US20220015558A1

US20220015558A1 - Pillow apparatus

Info

Publication number: US20220015558A1
Application number: US17/377,035
Authority: US
Inventors: E. Scott Davis; Antonio Arcieri; Charles Francis Treadwell Merritt; Timothy James Rohm; