EP4166126A1 - Hammock - Google Patents
Hammock Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- EP4166126A1 EP4166126A1 EP22200252.9A EP22200252A EP4166126A1 EP 4166126 A1 EP4166126 A1 EP 4166126A1 EP 22200252 A EP22200252 A EP 22200252A EP 4166126 A1 EP4166126 A1 EP 4166126A1
- Authority
- EP
- European Patent Office
- Prior art keywords
- hammock
- support members
- support
- enclosure
- suspension
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Pending
Links
- 239000000725 suspension Substances 0.000 claims description 30
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 claims description 16
- 230000033001 locomotion Effects 0.000 claims description 15
- XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N water Substances O XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 claims description 7
- 239000004753 textile Substances 0.000 claims description 6
- 239000010410 layer Substances 0.000 description 18
- 239000004744 fabric Substances 0.000 description 5
- 230000000638 stimulation Effects 0.000 description 5
- 230000001720 vestibular Effects 0.000 description 5
- 239000000126 substance Substances 0.000 description 4
- 230000008901 benefit Effects 0.000 description 3
- 229920000642 polymer Polymers 0.000 description 3
- 230000000272 proprioceptive effect Effects 0.000 description 3
- 230000001953 sensory effect Effects 0.000 description 3
- 238000004026 adhesive bonding Methods 0.000 description 2
- 230000036770 blood supply Effects 0.000 description 2
- 230000006835 compression Effects 0.000 description 2
- 238000007906 compression Methods 0.000 description 2
- 238000010276 construction Methods 0.000 description 2
- 239000002184 metal Substances 0.000 description 2
- 238000007493 shaping process Methods 0.000 description 2
- 210000004243 sweat Anatomy 0.000 description 2
- 208000019901 Anxiety disease Diseases 0.000 description 1
- 241001474374 Blennius Species 0.000 description 1
- 244000025254 Cannabis sativa Species 0.000 description 1
- 235000012766 Cannabis sativa ssp. sativa var. sativa Nutrition 0.000 description 1
- 235000012765 Cannabis sativa ssp. sativa var. spontanea Nutrition 0.000 description 1
- OKTJSMMVPCPJKN-UHFFFAOYSA-N Carbon Chemical compound [C] OKTJSMMVPCPJKN-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 229920000742 Cotton Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 241000219146 Gossypium Species 0.000 description 1
- 241000208202 Linaceae Species 0.000 description 1
- 235000004431 Linum usitatissimum Nutrition 0.000 description 1
- 230000036506 anxiety Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000011324 bead Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000009286 beneficial effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 235000009120 camo Nutrition 0.000 description 1
- 235000005607 chanvre indien Nutrition 0.000 description 1
- 239000004927 clay Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000009945 crocheting Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000001419 dependent effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 229920001821 foam rubber Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 230000005484 gravity Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000011487 hemp Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000003155 kinesthetic effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000009940 knitting Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000010985 leather Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000002649 leather substitute Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000004519 manufacturing process Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000012856 packing Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000011049 pearl Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000000284 resting effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000004576 sand Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000015541 sensory perception of touch Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000009958 sewing Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000004936 stimulating effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000003860 storage Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000002344 surface layer Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000002982 water resistant material Substances 0.000 description 1
Images
Classifications
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61H—PHYSICAL THERAPY APPARATUS, e.g. DEVICES FOR LOCATING OR STIMULATING REFLEX POINTS IN THE BODY; ARTIFICIAL RESPIRATION; MASSAGE; BATHING DEVICES FOR SPECIAL THERAPEUTIC OR HYGIENIC PURPOSES OR SPECIFIC PARTS OF THE BODY
- A61H15/00—Massage by means of rollers, balls, e.g. inflatable, chains, or roller chains
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A45—HAND OR TRAVELLING ARTICLES
- A45F—TRAVELLING OR CAMP EQUIPMENT: SACKS OR PACKS CARRIED ON THE BODY
- A45F3/00—Travelling or camp articles; Sacks or packs carried on the body
- A45F3/22—Hammocks; Hammock spreaders
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61H—PHYSICAL THERAPY APPARATUS, e.g. DEVICES FOR LOCATING OR STIMULATING REFLEX POINTS IN THE BODY; ARTIFICIAL RESPIRATION; MASSAGE; BATHING DEVICES FOR SPECIAL THERAPEUTIC OR HYGIENIC PURPOSES OR SPECIFIC PARTS OF THE BODY
- A61H15/00—Massage by means of rollers, balls, e.g. inflatable, chains, or roller chains
- A61H2015/0007—Massage by means of rollers, balls, e.g. inflatable, chains, or roller chains with balls or rollers rotating about their own axis
- A61H2015/0042—Balls or spheres
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61H—PHYSICAL THERAPY APPARATUS, e.g. DEVICES FOR LOCATING OR STIMULATING REFLEX POINTS IN THE BODY; ARTIFICIAL RESPIRATION; MASSAGE; BATHING DEVICES FOR SPECIAL THERAPEUTIC OR HYGIENIC PURPOSES OR SPECIFIC PARTS OF THE BODY
- A61H15/00—Massage by means of rollers, balls, e.g. inflatable, chains, or roller chains
- A61H2015/0064—Massage by means of rollers, balls, e.g. inflatable, chains, or roller chains with freely rotating spheres
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61H—PHYSICAL THERAPY APPARATUS, e.g. DEVICES FOR LOCATING OR STIMULATING REFLEX POINTS IN THE BODY; ARTIFICIAL RESPIRATION; MASSAGE; BATHING DEVICES FOR SPECIAL THERAPEUTIC OR HYGIENIC PURPOSES OR SPECIFIC PARTS OF THE BODY
- A61H2201/00—Characteristics of apparatus not provided for in the preceding codes
- A61H2201/01—Constructive details
- A61H2201/0103—Constructive details inflatable
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61H—PHYSICAL THERAPY APPARATUS, e.g. DEVICES FOR LOCATING OR STIMULATING REFLEX POINTS IN THE BODY; ARTIFICIAL RESPIRATION; MASSAGE; BATHING DEVICES FOR SPECIAL THERAPEUTIC OR HYGIENIC PURPOSES OR SPECIFIC PARTS OF THE BODY
- A61H2201/00—Characteristics of apparatus not provided for in the preceding codes
- A61H2201/01—Constructive details
- A61H2201/0107—Constructive details modular
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61H—PHYSICAL THERAPY APPARATUS, e.g. DEVICES FOR LOCATING OR STIMULATING REFLEX POINTS IN THE BODY; ARTIFICIAL RESPIRATION; MASSAGE; BATHING DEVICES FOR SPECIAL THERAPEUTIC OR HYGIENIC PURPOSES OR SPECIFIC PARTS OF THE BODY
- A61H2201/00—Characteristics of apparatus not provided for in the preceding codes
- A61H2201/01—Constructive details
- A61H2201/0119—Support for the device
- A61H2201/0138—Support for the device incorporated in furniture
- A61H2201/0142—Beds
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61H—PHYSICAL THERAPY APPARATUS, e.g. DEVICES FOR LOCATING OR STIMULATING REFLEX POINTS IN THE BODY; ARTIFICIAL RESPIRATION; MASSAGE; BATHING DEVICES FOR SPECIAL THERAPEUTIC OR HYGIENIC PURPOSES OR SPECIFIC PARTS OF THE BODY
- A61H2201/00—Characteristics of apparatus not provided for in the preceding codes
- A61H2201/01—Constructive details
- A61H2201/0119—Support for the device
- A61H2201/0138—Support for the device incorporated in furniture
- A61H2201/0142—Beds
- A61H2201/0146—Mattresses
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61H—PHYSICAL THERAPY APPARATUS, e.g. DEVICES FOR LOCATING OR STIMULATING REFLEX POINTS IN THE BODY; ARTIFICIAL RESPIRATION; MASSAGE; BATHING DEVICES FOR SPECIAL THERAPEUTIC OR HYGIENIC PURPOSES OR SPECIFIC PARTS OF THE BODY
- A61H2201/00—Characteristics of apparatus not provided for in the preceding codes
- A61H2201/01—Constructive details
- A61H2201/0157—Constructive details portable
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61H—PHYSICAL THERAPY APPARATUS, e.g. DEVICES FOR LOCATING OR STIMULATING REFLEX POINTS IN THE BODY; ARTIFICIAL RESPIRATION; MASSAGE; BATHING DEVICES FOR SPECIAL THERAPEUTIC OR HYGIENIC PURPOSES OR SPECIFIC PARTS OF THE BODY
