KR20230132444A - portable head and neck support pillow - Google Patents

Abstract

The support pillow assembly includes a portable support pillow designed to provide optimal head and adjacent neck support to the user in upright and/or reclined sitting and supine positions. The pillow is optionally configured with holes to firmly support the back of the head. Pillows can be constructed with longer or shorter profiles. The pillow is tapered in a way that keeps the user's neck and head in proper alignment. The support pillow assembly is comprised of a single member foam contoured sufficiently tightly to prevent head turning or neck twisting. The support pillow is optionally configured with an outer support panel to provide additional usability, compressibility, stability and comfort. Optionally, the support pillow assembly includes adjustable straps that can be used to provide additional support to the head. It can be folded into a portable pillow with a protective outer support, a cloth or similar soft bag, or a protective case.

Description

portable head and neck support pillow

cross-reference

This application is a U.S. application filed on June 19, 2021, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. Application No. 17/100,296, which was filed on November 20, 2020 and currently has U.S. Patent No. 11,160,400 issued on November 2, 2021. This application is a continuation-in-part of Application No. 17/352,289 and claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/274,321, filed November 1, 2021, all of which are expressly incorporated herein by reference.

The present invention relates to a portable head and neck support pillow configured to provide optimal support and comfort. More specifically, the present invention provides an improved pillow that supports the user's neck and head when the user is in a reclining position as well as in a supine and upright position. However, the usefulness of the pillow disclosed herein is not limited to travel. It can also be used in medical settings where optimal head and neck support must be maintained.

In general, pillows provide cushioning for the head and neck, typically in a supine position. Typically, support pillows, such as travel pillows, provide firm support to the neck in a way that is designed to prevent the user's head from falling forward or backward or falling to one side or the other. Travel pillows are typically required to support the head and neck in a variety of sitting and/or reclining positions while the user is in a moving vehicle, as is typical for long distance travel by car, train, bus, or airplane. . A common problem travelers face is not being able to sleep while traveling. Another problem is that the lack of headrests makes it difficult for travelers to rest comfortably while waiting for long periods of time at stations or airports.

The present invention provides an improved support pillow that can be used for rest and sleep at home or while traveling, for example on an airplane. The support pillow assembly includes a support pillow configured to optimally support the user's neck and head in an upright, supine and/or seated position and ranges in between. In one or more embodiments, the pillow disclosed herein includes a strap to better secure the invention to a user's head. The support pillow assembly further includes a pair of side bolsters extending from the shoulders to the top of the user's head in an upright position. The support pillow further includes a head rest between the pair of side rests to support the back of the head. The headrest is slightly depressed relative to the pair of side rests to align the user's head and neck in a forward position while the user's head is in a supine or upright position or in an inclined angular position between the supine and upright positions. there is.

The headrest of the support pillow further includes a top portion, a center portion and a bottom portion. The bottom portion of the support pillow consists of an arch shape designed to wrap around the back of the neck and rest on the user's shoulders. Additionally, the arch extends from one side pedestal to the other side pedestal. The top of the arch is at the base of the headrest, and the bottom of the arch is at the base of the side rest, providing support from the shoulder to the front of the user's chest. The central part of the headrest supports the middle part of the head. In some embodiments, the central portion further includes an aperture for supporting the occiput or occipital region of the head. Additionally, the area from the central portion of the back of the headrest to the lower portion of the arch is tapered to maintain the neck in proper alignment while the user reclines. The top part of the headrest supports the back of the head. The top part of the headrest is tapered so you can rest while keeping your head in proper alignment. However, in some embodiments, the support pillow need not have holes.

In some embodiments, the pillow is configured to support the user's neck and head in a supine, reclined, or upright position. The pillow includes a headrest portion, first and second side rests for supporting the user's head, the headrest portion being located between the side rests, and the headrest portion including a curved interior for supporting the back of the head and neck. and the curved interior has a larger radius in the upper portion and tapers to a smaller radius in the lower portion—, an arched bottom portion—the bottom portion rests on the nape of the user's neck, and additionally the top of the arched bottom portion rests on the headrest. and the bottom of the arched bottom portion is located at the base of the side rest, first and second ear grooves on the first and second side surfaces of the head rest portion, wherein the ear grooves are configured to accommodate the user. configured to receive the user's ears, and first and second trapezius grooves at the bottom of the first and second sides of the arcuate bottom portion, the trapezius grooves being configured to receive the user's trapezius muscles.

The support pillow optionally further includes a strap disposed at the bottom of the headrest to support the support pillow in place relative to the head. The strap may be attached to the headrest to be tightened from side to side to secure the headrest against the user's head. The straps can start from one of the pair of side rests through the headrest and further wrap around the neck to connect with the other side rest. Additionally, the strap further includes a connector for securing one side of the strap to the other side. Here, the connector is one of a button, a Velcro® (registered trademark) hook and loop assembly, a hook and/or buckle, etc. for connecting the straps to each other. It can be seen that the straps can be used in different configurations as long as they secure the headrest to the user's head.

The primary object of the present invention is to provide a support pillow assembly for supporting the user's neck and head from a lying position to a sitting position at an inclined angle or an upright position. The support pillow portion may be manufactured from a single piece of foam that is sufficiently rigid to achieve support for head movement in a reclining or upright position, such as in an airplane. In one embodiment, an additional soft foam layer, such as viscoelastic foam (memory foam or low modulus polyurethane foam (LRPu)) or TopiFoam®, is used as the inner layer of the support pillow to support the head and neck. It can support you more comfortably. In some embodiments, blow-up air bladders are incorporated within the foam so that the user can deflate the foam and carry it in a book-sized case, soft cloth-type bag, or other means, in a user-friendly and sizable manner, among other useful features. This creates a greater ability to compress and store the pillow between uses in a way that minimizes .

In some embodiments, pillows may be made from bio-based materials, including plant-based materials such as, but not limited to, coconut, corn, flax, hemp, jute, sisal, soybeans, corn starch, hemp, natural fibers, etc. In some embodiments, pillows may be made from biodegradable materials such as green cell foam, corn starch, milk and clay mixture, myco-composite, etc. In some embodiments, pillows described herein are made from a combination of conventional and bio-based materials. “Bio-based” means derived from living materials such as plants or other natural materials. In some embodiments, the pillow is 5% to 95% biobased, 10% to 80% biobased, 20% to 70% biobased, 30% to 60% biobased, or 40% to 50% biobased. In some embodiments, the pillow has about 20%, 25%, 30%, 35%, 40%, 45%, 50%, 55%, 60%, 65%, 70%, 75%, 80%, 85%, It is 90% or 95% bio-based.

The object of the present invention is to provide a rigidly constructed yet comfortable soft support that provides optimal support for the head and neck while the user is resting or moving in an upright and/or supine position, in an in-between position while sitting or in a reclined sitting position. Pillows are provided.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a support pillow assembly strong enough to provide support against head movement and neck twisting, which are major obstacles to sleeping in an upright or reclining position, such as in an airplane.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a support pillow assembly composed of single-piece polyester, polyurethane, latex, viscoelastic or memory foam.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a support pillow assembly that has a concave groove in which the occiput can rest when the user tilts the head while resting or traveling, and contours the cervical region to support natural lordosis. .

In some embodiments, the present disclosure provides a foldable pillow for supporting a user's neck and head in a supine position. In some embodiments, the pillow assembly includes a headrest portion for supporting the user's head and first and second side rests, the headrest portion positioned between the side rests, and the headrest portion supporting the rear portion of the head. Includes a curved interior to Additionally, the support pillow includes an arched bottom portion, the bottom portion of which rests on the user's shoulders, wherein the uppermost portion of the arched bottom portion is further positioned at the base of the headrest, and the bottom of the arched bottom portion is positioned at the base of a pair of side rests. is located in The pillow may also include a rigid support on the back of the pillow, a rigid support on the front of the first side bolster; and a rigid support external to the second side brace. In some embodiments, the pillow further includes a notch on the interior of the first side rest, the notch configured to receive a front, inner edge of the second side rest.

In some embodiments, the rigid support on the back of the pillow covers 60% of the back of the pillow. In some embodiments, the rigid support is aligned flush with the exterior of the first side brace. In some embodiments, the present disclosure includes folding the second side rest of the foldable pillow toward the first side rest and fitting the inner edge of the second side rest into the notch of the first side rest as described herein. Provides a method for carrying a portable pillow.

In order to achieve the objects related to the above, the present invention may be embodied in the form illustrated in the accompanying drawings, but the drawings are illustrative only and changes may be made to the specific configuration illustrated and described within the scope of the appended claims. It should be noted that there is.

Although the invention has been described in terms of various exemplary embodiments and implementations as described above, the various features, aspects and functions described in one or more of the individual embodiments are not limited in their applicability to the specific embodiments described. Rather, it should be understood that the invention may be applied singly or in various combinations to one or more of the other embodiments of the invention, regardless of whether such embodiments are described and whether such features are presented as part of the described embodiments. Accordingly, the breadth and scope of the present invention should not be limited by the above-described exemplary embodiments.

The presence in some instances of broad words and phrases such as “approximately,” “about,” “one or more,” “at least,” “but, but not limited to,” or other similar phrases does not mean that such broad phrases In instances where this may not be the case, it should not be construed to mean that a narrower case is intended or required. “Approximately” or “about” means that the measured value is within 10% higher or lower than the quoted measurement value.

The objects and features of the present invention will become more fully apparent from the following description and appended claims taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. It is understood that the drawings depict only typical embodiments of the present invention and should not be considered as limiting the scope of the present invention, and that the present invention will be described and explained in more detail and detail using the accompanying drawings:
Figure 1 illustrates a perspective view of a support pillow;
Figure 2a illustrates a front view of the headrest of a support pillow according to the invention. Figure 2b illustrates a rear view of the headrest of the support pillow according to the invention. Figure 2c illustrates a side view from above the head of the headrest of the support pillow according to the present invention. Figure 2d illustrates a side view from above the head of the headrest of the support pillow according to the present invention. Figure 2e is a top view of the headrest of the support pillow according to the present invention. Figure 2f illustrates a bottom view of the headrest of a support pillow according to the invention.
Figure 3 illustrates a support pillow with tapered sides where the back side is longer than the front side.
Figure 4 illustrates a strap of a support pillow according to the invention.
Figure 5 illustrates a perspective view of a support pillow assembly.
Figure 6 depicts a front view of the portable support pillow described herein.
Figure 7 depicts a front view of the portable support pillow described herein.
Figure 8 depicts a top view of the portable support pillow described herein.
Figure 9 depicts a front view of the portable support pillow described herein including a front rigid support.
Figure 10 depicts a front view of the portable support pillow described herein including a front rigid support.
Figure 11 depicts a perspective view of the portable support pillow described herein including side rigid supports.
Figure 12 depicts a perspective view of the portable support pillow described herein including a rear rigid support.
Figure 13A depicts a bottom view of a folded support pillow described herein; Figure 13B depicts a perspective view of a folded support pillow described herein; Figure 13C depicts a bottom view of a folded compression support pillow described herein; Figure 13D depicts a front view of the folded support pillow described herein; Figure 13E depicts a back view of the support pillow described herein with the sliding back plate shown in an extended position; Figure 13f depicts a bottom view of the folded pillow in the left and right folded states; Figure 13g depicts a bottom view of the folded and compressed pillow in the side-to-side folded state.
Figure 14 depicts a front view of the support pillow.
Figure 15 depicts a front perspective view of the support pillow.
Figure 16 depicts a rear perspective view of the support pillow.
Figures 17a and 17b depict top views of the support pillow.
Figure 18 depicts a bottom view of the support pillow.
Figure 19 depicts a bottom perspective view of the support pillow.
Figure 20 depicts a rear perspective view of the support pillow.
Figure 21 depicts a side view of the support pillow.
Figure 22 depicts a rear view of the support pillow
Figure 23 depicts a side view of the support pillow.
Figure 24 depicts a front view of the support pillow.
Figure 25 depicts a bottom view of the support pillow.
Figure 26 depicts an inverted (turned upside down) posterior view of the support pillow.
Figure 27 depicts a top view of the support pillow.
Figure 28A depicts a front view of the support pillow. Figure 28B depicts a side view of the support pillow. Figure 28C depicts a rear view of the support pillow.
Figure 29 depicts an internal view of the side of the support pillow.
Figure 30 depicts an external view of the side of the support pillow.
Figure 31 depicts a front view of the support pillow.
Figure 32A depicts a rear view of the shorter support pillow. Figure 32B depicts a shorter support pillow with rounded edges.
Figure 33A depicts a bottom view of a shorter support pillow. Figure 33B depicts a shorter support pillow with rounded edges.
Figure 34A depicts a side view of a shorter support pillow. Figure 34B depicts a shorter support pillow with rounded edges.
Figure 35A depicts a side interior view of a shorter support pillow. Figure 35B depicts a shorter support pillow with rounded edges.
Figure 36A depicts a top view of a shorter support pillow. Figure 36B depicts a shorter support pillow with rounded edges.
Figure 37 depicts a multi-compartment carrier described herein. Figure 37a shows a closed single hinge system. Figure 37b shows an open single hinge system. Figure 37c shows a closed two hinge system. Figure 37d shows an open two hinge system.
Figure 38 depicts a viscoelastic (memory foam) or similar soft foam insert.
Figure 39 depicts a top view of a pillow with an extension behind each side bolster that is triangular in shape when viewed from above or below and extends ½ inch to 1 inch rearward at the thickest portion.
40 serves the purpose of helping to tilt the front portion of the side rest inward to better fit the user's head and neck when the user's head presses the headrest portion of the pillow against the seat back, bed, or other surface. Describes a pillow with a button-shaped extension.
Figure 41 depicts a pillow with the side headrests tilted inward to provide additional support in a way that keeps the head facing directly forward with minimal side to side tilt.
Figure 42 depicts a pillow comprising an air bladder and an external nozzle for inflation and deflation of the bladder.
Figure 43A depicts a pillow with an attachable elastic band or pair of elastic bands for use in compression to a smaller size. Figure 43B depicts a pillow compressed by attachable elastic band(s). Figure 43C depicts an alternative configuration of a pillow with an attachable elastic band or pair of bands for use in compressing to a smaller size. Figure 43D depicts an alternative configuration of a pillow compressed by an attachable elastic band or bands.
Figure 44 shows a pillow with an attachment device for securing the pillow to an airplane seat back. In some embodiments, the pillow is part of an integrated airplane seat back design (as depicted).
Figure 45 depicts a side view of a support pillow with an alternative configuration.
Figure 46 depicts a side view of a support pillow with an alternative configuration.
Figure 47 depicts a side view of a support pillow with an alternative configuration.

Various travel pillows are described. One such example is described in U.S. Patent No. 9,434,283, issued to Danami LLC, which discloses a travel pillow for use in the seat of a vehicle, for example, on an airplane, especially on long journeys. A travel pillow supports the head in a forward direction while limiting any twisting movement of the head in the forward and/or lateral directions. The pillow described here provides support for a person's head and neck, but is so bulky at the back of the neck that it is less useful, especially with the head and neck in forward or upright positions, and also does not rest on the shoulders when used in a forward or upright position. Therefore, it does not provide adequate stability to the head and neck necessary for resting or sleeping in such a position.

Another Korean patent, No. KR101538695, granted to Younghwan Park, discloses a three-dimensional pillow that allows you to relax comfortably while sitting in a chair by ensuring that your head and neck always maintain a stable posture while traveling. The travel pillow described herein can adequately support a person's neck and head while the person sleeps. However, pillows do not provide enough space to keep the neck upright or aligned in an upright position.

As another example, U.S. Patent No. 8584285B1, issued to Ryan Sifford, discloses a U-shaped travel pillow contoured for neck support and lateral head support. This pillow supports the head and neck posteriorly, but comes with a 'deflection relief' slot that bends the head support inward to support the head and neck laterally. These designs lack head support of adequate depth to support the head and neck laterally, and rest on or contour to the shoulders in a manner that resists lateral movement or twisting of the head and neck in semi-reclined or upright sitting positions. I never do that.

In light of the design deficiencies of prior art travel pillows, a significant need exists for improved pillows to optimally and comfortably stabilize the user's head and/or neck. This is generally described herein as a support pillow and in some embodiments is referred to as a travel pillow. In particular, there is a need for support pillows that are adjusted and customized to maximize user comfort. For example, there is a need to develop support pillows that do not push the head forward or allow the head to fall into a forward, backward or lateral position.

Accordingly, the present disclosure provides an improved support pillow configured to support a user's head and/or neck in multiple positions while resting or sleeping in an upright or reclining position, such as in an airplane. “Recline” means any degree to which the user's back can be tilted from an upright position to a flat position.

In some embodiments, the pillow is used in a medical environment. In this embodiment, the pillow need not be used when traveling, but could be used in a hospital, medical office, or patient's home after surgery. It is known that after many surgical procedures, patients must remain upright or maintain an upright back and/or head position at all times, sometimes even while sleeping. Conventional pillows do not provide the necessary level of support, and patients often report having difficulty maintaining correct posture. However, the pillow described herein provides sufficient support not only to the rear of the head but also to the sides, preventing the lateral shift problem that is too often experienced by patients using other pillows. Therefore, this pillow can be used for recovery in a medical facility, hotel, or home. In some embodiments, the pillow is used to immobilize (hold still) the head and neck for therapeutic or health reasons, such as when combined with the use of a CPAP machine, supplemental oxygen, etc.; and Diagnosed supine, medical, or post-operative conditions that require the patient to sleep exclusively or primarily in a fully supine or inclined position (back upright up to 90 degrees (including 90 degrees)) Or, it is used as an auxiliary device for better sleep in patients with psychological/physiological/comfortable posture preferences. In addition to the foregoing, these conditions include: to move edematous fluid caudally (towards the base of the chest cavity), to improve diaphragmatic deviation, or to reduce symptoms including, but not limited to, dyspnea and paroxysmal nocturnal dyspnea (PND). This includes, but is not limited to, lung and heart conditions that require inclined or upright posture to improve. In this medical embodiment, the pillow may have wider dimensions for stability and the sides of the headrests 106a and 106b or 206a and 206b are 5 to 7 inches from 1 to 2" depicted in Figures 1 and 2, respectively. “Increased to. In some embodiments, the present invention allows the shoulders and upper back to further support the head and neck when not in a fully recumbent position.

The pillow may be comprised of a single member or multiple foam members that provide excellent vertical support, lateral support and cushioning to the user's head. In some embodiments of the pillow, blow-up bladders may be incorporated into the foam. The headrest is soft yet strong enough to provide support against head rotation and neck twisting when sleeping in a reclining position, such as on an airplane, or in a position tilted upward at any angle to the supine position. The pillow has a concave groove where the back of the head rests and is contoured to the cervical region to support natural lordosis.

1 illustrates a perspective view of one embodiment of a support pillow 102 embodying aspects of the present invention. The support pillow has a length (l), a height (h), and a width (w), and the pillow 102 is configured to support the user's neck and/or head while the user rests in a sitting position. Additionally, the support pillow 102 supports the user's head vertically and laterally. Support pillow 102 further includes a head rest 104 and a pair of side rests 106, which in some embodiments may be identical to each other and are configured to cover the left and right sides of the user's head. Each side stand (106a, 106b) is configured to cover the left and right sides of the user's head, from the shoulder to the temporo-parietal part of the head. The support pillow 102 may be customized to the user, i.e. sized and shaped to match the approximate shape of the user's head. In some embodiments, the support pillow is configured to accommodate an average-sized human head. Each of the side rests 106a, 106b may be configured with different grooves or sizes to comfortably accommodate the ears when the head is at least in a central frontal position. In some embodiments, the pillow is configured with ear holes or recessed grooves on the sides of the pillow to allow the pillow to contact the head without putting significant pressure on the user's ears. In some embodiments, an additional soft foam layer between ¼" and 1" thick surrounds the interior of the pillow. This foam layer is placed within the head/neck groove so that its dimensions match the current radius plus or minus ½". Viscoelastic foam (memory foam or low modulus polyurethane foam (LRPu)), Topiform® or similar. It may be made of a foam that is softer than the rest of the pillow, such as a soft foam or material (see Figure 38).

The head rest 104 of the support pillow is recessed between a pair of side rests 106 to support the back of the head. The headrest 104 is recessed inward to align the user's head and neck in a forward, “anatomical” position when the user is resting or sleeping, such as while traveling. The headrest 104 of the support pillow 102 further includes a top portion, a central portion and a bottom portion.

The uppermost portion of the headrest 104 of the support pillow 102 supports the posterior (occipital) and lateral (temporoparietal) portions of the user's head. In one embodiment of the invention, the top portion of headrest 104 is tapered to accommodate the user's head in proper alignment while the user tilts the head back at rest. The central portion of the headrest 104 of the support pillow 102 supports the middle portion of the head. The central portion further includes an aperture for supporting the back of the head in some embodiments. In the shorter embodiment of the support pillow (shown in Figures 32A-36B), the uppermost portion of the headrest supports the back of the head and neck around the level of the mastoid process or craniocervical junction.

The bottom portion of the support pillow 102 has an arched shape for placing the support pillow 102 on the user's shoulder, keeping it in place without falling off the shoulder, and providing the necessary stability to the pillow and consequently the user's head and neck. to provide. In one embodiment of the invention, the top of the arcuate bottom portion is at the base of the headrest 104, and the bottom of the arcuate bottom portion is at the base of the side rests 106a and 106b of the support pillow 102, and the side The base of the stand arches forward of the user so that it rests on the user's collarbone, shoulders and/or chest.

Support pillow 102 may be comprised of a single member foam material. A single piece foam material is designed and constructed in such a way that it forms the head and neck support portion of support pillow 102. Mainly, the single-member support pillow 102 includes a pair of side rests 106 on each side of the head rest 104, where the side rests 106 are used to support the left and right portions of the head. It is inclined upward with respect to (104). The thickness of the headrest 104 decreases symmetrically toward the center line of the pillow 102. Alternatively, the single member support pillow 102 includes a pair of side rests 106 on each side of the head rest 104. In some embodiments, the pair of side rests 106 are not identical. Customization of the side rests is also envisioned to accommodate various anatomical variations and/or preferences among users. Such customization is envisioned to occur based on, among other means, manual and/or three-dimensional digital imaging of the user's head, neck and shoulder dimensions.

In one embodiment of the invention, support pillow 102 is comprised of a conformable foam material that conforms to the shape of the user's head, neck and shoulders, providing additional comfort and stability to the shoulders. In some embodiments, support pillow 102 is comprised of memory foam or viscoelastic foam. In an alternative embodiment, the foam is either polyurethane foam or latex foam.

The body of the device weighs approximately 0.25 to 1 lb/cu.ft. It can be made of high-density, high-pressure compression molded polyether urethane, or other types of foams with appropriate softness and elasticity to provide a balanced rigid structure for stability and adequate softness for comfort. In some embodiments, the density is between 0.25 and 5 lb/cu.ft. or 0.5 to 1.5 lb/cu.ft. The device may be machine cut or formed from materials as known in the art.

In one embodiment, the foam or other exterior material(s) is coated with a layer that allows for surface cleaning and sterilization and improves comfort and appearance. In some embodiments, this lining may be smooth polyurethane or plastic and may be from 0.01 to about 2.5 mm thick. In some embodiments, the thickness may be between 0.5 and 2 mm. This layer can be applied via an external spray process or via alternative methods of foam production that create this external layer as an integral part of the external surface of the foam.

Pillows can be exposed to a variety of elements, including dust and dirt, blood, sweat, tears, viruses, bacteria and other pathogens, including SARS-CoV-2. The surface coating (or simply the outer surface of the pillow) offers the unique and timely advantage of not requiring a washing machine or hand washing process, which is not readily available when traveling away from home or a convenience normally available at or near home. It offers the advantage of being more convenient and more effective by replacing the facility with a simple wipe with alcohol or other disinfectant. In some embodiments, the surface of the pillow and/or the pillow itself may be impregnated with copper or other materials known to have antimicrobial properties, including resistance to COVID-19 and other infectious viruses and pathogens.

In alternative embodiments, support pillow 102 may also be provided with a removable cover or case to protect the pillow, which can be removed for cleaning or replacement. The removable cover may be designed in a looser manner or depending on the dimensions and design of the support pillow 102. The cover of the support pillow 102 is mainly made of soft fabric such as fleece, cotton or silk. Other materials may be used depending on environmental considerations, health and microbiological concerns, or user preference.

FIG. 2A illustrates a front view of a support pillow 202 comprised of single-member foam showing a head rest 204 and a pair of side rests 206a, 206b of the support pillow 202. Mainly, the headrest 204 includes a top portion 204a, a central portion 204b with a headrest hole, and a headrest bottom 204c. In some embodiments, the central portion does not have a hole. In some embodiments, the top portion is thick at the top and tapers to become thinner toward the headrest aperture 204b. In some embodiments, bottom portion 204c is thicker at the bottom and tapers to become thinner toward headrest aperture 204b. The headrest hole 204b is configured to support the back of the user's head. The bottom portion 204c is configured in an arch shape. In some embodiments, the hole may serve as a beverage holder or tray table when support pillow 202 is not used or when the pillow is placed face down on the user's lap. In one embodiment of the invention, the shape of hole 204b is circular.

In alternative embodiments of the invention, the shape of hole 204b is one of oval, square, triangular, or any other shape. In an alternative embodiment of the invention, the diameter of hole 204b is about 2 to 15 cm. In some embodiments, the diameter of the hole is between 5 and 10 cm. In some embodiments, the diameter of the hole is between 6 and 8 cm, and in some embodiments, the diameter of the hole is about 7 cm. In some embodiments, there is no hole in the back of the pillow. In some embodiments, the length of support pillow 202 ranges from about 20 to 60 cm. It will be well known to those skilled in the art that some measurements disclosed herein are in centimeters (metric) and other measurements are in inches (imperial). These measurements can be easily converted using the conversion 1 inch = 2.54 cm.

In some embodiments, the length of the support pillow may be about 25 to 50 cm or 30 to 40 cm. More specifically, the length of the support pillow 202 is approximately 30 cm. In some embodiments, especially when the support pillow is used in medical applications, the total length of the headrest portion is increased to about 60 cm.

In one embodiment, the uppermost portion is intended to support the posterior portion of the head and is tapered to create a concave grooved area extending from the bottom of the uppermost portion to the top of the uppermost portion. In some embodiments, the concave region is 9 cm to 13 cm concave with respect to a plane defined from the front of each side of the pillow, and the concave grooved region has a radius of curvature greater at the top than the radius of curvature at the bottom of the concave grooved region. Contains a long radius of curvature. In one embodiment, the recessed grooved area is configured to support the posterior portion of the head and neck and maintain the head and neck in proper alignment.

In one embodiment, the uppermost portion includes a concave grooved region extending from the bottom of the uppermost portion to the top of the uppermost portion, the concave region being semi-circular or semi-elliptical when viewed from the top or bottom, and extending from 180 degrees of a complete circle. 220 degrees, preferably in the range from 205 degrees to 215 degrees, wherein the radius at the top of the uppermost part (exact radius if circular, average if oval) is between 4 cm and 10 cm, preferably between 5 and 8 cm. ; The radius at the bottom of the uppermost part is between 3 cm and 8 cm, preferably between 4.5 cm and 6 cm; And the area between the two radii is tapered evenly into a partially inverted truncated cone shape.

In one embodiment, the uppermost portion includes a concave grooved region extending from the bottom of the uppermost portion to the top of the uppermost portion, the concave region being semi-circular or semi-elliptical when viewed from the top or bottom, and extending from 180 degrees of a complete circle. 220 degrees, preferably in the range from 205 to 215 degrees, wherein the radius at the top of the uppermost part (exact radius for circular, average for oval) is from 4 cm to 10 cm, preferably from 5 cm to 8 cm. ego; The radius at the bottom of the uppermost part is between 3 cm and 8 cm, preferably between 4.5 cm and 6 cm; and between the two radii is tapered evenly to a shape consistent with the average occipital male head and neck (see attached diagram) or the average occipital female head and neck, and the human head and neck profile is between the average male and average female. and a head size that is 1 to 10 percent larger than the average male head and neck (which has a circumference of 57 cm (22½ inches)) and a head size that is 1 to 10 percent larger than the average female head and neck (which has a circumference of 55 cm (22¾ inches)). It matches the small head size.

In one embodiment, the width of the headrest at the top portion 204 ranges from about 8 cm to about 20 cm. More specifically, the width of the headrest 204 is approximately 9 cm to 14 cm. Additionally, the height of the headrest 204 ranges from 10 cm to 26 cm. More specifically, the height of the headrest portion 204 ranges from 17.5 cm at the rearmost point to 21.25 cm at the most forward point.

The bottom portion 204c of the headrest 204 is bent into an arch shape at a certain height from the bottom of the side stands 206a and 206b. For example, the height of the arch-shaped bottom portion ranges from about 6 cm to about 16 cm. More specifically, the height of the arch-shaped bottom portion side support 206 ranges from the bottom of the pillow to the bottom of the headrest 204. It is about 6 cm. That is, the distance between the top of the arch at the base of the headrest portion 204 and the bottom of the arch at the front base of the side rests 206a and 206b is about 6 cm. This distance can range from 4 cm to 8 cm.

Additionally, as further depicted in Figure 2A, the side bolsters 206a, 206b are separated at a certain distance depending on the anatomy of the user's head, neck, and shoulders, allowing the support pillow to easily accommodate users of various sizes. It is clear that it can be done. The distance between the side stands 206a and 206b ranges from about 9 cm to about 26 cm. More specifically, the distance between the side stands 206a and 206b is about 12 cm to 16 cm. In some embodiments, the distance between the side bolsters is 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25 or 26 cm. In some embodiments, the length of support pillow 202 is about 25 to 60 cm. In some embodiments, the length of the support pillow is about 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44. , 45, 46, 47, 48, 49, 50, 51, 52, 53, 54, 55, 56, 57, 58, 59, or 60 cm. More specifically, the length of support pillow 202 is approximately 27 cm.

2B illustrates a rear view of the support pillow 202 constructed by single member foam showing the rear portion of the support pillow 202. The length of support pillow 202 is about 25 to 40 cm in some embodiments. In some embodiments, the length of the support pillow is about 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44. , 45, 46, 47, 48, 49, 50, 51, 52, 53, 54, 55, 56, 57, 58, 59, or 60 cm. More specifically, the length of support pillow 202 is approximately 27 cm.

FIG. 2C illustrates a side view of the head rest of the support pillow 202 constructed by single member foam showing the side rests 206a of the support pillow 202. The front of the support pillow is on the right. The rear of the support pillow is on the left. In one embodiment according to the present invention, the side pedestals 206a have a height ranging from about 20 cm to about 35 cm. In some embodiments, the side bolsters have a height of about 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34 or 35 cm. More specifically, the height of the side stand 206 is about 22 cm. For larger or smaller sized pillows, the dimensions of support pillow 202 may be increased or decreased, respectively, to accommodate the anatomy of the head, neck and shoulders of a user of that size, as will be known to those skilled in the art. Same as bar.

2D illustrates a side view of the support pillow 202 constructed by single-member foam showing the side bolsters 206b of the support pillow 202. The front of the support pillow is on the left. The rear of the support pillow is on the right. The height of the side stand 206b ranges from about 20 cm to about 35 cm. In some embodiments, the side bolsters have a height of about 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34 or 35 cm. More specifically, the height of the side stand 206 is about 22 cm. In some embodiments, the left and right side pedestals 206a, 206b are identical, but this is not required in all embodiments. That is, in some embodiments the sides are not identical.

2E illustrates a top view of the support pillow 202 showing the top portion of the headrest 204. As shown in Figure 2E, the headrest 204 portion is configured in a curved shape from the center toward the uppermost portion 204a within the headrest. From this figure, it can be seen that the thickness of this portion decreases as the headrest 202 slopes from the center toward the top. The radius of curvature of the headrest 204 ranges from 4 cm to 16 cm. In some embodiments, the radius of curvature ranges from 5 cm to 14 cm. In some embodiments, the radius of curvature ranges from 6 cm to 12 cm. In some embodiments, the radius of curvature of the headrest is about 4 cm, 5 cm, 6 cm, 7 cm, 8 cm, 9 cm, 10 cm, 11 cm, 12 cm, 13 cm, 14 cm, 15 cm, or 16 cm. am. In some embodiments, the radius of curvature at the top edge of the headrest is greater than the bottom edge. In this embodiment, the radius of curvature at the top edge or top of the headrest is about 3 cm, 4 cm, 5 cm, 6 cm, 7 cm, 8 cm, 9 cm, 10 cm, 11 cm, 12 cm, 13 cm. , 14 cm, 15 cm or 16 cm. In some embodiments, the radius of curvature at the bottom edge or bottom of the headrest portion is between about 2 cm and about 12 cm, or between about 3 cm and about 10 cm, or between about 4 and 8 cm. In some embodiments, the radius of curvature at the bottom edge or bottom of the headrest is about 2 cm, 2.5 cm, 3 cm, 3.5 cm, 4 cm, 4.5 cm, 5 cm, 5.5 cm, 6 cm, 6.5 cm, 7 cm. , 7.5 cm, 8 cm, 8.5 cm, 9 cm, 9.5 cm, 10 cm, 10.5 cm, 11 cm, 11.5 cm or 12 cm. The average allowable radius of curvature is 7.5 cm. In some embodiments, the radius of curvature is between 2.5 and 6.25 cm, or the diameter is between 5 and 12.5 cm.

2F illustrates a bottom view of the support pillow 202 showing the bottom surface of the headrest 204. The area from the center of the hole to the lower part of the arched bottom portion 204c is formed to support the user's neck in proper alignment while the user rests his head.

3 illustrates an alternative configuration of support pillow 202. In this embodiment, the support pillow includes tapered sides where the front of the support pillow is shorter than the back of the support pillow. This configuration is useful in cases where the traveler's space may be limited and a small profile of the pillow may be useful, such as when the pillow must be mounted beneath an existing head restraint, such as is commonly found in airplane seat backs. For example, as illustrated in the figures, the back side of the support pillow may be about 14 to 20 cm high, more preferably 16 to 18 cm high, more preferably 18 cm high, and the front side of the support pillow may be about 10 cm high. The height may be from 15 cm to 15 cm, more preferably from 12 to 14 cm, and more preferably from 14 cm. In some embodiments, the height of the front of the support pillow is 5%, 10%, 15%, 20%, 25%, or 30% shorter than the height of the back of the support pillow.

Figure 4 illustrates straps 402 of support pillow assembly 500 (see Figure 5) in accordance with the present invention. In this embodiment, straps 402 are provided to hold support pillow 102 in place with the head. The strap 402 can be combined with the support pillow 102 in various configurations. Considering the support pillow of FIG. 1 , straps 402 may be disposed on the bottom of support pillow 102 to support support pillow 102 in place relative to the user's head. In one embodiment, strap 402 extends forward of the neck starting from one side brace 106 to the other side brace 106.

Strap 400 may be made of an elastic material that is sufficiently stretchy to accommodate the user's neck. Additionally, straps 400 provide the support necessary to keep the headrest in place relative to the user's head. Additionally, the strap may be made from a stretchy cotton material. In another embodiment, the strap may also be a belt that holds the support pillow 102 in place against the user's head. In one embodiment of the invention, the width of the strap ranges from about 4.5 cm to 6 cm. More specifically, the width of the strap is approximately 4.5 cm, which holds the support pillow 102 in place relative to the user's head.

The strap 400 includes a central component 402, which can be made of various materials, and a connector having a male member 404 and a female member 406 for securing one side of the central component 402 to the other side. . The connector may primarily consist of a Velcro (registered trademark) hook and loop assembly, a connector with male and female members. Alternatively, the connector may be a button, hook, magnet, and/or buckle to connect the ends of the straps 400 to each other.

Figure 5 illustrates a perspective view of support pillow assembly 500. In accordance with the present invention, the support pillow assembly 500 includes a support pillow 502 configured to support the user's neck and/or head in a supine, tilted or upright position. Support pillow 502 also provides vertical and lateral support to the user's head. Support pillow 502 further includes a head rest 504 and a pair of side rests 506, which in some embodiments may be identical to each other and are configured to cover the left and right sides of the user's head. Each side brace 506a, 506b is configured to cover the left and right sides of the user's head from the shoulder to the top of the head. The side bolsters 506a and 506b may be sized so that the user's ears do not contact the support pillow when the head is at least in a central frontal position.

The head rest 504 of the support pillow has a concave groove formed between a pair of side rests 106 to support the back of the head. The headrest 504 is recessed inward to align the user's head and neck in a forward-facing position when the user rests or sleeps during travel. The headrest 504 of the support pillow 502 further includes a top portion, a center portion, and a bottom portion.

The uppermost portion of the headrest 504 of the support pillow 502 supports the rear or uppermost portion of the user's head. In one embodiment of the invention, the top portion of headrest 504 is tapered to accommodate the user's head in proper alignment while tilting the head at rest. The central portion of the headrest 504 of the support pillow 502 supports the middle posterior (occipital) portion of the head. In some embodiments, the central portion further includes an aperture for supporting the back of the head.

The bottom portion of the support pillow 502 is shaped like an arch so that the support pillow 502 can be placed on the user's shoulder so that it can maintain its position without falling off the shoulder. In one embodiment of the present invention, the top of the arched bottom portion is located at the base of the backrest 504, and the bottom of the arched bottom portion is located at the base of the side rests 506a and 506b of the support pillow 502 to form the side rests. It is formed in an arch shape toward the front of the user so that the bottom rests on the user's shoulders and chest.

In some embodiments, support pillow assembly 500 further includes a strap 400 disposed on the bottom of support pillow 502 to support support pillow 502 in position relative to the user's head. The strap 400 may be configured to start from one of the side supports 506a and wrap around the front of the user's neck to be connected to the other side support 506b. Alternatively, strap 400 may wrap around a support pillow and, in some embodiments, rest against the back of the user's neck. Straps 400 are preferably used to secure support pillow 502 to the user in various support configurations. The strap 400 is preferably made of a durable and elastic material that can be easily wrapped around the user's neck. The length of the strap 400 can be adjusted according to the size and shape of the user's head and neck.

The optional strap 400 further includes a male member and a female member that can be coupled using a connector to secure one side of the strap 400 to the other side of the strap. In one embodiment, the connector is a Velcro® hook and loop assembly type connection. In other embodiments, the connector may be a button, magnet, hook and/or loop connector, or other removable fastener that allows attachment to properly secure the pillow in various orientations.

Support pillow assembly 500 includes a support pillow 502 comprised of a single member foam material. A single piece foam material is designed and constructed in such a way that it forms the head and neck support portion of support pillow 502. Primarily, the single-member support pillow 502 includes a pair of side rests 506 on either side of the head rest 504, with the side rests 506 tilted upward relative to the head rest 504 to the left side of the head. and is configured to support the right portion. The thickness of each side bolster decreases symmetrically toward the headrest 504 of the support pillow 502. Alternatively, the single member support pillow 502 includes a pair of side rests 506 on each side of the head rest 504. In some embodiments, the pair of side rests 506 are not identical.

The support pillow assembly 500 in some embodiments further includes a strap 400 disposed on the bottom of the support pillow 502, where the strap 400 is stretched from one of the side rests to the other side rest 506. It's wound up.

In one embodiment of the invention, support pillow 502 of support pillow assembly 500 is comprised of a conformable foam material that conforms to the shape of the user's head, neck, and shoulders, such support providing additional comfort and stability to the shoulder. to provide. In some embodiments, support pillow 502 is comprised in whole or in part of memory foam, Topiform®, or viscoelastic foam. In an alternative embodiment, the foam is either polyurethane foam or latex foam. In some embodiments of support pillows, a thin coating may be applied as either an outer layer of the pillow and/or accompanying storage, covers, straps, utility folding mechanisms, rigid support surfaces, for ease of cleaning against pathogens or general contamination. there is.

In alternative embodiments, support pillow 502 may also be provided with a removable cover or case to protect the pillow and the support pillow may be removed for cleaning or replacement. The removable cover can be designed according to the dimensions and design of the support pillow 502. The cover of the support pillow 502 is mainly made of soft fabric such as fleece or cotton. Other materials may be used depending on environmental considerations, treatment of pathogens such as viruses or bacteria, or user preference.

Referring to Figure 6, the present disclosure also provides a pillow 602 configured to fold upon itself to facilitate storage. In this embodiment, the pillow may be comprised of a single, unified body that includes a right side 606a and a left side 606b, as well as a central portion 604 configured to receive the user's head and neck. The bottoms 608a and 608b of the right and left sides, respectively, start at the back of the pillow and curve downward over the user's shoulders and toward the chest, as previously described herein. The pillow also includes additional features including a notch 610 that may be on the bottom on either the right or left side. This is shown in the bottom left of Figure 6. As mentioned above, the pillow is collapsible so that one of the sides folds over to the other side. Notch 610 accommodates the front inner edge of the folded side. For example, in Figure 6, the front inner right edge 612, once folded, is inserted into the notch 610 on the left. In some embodiments, the pillow has notches on the right and left sides respectively that can accommodate a left or right front inner edge, respectively.

Additional features shown in Figure 6 include grooves 614a and 614b on the right and left sides of the pillow. These grooves are configured to accommodate the user's ears, allowing the ears to be comfortably positioned on the sides of the pillow.

7 illustrates further details of a potentially collapsible pillow. Exemplary dimensions include a maximum height 702 of 8.75 inches and a height 704 from the top of the pillow to the rearmost edge of 7.75 inches. An exemplary height 706 of the ear groove is 3.42 inches. An exemplary height 710 from the lower rear edge of the pillow to the bottom of the ear groove is 2.67 inches. The exemplary length 714 from the lateral edge of the side pedestal to the frontmost edge of the side pedestal is 1.78 inches. An exemplary length 712 from the lateral edge of the side bolster to the lower front edge of the pillow is 2.35 inches. An exemplary length 716 from the side edge of the pillow to the front top edge of the side bolster is 2.53 inches. An exemplary length 718 from the lateral edge of the pillow to the front upper edge of the headrest is 2.79 inches. The length 720 from the lateral edge of the pillow to the lower front edge of the headrest is 3.43 inches. Although specific dimensions are specified herein, the dimensions are 1%, 2%, 3%, 4%, 5%, 6%, 7%, 8%, 9%, 10%, 15%, 20%, 25%, respectively. It is recognized that it can be increased or decreased by %, 30%, 35%, 40%, 45% or 50%.

8 illustrates additional details about the potentially collapsible pillow. Figure 8 is a top view of the pillow. Exemplary dimensions include a width from the back of the pillow to the upper rear edge of the top of the headrest of 0.67 inches and a width from the back of the pillow to the lower rear edge of the bottom of the headrest of 1.39 inches. The width 806 from the back of the pillow to the rearmost ear groove is 2.28 inches. The width 808 from the front edge of the pillow to the front edge of the ear groove is 1.34 inches. The diameter 810 of the lower curved headrest area is 4.65 inches. The diameter 812 of the upper curved headrest area is 6.16 inches. The width 814 of the top edge of the pillow from the rear edge to the front edge is 5 inches. The width 816 of the pillow from the rear edge to the front edge is 6.5 inches. Although specific dimensions are specified herein, each of the dimensions is 1%, 2%, 3%, 4%, 5%, 6%, 7%, 8%, 9%, 10%, 15%, 20%, 25%. It is recognized that it can be increased or decreased by %, 30%, 35%, 40%, 45% or 50%. In some embodiments, the pillow may have larger horizontal and vertical dimensions while maintaining specified head groove dimensions. The width of the head-supporting side of the pillow (from the outside to the inside of the side) can vary from 2¾ inches to 7 inches, specified for applications where less portability is required.

9 and 10 provide additional details about the foldable pillow. As can be seen in the front view on the left side, there is a hard surface 902 attached to the pillow. This hard surface may be made of plastic, metal, wood, or any other hard material, and may be covered with rubber or another, possibly synthetic material, with a rough or sticky texture. In some embodiments, the plastic may be made from a biodegradable plastic such as poly-lactic acid (PLA). This rigid panel can be located on the left, right, or both front sides of the headrest.

The purpose of the hard surface is to form a segment of the hard front of the folded pillow, as explained further herein, not only to provide rigidity when softer foams are used, but also to have its inner side when folded, as shown in Figure 11 By providing a hard surface that is aligned with the hard surface depicted and described below, it evenly distributes the force to the foam and facilitates compression against other hard surfaces on the back of the pillow, Velcro(R) hook and loop assembly, tab-in slot. Alternatively, a thinner, more portable configuration can be made by fastening it to a similar ratchet mechanism or to a case as described elsewhere. The hard surface can cover 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, 95%, 96%, 97%, 98%, 99%, or 100% of the surface to which the hard surface is attached. In some embodiments, the central portion includes an aperture as described herein, while in some embodiments it does not include an aperture. If used with a hard back to facilitate folding and storing the pillow, holes may not be necessary.

Figure 11 depicts a side view of the pillow. As shown on the right side of the pillow, there is a hard surface 1102 attached to the pillow. This hard surface may be placed on the right or left side of the pillow, and may be made of plastic, metal, wood, poly-lactic acid (PLA), or any other hard material, and may be covered with rubber or another, possibly synthetic material. , which may be covered with other materials with a rough or sticky texture, the purpose of which is to reduce the slippage of the pillow against any adjacent surfaces. The purpose of the hard surface is not only to provide rigidity when using soft foam, but also to provide a hard surface whose inner side when folded is aligned with the hard surface depicted in Figure 10 and described above, thereby evenly distributing the force to the foam and allowing it to be used with magnets, velcro ( When secured to the case with a hook-and-loop assembly, tab-in slot, buckle, or other "ratchet" mechanism, or as described elsewhere, it can facilitate compression against other hard surfaces on the back of the pillow, creating a thinner, more portable configuration. It is to be so. The hard surface can cover 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, 95%, 96%, 97%, 98%, 99%, or 100% of the surface to which the hard surface is attached.

Figure 12 illustrates a rear view of the pillow. As shown, a hard surface 1202 is also attached to the back of the pillow. This hard surface can be made of plastic, metal, wood or any other hard material such as poly-lactic acid (PLA), rubber or a rough or sticky texture whose purpose is to reduce the slippage of the pillow against adjacent surfaces. Can be covered with other synthetic materials with The purpose of the hard surface is not only to provide rigidity when using soft foam, but also to distribute the force evenly across the foam when folded, providing a hard surface that facilitates compression against the two aligned hard surfaces on the front of the folded pillow, thus making the Velcro ( Registered trademark) is intended to create a thinner, more portable configuration when secured with a hook and loop assembly, tab-in slot, or other similar ratcheting mechanism, or when secured to a case as described elsewhere. The hard surface may cover 20% to 80% of the pillow back, or in some embodiments, 45% to 75% of the pillow back. In some embodiments, the hard surface is 20%, 30%, 40%, 50%, 60%, 65%, 70%, 75%, 80%, 85%, 90% of the back pillow surface to which the hard surface is attached. , 95%, 96%, 97%, 98%, 99% or 100%. If the back solid surface 1202 covers less than 100% of the back of the pillow, it may be placed primarily on the left or right side of the back of the pillow. In this case, it is generally aligned with the edge on the same side as the notch 610. Accordingly, the uncovered portion of pillow back 1204 is on the same side as the side to which hard surface 1102 is attached. The uncovered portion of the pillow provides the pillow's flexibility, allowing the pillow to be folded by folding the sides forward.

