AU2021221539A1

AU2021221539A1 - Head stabilisation and relaxation device

Info

Publication number: AU2021221539A1
Application number: AU2021221539A
Authority: AU
Inventors: Mark Stephen LACEY
Original assignee: We Are Three Pty Ltd
Current assignee: We Are Three Pty Ltd
Priority date: 2021-03-30
Filing date: 2021-08-24
Publication date: 2022-10-20
Also published as: AU2022250075A1; WO2022204749A1

Abstract

HEAD STABILISATION AND RELAXATION DEVICE ABSTRACT The present disclosure is directed to a device for limiting movement of a wearer's head. The device comprises a first part adapted to be secured to the wearer's head, wherein the first part includes a first adjustment mechanism for adjusting a fit of the device with respect to the wearer's head, and a second adjustment mechanism for adjusting the fit of the device with respect to the wearer's head. The device further comprises a second part adapted to be secured to the first part, wherein at least a portion of the second part is configured to be relatively fixed in position with respect to a surface to thereby limit movement of the first part and thereby limit movement of the wearer's head. 1/8 lF 30o Figure 1

Description

1/8

lF

o

Figure 1

HEAD STABILISATION AND RELAXATION DEVICE

Field

[0001] The present invention relates to devices configured to limit movement of a wearer's head, particularly for the purpose of enhancing the wearer's comfort when in a seated position, and also for the purpose of maintaining personal space when the user is located adjacent another person. The present invention is particularly useful when the wearer is resting or sleeping in a seated position while commuting, or when at home or at work, for example.

Background

[0002] There are various occasions where it is necessary or convenient for a person to rest, sleep, or maintain personal space while in a seated position, such as when traveling by aeroplane on a long-duration flight, or by train, car, or bus. In such situations, it is common for a person's head to abruptly nod generally forwardly and/or laterally when the person is sleeping, which may awaken the person or at least disrupt the person's sleep and/or unintentionally encroach upon an adjacent person's personal space. In certain circumstances, the abrupt nodding and/or lateral movements of the person's head may result in head and/or neck injuries.

[0003] Various solutions to the above problem have been developed in order to stabilise a person's head while sleeping. For example, the prior art includes neck pillows or neck braces that at least partially conform to a wearer's neck to at least partially stabilise or limit movement of the wearer's head. Such neck pillows and neck braces are however typically uncomfortable to use or do not prevent abrupt forward nodding. Additionally, such neck pillows and neck braces are typically relatively bulky, heavy, and difficult and inconvenient to pack and/or travel with. In an attempt to address the problem of abrupt forward nodding, various other devices have been developed, such as those disclosed in US patent no. 8,820,838, US patent application publication no. 2013/0104274, and UK patent application no. GB 2389509.

[0004] The ability to comfortably stabilise a person's head may also be advantageous for other purposes, such as meditation, reading, relaxation, improved posture, chiropractic applications, healing following head or facial surgery, and/or physical therapy.

[0005] It is an object of the present invention to address one or more shortcomings of the prior art or at least provide a useful alternative.

Summary of Invention

[0006] In a first aspect, the present invention provides a device for limiting movement of a wearer's head, the device comprising: a first part adapted to be secured to the wearer's head, wherein the first part includes a first adjustment mechanism for adjusting a fit of the device with respect to the wearer's head, and a second adjustment mechanism for adjusting the fit of the device with respect to the wearer's head; and a second part adapted to be secured to the first part, wherein at least a portion of the second part is configured to be relatively fixed in position with respect to a surface to thereby limit movement of the first part and thereby limit movement of the wearer's head.

[0007] The at least a portion of the second part is preferably relatively fixed in position with respect to the surface by at least a portion of the weight of the wearer. Preferably, in use, the at least a portion of the second part is disposed between the surface and the wearer and the wearer rests at least partially against the surface. Thus, the at least a portion of the second part is preferably sandwiched between the surface and the wearer to thereby relatively fix the position of the at least a portion of the second part. Accordingly, by relatively fixing the position of the at least a portion of the second part, movement of the first part may be limited when the second part is secured to the first part.