- A61H2201/00—Characteristics of apparatus not provided for in the preceding codes
- A61H2201/12—Driving means
- A61H2201/1253—Driving means driven by a human being, e.g. hand driven
- A61H2201/1261—Driving means driven by a human being, e.g. hand driven combined with active exercising of the patient
- A61H2201/1284—Driving means driven by a human being, e.g. hand driven combined with active exercising of the patient using own weight
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61H—PHYSICAL THERAPY APPARATUS, e.g. DEVICES FOR LOCATING OR STIMULATING REFLEX POINTS IN THE BODY; ARTIFICIAL RESPIRATION; MASSAGE; BATHING DEVICES FOR SPECIAL THERAPEUTIC OR HYGIENIC PURPOSES OR SPECIFIC PARTS OF THE BODY
- A61H2201/00—Characteristics of apparatus not provided for in the preceding codes
- A61H2201/16—Physical interface with patient
- A61H2201/1602—Physical interface with patient kind of interface, e.g. head rest, knee support or lumbar support
- A61H2201/1623—Back
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61H—PHYSICAL THERAPY APPARATUS, e.g. DEVICES FOR LOCATING OR STIMULATING REFLEX POINTS IN THE BODY; ARTIFICIAL RESPIRATION; MASSAGE; BATHING DEVICES FOR SPECIAL THERAPEUTIC OR HYGIENIC PURPOSES OR SPECIFIC PARTS OF THE BODY
- A61H2203/00—Additional characteristics concerning the patient
- A61H2203/04—Position of the patient
- A61H2203/0443—Position of the patient substantially horizontal
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61H—PHYSICAL THERAPY APPARATUS, e.g. DEVICES FOR LOCATING OR STIMULATING REFLEX POINTS IN THE BODY; ARTIFICIAL RESPIRATION; MASSAGE; BATHING DEVICES FOR SPECIAL THERAPEUTIC OR HYGIENIC PURPOSES OR SPECIFIC PARTS OF THE BODY
- A61H2203/00—Additional characteristics concerning the patient
- A61H2203/04—Position of the patient
- A61H2203/0443—Position of the patient substantially horizontal
- A61H2203/0456—Supine
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61H—PHYSICAL THERAPY APPARATUS, e.g. DEVICES FOR LOCATING OR STIMULATING REFLEX POINTS IN THE BODY; ARTIFICIAL RESPIRATION; MASSAGE; BATHING DEVICES FOR SPECIAL THERAPEUTIC OR HYGIENIC PURPOSES OR SPECIFIC PARTS OF THE BODY
- A61H2203/00—Additional characteristics concerning the patient
- A61H2203/04—Position of the patient
- A61H2203/0481—Hanging
Definitions
- the present invention relates to a hammock which comprises an array of support members.
- the invention also relates to the use of such hammock.
- stimulating the kinesthetic sense by for instance using body supporting structures such as blankets may provide benefits for the user such as providing ease of anxiety. Usages of such supporting structures may, however, leave a body part which rests thereon suffering from reduced blood supply.
- the hammock according to the invention is a hammock comprising an upper layer and a lower layer, wherein the upper and lower layer are connected in such a manner that they form a plurality of enclosures, wherein each enclosure comprises a plurality of support members, wherein the plurality of support members are arranged and configured to freely move within the enclosures, wherein the support members are configured to act as pressure points when a user is sitting or lying on the hammock.
- enclosure By the term enclosure is meant a structure, wherein the inside of the structure is fully isolated. Hereby, it is ensured that the support members that are comprised in the enclosure cannot move outside their respective enclosure.
- freely move is meant that the support members can be moved in all non-restricted directions, e.g. if the enclosure is narrow or there is a large amount of support members within an enclosure, the support member cannot move freely in all or any directions.
- the hammock comprises four or more enclosures.
- the hammock comprises five or more enclosures.
- the hammock comprises six or more enclosures.
- the hammock comprises eight or more enclosures.
- the hammock comprises ten or more enclosures.
- the hammock comprises fifteen or more enclosures.
- the hammock comprises twenty or more enclosures.
- each enclosure is formed as a tubular structure.
- each enclosure is formed as a tubular structure having a uniform cross-sectional area.
- each enclosure is cylindrical.
- each enclosure is formed to fit the geometry of the "support members”.
- the support members will provide a pressure towards the user positioned in the hammock.
- a user using the hammock is both stimulated by the individual body support members and at the same time receives stimuli of his or her vestibular senses.
- vestibular, proprioceptive and kinaesthetic sensory systems are activated at the same time, and at a time where the user is allowed to relax.
- the invention allows for easy control of these factors by having enclosures such that support members of a specific hardness and size can be chosen and thereby the hammock can be quickly constructed for a variety of different users.
- the support members are rigid in such a manner that under intended loading they will not be compressed to more than half of their diameter in a non-compressed configuration/state.
- the upper and lower parts are connected by stitches.
- the upper and lower parts are connected by gluing.
- the upper and lower parts are connected by rivets.
- connection comprises gluing
- connection comprises rivets.
- the body support element comprises two or more points of suspension adapted to suspend the support element.
- the at least one layer comprises singular support members that are confined in groups of one, two or more support members within an enclosure.
- the at least one layer comprises support members that are confined in groups of one, two or more support members within a tubular flexible enclosure.
- the support members cover an area equal to or less than 90%of the area of their enclosure.
- the support members cover an area equal to or less than 80% of the area of their enclosure.
- the support members cover an area equal to or less than 70% of the area of their enclosure.
- the support members cover an area equal to or less than 60% of the area of their enclosure.
- the support members cover an area equal to or less than 50% of the area of their enclosure.
- the support members cover an area equal to or less than 40% of the area of their enclosure.
- the support members cover an area equal to or less than 30% of the area of their enclosure.
- the support members cover an area equal to or less than 20% of the area of their enclosure.
- the support members cover an area equal to or less than 10% of the area of their enclosure.
- the support members make up (or amount to) a volume equal to or less than 90% of the volume of their enclosure.
- the support members make up (or amount to) a volume equal to or less than 80% of the volume of their enclosure.
- the support members make up (or amount to) a volume equal to or less than 70% of the volume of their enclosure.
- the support members make up (or amount to) a volume equal to or less than 60% of the volume of their enclosure.
- the support members make up (or amount to) a volume equal to or less than 50% of the volume of their enclosure.
- the support members make up (or amount to) a volume equal to or less than 40% of the volume of their enclosure.
- the support members make up (or amount to) a volume equal to or less than 30% of the volume of their enclosure.
- the support members are integrated in or attached to a textile.
- the textile is a woven or braided sheet-formed element.
- the textile is provided from flexible threads or filaments.
- the hammock comprises one or more points of suspension.
- the one or more points of suspension are formed by a suspension structure in the form of a hook.
- the one or more points of suspension are formed by a suspension structure in the form of an attachment eye.
- the one or more points of suspension are formed by a suspension structure in the form of a string.
- the one or more points of suspension are formed by a suspension structure in the form of a wire.
- the hammock is shaped as a rectangle.
- the hammock is shaped as a rounded rectangle.
- the hammock is shaped as an oval structure.
- the hammock comprises points of suspension provided in opposing ends of the body support element.
- the hammock is circular.
- the hammock is shaped as a rectangle, a rounded rectangle, wherein the points of suspension are provided in each corner of the hammock.
- the singular support members are shaped with smooth surfaces.
