JP2013541384A - Head and / or neck support device and method - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention relates to a spinal support and to a means for supporting and aligning the neck in the lateral, supine, hemi-saddling, or prone positions, wherein the first height relative to the user's support surface Supporting the user's head and / or neck at a first user position using the first adjustable support means configured to position the user's head and / or neck The user's head and / or neck using a second adjustable support means configured to position the user's head and / or neck at a second height relative to the support surface of the Supporting at the two user positions, the first height and the second height relative to the support surface of the user, such that a substantially constant cervical spine alignment is maintained at both positions for the user Are substantially different.
[Selected figure] Figure 6

Description

(Related application)
This application is based on Australian Provisional Patent Application No. 2010904735 entitled "Supporting Methods, Systems and Apparatus" filed October 25, 2010 in the name of Tri-Cycle Petite Eltiddy, and Tri-Cycle Petite Yee Claim the priority of Australian Provisional Patent Application No. 2011904017, entitled "Supporting Methods, Systems and Devices", filed on September 30, 2011, in the name of Eltiddie, and which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety Incorporated by reference.

Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to spine protection. In particular, one aspect of the present invention relates to methods, systems and devices for supporting the head, neck and / or upper spine at rest or sleep, or in a generally horizontal position. In one particular form, the present invention relates to means for supporting and adjusting the neck in the lateral, supine, half-breast, or prone position. While it will be convenient to describe the invention below in connection with its use as a structure to provide adjustable cervical support, it should be understood that the invention is not limited to such use only.

  Throughout the specification, the singular use of the word "inventor" can be considered as referring to a single inventor or to two or more inventors of the present invention.

  It should be understood that any discussion of documents, devices, acts or knowledge herein is included to explain the context of the present invention. Furthermore, throughout this specification, discussions stemming from the understanding of the inventor and / or the recognition by the inventor of certain related art problems occur. Also, any discussion of materials such as documents, devices, activities or knowledge within this specification is included to explain the context of the present invention in terms of the inventor's knowledge and experience. Thus, on or before the priority date of the present disclosure and claims, any of its materials form part of common general knowledge in the prior art base or related art in Australia or elsewhere None of the arguments should be interpreted as confessing things.

  In fact, as a physical therapist in the field of spinal procedures physical therapy, the inventor recognizes that the cause of neck pain is inadequate pillows and inadequate support of the upper spine during rest or sleep Was. However, not only people with neck pain but also those with asymptomatic neck support and ease their neck and upper spine, and sleep or rest horizontally, including especially in the lateral position and supine position It is important to realize that it is difficult to find an appropriate pillow when it can respond to natural changes in the position of the person.

  FIG. 1 shows a number of neck and head positions when the subject is lying down. Referring to FIG. 1, FIGS. 1 (a) and 1 (c) show the rotational axes of the head and neck indicated by line A. FIG. This axis intersects the midpoint of the top of the skull and is considered to essentially form the center of rotation or axis of the head and neck. For example, the distance or height h1 from the resting surface S to the axis A in the supine position shown in the picture on the left side of FIG. 1 (c) is the subject on the right side in FIG. The problem arises that it is different from the corresponding height h2 shown. There are several variables, such as head size, shape, shoulder width, and thoracic spine curves. This discrepancy (h2-h1) means that a single height h can not be adapted to both general sleeping postures such as lateral and supine positions. Also, when a person moves from any of a lateral position, supine position, prone position, or semi-abdominal position to another posture, or a combination thereof, the above-mentioned height mismatch is apparent.

FIG. 1A represents the discrepancy in lateral and supine heights where support for both the head and neck regions is required due to the shape and structure of the human head. For each of the neck height H _neck and the head or skull height H _skull there is a height mismatch with respect to the resting surface S in the lateral position and in the supine position.

  In this context, height does not relate only to the vertical component of the distance from the resting surface S, but rather the actual distance between the head and the resting surface S (ie a vector of vertical and horizontal distances It should be noted that it is related to In other words, in the horizontal arrangement of the resting surface S in FIG. 1, the height h is exactly the same as the vertical component of the distance, whereas when the resting surface S is at an angle to the horizontal, this height h Contains both vertical and horizontal components.

  In general, the convex surface of the skull does not rest well on a flat surface, and thus, as mentioned above, the rotational axis of the head is different for the pillow to be suitable for supporting the neck and head in different postures It means that height is necessary. On the contrary, this is not a problem if the head is circular with a central axis of rotation.

  In the past, manufacturers have tried to solve these problems by using irregularly shaped pillows to support them, but they have not always solved the problem that different postures require different supports . Although the irregular shape pillows improve the support of the neck, the support does not necessarily change as the subject's head height changes. Prior art pillows formed in a particular form or shaped in a particular way often have limited flexibility and do not allow free movement during sleep. Also, they have limited posture that the user can take while resting or sleeping, which may cause discomfort.