[0008] The first part is adapted to be secured to the wearer's head by preferably at least partially encircling the wearer's head. The second part is also preferably adapted to at least partially encircle the wearer's head. In a preferred embodiment, when the second part is secured to the first part, the first and second parts, in combination, substantially encircle the wearer's head. The second part is preferably releasably securable to the first part to form an assembled configuration of the device.

[0009] The second part is preferably adapted to be secured to the first part by being at least partially received in the first part. In a preferred embodiment, the second part includes an opening to at least partially receive the first part. In a further preferred embodiment, the second part includes a first opening and a second opening, wherein the first and second openings are configured to respectively receive first and second opposite ends of the first part. The first and second openings may be in the form of slits. The first and second ends of the first part may be reinforced. The first and second openings of the second part may also be reinforced.

[0010] The first and/or second parts may include respective means for preventing disconnection of the second part from the first part. In one embodiment, the first and second opposite ends of the first part may be larger in dimension than thefirst and second openings of the second part, such that the first and second ends of the first part are restricted from passing through the respective first and second openings of the second part to thereby prevent disconnection of the second part from the first part.

[0011] In the assembled configuration of the device, the first adjustment mechanism is preferably located at or toward a lateral side of thefirst part. Furthermore, the second adjustment mechanism is preferably located at or toward a front side of the first part.

[0012] The first adjustment mechanism preferably comprises first fasteners respectively located at or near the first and second ends of the first part. The first fasteners are configured to be adjustably releasably fastenable to a fastening portion of the first part. During assembly of the device, the first and second ends of the first part are preferably respectively received in the first and second openings of the second part, and thefirst fasteners are thereafter adjustably releasably fastened to the fastening portion of the first part. When the device is secured to the wearer's head in the assembled configuration, the first fasteners are preferably respectively located adjacent the wearer's ears.

[0013] The first fasteners and the fastening portion may comprise hook and loop fasteners, such as Velcro®. For example, the first fasteners may comprise hooks or loops, and the fastening portion may comprise the other of the hooks or loops such that the first fasteners can be releasably fastened to the fastening portion. The first fasteners and fastening portion may alternatively comprise any other suitable fasteners known to those skilled in the art, including, for example, buttons, buckles, snap fasteners, clips, clamps, magnets, and other hook-to-hook type fasteners.

[0014] The second adjustment mechanism preferably comprises a second fastener respectively located at or near third and fourth ends of the first part. The second fastener is preferably configured to adjustably releasably fasten the third end to the fourth end. When the third end is releasably fastened to the fourth end, the third and fourth ends define at least a portion of a generally curved opening in the first part. When the device is secured to the wearer's head in the assembled configuration, the second fastener is preferably located at or near the wearer's forehead. The second fastener may comprise a hook and loop fastener. The second fastener may alternatively comprise any other suitable fastener known to those skilled in the art, including, for example, buttons, buckles, snap fasteners, clips, clamps, magnets, and other hook-to-hook type fasteners.

[0015] The second part may be generally Y-shaped in overall form. An upper portion of the generally Y-shaped second part preferably includes the first and second openings. The upper portion is preferably arranged at or adjacent a rear of the wearer's neck when in the assembled configuration. When in use, a lower portion of the Y-shaped second part is preferably sandwiched between the surface and the wearer to thereby relatively fix the position of the lower portion of the second part. The lower portion of the second part may be releasably connectable to the upper portion of the second part. Alternatively, the lower portion of the second part may be fixedly secured to the upper portion of the second part. The lower portion may be a tail.

[0016] The second part preferably has a length such that, in use, the lower portion of the second part extends at least partially along or down the wearer's back. More preferably, the second part has a length such that, in use, the lower portion of the second part extends along the wearer's back to be located at least partially under the wearer when the wearer is seated. Preferably, in use, the wearer can adjust a tension applied to the first part by adjusting a position of a free end of the lower portion of the second part while the lower portion is located at least partially under the wearer. Advantageously therefore, by selectively adjusting the tension applied to the first part, a limit of forward and/or lateral movement of the wearer's head can be selectively controlled. In this sense, the device further comprises a third adjustment mechanism, which third adjustment mechanism comprises selectively adjusting the tension applied to the first part by adjusting the position of the free end of the lower portion or tail of the second part.