- the singular support members are shaped with rounded surfaces.
- the singular support members are equally sized.
- the standard deviation of the size (e.g. the diameter or length) of the singular support members is smaller than a predefined percentage of the mean size.
- the standard deviation of the size (e.g. the diameter or length) of the singular support members is smaller than half the mean size of the singular support members.
- the standard deviation of the size (e.g. the diameter or length) of the singular support members is smaller than a third of the mean size of the singular support members.
- the standard deviation of the size (e.g. the diameter or length) of the singular support members is smaller than a quarter of the mean size of the singular support members.
- the support members have spherical surfaces.
- the support members are made in a material that does not absorb moist or water.
- the support members are made in a material provided with holes allowing water to pass through the singular support members.
- the support members are made in a water-resistant material.
- the support members are made from an organic substance.
- the support members are made from metal.
- the support members are made from polymer.
- the support members are made from a rubbery material.
- the support members are made from or made from combinations of any of the following: an organic substance, metal, polymer or a rubbery material.
- the hammock comprises a fastening means.
- the hammock comprises a fastening means formed as a zip fastener.
- the hammock comprises a fastening means formed as one half of a zip fastener.
- the hammock comprises a fastening means formed as a number of buttons.
- the hammock comprises a central portion and two lateral portions, wherein support members are only provided in the central portion, wherein the points of suspension adapted to suspend the support element are provided in the lateral portions.
- the lateral portions are detachably attached to the central portion.
- the lateral portions are permanently attached to the central portion.
- the lateral portions are stitched onto the central portion.
- the hammock is suspended in a way which allows at least a pendulum like swinging motion of the hammock.
- it is possible to stimulate the vestibular sense and the tactile sense.
- the support members are arranged in at least one layer and are arranged in a way which allows the singular support members a degree of movement with respect to each other within the at least one layer and a degree of movement transversely to a layer plane.
- the layer comprises a double array or at least locally a two-dimensional array of support members, which are interconnected in a way which allows some degree of movement between individual support members.
- a user of the support element may simultaneously be stimulated by the impact of the singular support members on the supported body part, and by adding motion to the suspended part receive stimulation of the vestibula sense.
- vestibular, proprioceptive and kinaesthetic sensory systems are activated at the same time, and at a time where the user is allowed to relax.
- the support members are allowed to move in some measure with respect to each other. Accordingly, the body support element may be formed to fit the body part which it supports. This means that the body support element adapts to the shape of the body part placed in it. At the same time, a multitude of the support elements cooperate in supporting the body part.
- a two-dimensional array of singular support members is arranged in the support element to form the at least one layer. Only when resting on a flat surface, the two-dimensional array shall be truly two-dimensional, but as soon as it is suspended and carries the weight of a body, or body part, it shall, due to the movability between individual support members resume a three-dimensional shape which in some measure resembles the shape of the body or body part which it supports.
- the at least one layer comprises support members which are confined in groups of two, three or more support elements within a tubular flexible structure, such as a tube made from woven or similarly flexible material.
- tubular flexible structures will allow the support members to move with respect to each other due to the flexibility of the material used for the tubular flexible structure and also, if a multitude of support members are confined in one tube, they may budge with respect to each other therein. Tubes may be sewed together to form a support element which is able to work as a flexible mattress and provide support for the entire body of an individual.
- any such two support elements are within the same tubular flexible structure, it may be preferred that any such two support elements are restricted from passing by each other within the tubular structure.
- the tubular structure may have a diameter measure which is only slightly bigger such as 10% or 20% bigger than an average cross measure or diameter of the singular support elements therein, and further these singular support elements are to be uniformly shaped.
- the support members are integrated in or attached to a woven or braided sheet-formed element provided from flexible threads or filaments.
- each support member may be allowed to move with respect to each other in order that the support member shall be able to support a human body without causing high stresses at any particular point.
- Each support member may be attached to a filament, such as by having the filament running through a hole in the support member, or by having the filament tightly wound around the support member in a furrow provided for this particular purpose.
- support members are provided like pearls on a string.
- each individual support member is attached to a short string of its own, wherein the string then again fastens to a woven or braided surface structure.
- the at least two points of suspension are adapted for suspension of the body support element from a string or wire.
- the strings or wires shall at far ends thereof be attached to fixed constructions such as building parts, trees, poles or racks or combinations thereof. This attachment is made in a way which allows the body support element, with an occupant such as a person, to swing freely with-out touching a floor or other building structures.
- the two suspension points may be attached to each their string, whereby these strings are fastened at building parts in opposed horizontal directions.
- the strings may be supported from an overhead common support member to form a sack or chair-like structure. And such a construction will allow the sack or chair to perform more intricate motions, such as figure 8 motions or motions forming a circle in the horizontal plane.
- the hammock has an elongate, rectangular shape and comprises points of suspension at least in each corner of the elongate rectangular shape.
- the support members are equally sized and shaped with smooth and rounded surfaces, preferably spherical surfaces. This allows for the support members to easily be mass produced.
- the support members are provided in a material offering moist absorbing or moist transporting properties. This allows for use of densely packed support members, which even in such a case shall be able to cope with sweat, which inevitable shall be produced by the body of a user, and which therefore must be transported away from the support element.
- the support members are made in a material which is water resistant. This allows for the entire hammock to be washed.
- the support members of the hammock are made from an organic substance or are made from polymer and/or rubbery materials or made from combinations of any of these materials.
- beneficial properties such as resilience, flexibility, ease of manufacture, desirable surface structuring, specific heat capacity measures, among others.
- the hammock may be made with an outer shell-like or soft surface layer and an inside stuffing.
- the shell-like surface may be crafted by sewing pieces of cloth, leather or artificial leather together in the same manner as a football is crafted, or the shell could be crafted by knitting, crocheting, bobbin lacing or similar technique using threads in case a softer outer shell is desired.
- the inside stuffing used with such an outer shell may be made of an inflatable element or any other stuffing such as felt, excelsior, foam rubber, horsehair, dried seaweed, hemp, cotton, flax or combinations of two or more such stuffing elements known in connection with furniture upholstery. By choosing among such known substances and the degree of packing the material a desired hardness is easy to obtain. Stuffing comprising sand, clay, pees or other bead like elements may also be used.
- the hammock comprises a fastening means, such as the one half of a zip.
- a fastening means such as the one half of a zip.
- Button and buttonholes are also possible fastening elements which are usable as an alternative to the zip.
- a body support element is provided for, whereby the body support element is installed in a hammock, such that a user within the hammock shall have at least a body part supported by the body support element.
- This aspect of the invention shall ensure that a user is both stimulated by the individual body support members and at the same time receives stimuli of his or her vestibular senses.
- the hammock is suspended in a way which allows at least a pendulum like swinging motion of the hammock.
- the support members are integrated in or attached to a textile.
- the hammock comprises a body support element that is shaped as a rectangle, a rounded rectangle or an oval structure and comprises means of suspension provided in opposing ends of the hammock.
- the support members are shaped with smooth and rounded surfaces.
- the support members are made in either
- the hammock comprises a fastening means such as a zip fastener and/or the one half of a zip fastener and/or a number of buttons.
- the hammock comprises a central portion and two lateral portions, wherein the support members are only provided in the central portion, wherein the means of suspension are provided in the lateral portions.
- FIG. 1 a schematic 3D view of a part of a hammock according to the invention is illustrated in Fig. 1 .
- An array of singular support members 2 is disclosed which together constitutes body support element of the hammock 4.
- the support members 2 are arranged in a layer 6 and are allowed a degree of movement with respect to each other, both within the layer plane and sideways with respect to each other.
- a degree of freedom which allows for such a limited movement between the individual support members 2 may be achieved in many ways, and in the embodiment disclosed in Fig. 1 , the singular support members 2 are added to tubular enclosures 10 which have a square section relative to their length axis.
- a layer 6 is formed by the tubular enclosures 10. In this case, the layer thus constitutes a double array, or two-dimensional array of interconnected support members 2.