In one embodiment, the support pillow includes a hard back surface on the rear side of the pillow. The rigid back may be made of cardboard, plastic, metal or other material that can provide rigidity and/or support to the user. Additionally, the rigid back may find dual purpose as a component of a storage container, as described further herein. In some embodiments, the hard backside lies on the rear surface of the pillow or is integrated within that side of the pillow and has a thickness of 2 to 6 mm, preferably 3 to 5 mm, a height measuring 100% of the pillow height, and a length. is 30 percent to 100 percent of the length of the pillow, is evenly distributed around the center line of the pillow or is disposed only on the right or left side of the rear surface of the pillow, and is 30 percent to 80 percent, preferably 60 percent to 80 percent, of the pillow length. It is measured as; Made of plastic, composite, cardboard, laminate or other similar rigid material with a height of 100 percent of the height of the pillow. In embodiments where the back side of the dura comprises 100% of the back surface of the pillow, the dura surface may have a crease, also called a "living hinge," or the dura material may extend the distance from the centerline of the pillow to the lateral edges of the pillow. It may be an actual hinge that can be partially or completely folded along a line lying to the left or right of the center line of the pillow corresponding to 20 to 60% of the. In an embodiment of a hard surface on one side of the side pedestal, this hinge or corrugation faces the side pedestal where the side surface is also covered with a hard surface.

In one embodiment, the hard backside lies on one or both front surfaces of the side support headrest portion of the pillow, preferably one front surface or is integrated within that side of the pillow and has a thickness of 2 to 6 mm, preferably 3 to 6 mm. 5 mm, the height is 100 percent to 80 percent of the pillow height, preferably 100 percent, the length is 100 percent of the pillow length, and are arranged uniformly around the pillow center line or only on the right or left side of the pillow rear surface and 30 percent to 80 percent of the pillow length, preferably 60 percent to 80 percent of the pillow length; Made of plastic, composite, cardboard, laminate or other similar rigid material with a height of 100 percent of the height of the pillow.

In some embodiments, as shown in Figure 13A, the side of the pillow with the hard surface 1102 is folded forward and away from the pillow to form a folded support pillow. Edge 612 fits into notch 610 to form a hard or hard front cover of the pillow. Back hard surface 1202 forms a back hard cover of the pillow. The uncovered back side 1204 of the pillow is now placed on the side of the folded pillow, leaving the left and right sides with exposed pillow material. This has the advantage of being flexible or compressible, allowing the size of the folded pillow to be further reduced. In some embodiments, the folded pillow may be compressed to 5% to 75% of its original folded size, or to 10% to 60% of its original folded size, or to 20% to 50% of its original folded size. In some embodiments, it is compressed by 5%, 10%, 15%, 20%, 25%, 30%, 35%, 40%, 45%, or 50% of the original folded size.

FIG. 13B shows a front perspective view of a folded support pillow depicting how side rigid shells 1102 meet front rigid shells 902 to form a rigid front surface of the folded support pillow.

Figure 13C shows a bottom view of the folded and compressed support pillow. Side 1102 is folded adjacent front hard surface 902, leaving a soft, compressible side. The compressed pillow can be locked with a forward locking mechanism 1302. The front locking mechanism may be comprised of straps, buckles, ties, Velcro (registered trademark) hook and loop assemblies, ratchet systems, etc. Additionally, the compressed support pillow may include lateral locking mechanisms 1304a and 1304b to facilitate maintaining the compressed pillow in the compressed configuration. The lateral locking mechanism may be comprised of straps, buckles, ties, Velcro (registered trademark) hook and loop assemblies, ratchet systems, etc.

Figure 13D depicts a front view of a folded or compressed pillow. Hard supports 1102 and 902 form the front surface of the folded pillow.

In some embodiments, the pillow is folded and compressed side to side rather than back and forth as above. This folded configuration is easier to compress because the same force compresses a smaller surface area, and has the advantage that the compressed pillow can have smaller overall dimensions compared to front-to-back compression embodiments. Figure 13F shows an inferior view of this alternative configuration of the folded compressed support pillow when compressed in the left and right dimensions. In this embodiment, the hard surface 1206 on the back of the pillow covers approximately 37.5% of the back of the pillow, and the headrest opposite the side on which this hard surface rests has a hard surface 1104 that covers 80 to 100% of the side. On the front side of the headrest portion, which is coplanar with 37.5% of the rear portion with the hard support, there is a hard support 904 that occupies 80 to 100% of the surface. The edge 616 is inserted into the notch 611 so that the front and back sides of the pillow are smooth and compressed. The compressed pillow can be locked with a forward locking mechanism 1309. The front locking mechanism may be comprised of straps, buckles, ties, Velcro (registered trademark) hook and loop assemblies, ratchet systems, etc. Additionally, as shown in FIG. 13G, the compressed support pillow may include additional front and rear locking mechanisms 1313a and 1313b to facilitate maintaining the compressed pillow in the compressed configuration. Front and rear locking mechanisms may be comprised of straps, buckles, ties, Velcro® hook and loop assemblies, ratchet systems, etc.

In some embodiments, the support pillow includes an extendable hard panel that extends below the bottom of the rear of the pillow. FIG. 13E depicts a rear view of the support pillow showing the sliding back plate 1306 in an extended position. When not extended, sliding back plate 1306 slides inside rigid back plate 1202. In some embodiments, the back plate is attached to the support pillow or back plate with a hinge and may be folded rather than slid. The expandable plate may be made of plastic, metal, wood, poly-lactic acid (PLA) or any other hard material, with a rubbery or rough or sticky texture for the purpose of reducing the sliding of the pillow against any adjacent surfaces. It can be covered with another, possibly synthetic material.

In some embodiments, the height of the expandable panel is from about 10 cm to about 40 cm. The expandable panel may be 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, 95%, 96%, 97%, 98%, 99%, or 100% of the size of the rigid back plate 1202. In some embodiments, the expandable panel spans 50%, 60%, 70%, 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, 95%, 96%, 97%, 98% of the width of the rigid back plate 1202. , 99% or 100%.

14 depicts a front view of an open pillow showing notch 610, ear cavities 614(a) and 614(b), front hard plate 902, and side or lateral hard plate 1102. Also, A curved section between the bottom and the side of the headrest is evident 1402. In some embodiments, a similar contour or curved area is found at the top of the headrest where the top curves from back to front. In some embodiments, the top curvature and the bottom curvature are are parallel to each other.In some embodiments, the front profile of the sides is flat, while in some embodiments it is curved as described herein.

Figure 15 depicts a perspective view of the support pillow showing front plate 902 and ear cavity 614(a).

16 depicts a rear perspective view of the travel pillow showing the side or lateral hard supports 1102 and the rear hard supports 1202.

FIG. 17A depicts a top perspective view of the support pillow showing lateral hard support 1102, front hard support 902, ear cavities 614(a) and 614(b), and notch 610.

17B depicts a top view of the support pillow showing front hard support 902, ear cavities 614(a) and 614(b), and notch 610.

Figure 18 depicts the underside of the support pillow showing notch 610 and trapezius grooves 1802 and 1804. The trapezius muscle groove is configured to support and support the user's trapezius muscle.

Figure 19 depicts a bottom perspective view of the support pillow showing notch 610 and trapezius grooves 1802 and 1804. Also shown is a front hard support 902.

Figure 20 depicts a posterior view of the support pillow showing posterior dura support 1202 and trapezius grooves 1802 and 1804 and notch 610.

Figure 21 depicts a lateral view of a support pillow with lateral rigid supports 1102.

22 depicts the back side of the pillow and shows exemplary dimensions of the support pillow in inches. Exemplary dimensions for length and height are shown. In some embodiments, the length of the backside 2204 of the support pillow is between 10 inches and 15 inches, or between 11 inches and 14 inches, or between 11.25 inches and 12.5 inches. In some embodiments, the length of backside 2204 is 10, 10.5, 11, 11.5, 12, 12.5, 13, 13.5, 14, or 14.5 inches. In some embodiments, the height of the backside 2204 of the support pillow is between 5 inches and 12 inches, or between 6.5 inches and 11 inches, or between 7 inches and 10 inches, or between 7.5 inches and 9 inches. In some embodiments, the height of the back side 2204 of the support pillow is 5, 5.5, 6, 6.5, 7, 7.25, 7.5, 7.75, 8, 8.25, 8.5, 8.75, 9, 9.25, 9.5, 9.75, 10, 10.5, or It's 11 inches. The dimensions are 1%, 2%, 3%, 4%, 5%, 6%, 7%, 8%, 9%, 10%, 15%, 20%, 25%, 30%, 35%, 40%. , it is recognized that it can be increased or decreased by 45% or 50%. In some embodiments, the pillow has a top contour that curves back to front.

Figure 23 depicts a side view of the pillow (2306(a)). Some example dimensions are described in the descriptions of Figures 7 and 8. Additionally, the width 2314 from the back of the pillow to the lowest point of the pillow is 5.62 inches. The length 2316 from the lowest point of the pillow to the most forward point of the pillow is 0.78 inches. In some embodiments, the width of the support pillow is greater at the bottom than at the top. That is, in some embodiments, the width at the bottom is 1 inch to 4 inches greater than the width at the top of the pillow. In some embodiments, the bottom is 1.25 inches to 3 inches wider than the width at the top of the pillow. In some embodiments, the width at the bottom of the pillow is 0.5, 0.75, 1, 1.25, 1.5, 1.75, 2, 2.25, 2.5, 2.75, or 3 inches wider than the width at the top of the pillow. In some embodiments, the width of the support pillow at the top is 3 to 10 inches, or 4 to 8 inches, or 5 to 7.5 inches. In some embodiments, the width is 3, 3.5, 4, 4.5, 5, 5.5, 6, 6.5, 7, 7.5 or 8 inches. In some embodiments, the width at the bottom of the support pillow is: The dimensions are 1%, 2%, 3%, 4%, 5%, 6%, 7%, 8%, 9%, 10%, 15%, 20%, 25%, 30%, 35%, 40%. , it is recognized that it may be increased or decreased by 45% or 50%.

As can be seen in Figure 23, in some embodiments, the side of the support pillow includes two curved areas. The first curved region 2302 curves from the top front edge of the side to a point 2304 at the maximum width of the bottom of the side or from the top of the side. In some embodiments, the pillow includes an edge 2312 extending from the point 2304 having the widest width to a point 2308 in the rearward and downward direction. The second curved region 2310 extends from the lower rear edge of the pillow to a point 2308 in the rearward and downward direction.

24 shows a front view of pillow 2402 and side bolsters 2406(a) and 2406(b) and provides example dimensions in inches. As previously explained, the rear of the support pillow has predetermined Although there is a height, the overall height of the pillow may be longer.This is because in some embodiments, the sides of the support pillow are curved downward at the back of the pillow to increase the overall height.In some embodiments, the overall height of the pillow is greater than the height of the back. 0.25 to 5 inches longer, 0.5 to 4 inches longer, 0.75 to 3 inches longer, or 1 to 2 inches longer. In some embodiments, the overall height of the support pillow is 0.5, 1, 1.5, 2, or 2 inches longer than the back of the pillow. 2.5, 3, 3.5 or 4 inches longer. Dimensions are 1%, 2%, 3%, 4%, 5%, 6%, 7%, 8%, 9%, 10%, 15%, 20%, respectively. It is recognized that it can be increased or decreased by 25%, 30%, 35%, 40%, 45% or 50%.