[0017] The free end of the lower portion of the second part may be weighted. In an embodiment, the free end is weighted by being relatively thicker than a remaining portion of the second part. In a preferred embodiment, the free end is at least approximately twice as thick as the remaining portion of the second part. In an alternative embodiment, the free end may be at least three times or at least four times as thick as the remaining portion of the second part. The free end may be laminated. The free end may comprise a material that is different to a material of the remaining portion of the second part.

[0018] The lower portion of the second part may include visual indicia that, in use, indicates a level of tension applied to the first part by the wearer while the at least a portion of the second part is sandwiched between the surface and the wearer.

[0019] The first and second parts are preferably elongate in overall form. The first and second parts may be flexible, resilient, or pliant such that first and second parts can form-fittingly at least partially encircle the wearer's head. The first and second parts preferably comprise denim. The first and second parts may alternatively comprise other natural or synthetic materials, or a combination of natural and synthetic materials. In one embodiment, the first and second parts comprise leather.

[0020] The device advantageously limits forward and/or lateral movement of the wearer's head when in use, as is desired by the wearer. The device may be used while the wearer is resting and/or asleep and while the wearer is located at home, at work, or when commuting by aeroplane, train, bus, automobile or by any other mode of transportation. When in use, the device advantageously prevents or at least limits injury to the head and/or neck that may be caused by sudden or abrupt movements of the head. The device may also be used for other purposes, such as meditation, reading, relaxation, improved posture, chiropractic applications, healing following head or facial surgery, and/or physical therapy.

[0021] The device may be provided as a kit comprising the first part, the second part, and the tail.

[0022] In a second aspect, the present invention provides a device for limiting movement of a wearer's head, the device comprising: a first part adapted to be secured to the wearer's head; and a second part adapted to be secured to the first part, wherein at least a portion of the second part is configured to be relatively fixed in position with respect to a surface to thereby limit movement of the first part and thereby limit movement of the wearer's head, wherein the second part includes a first portion adapted to extend in use from generally adjacent a rear of the wearer's head or neck to a first side of the wearer's head, and a second portion adapted to extend in use from generally adjacent the rear of the wearer's head or neck to a second side of the wearer's head, wherein the second side is opposite to the first side.

[0023] The second part is preferably generally Y-shaped in overall form.

[0024] The device according to the second aspect of the invention may further include any one or more of the features described above in relation to the device according to the first aspect of the invention.

Brief Description of Drawings

[0025] Figure 1 is a side view of a device according an embodiment of the present invention, wherein the device is located about a wearer's head;

[0026] Figure 2 is a front view of a first part of the device of Figure 1;

[0027] Figure 3 is a rear view of a second part of the device of Figure 1;

[0028] Figure 4A is a side view of a disassembled configuration the device of Figure 1;

[0029] Figure 4B is a side view of a partially assembled configuration of the device of Figure 1;

[0030] Figure 4C is a side view of an assembled configuration of the device of Figure 1;

[0031] Figure 4D is a front view of the assembled configuration of the device of Figure 1;

[0032] Figure 5 is a perspective view of the device of Figure 1 in the assembled configuration about a wearer's head;

[0033] Figure 6 is similar to Figure 5, but is a side view;

[0034] Figure 7 is a side view of the device of Figure 1 in the assembled configuration about a wearer's head, wherein the wearer is located in a seated position upon a seat; and

[0035] Figure 8 is similar to Figure 7.