  Other solutions include experiments with air and water regulators to assist with the position of the head, but this has not solved the problems outlined. While the emergence of shape memory forms is helpful, the whole problem mentioned above has not been solved. For example, although various materials have been used to provide the pillow with the ability to ease a single sleeping posture, the properties of shape memory foam or other similar materials may cause the above-mentioned height difference problem for multiple postures. It does not address two or more sleeping or resting postures because it does not resolve properly. Furthermore, the use of shape memory foam does not provide sufficient height increase or decrease due to the behavior or ability of the material itself. Also, the shape memory foam does not necessarily deform to a fixed position. In general, shape memory foams respond only to the pressure of weight, not to the posture of the resting subject. Also, the characteristics may change with temperature. With memory foam it is possible to adapt the pressure to a pillow or cushion of such material. The problem of height in the lateral, supine, prone, or half prone positions is still unresolved.

  Furthermore, in supporting the head, neck and upper spine, there are many specific appliances and means used in healthcare and / or well-being that are not always well integrated with the cushions or pillows. For example, as one skilled in the art will appreciate, sleep apnea (CPAP) masks are designed for specific purposes. They are designed for use during sleep, but can be uncomfortable. As another example, it is necessary to cope with persons who need fixation due to cervical fracture, cervical surgery, chronic pain, or upper thoracic spinal cord injury. In this example, as recognized by those skilled in the art, fixation devices, such as a halo chest fixation device, are present, but they are a hindrance to patients who want rest or sleep.

  Besides the therapeutic devices mentioned above, the user desires to be incorporated into a device providing support during rest or sleep, eg a device for listening to music and / or other devices such as radio or consumers The product is present. Usually, when trying to obtain cushioned support of the head, neck, shoulders and upper spine, for example when these devices are worn by the user or placed near the ear of the person, the person's It tends to get in the way of comfort.

  It is an object of embodiments of the present invention to provide adequate support of the head, neck or upper spine in the lateral, supine, prone, or half prone position.

  Also, the object of the embodiments described herein is to overcome or alleviate at least one of the above-mentioned drawbacks of the related art system or at least provide a useful alternative to the related art system. It is.

  In a first aspect of the embodiments described herein, a head and / or neck support device is provided. The apparatus comprises a frame member for supporting the head and / or upper neck of a user and configured to be operatively associated with the first and second adjustable support means. The first adjustable support means is configured to support the user's head and / or neck in a supine or prone position, and the second adjustable support means is in a lateral or semi-abdominal position It is configured to support the user's head and / or neck, and cervical spinal alignment is substantially maintained in both supine and lateral positions.

  The first and second adjustable support means jointly cooperate with the user's head at a first height and a second height respectively relative to the support surface of the support device, for example in both supine and lateral positions Preferably, the first and second heights are different so as to maintain a substantially constant cervical spine alignment for the user, preferably configured to provide the part and / or the neck.

  The first and second adjustable support means may be biased to self-adjust with the weight loading of the user's head and / or neck. In other words, the first and second adjustable support means are biased to adjust the height by the weight load of the user's head and / or neck, and the lateral decubitus position, supine position, half-abdominal position A substantially constant cervical spine alignment is maintained as the user moves from one to the other in a prone or a combination of prone positions.

  Furthermore, in a preferred embodiment, the first and second adjustable support means are combined to maintain a substantially constant cervical spine alignment during movement of the user from one posture to another As they are operationally related.

  Preferably, the first adjustable support means comprises a single mechanism disposed within the bottom of the frame member.

  Furthermore, the second adjustable support means comprise at least one, preferably two, mechanisms, each arranged in a side wing of the frame member.

  Preferably, the frame member is further configured to receive cushioning means for contact supporting the user's head and / or neck. In a preferred embodiment, the cushioning means comprises foam, shape memory foam, or similar material.

  The frame member may be further configured to attach the at least one treatment device. The at least one therapeutic device may comprise a CPAP device.

  The frame member may be embodied in the form of a flat plate, or in a number of forms including shells that are deformed by integral or adjustable means in a preferred embodiment, but is not limited thereto. The frame member can also be embodied as a jewellery. In the context of the present specification, accessories are devices designed to reinforce or support body parts for managing, correcting or counteracting anatomical deformations, as will be recognized by the person skilled in the art. It is understood as a device or a brace.

  In another aspect of the presently described embodiments, a method is provided for supporting the head and / or neck of a user. The method uses a first adjustable support means configured to position the head and / or neck of the user at a first height relative to the support surface of the user. Or supporting the neck at a first user position, and second adjustable support means configured to position the user's head and / or neck at a second height relative to the support surface of the user Supporting the user's head and / or neck at a second user position using the user's head such that a substantially constant cervical spine alignment is maintained at both positions for the user. The first height and the second height relative to the support surface of are substantially different. References to both user positions may include supine or decubitus position for each of the first and second user positions. Alternatively, references to both user positions may include a prone position or a half prone position for each of the first and second user positions.