- tubular enclosures 10 are made from flexible, woven or similarly crafted material, the plane provided by the interconnected tubular enclosures will also be flexible, which is elucidated in the figure.
- Fig. 2 illustrates a plane view of a further embodiment of the invention.
- the singular body support members 2 are provided one by one in each their flexible enclosure 10.
- the enclosures 10 may be made from woven or similarly crafted cloth. As seen, some flexibility will exist within the layer 6.
- the individual support members 2 are each attached to flexible strings or threads 26 forming a grid-like structure, and a singular support member 2 is provided at each node of the grid-like structure.
- a vertical and a horizontal thread 26 crosses each other, and may here be attached to each other.
- a support member 2 is thus attached to each node in a known manner, such as by comprising two half-spheres which are attached to each other from each their side around the node.
- Fig. 4 shows a further embodiment of the invention and here the singular support members 2 are provided in groups of 3 or 6 in each of a range of interconnected tubular enclosures 10.
- Fig. 5 discloses a further variant of the invention according to the embodiment shown in Fig. 4 , wherein the tube-like enclosures 10 with unlike numbers of individual support members 2 are attached to each other to form a rectangular element.
- the one half of a zip 24 is indicated along one side of body support element of the hammock 4.
- Fig. 6 discloses possible ways of ensuring the limited movability of individual support members 2, and in the left-hand side, an individual support member 2 is attached to a string of its own 28.
- the string 28 again is attached to a structure such as a mat or a cloth element 30 or another string.
- Fig. 6 on the right-hand side illustrates how individual support members 2 may move within a restricted area.
- the individual support members are attached to one and the same through-going string 32.
- the through-going string 32 runs through a number of singular support members 2 and each such member 2 may then be shifted along the length of the through-going string 32, as indicated by arrows 33 below the support members 2.
- Fig. 7 is an illustration of a tube-like enclosure which is shown in a curved shape.
- the arrow 33 discloses how gravity may shift the singular support member 2 in a downward direction.
- Fig. 8 is an illustration of a support element according to the invention for the support of the body of a full-grown person, wherein the singular support members 2 are regularly attached to a layer of cloth or the like.
- the resulting element may be cut to a desired shape such as a rounded shape (the right-hand side) or an oblong shape with 6 straight sides.
- Fig. 9 is an illustration of the possible shaping of individual support members 2.1, 2.2, 2.3, 2.4 and 2.5.
- 2.1 illustrates a spherical shape, and oval shapes are illustrated at 2.2 and 2.3 and a more pointed shape is illustrated at 2.4.
- 2.5 illustrates a circular cylindrical shape.
- Body support element of a hammock 4 may be made from an assembly of only one of these shapes, or two or more different shapes may be used and mixed within the main body of the hammock.
- Fig. 10 is an overview of differently suspended hammocks 16. Some of the hammocks 16 comprise a suspension rod element 18. The point of suspension of the hammocks 16 are indicated.
- One of the hammocks 16 comprises a central portion 36 and two lateral portions 38 attached to opposing ends of the central portion 36.
- the central portion constitutes body support element of the hammock 4.
- Fig. 11A shows a cross-sectional view of a hammock 16 having two joined suspension points 8 which employs the invention.
- a hammock 16 When a hammock 16 is suspended in this manner, it may perform more intricate movements, such as rotation around a vertical axis or circular or oval revolutions in the horizontal plane or combinations of such movements.
- Fig. 11B illustrates a cross-sectional view of another hammock 16 according to the invention.
- the hammock 16 comprises a single suspension point 8.
- Fig. 11A and Fig. 11B the singular support members 2 and the main body of the hammock 4 are indicated.
- Fig. 12 shows a hammock 16 with an additional element 40 attached thereto along a long side thereof, such that the additional element 40 may be arranged inside of the hammock 16.
- the additional element can be an element similar to body support element of the hammock 4.
- the additional element is an element similar to body support element of the hammock 4 that comprises support elements with a different diameter and a different rigidness, compared to body support element of the hammock 4.
- additional comfort can be obtained.
- the additional element is a sheet that has sweat absorbing properties, such that increased comfort is obtained.
- the additional element 40 may be zipped or buttoned onto the hammock 16 along a side thereof.
- Fig. 13 discloses a hammock as shown in Fig. 12 , wherein additional elements 40 are attached thereto along two opposed long sides 20, which may be advantageous if a user desires to use the hammock 16 without the additional elements 40 which in this case may be left hanging over the side of the hammock 16 without reaching all the way to the ground.
- Fig. 14 is a hammock wherein an additional element 40 is attached to two short sides thereof and this is an advantage in that it leaves a user the option of applying additional stimulation to an upper half or a lower half of his or her body.
- Fig. 15 is a hammock 16 wherein a rolled-up additional element 40 is shown in attachment to a short side of the hammock 16 and being rolled up or for storage at one end thereof when not in use.
- Fig. 16 discloses a hammock 16 with a body support element 4 according to the invention shown in sectional view below a user 42 and it is clear that the body support element 4 shall adapt its shape to the shape of the user, and thus provide the stimulation to a greater part of the body of the user 42.
- Fig. 17 shows a hammock 16 in sideview, wherein an unstretchable rope 34 is used between two opposed suspension points 8.
- the hammock element between the two opposed suspension points 8 may thus remain soft, even when charged with an occupant.
- Fig. 18A shows a singular support member 2 in a non-compressed configuration. In a non-compressed configuration, the singular support member can be seen to have a diameter of D.
- Fig. 18B shows a singular support member 2 in a compressed configuration.
- the support members When affected by weight e.g., from a user lying in the hammock, the support members can be compressed. Under normal usage conditions the maximum compression occurring would be a compression of the diameter to half of the non-compressed diameter (D).
- Fig. 19A shows a prior art hammock 16.
- a user 42 uses the prior art hammock 16 it stretches out and the user can sway from side to side to stimulate their proprioceptive sense.
- Fig. 19B shows a hammock 16 according to the invention.
- the hammock 16 contains support members 2 that provide a pressure (force) to the users 42 when they operate the hammock.
- a zoom-in of the body support element 4 can be seen in Fig. 20 .
- the support members 2 provide a force that helps the user stimulate his or her kinaesthetic senses.
- the force varies depending on multiple factors: how close are the support members 2 relative to each other, how much contact does the user 42 have with individual support members.
- the hammock 16 can be adjusted to ensure the correct amount of support members 2, width of enclosures 10 and size of the hammock 16 are utilized such that it can accommodate users 42 of different sizes.
Abstract
Description
- The present invention relates to a hammock which comprises an array of support members. The invention also relates to the use of such hammock.
- It is known that stimulating the kinesthetic sense by for instance using body supporting structures such as blankets may provide benefits for the user such as providing ease of anxiety. Usages of such supporting structures may, however, leave a body part which rests thereon suffering from reduced blood supply.
- Thus, there is a need for an alternative body supporting structure which does not decrease the blood supply to any body part. There is also a need for a body supporting structure which allows for stimulation of additional senses at the same time.
- The object of the present invention can be achieved by a hammock as defined in claim 1. Preferred embodiments are defined in the dependent subclaims, explained in the following description and illustrated in the accompanying drawings.
- The hammock according to the invention is a hammock comprising an upper layer and a lower layer, wherein the upper and lower layer are connected in such a manner that they form a plurality of enclosures, wherein each enclosure comprises a plurality of support members, wherein the plurality of support members are arranged and configured to freely move within the enclosures, wherein the support members are configured to act as pressure points when a user is sitting or lying on the hammock.
- By the term enclosure is meant a structure, wherein the inside of the structure is fully isolated. Hereby, it is ensured that the support members that are comprised in the enclosure cannot move outside their respective enclosure.
- By the term "freely move" is meant that the support members can be moved in all non-restricted directions, e.g. if the enclosure is narrow or there is a large amount of support members within an enclosure, the support member cannot move freely in all or any directions.