Description of Embodiments

[0036] Referring to Figure 1, there is a shown a device 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The device 10 is shown in an assembled in-use configuration located upon a wearer's head 12. In the manner described below, the device 10 advantageously limits movement of the wearer's head 12. In particular, the device 10 is configured to limit forward movement of the wearer's head 12, such as abrupt forward nodding which may otherwise occur while the wearer is sleeping in a seated position. To a lesser extent, the device 10 is also configured to limit lateral movement of the wearer's head 12. While the device 10 has particular application when the wearer is resting or sleeping in a seated position, the device 10 may also be used to comfortably stabilise the wearer's head 12 for other purposes, such as for meditation, reading, relaxation, improved posture, chiropractic applications, healing following head or facial surgery, and/or physical therapy. The device 10 advantageously also assists with maintaining the wearer's personal space when the wearer is located adjacent another person. Moreover, compared to prior art neck pillows and neck braces, the device 10 is relatively compact, lightweight, and easy to pack and travel with. The device 10 may be marketed and sold under the brand name Kyte@.

[0037] The device 10 includes a first part 14 and a separate second part 16 that is releasably securable to the first part 14 to form the assembled configuration of the device 10. When assembled, the first and second parts 14, 16, in combination, substantially encircle the wearer's head 12, as is shown in Figure 1. As is described in detail below, a portion of the second part 16 is configured to be relatively fixed in position with respect to a surface to thereby limit movement of the connected first part 14, which thereby limits movement of the wearer's head 12. The device 10 is preferably provided or sold in the assembled configuration, such that it ready to use without having to connect the first and second parts 14, 16 together. In a non illustrated embodiment, the first and/or second parts 14, 16 may include respective means for preventing disconnection of the second part 14 from the first part 14.

[0038] The first and second parts 14, 16 comprise denim. However, it will be appreciated by a person skilled in the art that the first and second parts 14, 16 could comprise an alternative flexible, or resilient, or pliant material such that the first and second parts 14, 16 can form fittingly at least partially encircle the wearer's head 12.

[0039] Referring to Figure 2, it can be seen that the first part 14 of the device 10 is generally elongate in overall form and includes a generally oval-shaped central portion 20 defined between first and second elongate opposite ends 22, 24. Each of the elongate ends 22, 24 are generally rectangular in cross-section and include a curved outer end having a generally semi circular cross-section. Each of the first and second ends 22, 24 further includes generally parallel upper and lower edges that extend slightly beyond upper and lower edges 26, 28 of the first part 14. The upper and lower edges 26, 28 of the first part 14 are generally parallel to one another toward the first and second ends 22, 24, and diverge generally outwardly toward the central portion 20 to thereby define the generally oval-shaped form of the central portion 20. As is shown in Figure 2, the lower edge 28 diverges relatively outwardly from the first and second ends 22, 24 to a greater extent than the upper edge 26.

[0040] The first part 14 further comprises third and fourth ends 30, 32 defined at least partially by the lower edge 28 and the central portion 20. The third and fourth ends 30, 32 are generally rectangular in cross-section. When releasably fastened to one another, the third and fourth ends , 32 define a generally oval-shaped opening 34 in the central portion 20.

[0041] The first part 14 further comprises a first adjustment mechanism in the form of a pair of first fasteners 36, 38 respectively located at the first and second ends 22, 24 of the first part 14 on a front face 40 thereof. The first fasteners 36, 38 are generally rectangular in cross-section. In the manner described below, the first fasteners 36, 38 are configured to be adjustably releasably fastenable to a fastening portion 42 of the first part 14. As is shown in Figure 2, the fastening portion 42 comprises a generally rectangular fastening surface extending generally in a longitudinal direction across the central portion 20 on the front face 40 of the first part 14 generally adjacent the upper edge 26. The fastening portion 42 is spaced apart from the first and second ends 22, 24 and has a longitudinal extent that is between approximately 40% to 80% of a length of the first part 14 between the first and second ends 22, 24.

[0042] The first fasteners 36, 38 and the fastening portion 42 comprise hook and loop fasteners, such as Velcro®. In particular, the first fasteners 36, 38 comprise hooks and the fastening portion 42 comprises loops, such that the first fasteners 36, 38 can be releasably fastened to the fastening portion 42.