  The first and second adjustable support means may be biased to self-adjust the height by loading the weight of the user's head and / or neck.

  In the preferred embodiment described above, the first user position is supine and the second user position is lateral decubitus. Alternatively, in another embodiment, the first user position is a prone position and the second user position is a half prone position.

  Furthermore, in a preferred embodiment, the first and second adjustable support means are combined to be from one position (i.e. supine or lateral position) to another position (i.e. prone or supine position) Operationally related to maintain a substantially constant cervical spine alignment during movement of the user.

  In another aspect of the presently described embodiments, a support device is provided wherein the frame includes a deformable shell.

  In this preferred embodiment, the first and second adjustable support means may be integral with the shell. In this aspect of the embodiment, the support device may further comprise an adjustable length strap means extending between the sides of the shell. The tension applied to the strap means is configured to deform the shell to define the height of the support surface. The unit may have one or more height adjustment areas. The strap means may comprise a plurality of straps spaced between the edges of the shell, each strap being independently adjustable in length. In addition, the strap means may comprise a plurality of straps spaced between the edges of the shell, with adjustable strap length on a group basis. Furthermore, the strap means may be rigid, semi-rigid and / or elastic.

  In this aspect of the embodiment, the side of the shell may be provided with an opening for receiving the strap means. The back of the shell may comprise at least one transversely extending through slot. At least one transverse slot may be configured to define at least one transverse land. At least one transverse land may be configured to be grippable to assist in the adjustment of the strap means. Preferably at least one transverse land carries thereon means for adjustably securing the free end of the strap means.

  It may further comprise at least one stabilizing bar formed of an integral part of the shell, which may be configured to maintain a match with the support surface upon deformation of the shell. Preferably, the support device is in the form of an outer removable support cushion configured to be placed in contact with the rest surface or device.

  Other aspects and preferred embodiments are disclosed in the specification and / or defined in the appended claims and form part of the description of the invention.

  In essence, embodiments of the present invention vary as a result of several anatomical variables, including head size, shape, shoulder width, thoracic spine curves, during rest or sleep, eg, supine and reclining sleep. Stemming from the recognition that the required height for different postures is different. The device acting as a medium between the convex skull or neck and the flat resting surface should be used to gradually correspond to the distance from the resting surface to the axial point with a self-height adjustment device.

  In a preferred embodiment, the present invention uses a combination of a positioning / leveling device, a rigid device that responds to changes in position, and a comfort factor of a shape memory foam that makes a slight correspondence with the final comfort.

The advantages provided by the embodiments of the present invention include the following.
Accurate positioning devices ensure spinal alignment in the lateral and supine positions. This relaxes the muscles and avoids the exacerbation of any frustrating degeneration of arthritis.
Ability to partially fix movement of the neck or head Ability to provide attachment points for auxiliary products including consumer products or therapeutic devices such as CPAP mask / tube / sleep apnea equipment The notch between the neck and shoulder on the embodiment assists in the precise positioning of the neck by ensuring maximum support of the neck and maintaining a neutral supported spine.
The use of self-regulating stabilization bars allows the inner frame / shell and the support straps to be kept horizontal to the support surface.

  Further scope of the applicability of embodiments of the present invention will become apparent from the detailed description below. However, as it is obvious to those skilled in the art from this detailed description that various changes and modifications are within the spirit and scope of the disclosure of the present specification, the detailed description and the specific examples are to be considered according to the invention. It should be understood that although a preferred embodiment of is shown, it is merely illustrative.

  Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the preferred embodiments of the present invention can be implemented by reference to the following description of the embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings which are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the disclosure herein. Additional disclosures, objects, advantages and aspects of other embodiments may be better understood.

Figures 1 and 1A are diagrams showing multiple positions of the neck and head when the subject is lying down. Fig. 2 is a side view of an adjustable support means suitable for use with the preferred embodiment of the support device, showing the adjustable support means when loaded (a) and the adjustable support means when unloaded (b); is there. FIG. 16 is a graphical representation of the anatomical position of the user in supine and lateral positions, representing the arc of the head radius from the axis to the lateral and supine positions. FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a head and / or neck support device according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 5 is a side perspective view of another configuration of the device of Figure 4; FIG. 4b is a plan view of the device of FIG. 4a. 5 is a side view of the head and / or neck support device of FIG. 4 being used by a user in a lateral position; FIG. FIG. 5 is an axial end view showing the head and / or neck support device of FIG. 4 being used by a user in a supine position. FIG. 6 is a top perspective view of a head and / or neck support device according to another preferred embodiment of the present invention in the form of a shell having integral adjustable support means. FIG. 8 is a bottom perspective view of the embodiment of FIG. 7; FIG. 8 is a side view of the device of FIG. 7 in an undeformed state with an outer foam. FIG. 8 is a side view of the support device of FIG. 7 showing the arrangement of the integral adjustable support means in the unloaded position (a) and the integral adjustable support means receiving the load from the tension means (b) It is. FIG. 8 is a rear view of the support apparatus of FIG. 7 depicting lateral angular adjustment. FIG. 8 is a top perspective view of the shell device of FIG. 7 with the adjustment straps removed. FIG. 13 is a bottom perspective view of the shell apparatus of FIG. 12; 13 is one end of a perspective view of the shell apparatus of FIG. 12;