- In one embodiment, the hammock comprises four or more enclosures.
- In one embodiment, the hammock comprises five or more enclosures.
- In one embodiment, the hammock comprises six or more enclosures.
- In one embodiment, the hammock comprises eight or more enclosures.
- In one embodiment, the hammock comprises ten or more enclosures.
- In one embodiment, the hammock comprises fifteen or more enclosures.
- In one embodiment, the hammock comprises twenty or more enclosures.
- In one embodiment, each enclosure is formed as a tubular structure.
- In one embodiment, each enclosure is formed as a tubular structure having a uniform cross-sectional area.
- In one embodiment, each enclosure is cylindrical.
- In one embodiment, each enclosure is formed to fit the geometry of the "support members".
- By the term "acts as a pressure point" is meant that the support members are placed evenly spaced and is of a sufficient hardness and size for the user feel a force (pressure) when lying or sitting on the hammock.
- Hereby, the support members will provide a pressure towards the user positioned in the hammock.
- Accordingly, a user using the hammock is both stimulated by the individual body support members and at the same time receives stimuli of his or her vestibular senses.
- In this way vestibular, proprioceptive and kinaesthetic sensory systems are activated at the same time, and at a time where the user is allowed to relax.
- In order to properly stimulate the kinaesthetic sensory systems, it is important that the support members are chosen such that sufficient but not unpleasant pressure points are created.
- The invention allows for easy control of these factors by having enclosures such that support members of a specific hardness and size can be chosen and thereby the hammock can be quickly constructed for a variety of different users.
- In one embodiment, the support members are rigid in such a manner that under intended loading they will not be compressed to more than half of their diameter in a non-compressed configuration/state.
- Hereby, it possible to ensure that even if a heavier user operates the hammock, a sufficient pressure will still be applied.
- In one embodiment, the upper and lower parts are connected by stitches.
- In one embodiment, the upper and lower parts are connected by gluing.
- In one embodiment, the upper and lower parts are connected by rivets.
- In one embodiment, the connection comprises gluing.
- In one embodiment, the connection comprises rivets.
- In one embodiment, the body support element comprises two or more points of suspension adapted to suspend the support element.
- In one embodiment, the at least one layer comprises singular support members that are confined in groups of one, two or more support members within an enclosure.
- In one embodiment, the at least one layer comprises support members that are confined in groups of one, two or more support members within a tubular flexible enclosure.
- In one embodiment, the support members cover an area equal to or less than 90%of the area of their enclosure.
- In one embodiment, the support members cover an area equal to or less than 80% of the area of their enclosure.
- In one embodiment, the support members cover an area equal to or less than 70% of the area of their enclosure.
- In one embodiment, the support members cover an area equal to or less than 60% of the area of their enclosure.
- In one embodiment, the support members cover an area equal to or less than 50% of the area of their enclosure.
- In one embodiment, the support members cover an area equal to or less than 40% of the area of their enclosure.
- In one embodiment, the support members cover an area equal to or less than 30% of the area of their enclosure.
- In one embodiment, the support members cover an area equal to or less than 20% of the area of their enclosure.
- In one embodiment, the support members cover an area equal to or less than 10% of the area of their enclosure.
- In one embodiment, the support members make up (or amount to) a volume equal to or less than 90% of the volume of their enclosure.
- In one embodiment, the support members make up (or amount to) a volume equal to or less than 80% of the volume of their enclosure.
- In one embodiment, the support members make up (or amount to) a volume equal to or less than 70% of the volume of their enclosure.
- In one embodiment, the support members make up (or amount to) a volume equal to or less than 60% of the volume of their enclosure.
- In one embodiment, the support members make up (or amount to) a volume equal to or less than 50% of the volume of their enclosure.
- In one embodiment, the support members make up (or amount to) a volume equal to or less than 40% of the volume of their enclosure.
- In one embodiment, the support members make up (or amount to) a volume equal to or less than 30% of the volume of their enclosure.
- In one embodiment, the support members are integrated in or attached to a textile.
- In one embodiment, the textile is a woven or braided sheet-formed element.
- In one embodiment, the textile is provided from flexible threads or filaments.
- In one embodiment, the hammock comprises one or more points of suspension.
- In one embodiment, the one or more points of suspension are formed by a suspension structure in the form of a hook.
- In one embodiment, the one or more points of suspension are formed by a suspension structure in the form of an attachment eye.
- In one embodiment, the one or more points of suspension are formed by a suspension structure in the form of a string.
- In one embodiment, the one or more points of suspension are formed by a suspension structure in the form of a wire.
- In one embodiment, the hammock is shaped as a rectangle.
- In one embodiment, the hammock is shaped as a rounded rectangle.
- In one embodiment, the hammock is shaped as an oval structure.
- In one embodiment, the hammock comprises points of suspension provided in opposing ends of the body support element.
- In one embodiment, the hammock is circular.
- In one embodiment, several points of suspension are provided in each opposing ends of the hammock.
- In one embodiment, the hammock is shaped as a rectangle, a rounded rectangle, wherein the points of suspension are provided in each corner of the hammock.
- In one embodiment, the singular support members are shaped with smooth surfaces.
- In one embodiment, the singular support members are shaped with rounded surfaces.
- In one embodiment, the singular support members are equally sized.
- By the term "equally sized" is meant that the standard deviation of the size (e.g. the diameter or length) of the singular support members is smaller than a predefined percentage of the mean size.
- In one embodiment, the standard deviation of the size (e.g. the diameter or length) of the singular support members is smaller than half the mean size of the singular support members.
- In one embodiment, the standard deviation of the size (e.g. the diameter or length) of the singular support members is smaller than a third of the mean size of the singular support members.
- In one embodiment, the standard deviation of the size (e.g. the diameter or length) of the singular support members is smaller than a quarter of the mean size of the singular support members.
- In one embodiment, the support members have spherical surfaces.
- In one embodiment, the support members are made in a material that does not absorb moist or water.
- In one embodiment, the support members are made in a material provided with holes allowing water to pass through the singular support members.
- In one embodiment, the support members are made in a water-resistant material.
- In one embodiment, the support members are made from an organic substance.
- In one embodiment, the support members are made from metal.
- In one embodiment, the support members are made from polymer.
- In one embodiment, the support members are made from a rubbery material.
- In one embodiment, the support members are made from or made from combinations of any of the following: an organic substance, metal, polymer or a rubbery material.
- In one embodiment, the hammock comprises a fastening means.
- In one embodiment, the hammock comprises a fastening means formed as a zip fastener.
- In one embodiment, the hammock comprises a fastening means formed as one half of a zip fastener.
- In one embodiment, the hammock comprises a fastening means formed as a number of buttons.
- In one embodiment, the hammock comprises a central portion and two lateral portions, wherein support members are only provided in the central portion, wherein the points of suspension adapted to suspend the support element are provided in the lateral portions.
- In one embodiment, the lateral portions are detachably attached to the central portion.
- In one embodiment, the lateral portions are permanently attached to the central portion.
- In one embodiment, the lateral portions are stitched onto the central portion.
- It may be an advantage that during use, the hammock is suspended in a way which allows at least a pendulum like swinging motion of the hammock. Hereby, it is possible to stimulate the vestibular sense and the tactile sense.
- In one embodiment, the support members are arranged in at least one layer and are arranged in a way which allows the singular support members a degree of movement with respect to each other within the at least one layer and a degree of movement transversely to a layer plane.
- In one embodiment, the layer comprises a double array or at least locally a two-dimensional array of support members, which are interconnected in a way which allows some degree of movement between individual support members.
- By suspending the support element, a user of the support element may simultaneously be stimulated by the impact of the singular support members on the supported body part, and by adding motion to the suspended part receive stimulation of the vestibula sense. In this way vestibular, proprioceptive and kinaesthetic sensory systems are activated at the same time, and at a time where the user is allowed to relax.