[0043] The first part 14 further comprises a second adjustment mechanism in the form of a second fastener 44 located at the third and fourth ends 30, 32. The second fastener 44 comprises a hook and loop fastener, such as Velcro®. In particular, the second fastener 44 comprises a hook fastener 46 located on a rear face of the first part 14 at the third end 30 thereof, and further comprises a loop fastener 50 on the front face 40 of the first part 14 at the fourth end 32 thereof. The hook and loop fasteners 46, 50 are configured to be releasably fastened to one another to thereby adjustably releasably fasten the third end 30 to the fourth end 32. As can be seen in Figure 2, the hook and loop fasteners 46, 50 are generally rectangular in cross-section and are of complementary dimensions.

[0044] As is shown in Figures 1, 5, and 6, when the device 10 is secured to the wearer's head 12 in the assembled configuration, the first and second ends 22, 24 and respective first fasteners 36, 38 are located generally adjacent the wearer's ears (only the second end 24 is visible in these figures). Additionally, the third and fourth ends 30, 32 and respective second fastener 44 is located at or near the wearer's forehead. As will be appreciated, the first and second adjustment mechanisms 36, 38 and 44 are each configured to adjust the fit of the device 10 with respect to the wearer's head 12 so as to ensure a comfortable fit according to the wearer's preference. Advantageously, by including the first and second adjustment mechanisms 36, 38 and 44 at three separate locations on the device 10, the device 10 is readily adjustable to fit a variety of different wearers having differing head shapes, sizes, and comfort level preferences.

[0045] Referring to Figure 3, the second part 16 of the device 10 is generally Y-shaped in overall form and includes an upper portion 60 having outwardly diverging upper ends 62, 64 and a lower portion 66 having a lower end 68. Each of the upper ends 62, 64 and the lower end 68 have generally rectangular cross-sections. As is shown in Figure 1, when the device 10 is secured to the wearer's head 12 in the assembled configuration, the upper portion 60 of the second part 16 is arranged at or adjacent a rear of the wearer's neck. As is described in detail below, when in use, at least a part of the lower portion 66 of the second part 16 is sandwiched between a surface and the wearer to thereby relatively fix the position of the sandwiched at least a part of the lower portion 66.

[0046] Referring to Figure 3, the second part 16 further comprises openings in the form of generally rectangular slits 70, 72 respectively located adjacent the upper ends 62, 64 of the second part 16 and extending through the second part 16. In the manner described below, the slits 70, 72 are configured to respectively receive the first and second ends 22, 24 of the first part 14 to thereby releasably secure the second part 16 to the first part 14 via the first fasteners 36,38.

[0047] The lower portion 66 of the second part 16 is in the form of a tail 74 having a generally rectangular cross-section of constant width. The tail 74 is joined to the upper portion 60 by being sewn or glued thereto at or adjacent a lower end 76 of the upper portion. In an alternative non-illustrated embodiment, the tail 74 may be releasably connected to the upper portion 60. As will be appreciated, by including a releasably connectable tail 74, a length of the lower portion 66 of the second part can be adjusted according to the requirements of the wearer. For example, a relatively taller wearer may desire or require a relatively longer tail as compared to a relatively shorter wearer. In either embodiment, the tail 74 is preferably configured to have a length such that, in use, the tail 74 extends at least partially along the wearer's back. More preferably, the tail 74 has a length such that, in use, at least a portion of the tail 74 extends along the wearer's back to be located at least partially under the wearer while the wearer is seated (see Figure 7 for example).

[0048] The tail 74 includes visual indicia in the form of a plurality of transverse marks 78 spaced apart along a length of the tail 74. In the manner described below, when the device 10 is in use, the transverse marks 78 indicate a level of tension applied to the connected first part 14 by the wearer while the at least a part of the lower portion 66 of the second part 16 is sandwiched between the surface and the wearer.

[0049] The tail 74 is weighted at its lower end 68 by being relatively thicker at its lower end 68 as compared to a remaining portion of the tail 74. In particular, the lower end 68 is at least twice as thick as the remaining portion of the tail 74. Advantageously therefore, the lower end 68 of the tail 74 may be relatively easily gripped and manipulated by the wearer to selectively adjust and control the tension applied to the first part 14. The relatively thicker lower end 68 of the tail 74 may extend approximately 2.5 cm along the tail 74.