  In one preferred embodiment of the present invention, a correction pillow device 100 is provided, the internal structure of which is shown, for example, in FIG. The correction pillow device 100 is designed to allow the user to transition smoothly between the lateral decubitus position and the supine position, and the user's head 600 is depicted in FIGS. The arch of the correction tool is aligned with the anthropometric analysis so that the anatomical placement of the spine is maintained during this transition. Exemplary physical measurements are included herein as a separate appendix.

  When fitted to the lateral, supine or other position, the built-in adjustment mechanism ensures an accurate rest position. Advantageously, controls are provided to ensure optimal neck support for supine and scoliosis sleepers. The unique shape, built-in mechanism and contours of the correction device provide an optimal solution for people with sleep disorders and also a single solution for all the necks of people of all ages.

  With reference to FIGS. 2 to 6 of the accompanying drawings, an exemplary device according to the correction variant of the present invention is a person who changes posture during sleep, and between the supine thorax contact pressure and the neutral cervical position, and the lateral rod We use three solutions to solve the human position problem where the distance change between contact pressure and neutral spine position is noticeable.

  First, using a correction tool such as structure 100, the neutral spine position can be maintained relative to the shoulder and back positions, corresponding to different arcs of rotation about the central axis of rotation "A". This device facilitates, for example, the transition from the supine position to the lateral position. In general, the correction structure 100 comprises a bottom B and at least two side walls SW, as represented best in FIGS. 4, 4a, 4b, 5 and 6.

  Second, as shown in FIG. 2, the support is raised and lowered by a manual or automatic (eg, biased) adjustment device 200 incorporated into the correction tool to allow the user's head and / or neck and It can function as a self-leveling device that maintains maximum and minimum ranges that allow for variations such as surfaces sinking at the point of contact with any outer cushion for pillow support. As schematically shown in FIG. 2, the adjustment device comprises a flat plate 202 and an operable means 203 for changing the height of the rigid bottom 204, which comprises the head and / or the neck of the user. The foam cover 300 supporting the is attached. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that alternatives to parts of the adjustment device are still within the scope of embodiments of the present invention. For example, the maneuverable means 203 may comprise a windout adjustment means or alternatively may comprise a sliding element. Preferably, a minimum of three of these devices are provided separately, one on the surface in contact with the spine position and two on the side support to be leveled (each with one first adjustable support means 200a and one , And two second adjustable support means 200b). These are best represented in FIG.

  Third, the use of shape memory foam 300 allows for comfortable head contact with rigid adjustment device 200. For example, FIG. 11 shows a thick shape memory foam 301 inside the frame member of one embodiment of the support apparatus described herein.

  Note that if the person is a weight bearing head on the surface, the regulator 200 will assume 100% of the pressure and the correction structure 100 will move relative to the regulator. This makes it possible to achieve an accurate position while preventing the head from being overwrapped in the correction tool 100.

FIG. 3 shows the anatomical position of the user. Specifically, it is a longitudinal sectional view showing the following.
-Arc 1-arc of the radius of the head from the axis to the lateral recumbent position due to the width of the shoulder being wider than the width of the trunk-Arc-arc of the head radius to the supine position-HS-cross-sectional shape of the head

  Also, in FIG. 3, a supine position and a lateral position (or a lateral position) are shown, which schematically indicate the difference in height required between the lateral position and the supine position with respect to the position of the head.

  The rigid correction structure 100 allows for the attachment of CPAP masks, sleep apnea, and also the insertion of speakers. It is mounted in a standard manner to enable any application. FIG. 4b shows a side opening 201, for example for mounting the adjustment device 200, and the mounting of other accessories described below is also possible.

  Details of the proposed adjustment device 200: This is incorporated into the correction tool, for example attached to the side opening 201 to form an enclosed contact area. A minimum of three adjustable support devices 200 are included. That is, one bottom device 200a and two side devices 200b. The correction tool 100 moves relative to the center or bottom adjustment device 200a and returns to the "open" position when the surface of the correction tool is not loaded. FIG. 2 shows an example of the adjustable support device 200 in the loaded position (FIG. 2 (a)) and in the unloaded position (FIG. 2 (b)). In the unloaded position, the support device returns to the open position so that the head is not restricted from the unsupported side. However, if full fixation is required (such as a spinal fracture), it may be possible to lock in contact with the entire head in order to obtain maximum support. When a chest harness is added, the torso and head can be held as a single unit. Thus, while allowing a comfortable sleep, maximum support is provided.