- The support members are allowed to move in some measure with respect to each other. Accordingly, the body support element may be formed to fit the body part which it supports. This means that the body support element adapts to the shape of the body part placed in it. At the same time, a multitude of the support elements cooperate in supporting the body part.
- In one embodiment, a two-dimensional array of singular support members is arranged in the support element to form the at least one layer. Only when resting on a flat surface, the two-dimensional array shall be truly two-dimensional, but as soon as it is suspended and carries the weight of a body, or body part, it shall, due to the movability between individual support members resume a three-dimensional shape which in some measure resembles the shape of the body or body part which it supports.
- In one embodiment, the at least one layer comprises support members which are confined in groups of two, three or more support elements within a tubular flexible structure, such as a tube made from woven or similarly flexible material.
- Such tubular flexible structures will allow the support members to move with respect to each other due to the flexibility of the material used for the tubular flexible structure and also, if a multitude of support members are confined in one tube, they may budge with respect to each other therein. Tubes may be sewed together to form a support element which is able to work as a flexible mattress and provide support for the entire body of an individual.
- When two or more support elements are within the same tubular flexible structure, it may be preferred that any such two support elements are restricted from passing by each other within the tubular structure.
- The tubular structure may have a diameter measure which is only slightly bigger such as 10% or 20% bigger than an average cross measure or diameter of the singular support elements therein, and further these singular support elements are to be uniformly shaped.
- In one embodiment, the support members are integrated in or attached to a woven or braided sheet-formed element provided from flexible threads or filaments.
- In this way, the support members may be allowed to move with respect to each other in order that the support member shall be able to support a human body without causing high stresses at any particular point. Each support member may be attached to a filament, such as by having the filament running through a hole in the support member, or by having the filament tightly wound around the support member in a furrow provided for this particular purpose.
- In one embodiment, support members are provided like pearls on a string.
- In one embodiment, each individual support member is attached to a short string of its own, wherein the string then again fastens to a woven or braided surface structure.
- In one embodiment, the at least two points of suspension are adapted for suspension of the body support element from a string or wire.
- The strings or wires shall at far ends thereof be attached to fixed constructions such as building parts, trees, poles or racks or combinations thereof. This attachment is made in a way which allows the body support element, with an occupant such as a person, to swing freely with-out touching a floor or other building structures.
- The two suspension points may be attached to each their string, whereby these strings are fastened at building parts in opposed horizontal directions.
- The strings may be supported from an overhead common support member to form a sack or chair-like structure. And such a construction will allow the sack or chair to perform more intricate motions, such as
figure 8 motions or motions forming a circle in the horizontal plane. - In an embodiment, the hammock has an elongate, rectangular shape and comprises points of suspension at least in each corner of the elongate rectangular shape.
- In one embodiment, the support members are equally sized and shaped with smooth and rounded surfaces, preferably spherical surfaces. This allows for the support members to easily be mass produced.
- In one embodiment, the support members are provided in a material offering moist absorbing or moist transporting properties. This allows for use of densely packed support members, which even in such a case shall be able to cope with sweat, which inevitable shall be produced by the body of a user, and which therefore must be transported away from the support element.
- In one embodiment, the support members are made in a material which is water resistant. This allows for the entire hammock to be washed.
- In one embodiment, the support members of the hammock are made from an organic substance or are made from polymer and/or rubbery materials or made from combinations of any of these materials. Hereby it is possible to provide a wide range of beneficial properties, such as resilience, flexibility, ease of manufacture, desirable surface structuring, specific heat capacity measures, among others.
- The hammock may be made with an outer shell-like or soft surface layer and an inside stuffing. The shell-like surface may be crafted by sewing pieces of cloth, leather or artificial leather together in the same manner as a football is crafted, or the shell could be crafted by knitting, crocheting, bobbin lacing or similar technique using threads in case a softer outer shell is desired.
- The inside stuffing used with such an outer shell may be made of an inflatable element or any other stuffing such as felt, excelsior, foam rubber, horsehair, dried seaweed, hemp, cotton, flax or combinations of two or more such stuffing elements known in connection with furniture upholstery. By choosing among such known substances and the degree of packing the material a desired hardness is easy to obtain. Stuffing comprising sand, clay, pees or other bead like elements may also be used.
- In one embodiment, the hammock comprises a fastening means, such as the one half of a zip. This allows for the support element to be zipped onto an existing hammock, which in such a case shall comprise the other half of the zip. Button and buttonholes are also possible fastening elements which are usable as an alternative to the zip.
- In a further aspect of the invention, use of a body support element is provided for, whereby the body support element is installed in a hammock, such that a user within the hammock shall have at least a body part supported by the body support element. This aspect of the invention shall ensure that a user is both stimulated by the individual body support members and at the same time receives stimuli of his or her vestibular senses.
- In one embodiment, the hammock is suspended in a way which allows at least a pendulum like swinging motion of the hammock.
- In one embodiment, the support members are integrated in or attached to a textile.
- In one embodiment, the hammock comprises a body support element that is shaped as a rectangle, a rounded rectangle or an oval structure and comprises means of suspension provided in opposing ends of the hammock.
- In one embodiment, the support members are shaped with smooth and rounded surfaces.
- In one embodiment, the support members are made in either
- a material that does not absorb moist or water or
- a material provided with holes allowing water to pass through the support members.
- In one embodiment, the hammock comprises a fastening means such as a zip fastener and/or the one half of a zip fastener and/or a number of buttons.
- In one embodiment, the hammock comprises a central portion and two lateral portions, wherein the support members are only provided in the central portion, wherein the means of suspension are provided in the lateral portions.
- The invention will become more fully understood from the detailed description given herein below. The accompanying drawings are given by way of illustration only, and thus, they are not limitative of the present invention. In the accompanying drawings:
- Fig. 1
- is a schematic 3D view of a part of a support element according to the invention;
- Fig. 2
- shows a plane view of a further embodiment of the invention;
- Fig. 3
- shows a further embodiment of the invention;
- Fig. 4
- shows two further variations of the embodiment of the invention shown in
Fig. 2 ; - Fig. 5
- discloses a further variant of the invention according to the embodiment shown in
Fig. 4 ; - Fig. 6
- discloses possible ways of ensuring the limited movability of individual support members;
- Fig. 7
- illustrates how individual support members may move within a restricted area;
- Fig. 8
- is an illustration of a support element according to the invention for the support of a full human body;
- Fig. 9
- is an illustration of the possible shaping of individual support members;
- Fig. 10
- is an overview of differently suspended hammocks which are all well suited for the employment of the invention;
- Fig. 11A
- shows a cross-sectional view of a hammock according to the invention;
- Fig. 11B
- shows a cross-sectional view of a hammock according to the invention;
- Fig. 12
- shows a hammock with a body support element attached thereto along a long side thereof;
- Fig. 13
- shows a hammock as shown in
Fig. 12 , wherein body supports are attached thereto along two opposed long sides, - Fig. 14
- shows a hammock wherein a body support is attached to two short sides thereof;
- Fig. 15
- shows a hammock wherein a rolled-up body support is shown in attachment to a short side of the hammock;
- Fig. 16
- shows a hammock with a body support element according to the invention shown in sectional view below a user and
- Fig. 17
- shows a side view of a hammock according to the invention;
- Fig. 18A
- shows the singular support structure in a non-compressed configuration;
- Fig. 18B
- shows the singular support structure in a compressed configuration;
- Fig. 19A
- shows a prior art hammock;
- Fig. 19B
- shows a hammock according to the invention and
- Fig. 20
- shows the support members acting as pressure points.
- Referring now in detail to the drawings for the purpose of illustrating preferred embodiments of the present invention, a schematic 3D view of a part of a hammock according to the invention is illustrated in
Fig. 1 . - An array of
singular support members 2 is disclosed which together constitutes body support element of thehammock 4. Thesupport members 2 are arranged in alayer 6 and are allowed a degree of movement with respect to each other, both within the layer plane and sideways with respect to each other. - A degree of freedom which allows for such a limited movement between the
individual support members 2 may be achieved in many ways, and in the embodiment disclosed inFig. 1 , thesingular support members 2 are added totubular enclosures 10 which have a square section relative to their length axis. Alayer 6 is formed by thetubular enclosures 10. In this case, the layer thus constitutes a double array, or two-dimensional array ofinterconnected support members 2. - As the
tubular enclosures 10 are made from flexible, woven or similarly crafted material, the plane provided by the interconnected tubular enclosures will also be flexible, which is elucidated in the figure. -
Fig. 2 illustrates a plane view of a further embodiment of the invention. Here the singularbody support members 2 are provided one by one in each theirflexible enclosure 10. Theenclosures 10 may be made from woven or similarly crafted cloth. As seen, some flexibility will exist within thelayer 6. - In
Fig. 3 theindividual support members 2 are each attached to flexible strings orthreads 26 forming a grid-like structure, and asingular support member 2 is provided at each node of the grid-like structure. In each node, a vertical and ahorizontal thread 26 crosses each other, and may here be attached to each other. - A
support member 2 is thus attached to each node in a known manner, such as by comprising two half-spheres which are attached to each other from each their side around the node. -
Fig. 4 shows a further embodiment of the invention and here thesingular support members 2 are provided in groups of 3 or 6 in each of a range of interconnectedtubular enclosures 10. - In the left-hand side of
Fig. 4 , groups of 6 individual support members are provided within eachtubular enclosure 10. - In the right-hand side of
Fig. 6 , groups of 3 individual support members are provided within each tubular enclosure. - As seen in both sides of
Fig. 4 , some space is left betweenindividual support members 2, and they thus are allowed freedom to move some distance with respect to each other. - When comparing
Fig. 4 andFig. 2 , it is observed that more space for movement is provided, when moreindividual support members 2 are provided in eachtubular enclosure 10, provided that the spacing between individual members remains unchanged. -
Fig. 5 discloses a further variant of the invention according to the embodiment shown inFig. 4 , wherein the tube-like enclosures 10 with unlike numbers ofindividual support members 2 are attached to each other to form a rectangular element. InFig. 5 , the one half of azip 24 is indicated along one side of body support element of thehammock 4. - Hereby, a bigger hammock can be produced by connecting two elements with zips 24 (not shown).
-
Fig. 6 discloses possible ways of ensuring the limited movability ofindividual support members 2, and in the left-hand side, anindividual support member 2 is attached to a string of its own 28. Thestring 28 again is attached to a structure such as a mat or acloth element 30 or another string. -
Fig. 6 on the right-hand side illustrates howindividual support members 2 may move within a restricted area. Here the individual support members are attached to one and the same through-goingstring 32. The through-goingstring 32 runs through a number ofsingular support members 2 and eachsuch member 2 may then be shifted along the length of the through-goingstring 32, as indicated byarrows 33 below thesupport members 2. -
Fig. 7 is an illustration of a tube-like enclosure which is shown in a curved shape. Here thearrow 33 discloses how gravity may shift thesingular support member 2 in a downward direction. -
Fig. 8 is an illustration of a support element according to the invention for the support of the body of a full-grown person, wherein thesingular support members 2 are regularly attached to a layer of cloth or the like. The resulting element may be cut to a desired shape such as a rounded shape (the right-hand side) or an oblong shape with 6 straight sides. -
Fig. 9 is an illustration of the possible shaping of individual support members 2.1, 2.2, 2.3, 2.4 and 2.5. 2.1 illustrates a spherical shape, and oval shapes are illustrated at 2.2 and 2.3 and a more pointed shape is illustrated at 2.4. 2.5 illustrates a circular cylindrical shape. - Body support element of a
hammock 4 may be made from an assembly of only one of these shapes, or two or more different shapes may be used and mixed within the main body of the hammock. -
Fig. 10 is an overview of differently suspendedhammocks 16. Some of thehammocks 16 comprise asuspension rod element 18. The point of suspension of thehammocks 16 are indicated. - One of the
hammocks 16 comprises acentral portion 36 and twolateral portions 38 attached to opposing ends of thecentral portion 36. - The central portion constitutes body support element of the
hammock 4. -
Fig. 11A shows a cross-sectional view of ahammock 16 having two joinedsuspension points 8 which employs the invention. When ahammock 16 is suspended in this manner, it may perform more intricate movements, such as rotation around a vertical axis or circular or oval revolutions in the horizontal plane or combinations of such movements. -
Fig. 11B illustrates a cross-sectional view of anotherhammock 16 according to the invention. Thehammock 16 comprises asingle suspension point 8. - In
Fig. 11A and Fig. 11B thesingular support members 2 and the main body of thehammock 4 are indicated. -
Fig. 12 shows ahammock 16 with anadditional element 40 attached thereto along a long side thereof, such that theadditional element 40 may be arranged inside of thehammock 16. - The additional element can be an element similar to body support element of the
hammock 4. - In one embodiment, the additional element is an element similar to body support element of the
hammock 4 that comprises support elements with a different diameter and a different rigidness, compared to body support element of thehammock 4. Here additional comfort can be obtained. - In one embodiment, the additional element is a sheet that has sweat absorbing properties, such that increased comfort is obtained.
- The
additional element 40 may be zipped or buttoned onto thehammock 16 along a side thereof. -
Fig. 13 discloses a hammock as shown inFig. 12 , whereinadditional elements 40 are attached thereto along two opposedlong sides 20, which may be advantageous if a user desires to use thehammock 16 without theadditional elements 40 which in this case may be left hanging over the side of thehammock 16 without reaching all the way to the ground. -
Fig. 14 is a hammock wherein anadditional element 40 is attached to two short sides thereof and this is an advantage in that it leaves a user the option of applying additional stimulation to an upper half or a lower half of his or her body. -
Fig. 15 is ahammock 16 wherein a rolled-upadditional element 40 is shown in attachment to a short side of thehammock 16 and being rolled up or for storage at one end thereof when not in use. -
Fig. 16 discloses ahammock 16 with abody support element 4 according to the invention shown in sectional view below auser 42 and it is clear that thebody support element 4 shall adapt its shape to the shape of the user, and thus provide the stimulation to a greater part of the body of theuser 42. -
Fig. 17 shows ahammock 16 in sideview, wherein anunstretchable rope 34 is used between two opposed suspension points 8. The hammock element between the two opposed suspension points 8 may thus remain soft, even when charged with an occupant. -
Fig. 18A shows asingular support member 2 in a non-compressed configuration. In a non-compressed configuration, the singular support member can be seen to have a diameter of D. -
Fig. 18B shows asingular support member 2 in a compressed configuration. When affected by weight e.g., from a user lying in the hammock, the support members can be compressed. Under normal usage conditions the maximum compression occurring would be a compression of the diameter to half of the non-compressed diameter (D). -
Fig. 19A shows aprior art hammock 16. When auser 42 uses theprior art hammock 16 it stretches out and the user can sway from side to side to stimulate their proprioceptive sense. - However, the prior art hammock lacks the ability to provide stimulation to the kinaesthetic senses.
-
Fig. 19B shows ahammock 16 according to the invention. Thehammock 16 containssupport members 2 that provide a pressure (force) to theusers 42 when they operate the hammock. A zoom-in of thebody support element 4 can be seen inFig. 20 . - When the
user 42 lays down, thesupport members 2 provide a force that helps the user stimulate his or her kinaesthetic senses. - The force varies depending on multiple factors: how close are the
support members 2 relative to each other, how much contact does theuser 42 have with individual support members. - As such, the
hammock 16 can be adjusted to ensure the correct amount ofsupport members 2, width ofenclosures 10 and size of thehammock 16 are utilized such that it can accommodateusers 42 of different sizes. - By providing a hammock with support members it is possible to provide a lot of pressure points (F1, F2, F3) that helps the user to be stimulated by the pressure.