25 depicts a bottom view of the support pillow showing trapezius grooves 1802 and 1804 and notches 610. Exemplary dimensions for each of the features of the travel pillow are provided. Notch 610 can take a variety of shapes, such as square, rectangular, scalene triangle, triangle, or circle, although the scalene triangle shape is illustrated in Figure 25. Looking at the trapezius muscle grooves, each trapezius groove is configured to accommodate the user's trapezius muscle. The trapezius groove has length (L), height (H), and depth (D). In some embodiments, each trapezius groove is 1 to 4, or 1.5 to 3, or 2 to 2.5 inches long. In some embodiments, the length of the shoulder grooves is 1, 1.5, 2, 2.5, 3, 3.5, 4, 4.5 or 5 inches. In some embodiments, the top of the shoulder groove is shorter than the bottom of the shoulder groove due to the curvature of the headrest. The height of the trapezius groove is 0.5 to 4, or 1.0 to 3 or 2 to 2.5 inches. In some embodiments, the length of the shoulder grooves is 0.5, 1, 1.5, 2, 2.5, 3, 3.5, 4, 4.5 or 5 inches. The dimensions are 1%, 2%, 3%, 4%, 5%, 6%, 7%, 8%, 9%, 10%, 15%, 20%, 25%, 30%, 35%, 40%. , it is recognized that it can be increased or decreased by 45% or 50%.

26 depicts a rear perspective view of the support pillow in an upside-down position, highlighting the notches 610 as well as the sides 2202 and back 2204 of the support pillow. An exemplary length 2602 of the pillow is 11.55 inches. The dimensions are 1%, 2%, 3%, 4%, 5%, 6%, 7%, 8%, 9%, 10%, 15%, 20%, 25%, 30%, 35%, 40%. , it is recognized that it can be increased or decreased by 45% or 50%.

Figure 27 depicts a top view of the support pillow showing the ear cavities 614(a) and 614(b) as well as the notches 610, sides 2202, and back 2204.

28A shows a front view of the support pillow showing the front support 902. In some embodiments, front panel 902 is 4 to 10 inches tall depending on the height of the sides of the pillow. In some embodiments, the panels are 6 to 8 inches tall. In some embodiments, the width of the panels may be non-uniform to accommodate the width of the basic pillow section, but in some embodiments they are 0.5 to 3 inches wide, or 1 to 2 inches wide. The dimensions are 1%, 2%, 3%, 4%, 5%, 6%, 7%, 8%, 9%, 10%, 15%, 20%, 25%, 30%, 35%, 40%. , it is recognized that it can be increased or decreased by 45% or 50%. The front support extends at least 70%, 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, 91%, 92%, 93%, 94%, 95%, 96%, 97%, 98% or 100% of the front edge of the pillow. ％ It is recognized that it can occupy.

28B shows a side view of the support pillow showing the rigid support 1102. In some embodiments, side panels 1102 are 5 to 10 inches tall depending on the height of the sides of the pillow. In some embodiments, the panels are 6 to 8 inches tall. In some embodiments, the height of the panels may be non-uniform to accommodate the height of the primary pillow section. In some embodiments, the width of the side panels is 3 to 7 inches, or 3.5 to 6 inches, or 4 to 5.5 inches. In some embodiments, the width of the panels may be non-uniform to accommodate the width of the base pillow section. The dimensions are 1%, 2%, 3%, 4%, 5%, 6%, 7%, 8%, 9%, 10%, 15%, 20%, 25%, 30%, 35%, 40%. , it is recognized that it can be increased or decreased by 45% or 50%. The lateral support is at least 70%, 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, 91%, 92%, 93%, 94%, 95%, 96%, 97%, 98% or 100% of the lateral side of the pillow. to It is recognized as something that can be occupied.

28C shows a rear view of the support pillow showing exemplary dimensions of the rear support 1202. Exemplary dimensions for each of the features of the travel pillow are provided. In some embodiments, back panel 1102 is 3.5 to 10 inches tall depending on the height of the back of the pillow. In some embodiments, the panels are 5.75 to 8 inches tall. In some embodiments, the height of the panels may be non-uniform to accommodate the height of the primary pillow section. In some embodiments, the width of the side panels is 3 to 10 inches, or 4 to 8 inches, or 5 to 7 inches. In some embodiments, the width of the panels may be non-uniform to accommodate the width of the base pillow section. The dimensions are 1%, 2%, 3%, 4%, 5%, 6%, 7%, 8%, 9%, 10%, 15%, 20%, 25%, 30%, 35%, 40%. , it is recognized that it can be increased or decreased by 45% or 50%. The front support is at least 50 %, 55 %, 60 %, 65 %, 70 %, 75 %, 80 %, 85 %, 90 %, 91 %, 92 %, 93 %, 94 %, 95 % , it is recognized that it can occupy 96%, 97%, 98% or 100%.

Figure 29 depicts the interior on a lateral side showing notch 610 and ear cavity 614(b).

30 depicts an external lateral view of side 3006. Exemplary dimensions of each of the features of the travel pillow are provided in the descriptions of Figures 7 and 8. The dimensions are 1%, 2%, 3%, 4%, 5%, 6%, 7%, 8%, 9%, 10%, 15%, 20%, 25%, 30%, 35%, 40%. , it is recognized that it can be increased or decreased by 45% or 50%. In some embodiments, the radius of curvature of the lower edge of the side brace is about 30 to 50 cm, about 32 to 47 cm, about 35 to 45 cm, about 38 to 42 cm, or about 39 to 40 cm. In some embodiments, the radius of curvature of the lower edge of the side brace is about 30 cm, 31 cm, 32 cm, 33 cm, 34 cm, 35 cm, 36 cm, 37 cm, 38 cm, 39 cm, 40 cm, 41 cm. , 42 cm, 43 cm, 44 cm, 45 cm, 46 cm, 47 cm, 48 cm, 49 cm, or 50 cm. In some embodiments, the radius of curvature of the front edge of the side brace is about 30 to 50 cm, about 32 to 47 cm, about 35 to 45 cm, about 38 to 42 cm, or about 39 to 41 cm. In some embodiments, the radius of curvature of the front edge of the side brace is about 30 cm, 31 cm, 32 cm, 33 cm, 34 cm, 35 cm, 36 cm, 37 cm, 38 cm, 39 cm, 40 cm, 41 cm. , 42 cm, 43 cm, 44 cm, 45 cm, 46 cm, 47 cm, 48 cm, 49 cm, or 50 cm.

Figure 31 depicts a front view of the pillow showing the ear cavities 614(a) and 614(b) and notches 610. Exemplary dimensions of each of the features of the travel pillow are provided in the description of Figures 7 and 8. The dimensions are respectively 1%, 2%, 3%, 4%, 5%, 6%, 7%, 8%, 9%, 10%, 15%, 20%, 25%, 30%, It is recognized that it can be increased or decreased by 35%, 40%, 45% or 50%.

Referring to Figure 32A, a rear perspective view of a shorter support pillow is provided. In this embodiment, the measurements of the pillow may be similar to those described herein except that the overall height of the pillow is shorter. In this embodiment, the pillow includes sides that curve downward toward the user's chest, so the overall height is approximately 5 inches to 7 inches. In some embodiments, the overall height is about 5.5 inches to 6.5 inches. In some embodiments, the overall height is about 5, 5.5, 6, 6.5 or 7 inches. In this embodiment, the height of the back of the support pillow is approximately 4 inches to 6 inches. In some embodiments, the height of the pillow back is about 4, 4.5, 5, 5.5 or 6 inches. Figure 32B provides an alternative representation of Figure 32A except that the edges of the pillow are rounded to provide additional comfort and safety to the user.

Figure 33A depicts a bottom view of the support pillow. As illustrated in Figure 32, in some embodiments, the support pillow is shorter. That is, other measurements are similar to those described herein, but the height is shorter. Figure 33A depicts trapezius grooves 1802 and 1804 and notch 610. Exemplary dimensions for each of the features of the travel pillow are provided. Notch 610 can take a variety of shapes, such as a square, rectangular, isosceles triangle, triangle, or circle, although an isosceles triangle shape is illustrated in FIG. 33A. Looking at the trapezius muscle grooves, each trapezius groove is configured to accommodate the user's trapezius muscle. The trapezius groove has length (l), height (h), and depth (d). In some embodiments, each trapezius groove is 1 to 4, or 1.5 to 3, or 2 to 2.5 inches long. In some embodiments, the length of the shoulder grooves is 1, 1.5, 2, 2.5, 3, 3.5, 4, 4.5 or 5 inches. In some embodiments, the top of the shoulder groove is shorter than the bottom of the shoulder groove due to the curvature of the headrest. The height of the trapezius groove is 0.5 to 4, or 1.0 to 3 or 2 to 2.5 inches. In some embodiments, the length of the shoulder grooves is 0.5, 1, 1.5, 2, 2.5, 3, 3.5, 4, 4.5 or 5 inches. The dimensions are 1%, 2%, 3%, 4%, 5%, 6%, 7%, 8%, 9%, 10%, 15%, 20%, 25%, 30%, 35%, 40%. , it is recognized that it can be increased or decreased by 45% or 50%. Figure 33B provides an alternative representation of Figure 33A except that the edges of the pillow are rounded to provide additional comfort and safety to the user.

Figure 34A depicts a side view of shorter pillow 2306(A) and provides example dimensions in inches. As illustrated in Figure 32, in some embodiments, the support pillow is shorter. That is, other measurements are similar to those described herein, but the height is shorter. In some embodiments, the width of the support pillow is greater at the bottom than at the top. That is, in some embodiments the width at the bottom is 1 inch to 4 inches greater than the width at the top of the pillow. In some embodiments, the width at the bottom is 1.25 inches to 3 inches greater than the width at the top of the pillow. In some embodiments, the width at the bottom of the pillow is 0.5, 0.75, 1, 1.25, 1.5, 1.75, 2, 2.25, 2.5, 2.75, or 3 inches wider than the width at the top of the pillow. In some embodiments, the width of the support pillow at the top is 3 to 10 inches, or 4 to 8 inches, or 5 to 7.5 inches. In some embodiments, the width is 3, 3.5, 4, 4.5, 5, 5.5, 6, 6.5, 7, 7.5 or 8 inches. The dimensions are 1%, 2%, 3%, 4%, 5%, 6%, 7%, 8%, 9%, 10%, 15%, 20%, 25%, 30%, 35%, 40%. , it is recognized that it can be increased or decreased by 45% or 50%.

As shown in Figure 34, in some embodiments, the side of the support pillow includes two curved areas. The first curved region 2302 curves from the top front edge of the side to a point 2304 at the bottom of the side or the maximum width of the bottom of the side. In some embodiments, the pillow includes an edge 2312 extending from the point 2304 having the widest width to a point 2308 in the rearward and downward direction. The second curved region 2310 extends from the lower rear edge of the pillow to a point 2308 in the rearward and downward direction. In this embodiment, the pillow includes curved sides downward toward the user's chest, so the overall height is approximately 5 inches to 7 inches. In some embodiments, the overall height is about 5.5 inches to 6.5 inches. In some embodiments, the overall height is about 5, 5.5, 6, 6.5 or 7 inches. In this embodiment, the height of the back of the support pillow is approximately 4 inches to 6 inches. In some embodiments, the height of the pillow back is about 4, 4.5, 5, 5.5 or 6 inches. Figure 34B provides an alternative representation of Figure 34A, except that the edges of the pillow are rounded to provide additional comfort and safety to the user.