The preferred embodiment pillow corrector is a three-dimensional device providing two degrees of freedom, providing height adjustable support pillows for the lateral recumbent or supine sleepers to provide accurate biomechanical support Do. This comprises the following features and / or advantages.
Accurate spinal alignment Maintaining alignment throughout the night Additional features Sleep apnea splint attachment Audio speaker for correction Chest fracture for fracture of the cervical spine / unstable self-leveling mechanism for fixing the cervical spine Structure like a correction tool CPAP, Oral sleep apnea brace attachment Thoracic spine attachment Self-adjusting ability or ability to completely fix the cervical spine (eg when needed after a fracture or surgery)
Built-in speaker

  Pillow shaped correctors are answers that not only prescribe the desired multiple position pillows, but also aid in pain management and pain relief.

  The adaptation of 3D and / or multi-axis devices, elliptical heads and flat bed surfaces is considered to be able to address the problems of the related art described above. The pillow corrector of the preferred embodiment does just this. Adjustable support devices allow for the attachment of chest and facial appliances such as CPAP, sleep apnea and thoracic spine fixation appliances.

  Embodiments use small layers of shape memory foam 300 and a manual adjustment device 200.

  It solves the dual problem by adjustment to a harder surface.

  The design of this product provides options for several other additions that are unique. These are the ability to add attachments for total fixation, and provide pillows for people after cervical fracture or neck surgery, or for people using oral sleep apnea and CPAP devices.

  The concept of the preferred embodiment is a pillow in the form of a correction tool such as the one described above which is a combination of a solid, deformable product and a self-height adjustment device. This is innovative in terms of its ability to have an attachment feature that provides a solution to medical conditions, and also an entertainment feature with the option of built-in speakers for the auxiliary jack device.

  A person lays on a costume-like device. With the weight of the head, self-height adjustment works, and in both the scoliosis and supine sleeping postures, it self-adjusts to the height required for the person. When a person rolls and changes his posture, the accessory rolls with the person. As shown at 400 in FIG. 4, the shoulders of the pillow are cut away so that the pillow is positioned close to the neck to increase neck support in use. If necessary, the adjustable side can be fixed in place to provide a "perfect" fixation. As clearly shown at 201 in FIGS. 4, 4a, 4b, the rigid surface has a screw in the area, allowing the mounting of the support device 200, more particularly the illustrated 200b, and other devices. It has become. Thus, the accessory pillow can also accommodate a module for the speaker. The adjustable surface supports small cross-sectionally irregular inserts. The control compartments allow the exchange and provision of customized linens to ensure hygiene. The positioning and configuration of the CPAP and any fixed attachments of the medical device are recognized by those skilled in the art and are not represented in the attached drawings.

  In another preferred embodiment, the invention takes the form of a head and / or neck support comprising a shell deformable by an integral adjustable support means. In the most preferred form, the support is inserted into the pillow or cushion.

  Referring to FIGS. 7-14, the head and neck support generally designated 100 is a semi-rigid shell formed of a plastic material (eg, high density polypropylene, ABS (acrylonitrile butadiene styrene), etc.) It has 200. The shell can be formed by injection molding or other forming methods understood and recognized by those skilled in the art. The central portion 800 of the shell 200 forms an angle with the side 900 that is normally obtuse (ie between 90 ° and 180 °) and is also shown, for example, in the cross-sectional view of FIG. 11 and the end perspective of FIG. As such, a 180 ° flat angle or a 90 ° right angle to side 900 may also be included. This angle, defined by the central part of the shell, can be observed more clearly as the angle defined by the central part and the side indicated by the arrow Q in FIGS. 7 and 14, but is best represented in the side view of FIG. ing.

  First, by using a frame comprising a shell-like structure 100 set so that the angle between the middle part 800 and the two outer wings 900 is more than 90 °, or more than 90 ° up to 180 °. , It becomes possible to maintain a neutral spine position corresponding to different rotation arcs around the central axis. This device allows for a smooth transition from supine to lateral position.

  Second, the manually-based adjustment strap 700 for the adjustable support device 200 can provide the exact height needed for the sleeping posture set and measured for the user. A minimum of three individual straps 700 are provided to deform the adjustable integral support means 200 (preferably one first adjustment strap 700a located at the central portion 800 and at the wing portion 900) And two second adjustment straps 700b). In this way, the unit has one or more height adjustment ranges or areas along the shell.

  Sides / edges 500 (shown in FIG. 8) are joined to the opposing outer peripheral edges by cross support straps 700b. The cross support strap 700b has such an adjustable length that the inner shell is substantially flat as shown in FIGS. 9 and 10 (a) when the support strap 700 is in a completely loosened state. FIG. 10 (a) shows the strap untensioned support device and FIG. 10 (b) shows the strap tensioned support device. However, as the support strap 700 shortens or becomes tensioned, the support strap 700 increases within the support surface heights h1 and h2, respectively. Thus, by selectively adjusting the length of each of the support straps 700, the desired amount of height support can be achieved by increasing or decreasing the support surface 750, which may be different for lateral recumbent, supine sleep The height can be realized. The support strap 700 can be formed of nylon webbing, silk ribbon, hook and loop material or Velcro®, leather or similar material. The material of the strap 700 is preferably but not essentially indented. Every dent in the strap 700 results in a change in shell height, making customization and formulation difficult and inaccurate.