[0050] The manner in which the device 10 may be assembled and used will now be described with reference to the remaining figures.

[0051] Referring initially to Figures 4A to 4D, the manner in which the first and second parts 14, 16 are releasably secured to one another is illustrated. As can be seen in these figures, the second part 16 is adapted to be secured to the first part 14 by at least partially receiving the first part.

[0052] Figure 4A illustrates a disassembled configuration of the device 10 in which the first and second parts 14, 16 are separate and unconnected. Figure 4B illustrates a partially assembled configuration of the device 10 in which the first part 14 is partially received with in the second part 16. In particular, the first and second ends 22, 24 of the first part 14 are respectively inserted into and received within the slits 70, 72 of the second part 14. After inserting the first and second ends 22, 24 into the respective slits 70, 72, the first and second ends 22, 24 can be folded in a direction relatively toward the first part 14 such that the first fasteners 36, 38 can be releasably adjustably fastened to the fastening portion 42 of the first part 14, as is illustrated in Figure 4C.

[0053] Once the device 10 is in the assembled configuration (Figure 4C), the device 10 can be placed generally about the wearer's head 12 so that the device 10 can be releasably secured to the wearer's head 12. Once the device 10 is about the wearer's head 12, the wearer can selectively adjust the first and second adjustment mechanisms to adjust the fit of the device 10 with respect to the wearer's head 12 to ensure a comfortable fit according to the wearer's preference. For example, the wearer can adjust the position of the first fasteners 36, 38 with respect to the fastening portion 42 by moving the first and second ends 22, 24 of the first part 14 in the direction of the arrows illustrated in Figure 1. As will be appreciated, this movement of the first and second ends 22, 24 relative to the fastening portion 42 selectively adjusts a circumference of the device 10 to thereby allow the wearer to achieve a comfortable fit. Additionally, the wearer can further selectively adjust the fit of the device 10 by adjusting a degree of overlap between the third and fourth ends 30, 32 near the wearer's forehead by adjusting the relative positions of the third and fourth ends 30, 32 and the respective second fastener 44, as indicated by the arrows in Figure 4D. Figures 5 and 6 show additional views of the device 10 secured about the wearer's head in a snug and form-fitting manner.

[0054] Although it is generally preferred that the device 10 be firstly assembled in the manner described above before placing the device 10 about the wearer's head and adjusting the fit of the device 10 by adjusting the first and second adjustment mechanisms, it will be appreciated that the device 10 may also be assembled by placing the first and second parts 14, 16 relatively about the wearer's head 12, and thereafter releasably securing the second part 16 to the first part 14 by inserting the first and second ends 22, 24 within the respective slits 70, 72.

[0055] After the device 10 has been secured about the wearer's head 12, the device 10 can thereafter be used by relatively securing at least a portion of the tail 74 relative to a surface, as is described below.

[0056] Referring now to Figure 7, it can be seen at the wearer is located in a seated position upon a seat 80. The seat 80 includes a generally vertical backrest portion 82 and a generally horizontal seat portion 84. As is shown in Figure 7, the backrest portion 82 and seat portion 84 provide surfaces against which portions of the tail 74 of the second part 16 may be relatively fixed in position by the weight of the wearer. In particular, portions of the tail 74 are relatively fixed in position with respect to the backrest and/or seat portions 82, 84 by being sandwiched between the wearer and the backrest and/or seat portions 82, 84, and the weight of the wearer pinches the tail 74 against the seat. As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, by relatively fixing at least a portion of the tail 74 with respect to the seat 80, movement of the connected upper portion 60 of the second part 16 is limited, which in turn limits movement of the connected first part 14 and the wearer's head 12.