Figures 35A and 35B depict lateral internal views showing the ear cavity or groove 614(B) and trapezius groove 1802. Again, the pillow includes sides that curve downward toward the user's chest, so the overall height is approximately 5 to 7 inches. In some embodiments, the overall height is about 5.5 inches to 6.5 inches. In some embodiments the overall height is about 5, 5.5, 6, 6.5 or 7 inches. In this embodiment, the height of the back of the support pillow is approximately 4 inches to 6 inches. In some embodiments, the height of the pillow back is about 4, 4.5, 5, 5.5 or 6 inches. The dimensions are 1%, 2%, 3%, 4%, 5%, 6%, 7%, 8%, 9%, 10%, 15%, 20%, 25%, 30%, 35%, 40%. , it is recognized that it can be increased or decreased by 45% or 50%. In particular, in the pillow configuration depicted in Figure 35A, the ear grooves are at the upper edge of the pillow. The height of the ear groove is approximately 2 inches, 2.25 inches, 2.38 inches, 2.5 inches, 2.75 inches or 3 inches. Figure 35B provides an alternative representation of Figure 35A, except that the edges of the pillow are rounded to provide additional comfort and safety to the user.

36 depicts a top view of the support pillow showing notches 610, sides 2202, and back 2204, as well as ear cavities or grooves 614(a) and 614(b). Exemplary dimensions for each of the features of the travel pillow were provided above. The dimensions are 1%, 2%, 3%, 4%, 5%, 6%, 7%, 8%, 9%, 10%, 15%, 20%, 25%, 30%, 35%, 40%. , it is recognized that it can be increased or decreased by 45% or 50%. Figure 36B provides an alternative representation of Figure 36A, except that the edges of the pillow are rounded to provide additional comfort and safety to the user.

In some embodiments of the pillow, including both "tall" and "short" variations of pillow height as described above, the pillow is triangular in shape when viewed from above or below and extends from ½ inch to 1 inch rearward at its thickest point. It includes extension portions 770a and 770b behind each side stand. See Figure 39. The purpose of the extension is to tilt the front portion of the side rest inward to better fit the user's head and neck when the user's head presses the head rest portion of the pillow against the backrest, bed, or other surface. This triangular-shaped extension maximizes the surface area where the pillow touches the surface pressing against the pillow, increasing friction and increasing stability. The width of the triangular extension may comprise 10% to 50%, preferably 30%, of the width of the pillow; The height may include 10% to 100% of the pillow height, preferably 100%. In some embodiments, the triangular extensions are curved to match the "sloped" curvature of the pillow edges as described and illustrated elsewhere, and in some embodiments, are rectangular rather than triangular when viewed from above or below. In such embodiments, the hard support on the back of the pillow is not flat and may be curved, curved, or otherwise contoured to match the extension.

In some embodiments, the pillow is between 1 inch and 5 inches wide, preferably 2 inches wide (and, if rectangular, between 1 inch and 5 inches high), with a thickness of 1/10 to 1/3 of each side of the back of the pillow, It preferably has 1 to 5 simple circular, square or rectangular extensions 788a and 788b lying within a quarter. See Figure 40. These button-like extensions help tilt the front portion of the side rest inward to better fit the user's head and neck when the user's head presses the head rest portion of the pillow against the seat back, bed, or other surface. In these embodiments, the hard support on the back of the pillow is not flat, but may be curved, curved, or otherwise contoured to match the extension.

In some embodiments, the pillow further includes an attachment portion for securing the front compression panel. See Figure 13C (1302). The attachment portion may be a buckle, tie, button, Velcro (registered trademark) hook and loop assembly, and/or hook, etc. In some embodiments, the folded pillow includes a compression system to facilitate compression of the folded pillow. This compression system may be comprised of straps, buckles, ties, Velcro® hook and loop assemblies, ratchet systems, etc. (see 1304(a) and 1304(b)).

In some embodiments, a box or “exoskeleton” is used to provide packaging for the product and/or facilitate locking in a compressed position. It can be made of flexible or rigid plastic, metal, wood or any material that protects the pillow. In some embodiments, this part may be made of polylactic acid. All plastic parts can be manufactured using standard injection molding.

In some embodiments, the pillow is further configured to carry or integrate various elements. In one embodiment, the pillow includes a vertically oriented slit to receive a wire of a third party wired earbud speaker or a BLUETOOTH® wireless speaker. In some embodiments, the slit may also function as a receiving groove into which the opposite arm of the pillow can be inserted when folded for portability.

In one embodiment, the pillow is configured to have speakers integrated into the foam disposed at or near the ear holes. In this embodiment, the pillow may have wiring to connect speakers and may also have wiring to allow audio input. In some embodiments, the speaker has Bluetooth® wireless technology for wireless connectivity to audio input. In some embodiments, the pillow also includes a battery, charger, and/or electrical plug, as needed.

In some embodiments, the support pillow is configured with a pocket for insertion of a rechargeable battery and/or a rechargeable battery for a portable electronic device such as a cell phone, tablet, computer, etc. Additionally, the support pillow may be configured with various plugs such as, but not limited to, USB and/or USB-c ports, micro USB ports, etc. In some of these embodiments, the charging mechanism is wireless with or without magnetic attachment functionality.

In some embodiments, the support pillow may be configured with an electric heater and/or massager to provide additional comfort to the user. In one embodiment, the pillow incorporates vibration or other head and/or neck massage and/or heating and/or cooling mechanisms. also,

In some embodiments, the pillow may be configured to further include an integrated storage compartment or compartments for storing items such as, but not limited to, sunglasses, cell phones, pens, etc.

In one embodiment, a pillow is used as a component of a multi-component carrier 1700. Figure 37 is a side view of a multi-component carrier. In this embodiment, the carrier includes two compartments (1702, 1704) sharing a central barrier or wall (1710). The multi-component carrier has one compartment configured to store a pillow 1704 and an adjacent compartment configured to store additional items 1702 as described herein. Hinge system 1706 can open one side at a time. The closure mechanism 1708 can open one side at a time or both sides simultaneously. In some embodiments, it also features a locking device. In some embodiments, each chamber is the same size. In other embodiments, the chamber is asymmetric. One side is configured to receive the pillow described herein, and more specifically configured to receive the compression pillow described herein. The other compartment may include a foam lined interior to protect the contents of the chamber. If a single hinge 1706 is used as shown in FIGS. 37A and 37B, the compartment for additional items 1702 may include an internal base 1712 to hold the contents in place when the chamber is opened. there is. Conveniently, with one compartment facing down, the upper case can be opened. Then flip the carrier over to open the other compartment. 37C and 37D, only the lids 1714 and 1716 of each chamber are opened and the walls of the compartment remain attached or integrated to the base 1710. This serves to prevent the contents of the compartment from spilling out when the lid is opened. Contents may include, but are not limited to, cell phones, pens, keys, wallets, business cards, money, glasses, sunglasses, and other small personal items. In other embodiments, temporary storage of such items may be more limited and placed or inserted into small external pocket(s) on the outside of the pillow itself, in one embodiment such pockets may be equipped with zippers, Velcro® hooks, and The loop assembly may be sealable as in the present disclosure, or in other embodiments may be unsealed but low profiled to accommodate items for temporary storage.

In some embodiments, the side headrests of the pillow are tilted inward at an angle ranging from 5 degrees to 30 degrees, in some embodiments from 5 degrees to 20 degrees, from 10 degrees to 20 degrees, and in some embodiments from 12 degrees to 17 degrees. . In some embodiments, the headrest is tilted inward at an angle of 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19 or 20 degrees. In some of these embodiments, the rear rigid panel takes up 60 to 70 percent of the rear surface toward the side headrest without the side panel, which extends laterally to accommodate the user's head and neck when the opposing side rest is in place. Allow to hinge, then return to an inward angled position. See Figure 41. The purpose of the inward angle is to provide more secure support for the head and neck, replicating the effect of posterior wedge extension described elsewhere without the need for active pressure to be applied to the back of the pillow by the seat back or other surface on which the pillow rests to achieve this effect. It is done. In this embodiment, due to compression by the inward angle of the side bolsters, the dimensions of the headrest portion are reduced, with an average radius of the headrest portion being about 6 cm at the top portion and tapering to about 4.75 cm at the bottom portion. It is recognized.

In some embodiments, the pillow includes an air bladder 4200 and an external nozzle 4202 for inflation and deflation of the air bladder. See Figure 42. This nozzle may have a one-way valve that can be manually released in some of these embodiments. The nozzle may be configured anywhere on the pillow as long as it does not interfere with the function and/or comfort of the pillow. In some of these embodiments, the bladder occupies only the side headrest portions of the pillow and is connected between them through the back of the headrest so that they can be inflated simultaneously; In other embodiments the bladder also occupies the rear headrest. The percentage of the pillow occupied by these air pockets varies from 10% to 100% (100% is a fully inflatable pillow with a thin foam or other soft coating layer), and is preferably 30%. The purpose of the bladder is twofold: first, to provide rigidity when fully inflated, which may vary when not fully inflated; This rigidity is balanced by the foam outside the bladder (except for the inner portion reserved for the bladder in these embodiments), whose specifications for density and shape are specified elsewhere; Second, it provides portability when fully retracted. In some of these embodiments, the arrangement and folding configuration of the rigid panels is as specified elsewhere, and in some embodiments, the panel of the rear surface occupies a central portion ranging from 30 percent to 100 percent, preferably 70 percent. do. In this configuration, the side arms all fold symmetrically toward the center of the pillow when deflated, overlapping as necessary when folding the pillow into a flat configuration. In some of these embodiments, side panels are disposed on both sides with coverage ratios in the range as described elsewhere for panels disposed on only one side. In some of these embodiments, there is no front panel, and in some it is placed symmetrically on the front of each side stand. In some embodiments of the inflatable pillow there are no rigid panels on any surface. In some of these embodiments without a rigid panel, there is a rubber, polyurethane or other adhesive surface on the rear side of the pillow, accounting for 30 to 100%, preferably 95%, the purpose of which is to As explained otherwise, the contact is created through friction between the rear surface of the pillow and the seat back or other flat surface on which the pillow rests. Air pockets may be present in all embodiments described elsewhere, including the above embodiment with angled side headrests.

Alternative embodiments are envisioned where the pillow has dimensions to accommodate the head, neck and shoulders of a child between infant and teenage ages. These embodiments will encompass the scope of the other embodiments described above and below, except that all measurements are smaller, but have exact or approximate proportions to the dimensions of the embodiments described above and below. The size ratios of these alternative embodiments to the embodiments described elsewhere will be 50, 55, 60, 65, 70, 75, 80, 85, 90, and 95 percent, preferably between 70 and 85 percent. .

In the shorter of these embodiments, the overall height is about 3 inches to 6 inches. In some embodiments, the overall height is about 3 inches to 5.5 inches. In some embodiments, the overall height is about 3.5, 4, 4.5, 5, 5.5 or 6 inches. In this embodiment, the height of the back of the support pillow is approximately 3 inches to 5 inches. In some embodiments, the height of the pillow back is about 4, 4.5, 5, 5.5 or 6 inches. The size ratios of these alternative embodiments to the embodiments described elsewhere may be 50, 55, 60, 65, 70, 75, 80, 85, 90, and 95 percent, preferably between 70 and 85 percent. there is.

In the larger of these embodiments, the pillow has a height ranging from about 7 inches to about 10 inches.

In these smaller embodiments, the head groove may vary proportionally to the overall dimensions to reflect the differences in head-neck-shoulder ratios of infants and children compared to adults. The radius at the top of the top part (exact radius if circular, average if oval) can be 4 to 7 cm, and at the bottom of the top part can be 2 cm to 3 cm, preferably 2.5 cm to 5.5 cm; , and between these two radii the head and neck of the average occipital infant (see attached diagram) or the head and neck of the average occipital child, and between the size of the average infant and the average child and between 1 and 20% larger than the average infant head and neck. It is evenly tapered into a shape that accommodates the size of the head (49.5 cm (20 inches) in circumference, a head size that is 1 to 20 percent smaller than the average infant's head and neck).

In some embodiments (see Figure 43), the pillow has an attachable elastic band, or a pair of bands, such as elastic bands, for use for compression to a smaller size. The band is wrapped and connected to itself using one of a button, Velcro® hook and loop assembly, hook, buckle and/or magnet 2901. In some embodiments, the band is secured to the pillow itself using buttons, Velcro® hook and loop assemblies, hooks, buckles, and/or magnets (2902) and folded with the strap open (FIG. 43A); The strap is folded and compressed in the closed position (Figure 43b). Two of the advantages or usefulness of the compressed small size are that it is easy to carry and use in a bag, soft case or hard case, allowing for security and protection of the pillow, simple portability and improved aesthetic benefits.

In some embodiments (see Figure 44), the pillow has an attachment device 3302 for securing to an airplane seat back 3301. The device may be made of metal, buttons, Velcro® hook and loop assemblies, hooks, buckles, and/or magnets, and may be height adjustable to accommodate various occupant head and neck positions. In some embodiments, the pillow is part of an integrated airplane seat back design, such as a design that airlines and airplane manufacturers choose to incorporate for passenger comfort. In some embodiments, the headrest folds laterally to allow use of the seat back without the headrest support.

In some embodiments (see Figure 43), the pillow has an attachable elastic band, or a pair of elastic bands, for use for compression to a smaller size. The band is wrapped and attached to itself using buttons, Velcro® hook and loop assemblies, hooks, buckles and/or magnets (2901). In some embodiments, the band is secured to the pillow itself 2902 using buttons, Velcro® hook and loop assemblies, hooks, buckles, and/or magnets, and folded with the strap open (FIG. 43A); The strap is folded and compressed in the closed position (Figure 43b). Two of the advantages or usefulness of the compressed small size are that it is easy to carry and you can use a bag, soft or hard case to keep the pillow safe, easy to carry, and improve aesthetic benefits.

In some embodiments (see Figure 44), the pillow is provided with an attachment device 3302 for securing to an airplane seat back 3301. The device may be made of metal, buttons, Velcro® hook and loop assemblies, hooks, buckles, and/or magnets, and may be height adjusted to accommodate various occupant head and neck positions. In some embodiments, the pillow is part of an integrated airplane seat back design, such as a design that airlines and airplane manufacturers choose to incorporate for passenger comfort. In some embodiments, the headrest portion folds laterally to allow use of the seat back without the headrest support.

In some embodiments, the anterior-lower portion of the side rest corresponding to the clavicle (clavicle) is cut (see Figure 45). That is, in some embodiments the pillow includes a side rest that conforms to the collarbone, and in some embodiments the side rest does not conform to the collarbone. In embodiments where the side rest does not conform to the clavicle, a length of the lower portion of the side rest is cut to a length of the side rest that identifies the clavicle. Side braces without areas corresponding to the collarbone are reduced in length to 0.1 inch, 0.2 inch, 0.3 inch, 0.4 inch, 0.5 inch, 0.6 inch, 0.7 inch, 0.8 inch, 0.9 inch or 1 inch. In some embodiments, the reduction in length is from 0.1 inch to 1 inch, from 0.2 inch to 0.7 inch, or from 0.5 inch to 0.5 inch. The change in measured value is approximately within 2 cm. In this version, the "slots" 610 in the headrest arms opposite the folding arms have been removed or modified to accommodate the folding arms in the truncated front-bottom configuration, and the rigid panels on the sides of the side rests have been modified to fit the truncated side rests. It has been done. This configuration applies to both the “tall” and “short” versions of the pillow described above, which may also have beveled or curved edges as described above.

In some embodiments of this truncated version described in the paragraph above, the entire front side brace is truncated (see Figure 46). In this embodiment, the length of the side brace is reduced by 0.5 to 2 inches or 0.8 to 1.5 inches or 1 to 1.3 inches compared to the length of the clavicle compliant version. The length may be 4 to 6 inches or 4.1 to 5 inches. The change in measured value is approximately within 2 cm. In this version, the "slot" in the headrest arm opposite the folding arm is removed or altered to accommodate the folding arm in a front-to-back configuration, and the solid panels on the side(s) of the siderest(s) are cut to fit the siderest. changes. This configuration applies to both the “tall” and “short” versions of the pillow described above, which may also have beveled or curved edges as described above.

In some embodiments of this truncated version described in the paragraph above, the entirety of the front side rest is truncated and curved forward with a convex surface (see Figure 47). The width of the top of the side bolsters in this embodiment is approximately 5.09 inches, and the width from the back of the pillow to the front edge of the pillow is approximately 5.27 inches. The change in measured value is approximately within 2 cm. In this version, the "slots" in the headrest arms opposite the folding arms were removed or modified to accommodate the folding arms in a front-to-back configuration, and the solid panels on the sides of the siderests were modified to fit the truncated siderests. This configuration applies to both the "tall" and "short" versions of the pillow described above, and the edges may be beveled or curved as described above.

Once manufactured, pillows, referred to herein as support pillows, can be used for a variety of purposes. In one embodiment, the pillow is used as a support pillow for comfort or necessary head or neck restraint during air travel, ground vehicles, or other modes of travel. In an alternative embodiment, the pillow is used for sleeping, whether traveling or not. In similar or completely different embodiments, pillows can be used while resting on a chair, sofa or other seating mode. In certain embodiments, the pillow is used on patients following an injury, medical procedure, or surgery. After these surgeries or procedures, patients often have to sleep on their backs, and pillows help make this comfortable. This applies especially to plastic surgery and non-plastic head and neck surgery. Accordingly, the present disclosure provides a method of immobilizing a patient after surgery by having the patient rest against a pillow so that the head is comfortably secured as described herein. This may also apply when patients rest and sleep in a reclining or supine position after an injury or medical procedure, with this head and neck position promoting healing and ensuring stability and comfort.

Although various embodiments of the invention have been described above, it should be understood that they have been presented by way of example only and not limitation. Likewise, the drawings may depict example architecture or other configurations of the invention to aid understanding of features and functionality that may be included in the invention. The invention is not limited to the architecture or configuration of the illustrated example, but various alternative architectures and configurations may be used to implement the desired functionality.

Claims (38)

A pillow for supporting the user's neck and head in a supine position, inclined position, or upright position, the pillow assembly comprising:
a. headrest area;
b. A first side rest and a second side rest for supporting the user's head, wherein the head rest portion is located between these side rests, and the head rest portion is for supporting the posterior part of the head and neck. a first side brace and a second side brace comprising a curved interior, the curved interior having a larger radius at the upper portion and tapering to a smaller radius at the lower portion;
c. an arcuate bottom portion, the bottom portion resting on the nape of the user's neck, and further, the top of the arcuate bottom portion is located at the base of the headrest, and the bottom of the arcuate bottom portion is located at the base of the side rest. an arched bottom portion;
d. First and second ear recesses on first and second lateral surfaces of the headrest portion, the first and second ear recesses being configured to receive the ears of a user. ear grooves; and
e. A first trapezius groove and a second trapezius groove at the bottom of the first side and the second side of the arcuate bottom portion, wherein the trapezius groove is configured to receive the user's trapezius muscle.
Including a pillow. According to paragraph 1,
On the lower surface of each side rest that rests on the user's shoulders, a curve that slopes downward from rear to front extending downward from the posterior shoulder area to cover the user's clavicle area.
Further comprising: a pillow. 2. The pillow of claim 1, wherein the lower surface of the side rest extends only to a point one inch behind the topmost edge of the side rest so as not to cover the user's collarbone area. According to any one of claims 1 to 3,
An inward angle of 5 to 20 degrees between the anteroposterior axis of each side rest and a vertical line from the back of the pillow.
Further including a pillow. The pillow according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein each side rest is inclined vertically (90 degrees) forward with respect to the back of the pillow. The pillow according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the pillow is configured to be folded into a folded configuration. According to clause 6,
Rigid support on the posterior surface of the pillow
Further including a pillow. 8. The pillow of claim 7, wherein the hard support on the back of the pillow covers about 70% of the back of the pillow. 9. The pillow according to claim 7 or 8, wherein the hard support is aligned flush with a lateral surface of the first side rest. According to any one of claims 7 to 9,
A rigid support on the front surface of the first side brace.
Further including a pillow. According to clause 10,
A rigid support on the lateral surface of the second side brace.
Further including a pillow. According to any one of claims 7 to 9,
A rigid support on the lateral surface of the second side brace.
Further including a pillow. According to any one of claims 1 to 12,
Notch on the inside of the first side stand
The pillow further includes, wherein the notch is configured to receive a front interior edge of the second side rest when the side rest is folded inward for portability. 14. The pillow of any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the width of the pillow is about 27 cm. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein the height of the pillow measured 2 cm rearward from the frontmost side of the side rest is about 15 cm, and the rear height of the pillow measured from the rearmost side of the side stand A pillow measuring about 13 cm. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein the height of the pillow measured 2 cm rearward from the frontmost side of the side rest is about 22cm, and the rear height of the pillow measured from the rearmost side of the side stand A pillow measuring about 17 cm. 15. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein the anteroposterior depth of the pillow measured at 2.5 cm from the bottom of the pillow and 3.5 cm from the most lateral side of the side rest is about 18 cm, and the maximum of the side rest is A pillow, wherein the anteroposterior depth of the top of the pillow measured at 3.5 cm from the side is 15.5 cm. 15. The pillow according to any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein the front height of the side rest is about 22 cm and the rear height is about 17 cm. According to any one of claims 1 to 18,
At least one strap configured to compress the pillow when folded
Further comprising: a pillow. According to clause 19,
at least two straps configured to compress said pillow when folded
Including pillows. 21. The method of any one of claims 1 to 20, wherein the ear groove has a quarter ellipsoid shape to accommodate the lower portion of the user's ear, the quarter ellipsoid having a supero-inferior dimension. is 6 cm, the maximum anteroposterior dimension is 6 cm, and the maximum left and right dimension (depth) is 2.2 cm. According to any one of claims 1 to 21,
A single member of polyester, polyurethane, polyether urethane, latex, viscoelastic foam, or memory foam.
Including pillows. 23. The pillow of claim 22, wherein the pillow is configured to be comfortably soft yet firm enough to support head movement in a reclining, sitting or upright position. 23. The method of claim 22, wherein approximately 0.25 to 5 lb/cu.ft. A pillow made of high-density, high-pressure compression molded polyether urethane. 25. The pillow of claim 24, wherein the density is 0.25 to 1.5 lb/cu.ft. 26. The pillow of claim 25, wherein the density is 0.25 to 1 lb/cu.ft. 23. The pillow according to any one of claims 1 to 22, wherein the pillow is made from plant material. According to any one of claims 1 to 27,
A coating of smooth polyurethane or plastic from 0.1 to about 2.5 mm thick.
Including pillows. 29. The pillow of claim 28, wherein the smooth polyurethane or plastic is acceptable for surface cleaning or sterilization. 30. The pillow of claim 29, wherein the smooth polyurethane or plastic improves or is capable of improving comfort. According to clause 30,
A conforming, removable cover or case to protect the pillow.
A pillow further comprising, wherein the cover or case can be removed for cleaning or replacement. According to any one of claims 1 to 31,
At least one attachment feature selected from the group consisting of a carabiner, a hook, and a loop.
Further including a pillow. According to any one of claims 1 to 31,
an integrated air bladder configured to inflate and deflate to adjust the rigidity or comfort of the pillow;
Further including a pillow. According to any one of claims 1 to 31,
A strap configured to support the pillow in place relative to the user's head.
Further comprising: a pillow. 35. The pillow of claim 34, wherein the straps can be tightened from side to side to secure the headrest to the user's head. According to any one of claims 1 to 35,
Configured to improve recovery or treatment of patients in need of the pillow,
The pillow is configured as an auxiliary device for use with a CPAP machine, supplemental oxygen, etc. 37. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 36, wherein the patient sleeps only or mainly in a completely supine or inclined position (back upright up to 90 degrees (including 90 degrees)). A pillow configured for better sleep in patients with a back-positioned sleep condition or a psychological/physiological/comfort preference or diagnosed condition for a medical condition or post-operative condition. As a method of carrying a portable pillow,
A portable pillow comprising folding the second side rest of the foldable pillow of any one of claims 1 to 37 toward the first side rest, and inserting the inner edge of the second side rest into the notch of the first side rest. How to carry .

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