-
- 2
- Support members
- 2.1
- Spherical shape
- 2.2
- Oval standing
- 2.3
- Pointed shape
- 2.4
- Cylindrical shape
- 4
- Body support element
- 6
- Layer
- 8
- Point of suspension
- 10
- Enclosure
- 12
- Textile (e.g. woven or braided sheet-formed element)
- 16
- Hammock
- 18
- Suspension rod elements
- 20
- Opposing sides
- 22
- Corner
- 24
- Zip fastener (zip)
- 26
- String
- 28
- String of its own
- 30
- Cloth element
- 32
- Through-going string
- 33
- Arrow
- 34
- Unstretchable rope
- 36
- Central portion
- 38
- Lateral portion
- 40
- Additional element (e.g. a body support element)
- 42
- User
- F1, F2, F3
- Pressure points
Claims (10)
- A hammock (16) comprising an upper part and a lower part, wherein the upper and lower parts are connected in such a manner that they form a layer (6) comprising a plurality of enclosures (10), characterised in that each enclosure (10) comprises a plurality of support members (2), wherein the plurality of support members (2) are arranged and configured to freely move within the enclosures (10), wherein the support members (2) are configured to act as pressure points (F1, F2, F3) when a user (42) is sitting or lying on the hammock (16).
- A hammock (16) according to claim 1, characterised in that the support members (2) are rigid in such a manner that under intended loading they will not be compressed to more than half their diameter in a non-compressed configuration.
- A hammock (16) according to one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the upper and lower parts are connected by stitches.
- A hammock (16) according to one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the hammock (16) is suspended in a way which allows at least a pendulum like swinging motion of the hammock (16).
- A hammock (16) according to one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the support members (2) are integrated in or attached to a textile (12).
- A hammock (16) according to one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the hammock (16) comprises a body support element (4) that is shaped as a rectangle, a rounded rectangle or an oval structure and comprises means of suspension (8) provided in opposing ends of the hammock (16).
- A hammock (16) according to one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the support members (2) are shaped with smooth and rounded surfaces.
- A hammock according to one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the support members (2) are made in either- a material that does not absorb moist or water or- a material provided with holes allowing water to pass through the support members (2).
- A hammock according to one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the hammock comprises a fastening means (24) such as a zip fastener (24) and/or the one half of a zip fastener (24) and/or a number of buttons.
- A hammock according to one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the hammock (16) comprises a central portion (36) and two lateral portions (38), wherein the support members (2) are only provided in the central portion (36), wherein the means of suspension (8) are provided in the lateral portions (38).
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
DKPA202100980A DK181269B1 (en) | 2021-10-13 | 2021-10-13 | Hammock |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
EP4166126A1 true EP4166126A1 (en) | 2023-04-19 |
Family
ID=83689379
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
EP22200252.9A Pending EP4166126A1 (en) | 2021-10-13 | 2022-10-07 | Hammock |
Country Status (2)
Country | Link |
---|---|
EP (1) | EP4166126A1 (en) |
DK (1) | DK181269B1 (en) |
Citations (6)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
CN1042303A (en) * | 1988-10-31 | 1990-05-23 | 石贵春 | A kind of method of medical-therapeutic treatment of human body and apparatus thereof |
DE202014001424U1 (en) * | 2014-02-17 | 2014-03-18 | Victor Lawson | Pressure point massage ball mat |
CN204318124U (en) * | 2014-12-27 | 2015-05-13 | 汪斌 | A kind of hammock |
CN107184032A (en) * | 2017-08-01 | 2017-09-22 | 合肥布竹梦依服装贸易有限公司 | A kind of Multifunctional bed clothes |
CN208065432U (en) * | 2017-11-14 | 2018-11-09 | 王建中 | Multi-funcitonal hanging massaging and physiotherapeutical bed |
CN209932146U (en) * | 2019-03-15 | 2020-01-14 | 杨晓军 | Double-layer massage mattress |
-
2021
- 2021-10-13 DK DKPA202100980A patent/DK181269B1/en active IP Right Grant
-
2022
- 2022-10-07 EP EP22200252.9A patent/EP4166126A1/en active Pending
Patent Citations (6)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
CN1042303A (en) * | 1988-10-31 | 1990-05-23 | 石贵春 | A kind of method of medical-therapeutic treatment of human body and apparatus thereof |
DE202014001424U1 (en) * | 2014-02-17 | 2014-03-18 | Victor Lawson | Pressure point massage ball mat |
CN204318124U (en) * | 2014-12-27 | 2015-05-13 | 汪斌 | A kind of hammock |
CN107184032A (en) * | 2017-08-01 | 2017-09-22 | 合肥布竹梦依服装贸易有限公司 | A kind of Multifunctional bed clothes |
CN208065432U (en) * | 2017-11-14 | 2018-11-09 | 王建中 | Multi-funcitonal hanging massaging and physiotherapeutical bed |
CN209932146U (en) * | 2019-03-15 | 2020-01-14 | 杨晓军 | Double-layer massage mattress |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
DK181269B1 (en) | 2023-06-14 |
DK202100980A1 (en) | 2023-06-14 |
Similar Documents
Publication | Publication Date | Title |
---|---|---|
JP2011529360A (en) | Covers and related products and their manufacture | |
US4062586A (en) | Hanging chair | |
US20130298301A1 (en) | Fitness and Training Garment | |
CN1524509A (en) | Supporting cushion for back | |
EP0305403A1 (en) | Support cushion | |
EP4166126A1 (en) | Hammock | |
JPH01155806A (en) | Cushion, particularly health pillow | |
JP4136557B2 (en) | Mattress filler and mattress | |
US20240058567A1 (en) | Layered yarn and weighted blanket for deep pressure therapy | |
US5729852A (en) | Balloon cushion mattress and trampoline | |
WO1999034712A1 (en) | Double spring mattress and cushion | |
JP2008049144A (en) | Pillow | |
RU102887U1 (en) | ORTHOPEDIC MATTRESS | |
JPH0144124Y2 (en) | ||
EP4233642A1 (en) | Hammock for babies | |
KR20180107896A (en) | Fluidizable Spheres Filled Buoyant Mattress | |
RU66194U1 (en) | ORTHOPEDIC MATTRESS (OPTIONS) AND ORTHOPEDIC SEAT PILLOW | |
EP4030975B1 (en) | Weighted duvet with discrete connected weight elements | |
CN209995750U (en) | Cushion with ventilative and elastic support structure | |
JP3228556U (en) | Flexible sheet with knot | |
RU79024U1 (en) | MATRASIK | |
CN209269134U (en) | A kind of palm fiber mattress that can adjust head angle | |
KR20190080837A (en) | Fluidizable Spheres Filled Buoyant Mattress | |
JP2015231474A (en) | Cushion padding and cushion | |
EP2842611A1 (en) | Fitness and Training Garment |
Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
---|---|---|---|
PUAI | Public reference made under article 153(3) epc to a published international application that has entered the european phase |
Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009012 |
|
STAA | Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent |
Free format text: STATUS: THE APPLICATION HAS BEEN PUBLISHED |
|
AK | Designated contracting states |
Kind code of ref document: A1 Designated state(s): AL AT BE BG CH CY CZ DE DK EE ES FI FR GB GR HR HU IE IS IT LI LT LU LV MC ME MK MT NL NO PL PT RO RS SE SI SK SM TR |
|
STAA | Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent |
Free format text: STATUS: REQUEST FOR EXAMINATION WAS MADE |
|
17P | Request for examination filed |
Effective date: 20231007 |
|
RBV | Designated contracting states (corrected) |
Designated state(s): AL AT BE BG CH CY CZ DE DK EE ES FI FR GB GR HR HU IE IS IT LI LT LU LV MC ME MK MT NL NO PL PT RO RS SE SI SK SM TR |
|
RIC1 | Information provided on ipc code assigned before grant |
Ipc: A61H 15/00 20060101AFI20240118BHEP |
|
GRAP | Despatch of communication of intention to grant a patent |
Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOSNIGR1 |
|
STAA | Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent |
Free format text: STATUS: GRANT OF PATENT IS INTENDED |