[0057] Advantageously, as is described above, the wearer can selectively adjust the tension applied to the connected first part 14 and thus the range of forward movement of the wearer's head 12 by adjusting a starting position of the wearer's head 12 and a position of the lower free end 68 of the tail 74. As is shown in Figure 7, the wearer has pitched their head 12 relatively rearwardly in the direction of the arrow such that the wearer's head 12 is located against a headrest portion 86 of the seat 80. Additionally, the wearer has positioned the tail 74 such that the lower free end 68 thereof is located approximately between the wearer's legs. In this position, the lower free end 68 can be easily grasped and manipulated by the wearer's hands. The wearer can adjust the position of the free end 68 of the tail 74 as indicated by the arrow in Figure 7 to selectively increase or decrease the tension applied to the connected first part 14. As will be appreciated, the tension applied to the connected first part 14 will be increased by locating the free end 68 of the tail 74 relatively further away from the backrest and/or seat portions 82, 84 of the seat 80. As is described above, the tail 74 includes visual indicia in the form of the plurality of transverse marks 78 (Figure 3) spaced apart along the length of the tail 74. The wearer can align any one or more of the plurality of transverse marks 78 relative to a fixed measurement point, such as a forward end of the seat portion 84, to reproducibly adjust the tension of the device 10. In this sense, the device 10 further comprises a third adjustment mechanism, which third adjustment mechanism comprises selectively adjusting the tension applied to the first part 14 by adjusting the position of the free end 68 of the tail 74.

[0058] Once the wearer has adjusted the tension of the device 10 to suit their own comfort level and their desired range of movement of their head, the wearer can relax and allow at least a portion of their own body weight to relatively fix at least a portion of the tail 74 in position against the backrest and/or seat portions 82, 84. As is described above, once at least a portion of the tail 74 is relatively fixed in position with respect to the backrest and/or seat portions 82, 84, forward and/or lateral movement of the connected first part 14 and thus the wearer's head 12 will be limited or restricted.

[0059] Referring now to Figure 8, the wearer is shown sleeping while in a seated position upon the seat 80. As will be appreciated, the wearer is relaxed when sleeping such that their head 12 has pitched relatively forwardly in the direction of the arrow to be located comfortably remote from the headrest 86. As is shown in this figure, the wearer's head 12 has a limited range of at least forward movement due to the tension applied to the first part 14 by the wearer's own body weight resting against and relatively fixing in position at least a portion of the connected tail 74. Advantageously, in this manner, the device 10 prevents at least abrupt forward nodding which may otherwise occur while the wearer is asleep and not wearing the device 10.

[0060] As is described above, while the device 10 has particular application when the wearer is resting or sleeping in a seated position as is shown in Figure 8, the device 10 may also be used to comfortably stabilise the wearer's head 12 for other purposes, such as for meditation, reading, relaxation, improved posture, chiropractic applications, healing following head or facial surgery, and/or physical therapy. Moreover, the device 10 is advantageously suitable for a variety of different wearers having differing head shapes and sizes at least due to the selectively adjustable first and second adjustment mechanisms which are respectively located near the wearer's ears and forehead when in use.

Claims

1. A device for limiting movement of a wearer's head, the device comprising: a first part adapted to be secured to the wearer's head, wherein the first part includes a first adjustment mechanism for adjusting a fit of the device with respect to the wearer's head, and a second adjustment mechanism for adjusting the fit of the device with respect to the wearer's head; and a second part adapted to be secured to the first part, wherein at least a portion of the second part is configured to be relatively fixed in position with respect to a surface to thereby limit movement of the first part and thereby limit movement of the wearer's head.

2. The device of claim 1, wherein, when in use, the at least a portion of the second part is relatively fixed in position with respect to the surface by at least a portion of the weight of the wearer.

3. The device of claim 1 or 2, wherein, when in use, the at least a portion of the second part is configured to be sandwiched between the surface and the wearer to thereby relatively fix the position of the at least a portion of the second part with respect to the surface.

4. The device of any one of the preceding claims, wherein, when the second part is secured to the first part, the first and second parts, in combination, substantially encircle the wearer's head.

5. The device of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the second part is adapted to be secured to the first part by being at least partially received in the first part.

