 and 23 differs from the embodiment described with reference to Figures 1 to 21 only in the configuration of the channels or grooves provided in the uprights 4 (through which the hole 14 is formed) for receiving the respective spigots 25.

Thus, referring to Figure 22, which shows a cross-sectional view taken through the mid section of the cot, each of the two uprights 4 through which the hole 14 is formed are provided with a curved groove or channel 45 which is of generally inverted L-form in the manner of the curved groove 18 of the previous embodiment, shown in Figure 13.

In similar manner to the grove 18, the channel 45 is cut into the upright 4 in the general region where the upright is connected to the top beam 5, from the inner side of the sub-assembly.

However, in contrast to the channel 18, the channel 45 has a "blind" end 46 formed at generally the same level as the top beam 5, and extends from there generally upwardly, whereupon, at 47, the channel 45 turns downwardly to extend generally vertically downwardly along the upright 4. The channel 45 terminates in a second blind end 48 spaced upwardly of the base beam 6 and further beam 22 (extending perpendicular to the base beam 6 in Figure 22).

A rubber stop 49 is fixedly secured in the blind end 48 of the channel 45.

Still referring to Figure 22, an exit passage 50 is also cut into the inner side of the upright 4, the exit passage 50 extending from the channel 45 in a gentle upward curve and terminating in an open end 50a formed along the outer edge of the upright 4.

Still referring to Figure 22, the cross-section of both the channel 45 and exit passage 50 is the form of an inverted T-section, thus defining respective shoulder sections 45a and 50b.

Still referring to Figure 22, each of the spigots 25 provided on the top beam 21 incorporate an enlarged head portion 25a such that the cross-section of the spigots 25 is in fact complementary to the cross-sectional T-shape of the exit passage 50 and channel 45. In this manner, the spigots 25 may be inserted through the open end 50a of the respective exit passages 50 for sliding movement within the exit passages 50 and channels 45, whilst at the same time the shoulder sections 45a and 50b will constrain movement of the spigots 25 (specifically the enlarged head portions 25a) in a direction parallel with the beam 22.

It will be appreciated that the configuration of the channel 45 (in conjunction with the exit passage 50) allows for movement of the top beam 21 (and hence the corresponding flap 31) between alternative positions whilst nevertheless retaining the top beam 21 in engagement with the frame.

Thus, the spigots 25 may be slid along the channel towards the turn 47, whereupon reaching the turn 47 the spigots may then be "dropped" down into the blind end 46 of the channel 45. In this manner, it will be appreciated that the turn 47 will act to retain the spigots 25, and hence the top beam 21 , in

position until such time as the top beam is passed back over the turn 47, for example to release the top beam from the frame by passing the spigots 25 out through the exit passage 50.

Alternatively, the spigots 25 may be slid along the channel towards the blind end 49, whereupon reaching the blind end 48 the spigots 25 will "sit" on the rubber stop 49, until such time as the top beam is moved upwardly, for example to release the top beam 21 by passing the spigots 25 out through the exit passage 50.

The top beam 21 may thus be slid in the channel 45 between an upper retained position (wherein the spigots are retained in the blind end 46) or a lower retained position (wherein the spigots are retained at the blind end 48). By appropriately selecting the length of the channel 45, and hence the position of the lower blind end 48, it is thus possible to provide a suitable "mid-barrier" position, whereby the panel 31 extends part way up the upright 4.

Once the top beam 21 is disengaged from the uprights 4, by sliding the spigots 25 out through the exit passage, the panel 31 may simply be allowed to hang down or, as indicated in Figure 22, the panel 31 may be placed under the mattress 51 of an adjacent bed 52. In this manner, by selecting a suitable thickness of mattress 53 for positioning on the base of the cot, one can arrange the mattresses 53 and 51 at the same level adjacent one another, to provide level access to the cot-space directly from the adjacent bed 52.

Turning now to Figure 23, a locking member is shown in the form of a locking panel 54.

The locking panel 54 incorporates a blind notch 55 having a width slightly larger than the spigots 25, and four clearance holes 56 for attaching the panel 54 to the upright 4 by means of screws 57.

Referring to Figure 23, once the spigots 25 have been "dropped" into the blind end 46 of the channel 45, the locking plate 54 may be positioned adjacent the upright 4, with the spigot 25 extending through the blind notch 55, whereafter the locking plate 54 may be secured to the upright 4 to lock the spigot, and hence the top beam 21 , in position. In a preferred embodiment, a respective locking plate is provided for each of the two spigots 25.

In an alternative embodiment (not illustrated), the channel 45 is provided with an intermediate recess positioned in-between the ends 46 and 48 and extending generally horizontally from the channel 45. The recess is configured to receive the respective spigot 25, whereby the spigots may be located in the respective recess on each upright (by inserting the spigots generally horizontally into the recesses) so as to prevent vertical movement of the top beam and therefore retain the spigots and top beam at an intermediate retained position between the aforementioned retained upper and lower positions. In a preferred embodiment, the channel 45 may be provided with a number of such recesses, whereby the top beam 21 may be retained in a number of alternative positions whilst being engaged with the frame. Again, a locking member in the form of a locking panel may be used to lock the top beam 21 in each intermediate position, in similar manner to the locking member 54.

Of course, whilst the present invention has been described with reference to specific embodiments, it should be appreciated that certain modifications could be made, without departing from the scope of the present invention. For example, whilst the above-described embodiment is provided with zips 44 to selectively connect the end edges of the side flap 31 with the side edges of the end flaps 33,34, in variants of the present invention, it is proposed that other convenient releasable fastening means could be provided for this

purpose. Such releasable fastening means might include, for example, a plurality of releasable poppers or a length of fabric hook-and-loop fastener such as the type sold under the Trade Mark Velcro.

Also, whilst the grooves 18 of the above-described embodiment have a very simple rectangular cross-section along their entire length, in variants of the invention, it is envisaged that the grooves 18 may have a substantially L- or T- shaped cross-section, and that he spigots 25 which project outwardly from the top beam 21 , could be replaced with projections having an enlarged head sized and configured to fit within the grooves.

It is also envisaged that in other variants of the invention, the two end panels of the cot could be defined by rigid panels forming part of the sub-assemblies 1 ,2 rather than taking the form of fabric panels defined by upturned end flaps of the fabric element 29. Indeed, it is envisaged that in one embodiment of the invention, only a single panel (either a side panel or end panel in the case where the cot is a "rectangular box" shape) would be a fabric panel defined by the fabric element, the remaining panels all being defined by rigid panels forming part of sub-assemblies 1 ,2 so that only the base of the cot and one wall of the cot would be fabric.

Whilst the present embodiment has been described in relation to a

"rectanguler box" shaped cot, it will be appreciated that the invention can readily be extended to cots having any number of walls.

Whilst the above-described embodiment is provided with only one selectively lowerable side panel, both side panels could be made to be lowerable.

Indeed, depending on the number of fabric panels employed, any or all of the panels could be made to be lowerable.

Also, although in the presently described embodiment, the panels take the form of distinct flaps which may be releasably secured to one another, it is envisaged that one or more of the panels may be formed integrally in one piece with one another, or be fixedly attached to one another by suitable means, for example sowing.

In any event, it is to be appreciated that although in the presently described embodiment the fabric element 29 includes only two base-passages, which extend along the opposing sides of the central region 30, namely passages 35,36, it is equally envisaged that the fabric element might incorporate two additional, shorter base-passages, which extend along the opposing ends of the cot base (i.e. perpendicular to the passages 35,36 in Figure 5) when the fabric element is secured to the frame. It will readily be appreciated that in such an embodiment, the frame would be modified to incorporate two additional base beams sized to pass through the respective additional base passages, thus adding greater rigidity to the overall cot structure.

As indicated previously, it is envisaged that although the cot of the present invention could be provided substantially fully pre-assembled, it is preferred that the cot of the present invention could be provided as a kit of parts for convenient home assembly. It is also envisaged that additional kits of parts could be provided to enable convenient conversion of the cot of the present invention into a cot bed for use as the child grows.

The frame structure of the cot of the present invention could be provided in any convenient substantially rigid material such as, for example, wood, metals or plastics materials or any convenient combination thereof.

It is also envisaged the mattress of the cot could be received between two layers of fabric, one layer being defined by the central region of the fabric element 29, and the other being stretched between the lower beams of the

frame structure. In this way, the mattress would be received within a defined pocket.

In a yet further embodiment (not illustrated), it is envisaged that the fabric element might be secured to the frame other than by means of the base beams passing through the base passages and top beams passing through the top passages. In particular, it is envisaged that the base passages might be replaced by a series of separate fabric loops for receiving the base beams therethrough. Similarly, the top passages might be replaced by a series of separate loops in like manner.

When used in this specification and claims, the terms "comprises" and "comprising" and variations thereof mean that the specified features, steps or integers are included. The terms are not to be interpreted to exclude the presence of other features, steps or components.

The features disclosed in the foregoing description, or the following claims, or the accompanying drawings, expressed in their specific forms or in terms of a means for performing the disclosed function, or a method or process for attaining the disclosed result, as appropriate, may, separately, or in any combination of such features, be utilised for realising the invention in diverse forms thereof.