  In the preferred embodiment, each support strap 700 extends through opposing openings or slots 850 formed in the outer peripheral edge of the side 500. 12 and 13 show the opening 850. FIG.

  Referring specifically to FIG. 10 (b), one end 720 of the support strap 700 is fixed to the back surface 250 of the shell 200, and the free end 710 of the support strap 700 is adjustably fixed to the back surface of the shell 200. The free end 710 may be adjustably secured, for example, by a two part fastening comprising multiple loops engaging multiple hooks as sold under the trademark Velcro® mentioned above. In this example, one strip of fasteners is secured to the back 250 of the shell 200 and a corresponding strip of material is attached to the free end 710 of the support strap. This allows the free end 710 to be selectively positioned after length adjustment of the support strap 700. Instead of using the Velcro® described above, the length of the free end 710 of each support strap 700 is adjusted and then joined using a conventional buckle configuration, D-ring or clamp (not shown) May be Alternatively, other means of securing the free end 700 of the support strap to the back 250 of the shell 200 may be employed. For example, the free end 710 has a number of holes along its entire length, and on the back surface 250 of the shell 250 a post or protrusion is attached for receiving and securing the free end 710 of the support strap 700 It may be It is also envisioned that the back surface 250 of the shell and / or the free end 710 of the support straps include a scale mark to allow the length of the support strap 700 to be adjusted by a predetermined discrete amount.

  The openings provided by the volume defined by the shell 200 allow for comfortable support of all the rest surfaces and have an optional foam sheet with a profile (providing a layer 300 attached to itself on the back 250) (preferably Is covered with shape memory foam). A cover 320 shown in FIG. 9 may surround the layer 300. The cover 320 allows for the insertion of conventional pillows and allows the inner shell to be used independently with other pillows, such as when traveling, or when circumstances limit transport of the entire device. Outer foam 300 provides a smooth and continuous support surface for the neck and head of the person being supported.

  The layer 300 also functions as a cushion between the human neck and the support strap 700 to enhance human comfort. Layer 300 can be formed of a suitable cushioning material. A protective cover 320 may be provided to fit the shell and attach and completely cover the outer foam layer and / or other pillows. Conventional pillow covers that cover the top of the unit cover can also be used. This cover can be removed in any known manner, for example using Velcro® or zippers. If another person wants to use the head and neck support device 100, it is easy to open the protective cover 320, adjust the length of the support strap 700 to fit the new user, and close the protective cover 320 again It is. It is also envisioned that layer 300 is part of protective cover 320 and is removable with protective cover 320 for washing. The back surface 250 of the shell 200 has a plurality of cutout openings 240 (shown in FIG. 8), such as holes or transverse slots, for example, to facilitate ventilation or to further curving the semi-rigid shell 200 as required. You may do it. The opening 240 is preferably in the form of a transverse slot. This provides a transverse land 260 (shown in FIG. 13) between the spaced openings 240. The transverse lands 260 provide the following surface. On this surface, means are provided for securing the other end 700 to the back surface 250. For example, in a preferred embodiment, each land 260 has one of the Velcro® strips described above provided thereon, and Velcro® is attached to the free end 710 of the support strap 700. Engage with the second strip of This secures the free end 710 of the support strap to the land 260 after selectively adjusting the length of each of the individual support straps to provide the desired amount of support in the prone and supine positions. Can.

  The lands 260 also provide a convenient means by which the shell 200 can be grasped. This provides a point of purchase that helps when the support strap 700 needs to be pulled and shortened in length.

  The lands formed by partial cutting of the back surface 250 form a stabilizer 270. The stabilizing device 270 is a support that prevents rotation of the convex back surface 250 when the strap 700 is tensioned against the support rest surface despite the convex shape of the back surface 250 as shown for example in FIG. Form These support bars 270 are reinforced so that they do not bend when the strap 700 is tensioned against the shell 200.

  The use of self-adjusting stabilizing bars allows the inner frame / shell and the support straps to remain level with the support surface. These reinforced members function by tensioning the frame / shell while maintaining rigidity. This forms a support wing. This stabilization is also achieved by the cut-out indentations on the wedge unit or outer foam supporting the foam or receiving support from the foam.

  The head and neck support device 200 may be used as a removable support cushion disposed on the flat surface of the resting device to provide a more suitable or more suitable neck support in any plane.

  Although the invention has been described using specific embodiments, it will be understood that further modifications are possible. This application is generally in accordance with the principles of the present invention, and has been developed from what is disclosed herein in the well-known or generally practiced manner in the technical field to which the present invention belongs, and It is intended to present any modifications, uses or adaptations of the present invention as considered applicable to the basic features described in this document.

  Since the present invention can be embodied in several forms without departing from the spirit of the essential features of the present invention, the embodiments described above are the invention unless otherwise stated. Rather, it should be construed broadly within the spirit and scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims. It should be understood that the described embodiments are illustrative and non-restrictive in every respect.

  Various modifications and equivalent arrangements are included within the spirit and scope of the present invention and the appended claims. Accordingly, the specific embodiments are to be considered as illustrative of the many ways in which the principles of the present invention may be practiced. In the following claims, means-plus-function clause is intended to include not only structural and structural equivalents that achieve the defined function, but also equivalent structures. For example, nails have cylindrical surfaces to secure wood together, while screws have helical surfaces to secure wood together. In this respect nails and screws may not be constructive equivalents. However, from the viewpoint of fixing the wood, the nail and the screw are equivalent configurations.

  As used herein, the terms "comprising" and "including" are to be interpreted as specifying the presence of the recited feature, finished product, process or component, either alone or in combination. It does not exclude the presence or addition of the above-mentioned other features, finished products, processes, parts or their assembly. Thus, unless the context clearly requires otherwise, throughout the detailed description and claims, the terms "comprising" and "having" etc. are inclusive and not in terms of exclusion. It must be interpreted in terms of That is, it should be interpreted in the sense that "including but not limited to".

Appendix Anthropometric data-an overview of ANSUR measurements that is well documented. 1988 US Army Anthropometric Survey (ANSUR) head size

Definition 103-Acrosome Width The distance between the acrobodral landmarks on the left and right of the shoulder tip is measured using a beam caliper. The subject sits down with his back straightened. The shoulders and upper arms are relaxed and the forearms and hands extend horizontally forward so that the palms face each other.
122-Shoulder Width Measure the maximum horizontal distance between the lateral edges of the upper arm on the deltoid with a beam caliper. The subject looks straight ahead and sits straight with his back straightened. The shoulders and upper arms are relaxed and the forearms and hands extend horizontally forward so that the palms face each other.
144-Inter-tragustoral parietal arc length The surface distance between the left and right tragus point landmarks across the apex is measured using tape. The head is in the Frankfort plane.
146-Tragus Crinion Arc Length The surface distance between the left and right tragus landmarks crossing the top of the forehead at the lowest point of the hair crinion. Measured using a tape.
150-Tragus intercuspid (jaw) arc length The surface distance between the left and right tragus landmarks crossing the jaw landmark at the tip of the jaw is measured using tape. Teeth close slightly.
152-Intertragustoral minimum frontal arc length The surface distance between the left and right tragus point landmarks across the forehead just above the rim of the eyelid is measured using tape.
The surface distance between the left and right trabeculae landmarks crossing the submandibular gland landmark at the junction of the trabeculae at the jaw-neck junction is measured using tape. The head is in the Frankfort plane and the teeth are slightly closed.
158-Tragus internasal arc length The surface distance between the left and right trabecular landmarks across the subnasal landmark just below the nose is measured using tape.
165-cheek arch width The maximum horizontal width of the face (between cheekbone arches) is measured using a spreading caliper.
219-Cervical spine The vertical distance between the elevation at the base of the neck and the cervical landmark on the spine is measured using an anthropometric instrument. Subject stands upright with his head on the Frankfort plane.
220-(Seat) Cervical Spine The vertical distance between the seating surface at the base of the neck and the cervical landmark on the spine is measured using an anthropometric instrument. The subject looks straight ahead and sits straight with his back straightened. The shoulders and upper arms are relaxed and the forearms and hands extend horizontally forward so that the palms face each other. Make the thighs parallel and bend the knees 90 °.
427-Head Width Measure the maximum horizontal width of the upper head of the ear attachment using a spreading caliper.
430-Head circumference Measure the maximum circumference of the head above the attachment of the ear, using a tape that runs around the back of the head and just above the rim of the eyelid.
441-Head length Distance from the intercostal landmark between the arches to the posterior point after the head. Measured using a spreading caliper.
586-Otogai ・ Nasal (Serion)
The distance between the Otogei landmark on the chin and the Serion landmark on the deepest point of the nose cavity. Measured using a sliding caliper. Teeth close slightly.
636-cervical area (root)
The circumference of the base of the neck is measured by tape passing through the side and anterior cervical landmarks. Subject stands upright with his head on the Frankfort plane. The shoulders and upper limbs relax.
637-cervical area (below the larynx)
Maximum circumference of the neck at a point just below the thyroid cartilage bulge. Measured using a tape.
639-Laryngeal neck circumference (above the larynx)
The circumference of the neck in the plane of the lower thyroid landmark. Measured using a tape.
641-outer neck height (horizontal)
The vertical distance between the elevation and the mitral muscle landmark on the right side of the neck. Measured using an anthropometric instrument. Subject stands upright with his head on the Frankfort plane. The shoulders and upper limbs relax.
647-Neck length (rear part)
Surface distance from the neck (the lowest tactile point of the surface distance from the neck to the occiput along the spine) to the neck.
648-Neck-Thelion length The distance between the mitral muscle landmark on the right of the neck and the female right bust landmark or the male right papillary (thelion) landmark. Measured using a tape. Subject stands upright looking straight ahead. The shoulders and upper limbs relax.