6. The device of claim 5, wherein the second part includes an opening to at least partially receive the first part.

7. The device of claim 6, wherein the second part includes a first opening and a second opening, and wherein the first and second openings are configured to respectively receive first and second opposite ends of the first part.

8. The device of claim 7, wherein the first and second openings are first and second slits, respectively.

9. The device of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first and/or second parts include respective means for preventing disconnection of the second part from the first part.

10. The device of any one of the preceding claims, wherein, when the second part is secured to the first part, the first adjustment mechanism is located at or toward a lateral side of the first part which, when in use, corresponds to a lateral side of the wearer's head, and wherein the second adjustment mechanism is located at or toward a front side of the first part which, when in use, corresponds to a front side or forehead of the wearer's head.

11. The device of any one of claims 7 to 10 when dependent on claim 7, wherein the first adjustment mechanism comprises a first fastener configured to be adjustably releasably fastened to a fastening portion of the first part.

12. The device of claim 11, wherein the first adjustment mechanism comprises a pair of first fasteners, each fastener of the pair of first fasteners being located at or near a respective one of the first and second ends of the first part.

13. The device of claim 11 or 12, wherein the second adjustment mechanism comprises a second fastener configured to adjustably releasably fasten a third end of the first part to a fourth end of the first part.

14. The device of any one of claims 7 to 13 when dependent on claim 7, wherein the second part is generally Y-shaped in overall form, and wherein an upper portion of the Y-shaped second part includes the first and second openings, and wherein a lower portion of the Y-shaped second part comprises a tail.

15. The device of claim 14, wherein, when in use, a portion of the tail is configured to be sandwiched between the surface and the wearer to thereby relatively fix the position of the portion of the tail with respect to the surface.

16. The device of claim 14 or 15, wherein the tail has a length such that, in use, the tail extends along the wearer's back to be located at least partially under the wearer when the wearer is seated.

17. The device of claim 16, wherein, when in use, a position of a free end of the tail can be selectively adjusted by the wearer when the tail is located at least partially under the wearer while the wearer is seated in order to thereby selectively adjust a tension applied to the first part.

18. The device of claim 17, wherein the tail includes visual indicia that, when in use, indicates a level of tension applied to the first part by the wearer while the tail is sandwiched between the surface and the wearer.

19. A device for limiting movement of a wearer's head, the device comprising: a first part adapted to be secured to the wearer's head; and a second part adapted to be secured to the first part, wherein at least a portion of the second part is configured to be relatively fixed in position with respect to a surface to thereby limit movement of the first part and thereby limit movement of the wearer's head, wherein the second part includes a first portion adapted to extend in use from generally adjacent a rear of the wearer's head or neck to a first side of the wearer's head, and a second portion adapted to extend in use from generally adjacent the rear of the wearer's head or neck to a second side of the wearer's head, wherein the second side is opposite to the first side.

20. The device of claim 19, wherein the first part includes a first adjustment mechanism for adjusting a fit of the device with respect to the wearer's head, and a second adjustment mechanism for adjusting the fit of the device with respect to the wearer's head.

21. The device of claim 19 or 20, wherein, when in use, the at least a portion of the second part is configured to be sandwiched between the surface and the wearer to thereby relatively fix the position of the at least a portion of the second part with respect to the surface.

22. The device of any one of claims 19 to 21, wherein the second part includes afirst opening and a second opening, and wherein the first and second openings are configured to respectively receive first and second opposite ends of the first part.

23. The device of any one of claims 19 to 22, wherein the first and/or second parts include respective means for preventing disconnection of the second part from the first part.

24. The device of claim 22 or 23 when dependent on claim 22, wherein the second part is generally Y-shaped in overall form, and wherein an upper portion of the Y-shaped second part includes the first and second openings, and wherein a lower portion of the Y-shaped second part comprises a tail.

25. The device of claim 24, wherein, when in use, a position of a free end of the tail can be selectively adjusted by the wearer when the tail is located at least partially under the wearer while the wearer is seated in order to thereby selectively adjust a tension applied to the first part.

We Are Three Pty Ltd Patent Attorneys for the Applicant/Nominated Person SPRUSON & FERGUSON