US20200093294A1

US20200093294A1 - A pillow assembly and a body thereof

Info

Publication number: US20200093294A1
Application number: US16/344,041
Authority: US
Inventors: Yinh Jheow Ban
Original assignee: Cori Traveller Pte Ltd
Current assignee: Cori Traveller Pte Ltd
Priority date: 2017-06-09
Filing date: 2018-06-06
Publication date: 2020-03-26
Also published as: WO2018226159A1

Abstract

According to embodiments of the present invention, a pillow assembly is provided. The pillow assembly includes a body comprising a first portion and a second portion, extending from the first portion, wherein at least part of the first portion has a width that is larger than the width of the second portion; and at least one cushioning member configured to be spatially adjustable within the first portion. According to further embodiments of the present invention, a body for co-operating with at least one cushioning member of a pillow assembly is also provided.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application claims the benefit of priority of Singapore patent application No. 10201704779U, filed on 9 Jun. 2017, the content of it being hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety for all purposes.

TECHNICAL FIELD

Various embodiments relate to a pillow assembly and a body for co-operating with at least one cushioning member of a pillow assembly.

BACKGROUND

Being confined in a relatively restrictive position, especially for long hours, often leads to stress and strain on at least one part of a human body. For example, in traveling, which is a vital activity in today's modern life, considerably long hours may be spent on a seat in a vehicle. As a result, travelers may experience aches and pains in, e.g., necks, backs, and/or legs. One way to relieve such aches and pain may be to cushion or support the relevant body parts against the seat using a pillow.
Pillows for travel purposes are generally smaller and have fixed configurations. For example, pillows available on airplanes are generally rectangular or squarish, and often lack firm support, which may be due to deformation caused by continual usage and washing. Inflatable travel pillows were subsequently introduced, e.g., with a U-shaped structure to anchor against a user's shoulder while providing some form of support to the neck area. However, such inflatable travel pillows have fixed sizes and shapes, and may not be suitable for different ranges of users.
Thus, there is a need for a pillow or a pillow assembly that may be designed with an understanding that not all humans are made exactly the same, so as to provide for personalized use and comfort by catering to users with different needs and preferences; thereby addressing at least the problems mentioned herein.

SUMMARY

According to an embodiment, a pillow assembly is provided. The pillow assembly may include a body including a first portion and a second portion, extending from the first portion, wherein at least part of the first portion has a width that is larger than the width of the second portion; and at least one cushioning member configured to be spatially adjustable within the first portion.
According to an embodiment, a body for co-operating with at least one cushioning member of a pillow assembly is provided. The body may include a first portion configured to receive the at least one cushioning member; and a second portion, extending from the first portion, wherein at least part of the first portion has a width that is larger than the width of the second portion.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

In the drawings, like reference characters generally refer to like parts throughout the different views. The drawings are not necessarily to scale, emphasis instead generally being placed upon illustrating the principles of the invention. In the following description, various embodiments of the invention are described with reference to the following drawings, in which:

FIG. 1A shows a schematic representation of a pillow assembly, according to various embodiments.

FIG. 1B shows a schematic representation of a body for co-operating with at least one cushioning member of a pillow assembly, according to various embodiments.

FIG. 2A shows a perspective view of an exemplary modular travel pillow in an unassembled configuration, according to various embodiments.

FIG. 2B shows a top view of the exemplary modular travel pillow of FIG. 2A.

FIG. 2C shows a bottom view of the exemplary modular travel pillow of FIG. 2A.

FIG. 2D shows a side view of the exemplary modular travel pillow of FIG. 2A.

FIG. 3 shows a perspective side view of the modular travel pillow of FIGS. 2A to 2D when in an assembled configuration, according to one embodiment.

FIG. 4A shows a perspective side view of the assembled modular travel pillow of FIG. 3 being rolled up, according to one embodiment.

FIG. 4B shows a perspective view of the assembled modular travel pillow of FIG. 3 in a rolled up configuration, according to one embodiment.

FIG. 4C shows a side view of the rolled up modular travel pillow of FIG. 4B being placed on a hook, according to one embodiment.

FIG. 5 shows a schematic representation illustrating the assembled modular travel pillow of FIG. 3 being in use, according to one embodiment.

FIG. 6A shows a top view of the modular travel pillow with a big pillow being attached to a strap of the modular travel pillow, according to one embodiment.

FIG. 6B shows a schematic representation illustrating the modular travel pillow of FIG. 6A being in use, according to one embodiment.

FIG. 7A shows a top view of the modular travel pillow with the big pillow and a small pillow being attached to the strap of the modular travel pillow, according to one embodiment.

FIG. 7B shows a schematic representation illustrating the modular travel pillow of FIG. 7A being in use, according to one embodiment.