Claims (29)

A head and / or neck support device,
A frame member supporting the head and / or upper neck of the user, the frame member being configured to be operatively associated with the first and second adjustable support means,
The first adjustable support means is configured to support the user's head and / or neck in a supine or prone position,
The second adjustable support means is configured to support the user's head and / or neck in a lateral or hemi-lateral position,
A support device characterized in that cervical spine alignment is substantially maintained in both supine and lateral positions. The first and second adjustable support means are jointly associated with the support surface of the support device at a first height and a second, respectively, in the supine / abdominal and semi-abdominal / lateral position. Configured to provide the user's head and / or neck with a height of
The support device of claim 1, wherein the first and second heights are different to maintain a substantially constant cervical spine alignment for a user.   The first and second adjustable support means are biased to adjust the height according to the weight load of the user's head and / or neck, and are in the lateral decubitus position, supine position, semi-abdominal position 3. A support device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein a substantially constant cervical spine alignment is maintained for movement of the user from one of the combination of prone positions to the other.   The first and second adjustable support means are combined to maintain a substantially constant cervical spine alignment during movement of the user between supine / prone and hemidepressive / lateral position 4. A support device according to any one of the preceding claims, which is operatively related. The first adjustable support means is
A single mechanism disposed within the bottom of the frame member,
A plurality of mechanisms disposed within the bottom of the frame member;
At least one strap,
5. A support device according to any of the preceding claims, comprising one of the following.   6. A support device according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the second adjustable support means comprises at least two features respectively arranged in the side wings of the frame member.   7. A supporting device according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the frame member is further configured to receive cushioning means for contact supporting the head and / or neck of the user.   8. The support device of claim 7, wherein the cushioning means comprises one or a combination of foam, down, polyester, or shape memory foam.   9. A support device according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the frame member is configured to attach at least one therapeutic device.   10. The support device of claim 9, wherein the at least one therapeutic device comprises a CPAP or sleep apnea brace. A method of supporting a user's head and / or neck, comprising:
The user's head and / or neck may be positioned using a first adjustable support means configured to position the user's head and / or neck at a first height relative to the support surface of the user. Supporting at a first user position;
The user's head and / or neck may be positioned using a second adjustable support means configured to position the user's head and / or neck at a second height relative to the support surface of the user. Supporting at a second user position,
The method is characterized in that the first and second heights relative to the support surface of the user are substantially different, such that a substantially constant cervical spine alignment is maintained in both positions for the user. .   12. The apparatus according to claim 11, wherein said first and second adjustable support means are biased to self-adjust height by loading of the weight of the user's head and / or neck. Method described.   13. The method according to claim 11, wherein the first user position is one of a supine position or a prone position, and the second user position is one of a lateral position or a hemi-lateral position. The method described in.   The support apparatus of claim 1, wherein the frame comprises a deformable shell.   15. A support device according to claim 1 or 14, wherein the first and second adjustable support means are integral with the shell. Further comprising adjustable length strap means extending between the sides of the shell;
A support device according to claim 14 or 15, characterized in that the shell is deformed by the tension applied to the strap means to define the height of the support surface.   17. The apparatus of claim 16, wherein the strap means comprises a plurality of straps spaced between the edges of the shell, each strap being independently adjustable in length.   17. A supporting device according to claim 16, wherein said strap means comprises a plurality of straps spaced between the edges of said shell, the length of said straps being adjustable in groups. .   19. A support device according to claim 17 or 18, wherein the straps are individually adjusted to provide one or more areas of shells of different heights.   19. A support device according to any of the claims 16-18, wherein the strap means are rigid, semi-rigid and / or elastic.   20. A supporting device as claimed in any of claims 14 to 19, wherein the side of the shell is provided with an opening for receiving the strap means.   21. The support apparatus of claim 20, wherein the back of the shell comprises at least one transversely extending through slot.   22. The support apparatus of claim 21, wherein the at least one transverse slot is configured to define at least one transverse land.   23. The support device of claim 22, wherein the at least one transverse land is configured to be grippable to assist in adjusting the strap means.   23. A supporting device according to claim 21 or 22, wherein said at least one transverse land carries means for adjustably securing the free end of said strap means.   25. Any one of claims 14 to 24, further comprising at least one stabilization bar formed of an integral part of the shell and configured to maintain a match with the support surface upon deformation of the shell. Support device described in.   26. A support device according to any of the claims 1-10 or 14-25, in the form of an outer removable support cushion configured to be placed in contact with a rest surface or device.   The method or protocol disclosed herein.   A device, apparatus or system as disclosed herein.

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