FIGS. 8A to 8D show top views of the modular travel pillow with different variations of pillow use and adjustments, in accordance with various embodiments.

FIG. 9A shows a top view of another exemplary strap that works in cooperation with pillows of a modular travel pillow, in accordance with various embodiments.

FIG. 9B shows a bottom view of the strap of FIG. 9A.

FIG. 9C shows a perspective view of the modular travel pillow with the strap of FIG. 9A in a rolled up configuration, in accordance with one embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The following detailed description refers to the accompanying drawings that show, by way of illustration, specific details and embodiments in which the invention may be practiced. These embodiments are described in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice the invention. Other embodiments may be utilized and structural, and logical changes may be made without departing from the scope of the invention. The various embodiments are not necessarily mutually exclusive, as some embodiments can be combined with one or more other embodiments to form new embodiments.
Features that are described in the context of an embodiment may correspondingly be applicable to the same or similar features in the other embodiments. Features that are described in the context of an embodiment may correspondingly be applicable to the other embodiments, even if not explicitly described in these other embodiments. Furthermore, additions and/or combinations and/or alternatives as described for a feature in the context of an embodiment may correspondingly be applicable to the same or similar feature in the other embodiments.
In the context of various embodiments, the articles “a”, “an” and “the” as used with regard to a feature or element include a reference to one or more of the features or elements.
In the context of various embodiments, the phrase “at least substantially” may include “exactly” and a reasonable variance.
In the context of various embodiments, the term “about” or “approximately” as applied to a numeric value encompasses the exact value and a reasonable variance.
As used herein, the term “and/or” includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.
As used herein, the phrase of the form of “at least one of A or B” may include A or B or both A and B. Correspondingly, the phrase of the form of “at least one of A or B or C”, or including further listed items, may include any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.
Various embodiments provide a modular pillow assembly, for example, a modular travel pillow set, which may also be simply herein referred to as a modular travel pillow.
The modular travel pillow is designed in a mannar different from the way conventional travel pillows are made and used. The modularity may allow for customization and adjustments to fit users who are uniquely different in their physique and in their preference.
The modular travel pillow may be ultra-compact and lightweight, and may simply be rolled into a compact form, hooked onto a bag, for example, and be on the Go. In other words, the modular travel pillow may provide a combination of comfort, support and compactness, which aims to make travelling comfortable and joyful.
FIG. 1A shows a schematic representation of a pillow assembly 100, in accordance with various embodiments. In FIG. 1A, the pillow 100 includes a body 102 including a first portion 104 and a second portion 106, extending from the first portion 104 (as represented by a line 110); and at least one cushioning member 108 configured to be spatially adjustable within the first portion 104. At least part of the first portion 104 has a width that is larger than the width of the second portion 106.
In other words, the pillow assembly 100 may be modular and may include at least two separable components namely, the body 102 and the cushioning member 108. The cushioning member 108 or at least part thereof may be positioned on the body 102, more specifically, at a location/position defined to be within the boundary of the first portion 104. The cushioning member 108 may then be placed against a selected part of a user's body that requires the cushioning support and the body 102 may be used to hold the cushioning member 108 in place. The at least part of the first portion 104 has a larger width than the second portion 106 to provide the body 102 with a peripheral contour which may allow for improved support and comfort to the user.
In one embodiment, the at least one cushioning member 108 in its entirety may be contained within the boundary defined by the first portion 104.
In another embodiment, a part of the at least one cushioning member 108 may be contained within the boundary defined by the first portion 104, while a remaining part of the at least one cushioning member 108 may be positioned outside the boundary defined by the first portion 104.
In various embodiments, the second portion 106 may extend from a side of the first portion 104 along a longitudinal axis of the body 102. The length of the body 102, or the length of the first portion 104, or the length of the second portion 106 may be provided along the longitudinal axis.
The at least one cushioning member 108 or the part thereof may be in contact with the body 102, or more specifically, within the first portion 104 along a surface plane or a face of the body 102.
Each of the width of the first portion 104 and the width of the second portion 106 may be provided perpendicular to the longitudinal axis along the surface plane.
In context of various embodiments, the term “width” may refer to an average width.
In various embodiments, the width of the at least part of the first portion 104 may be at least 10%, or at least 20%, or at least 30%, or at least 40% or at least 50% or larger than the width of the second portion 106.
For example, the width of the at least part of the first portion 104 may be sufficiently larger than the width of the second portion 106 so that the first portion 104 may be positioned near or over a part of the user's body that requires more support or firmer support across a wider area.
In various embodiments, the body 102 may further include a third portion, extending from the first portion 104 and opposite to the second portion 106. In other words, the first portion 104 may be arranged between the second portion 106 and the third portion. Each of the second portion 106 and the third portion may be an end portion of the body 102.
The width of the at least part of the first portion 104 may be at least 10%, or at least 20%, or at least 30%, or at least 40% or at least 50% larger than the width of the third portion. The width of the third portion may be provided perpendicular to the longitudinal axis along the surface plane.
For example, the body 102 may be a unitary component with various portions (e.g., the first portion 104 and the second portion 106; or together with the third portion). In another example, the various portions may integrally define the body 102.
In various embodiments, at least part of the body 102 may be configured to at least substantially encircle at least part of the at least one cushioning member 108 upon having the second portion 106 and the third portion brought towards each other.
In other words, the at least one cushioning member 108 may be inwardly contained by the at least part of the body 102.
In various embodiments, the at least one cushioning member 108 may be adapted to be arranged between at least part of the body 102 and a part of a user's body upon having the second portion 106 and the third portion brought towards each other.
For example, the at least part of the body 102 may be configured to wrap around the part of the user's body.
The second portion 106 and the third portion may be attachable to each other. For example, the second portion 106 and the third portion may be releasably attachable to each other.
In one embodiment, the second portion 106 may include a hook fastener and the third portion may include a loop fastener for receiving the hook fastener.
In another embodiment, the third portion may include a hook fastener and the second portion 106 may include a loop fastener for receiving the hook fastener.
In one embodiment, the body 102 may include a button and the second portion 106 may include an opening for receiving the button.
In another embodiment, the body 102 may include a button and the third portion includes an opening for receiving the button.
For example, the at least one cushioning member 108 may be held within the body 102 in a rolled up manner with the button fastened to the opening.
In one embodiment, the second portion 106 may include a tab and the body 102 may include a slot and for receiving the tab. For example, the tab may integrally form at least part of the second portion 106.
In another embodiment, the third portion may include a tab and the body 102 may include a slot and for receiving the tab. For example, the tab may integrally form at least part of the third portion.
For example, the at least one cushioning member 108 may be held within the body 102 in a rolled up manner with the tab fastened to the slot.
Either by ways of a button-opening or a tab-slot, the pillow assembly 100 may be rolled up, like a ball, and held in a compact, store-away configuration with the body 102 or at least part thereof wrapping around the at least one cushioning member 108. It should be appreciated that other forms of releasable attachment means may also similarly be applied.
In various embodiments, the body 102 may be made of a resilient material. For example, the body 102 may include an elastomer sheet. The body 102 may further include a layer of fabric covering over the elastomer sheet, which forms an inner core of the body 102.
The body 102 may include an elongate body.
The body 102 may include a planar body.
In various embodiments, the at least one cushioning member 108 may be configured to be at least one of positionally adjustable or orientationally adjustable relative to the body 102.
For example, the adjustment of the at least one cushioning member 108 may be made substantially within the first portion 104.
In various embodiments, the at least one cushioning member 108 and the body 102 may be attachable to each other. For example, the at least one cushioning member 108 and the body 102 may be releasably attachable to each other.
In one embodiment, the at least one cushioning member 108 may include a hook fastener and the body 102 may include a loop fastener for receiving the hook fastener.
In another embodiment, the at least one cushioning member 108 may include a loop fastener and the body 102 may include a hook fastener for receiving the loop fastener.
In various embodiments, the attachment means provided on the body 102 may refer to the attachment means being provided on the first portion 104.
In various embodiments, the pillow assembly 100 may include a further cushioning member.
In various embodiments, the pillow assembly 100 may include a travel pillow assembly.
For example, the pillow assembly 100 may also include a neck pillow assembly.
The pillow assembly 100 may be portable and/or modular.
FIG. 1B shows a schematic representation of a body 122 for co-operating with at least one cushioning member 128 of a pillow assembly (e.g., 100), in accordance with various embodiments. In FIG. 1B, the body 122 include a first portion 124 configured to receive the at least one cushioning member 128, and a second portion 126, extending from the first portion 124 (as represented by a line 130). At least part of the first portion 124 has a width that is larger than the width of the second portion 126.
In various embodiments, the body 122 may include a third portion, extending from the first portion 124 and opposite to the second portion 126, wherein the second portion 126 and the third portion are attachable to each other.
The width of the at least part of the first portion 124 may be at least 10%, or at least 20%, or at least 30%, or at least 40% or at least 50% larger than the width of the second portion 126 or the width of the third portion.
The body 122, the first portion 124, the second portion 126 and the at least one cushioning member 128 may include the same or like elements or components as those of the body 102, the first portion 104, the second portion 106 and the at least one cushioning member 108 of FIG. 1A, respectively, and as such, the numerals with the same end digits are assigned and the like elements may be as described in the context of the body 102, the first portion 104, the second portion 106 and the at least one cushioning member 108 of FIG. 1A, and therefore the corresponding descriptions are omitted here.
The pillow assembly and the body will be described below in more details with reference to examples of modular travel pillows.
FIG. 2A shows a perspective view of an exemplary modular travel pillow 200 in an unassembled configuration, in accordance with various embodiments. FIGS. 2B, 2C and 2D respectively show a top view, a bottom view and a side view of the exemplary modular travel pillow 200 of FIG. 2A. As shown in FIGS. 2A to 2D, the modular travel pillow 200 may include three separate components, namely, a strap 202, a big pillow 208 a and a small pillow 208 b.
The strap 202 may be described in similar context to the body 102, 122 of FIGS. 1A and 1B, while the big pillow 208 a and/or the small pillow 208 b may be described in similar context to the at least one cushioning member 108, 128 of FIGS. 1A and 1B.
In this example, the strap 202 includes a first portion 204 a, 204 b for receiving at least one of the big pillow 208 a or the small pillow 208 b, or at least part thereof, a second portion 206 a, 206 b extending from one end of the first portion 204 a, 204 b, and a third portion 207 extending from an opposite end of the first portion 204 a, 204 b. At least part of the second portion 206 a, 206 b and at least part of the third portion 207 may be releasably attached to each other.
At least part of the first portion (e.g., 204 b) has a width, W₁, which is larger than the width, W₂, of the second portion 206 a, 206 b. In this example, W₁may be about 30% larger than W₂. The difference in width for the first portion (e.g., 204 b) and the second portion 206 a, 206 b may provide the strap 202 with a peripheral contour that may allow for different levels and configurations of support and/or comfort.
For example, the modular travel pillow 200 may be used as a neck pillow. The peripheral contour of the strap 202 may be optimized to provide sufficient support to a user's neck when used in conjunction with the pillows 208 a, 208 b, while at the same time minimizing unnecessary coverage of the neck area that may create discomfort and result in excessive heat accumulation. It should be appreciated that in other examples, the modular travel pillow 200 may be suitably dimensioned for use on or at another part of a user's body (e.g., thigh or waist).
The strap 202 may further include two handle loops 240 a, 240 b, each extending from the respective ends of the strap 202. The handle loops 240 a, 240 b may allow the user to gently control and tighten the strap 202 when wrapped around the neck of the user (e.g, FIGS. 5, 6B and 7B), before fastened securely when loop fasteners 205 a are in proper contact with hook fasteners 205 b. The loop fasteners 205 a may be arranged within the third portion 207 and may be sewn to the third portion 207 as indicated by sewing threads 242 a. The hook fasteners 205 b may be arranged within the second portion 206 a and may be sewn to the second portion 206 a as indicated by sewing threads 242 b.
The loop fasteners 205 a and the hook fasteners 205 b may be arranged on opposite faces or surface planes of the strap 202. In FIG. 2B, the loop fasteners 205 a are disposed on a top face of the strap 202, and in FIG. 2C, the hook fasteners 205 b are disposed on an opposite bottom face of the strap 202. This way, the strap 202 may be wound in an manner that is free from any twisting of the elastomer sheet 244 along an axial direction when the loop fasteners 205 a and the hook fasteners 205 b are attached to each other.
In a different example, the loop fasteners may be arranged within the second portion 206 a and the hook fasteners may be arranged within the third portion 207. In other words, the loop fasteners and the hook fasteners may be interchangable to provide the same or similar attaching functions.
Although the example in FIGS. 2A to 2D shows two loop fasteners 205 a and two corresponding hook fasteners 205 b, it should be understood and appreciated that different numbers of loop fasteners and hook fasteners may be applicable as long as the second portion 206 a and the third portion 207 may be releasably attached to each other. The hook fasteners 205 b and loop fasteners 205 a may be substantially circular in shape. However, other shapes (e.g., elliptical, rectangular, square, polygonal, irregular) for the hook fasteners and loop fasteners may also be applicable. Further, other forms of attachment means, e.g., pushbuttons and hooks, may also be applicable.
The strap 202 may made from an elastomer sheet 244 serving as an inner core, covered with a layer of fabric 246 on the outside or exterior. This may provide flexibility, structural integrity, tactility and comfort to the user when the strap 202 is wrapped around the user's neck. The layer of fabric 246 and the elastomer sheet 244 may be sewn to each other as indicated by sewing threads 242 c such that the layer of fabric 246 and the elastomer sheet 244 remain in position and at the same time creating surface patterns that may contribute to the aesthetic appeal of the strap 202 and effectively, the modular travel pillow 200. It should be understood and appreciated that different numbers of sewing threads 242 c and different orientations and shapes formed by the sewing threads 242 c may be applicable as long as the sewing threads 242 c sufficiently secure the layer of fabric 246 and the elastomer sheet 244 to each other.
The strap 202 may further include a button 211 a for fastening to an opening 211 b provided on the handle loop 240 a when in a rolled up configuration (FIG. 4B). The button 211 a may be located substantially near a mid-point along the length of the strap 202. The button 211 a may be sewn onto the strap 202 as indicated buy sewing threads 242 e and disposed on the top face of the strap 202. Generally, the button 211 a may be located at any position on the strap 202 suitable to allow for the strap to be rolled up and secured by fastening the button 211 a to the opening 211 b.
The strap 202 may be washable, for example, machine washable.
The strap 202 may further include an array of loop fasteners 209 a arranged within the first portion 204 b and may be sewn onto the first portion 204 b as indicated by sewing threads 242 d. In this example, the array of loop fasteners 209 a are disposed on the bottom face of the strap 202, along the same face as the hook fasteners 205 b. It should be understood and appreciated that in other examples, the array of loop fasteners 209 a may be disposed on the top face of the strap 202, along the same face as the loop fasteners 205 a. In yet further examples, the array of loop fasteners 209 a may be disposed on both the top face and the bottom face of the strap 202.
In this example, the array of loop fasteners 209 a includes five loop fasteners, three of which are positioned substantially parallel to a longitudinal axis of the strap 202 and near to a pheripheral end of the first portion 204 b, while the remaining two are positioned substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the strap 202 and near to an opposite pheripheral end of the first portion 204 b. It should be understood and appreciated that different number of loop fasteners 209 a may be applicable, depending on the size of the loop fasteners 209 a and the size of the first portion 204 b. The positional arrangements of the loop fasteners 209 a may also vary while providing sufficient coverages to receive a hook fastener 209 b of the small pillow 208 b and/or a hook fastener 209 c of the big pillow 208 a, and allowing for different arrangements and adjustments of the small pillow 208 b and/or the big pillow 208 a within the first portion 204 a, 204 b.
Different configurations of the modular travel pillow 200 when in use may be achieved with adjustments that may be made by simply detaching and reattaching the hook fasteners 209 b, 209 c and loop fasteners 209 a located on an interface between the small pillow 208 b and/or the big pillow 208 a and the strap 202.
The sizes of the big pillow 208 a and the small pillow 208 b may be relative to each other. The big pillow 208 a and the small pillow 208 b may also be referred to as a tall cushion and a short cushion, respectively.
For example, the big pillow 208 a may have a substantially rectangular shape with a length, L_a, a width, W_aand a height, H_a. The small pillow 208 b may also have a substantially rectangular shape with a length, L_b, a width, W_band a height, H_b. The length of the big pillow 208 a may be larger than the length of the small pillow 208 b (L_a>L_b). The width and height of the big pillow 208 a and those of the small pillow 208 b may be of the same or similar dimensions (W_a≈W_band H_a≈H_b).
In some examples, the big pillow 208 a and the small pillow 208 b may be of a similar shape and/or similar dimension. In other examples, the big pillow 208 a and the small pillow 208 b may be of different shapes (e.g., circular, elliptical, square, polygonal or irregular) and/or different dimensions.
The small pillow 208 b may include a memory foam forming an inner core of the small pillow 208 b and a pillow cover adapted to envelop the memory foam. The pillow cover of the small pillow 208 b may be removable from the memory form and washable (e.g., machine washable). The hook fastener 209 b may be sewn onto an underside of the pillow cover, thereby allowing the small pillow 208 b to be attached onto any one of the loop fasteners 209 a of the strap 202 to form different configuration of use of the modular travel pillow 200.
The big pillow 208 a may include a memory foam forming an inner core of the big pillow 208 a and a pillow cover adapted to envelop the memory foam. The pillow cover of the big pillow 208 a may be removable from the memory form and washable (e.g., machine washable). The hook fastener 209 c may be sewn onto an underside of the pillow cover, thereby allowing the big pillow 208 a to be attached onto any one of the loop fasteners 209 a of the strap 202 to form different configuration of use of the modular travel pillow 200.
It should be understood and appreciated that in other examples, an array of hook fasteners may be provided on the first portion 204 b of the strap 202, while a corresponding loop fastener may be provided on each of the pillow covers.
The hook fasteners and loop fasteners as shown in FIGS. 2A to 2C may be substantially circular in shape. However, other shapes (e.g., elliptical, rectangular, square, polygonal, irregular) for the hook fasteners and loop fasteners may also be applicable.
Further, in different examples, other forms of attachment means, e.g., pushbuttons and hooks, in place of the loop fasteners and the hook fasteners may also be applicable.
FIG. 3 shows a perspective side view 300 of the modular travel pillow 200 of FIGS. 2A to 2D when in an assembled configuration, in accordance with one embodiment.
In FIG. 3, the big pillow 208 a is placed on the top face of strap 202 where the hook fastener 209 c is attached to one of the loop fastener 209 a. The big pillow 208 a may be positioned over a part of the first portion 204 b and at least part of the third portion 207. The small pillow 208 b may placed on the top face of strap 202 where the hook fastener 209 b is attached to one of the loop fastener 209 a. The small pillow 208 a may be positioned over a part of the first portion 204 a, 204 b, and adjacent to the big pillow 208 a (in FIG. 3).
When in the assembled configuration (FIG. 3), the strap 202 may be rolled by a user, for example, using his hand 400, as shown in FIG. 4A illustrating a similar view as in FIG. 3. The strap 202 near the third portion 207 may be used as a start point. The user may roll up the strap 202 along with the big pillow 208 a and the small pillow 208 b from the start point toward the second portion 206 a and the hook fasteners 205 b in a coiled up or rolled up manner.
Once the entire strap 202 is rolled up, the button 211 a may be fastened to the opening 211 b so that the modular travel pillow 200 may be maintained in a rolled up configuration, as shown in a perspective view of FIG. 4B, for storage or easy transportation.
Effectively, the modular travel pillow 200 in the rolled up configuration may substantially be of an adult's palm size, which allows for compactness. For example, the modular travel pillow 200 in the rolled up configuration may have a cross-sectional area of about 12 cm by 12 cm.
FIG. 4C shows a side view of the modular travel pillow 200 as seen from a direction 402 of FIG. 4B. In FIG. 4C, the handle loop 240 a of the modular travel pillow 200 is placed over a hook 404 so that the rolled up modular travel pillow 200 may be suspended from the hook 404. The hook 404 may be attached e.g., to an exterior of a back pack so that the modular travel pillow 200 may be releasably attached to the back pack via the hook 404 for easy transport, or to a seat so that modular travel pillow 200 may be releasably suspended from the seat via the hook 404 for neat and easy store away purposes.
FIG. 5 shows a schematic representation illustrating the modular travel pillow 200 in the assembled configuration (unrolled form) of FIG. 3 being in use. The big pillow 208 a and the small pillow 208 b may be orientated with their respective longitudinal axes substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the strap 202 and assembled in a horizontal configuration (as in FIG. 3). The strap 202 may be wrapped and secured around the neck of a user 500 with the big pillow 208 a and the small pillow 208 b being arranged between the strap 202 and the user's neck. Adjustments may be made with the handle loops 240 a, 240 b to the tightness of securing the strap 202 around the user's neck with the hook fasteners 205 b and the loop fasteners 205 a such that the same modular travel pillow 200 may be catered and used by a child who generally has a smaller neck circumference as well as by an adult who generally has a larger neck circumference.
In fact, with the understanding that not all humans are made exactly the same, the modular travel pillow 200 is adjustable to provide sufficient flexibility in its configurations to cater to various users with different needs and preferences.
Further, adjustments may also be made by simply detaching and reattaching the hook fasteners 209 b, 209 c and the loop fasteners 209 a located on the interface between the pillows 208 a, 208 b and the strap 202.
For example, FIG. 6A shows a top view illustrating the modular travel pillow 200 in the assembled configuration (unrolled form) with only the big pillow 208 a being attached to the strap 202. The big pillow 208 a may be orientated with its longitudinal axis substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the strap 202 and assembled in a vertical configuration (as in FIG. 6A). The strap 202 may be wrapped and secured around the neck of a user 600 with the big pillow 208 a being arranged between the strap 202 and the user's neck as illustrated in a schematic representation of FIG. 6B.
The vertical configuration may allow for more support to the user's neck and head as compared to the horizontal configuration.
In yet another example, FIG. 7A shows a top view illustrating the modular travel pillow 200 in the assembled configuration (unrolled form) with the big pillow 208 a and the small pillow 208 b being attached to the strap 202. The big pillow 208 a may be orientated with its longitudinal axis substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the strap 202, while the small pillow 208 b may be orientated with its longitudinal axis substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the strap 202, and together assembled in a L-shaped configuration (as in FIG. 7A). The big pillow 208 a may be positioned substantially within the first portion 204 b (FIG. 2B), while a part of the small pillow 208 b may be attached within a part of the first portion 204 b and other part of the small pillow 208 b may be positioned over the third portion 207 (FIG. 2B). The strap 202 may be wrapped and secured around the neck of a user 700 with the big pillow 208 a and small pillow 208 b being arranged between the strap 202 and the user's neck as illustrated in a schematic representation of FIG. 7B.
The L-shaped configuration may allow for deliberate support of the neck and chin for resting.
The use of pillows independently or in combination, along with the positional and orientational adjustments of the big pillow 208 a and/or the small pillow 208 b may vary to enable customization of a unique support with the modular travel pillow 200.
FIGS. 8A to 8E show top views illustrating the exemplary modular travel pillow 200 in the assembled configuration (unrolled form) with different variations of pillow use and adjustments, in accordance with various embodiments.
In FIG. 8A, the big pillow 208 a may be independently used and orientated with its longitudinal axis substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the strap 202.
In FIG. 8B, the big pillow 208 a and the small pillows 208 b may be used in combination. The big pillow 208 a may be orientated with its longitudinal axis substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the strap 202, while the small pillow 208 b may be orientated with its longitudinal axis substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the strap 202. The small pillow 208 b may be positioned substantially within the first portion 204 b (FIG. 2B), while a part of the big pillow 208 a may be attached within a part of the first portion 204 b and other part of the big pillow 208 a may be positioned over at least part of the third portion 207 (FIG. 2B).
In FIG. 8C, the big pillow 208 a and the small pillows 208 b may be used in combination. The big pillow 208 a and the small pillow 208 b may be orientated with their respective longitudinal axes substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the strap 202 (similar to the horizontal configuration as described in FIG. 3). The big pillow 208 a may be positioned substantially within the first portion 204 a (FIG. 2B), while a part of the small pillow 208 b may be attached within a part of the first portion 204 b and other part of the small pillow 208 b may be positioned over at least part of the third portion 207 (FIG. 2B).
In FIG. 8D, the big pillow 208 a and the small pillows 208 b may be used in combination. The small pillow 208 b may be orientated with its respective longitudinal axis substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the strap 202, while the big pillow 208 a may be orientated at angle a with respect to the strap 202. The big pillow 208 a may be positioned substantially within the first portion 204 a (FIG. 2B), while a part of the small pillow 208 b may be attached within a part of the first portion 204 b and other part of the small pillow 208 b may be positioned over at least part of the third portion 207 (FIG. 2B).
It should be appreciated and understood that the body 102, 122 (FIGS. 1A and 1B) may take the form of the strap 202 (FIG. 2A) or other different forms, without departing from its main functions.
FIGS. 9A and 9B respectively show a top view and a bottom view of another exemplary strap 902 that may work in cooperation with the big pillow 208 a and the small pillows 208 b (FIG. 2A) of a modular travel pillow 900, in accordance with various embodiments.
The strap 902 may be described in similar context to the body 102, 122 of FIGS. 1A and 1B.
In this example, the strap 902 includes a first portion 904 a for receiving at least one of the big pillow 208 a or the small pillow 208 b, or at least part thereof, a second portion 906 extending from one end of the first portion 904 a, and a third portion 907 extending from an opposite end of the first portion 904 a. At least part of the second portion 906 and at least part of the third portion 907 may be releasably attached to each other.
At least part of the first portion (e.g., 904 b) has a width, W₃, which is larger than the width, W₄, of the second portion 906 or the third portion 907. In this example, W₃may be about 35% larger than W₄. The difference in width for the first portion (e.g., 904 b) and the second portion 906 or the third portion 907 may provide the strap 902 with a peripheral contour that may allow for different levels and configurations of support and/or comfort.
The first portion 904 a, 904 b may be a substantially central portion relative to the strap 902 in its entirety.
The strap 902 may further include a handle loop 940, extending from the second portion 906 and sewn thereon as indicated by sewing threads 942 a. The handle loop 940 may allow the modular travel pillow 900 in a rolled up configuration (FIG. 9C) to be hooked onto an external surface, functioning similarly to the handle loop 240 a of FIG. 4C.
The strap 902 may be wrapped around a part of a user's body (e.g., neck) before fastened securely when loop fasteners 905 a are in proper contact with hook fasteners 905 b. The loop fasteners 905 a may be arranged within the third portion 907 and may be sewn to the third portion 907 as indicated by sewing threads 942 b. The hook fasteners 905 b may be arranged within the second portion 906 and may be sewn to the second portion 906 as indicated by sewing threads 942 c.
The loop fasteners 905 a and the hook fasteners 905 b may be arranged on opposite faces or surface planes of the strap 902. In FIG. 9A, the hook fasteners 905 b are disposed on a top face of the strap 902, and in FIG. 9B, the loop fasteners 905 a are disposed on an opposite bottom face of the strap 902.
It should be understood and appreciated that different numbers of loop fasteners and hook fasteners may be applicable as long as the second portion 906 and the third portion 907 may be releasably attached to each other. The location or position of the loop fasteners and hook fasteners may also be interchangable. The hook fasteners 905 b and loop fasteners 905 a may be substantially rectangular in shape. Other shapes for the hook fasteners and the loop fasteners, and other attachment means may also be applicable.
The make or construction of the strap 902 may be described in similar context to that of the strap 202 (FIG. 2A).
The strap 902 may include an array of loop fasteners 909 a, 909 b for receiving the respective hook fastener of the big pillow 208 a and/or the small pillow 208 b. The array of loop fasteners 909 a, 909 b may be sewn on the first portion 904 a as indicated by sewing threads 942 d, 942 e, 942 f.
In other examples, where each of the big pillow 208 a and the small pillow 208 b is provided with a loop fastener instead, the strap 902 may then include an array of hook fasteners. The hook fasteners and loop fasteners of the strap 902 may be substantially rectangular in shape. Other shapes or the hook fasteners and the loop fasteners, and other attachment means may also be applicable.
The strap 902 may further include a holding band 911 sewn on the first portion 904 a, 904 b as indicated by sewing threads 942 g. The holding band 911 may be made of an elastic material, for example, rubber.
When the entire strap 902 is rolled up (FIG. 9C), the second portion 906 or at least part thereof may be brought through the holding band 911. By doing so, the holding band 911 may provide as a slot that allows for the modular travel pillow 900 to be held in a rolled up configuration for storage or easy transportation.
It should be appreciated and understood that other variations of pillow use and adjustments may be adopted for the modular travel pillows 200, 900. The flexible structures of the modular travel pillows 200, 900 may allow for easy adjustments to any leaning position, catering to the different needs of different users.
For example, the modularity and the versatility of its usage enable an appropriate configuration adopted for use, even on children. In other words, the same modular travel pillow (e.g., 200, 900) used by an adult may also be used by a child, and there would not be a need to fabricate a child-size version of the modular travel pillow. Children being naturally more flexible than adults, tend to slump even more when they rest while travelling. Besides the discomfort that ensued from improper support, this may result in unnecessary stress exerted on the child's developing neck. Whether the child is travelling in a car, bus, plane or any other mode of transport, he/she may now rest comfortably while using the modular travel pillow (e.g., 200, 900).
The modular travel pillow (e.g., 200, 900) may provide appropriate support to relevant parts of the body so as to resolve problems, e.g., in relation to a hyperextended neck and drooping chin that may occur in cases of extensive traveling.
The modular travel pillow (e.g., 200, 900) may also be asethetically appealing in addition to its practical use.
While the invention has been particularly shown and described with reference to specific embodiments, it should be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes in form and detail may be made therein without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims. The scope of the invention is thus indicated by the appended claims and all changes which come within the meaning and range of equivalency of the claims are therefore intended to be embraced.

Claims

1. A pillow assembly, comprising:

a body comprising a first portion and a second portion, extending from the first portion, wherein at least part of the first portion has a width that is larger than the width of the second portion; and

at least one cushioning member configured to be spatially adjustable within the first portion.

2. The pillow assembly of claim 1, wherein the width of the at least part of the first portion is at least 10%, or at least 20%, or at least 30%, or at least 40% or at least 50% larger than the width of the second portion.

3. The pillow assembly of claim 1, wherein the body further comprises a third portion, extending from the first portion and opposite to the second portion.

4. The pillow assembly of claim 3, wherein the width of the at least part of the first portion is at least 10%, or at least 20%, or at least 30%, or at least 40% or at least 50% larger than the width of the third portion.

5. The pillow assembly of claim 3, wherein at least part of the body is configured to at least substantially encircle at least part of the at least one cushioning member upon having the second portion and the third portion brought towards each other.

6. The pillow assembly of claim 3, wherein the at least one cushioning member is adapted to be arranged between at least part of the body and a part of a user's body upon having the second portion and the third portion brought towards each other.

7. The pillow assembly of claim 3, wherein the second portion and the third portion are attachable to each other.

8. The pillow assembly of claim 1, wherein the body is made of a resilient material.

9. The pillow assembly of claim 1, wherein the body includes an elastomer sheet.

10. The pillow assembly of claim 1, wherein the at least one cushioning member is configured to be at least one of positionally adjustable or orientationally adjustable relative to the body.

11. The pillow assembly of claim 1, wherein the at least one cushioning member and the body are attachable to each other.

12. The pillow assembly of claim 1 comprises a travel pillow assembly.

13. A body for co-operating with at least one cushioning member of a pillow assembly of claim 1, the body comprising:

a first portion configured to receive the at least one cushioning member; and

a second portion, extending from the first portion,

wherein at least part of the first portion has a width that is larger than the width of the second portion.

14. The body of claim 13, further comprising a third portion, extending from the first portion and opposite to the second portion, wherein the second portion and the third portion are attachable to each other.

15. The body of claim 14, wherein the width of the at least part of the first portion is at least 10%, or at least 20%, or at least 30%, or at least 40% or at least 50% larger than the width of the second portion or the width of the third portion.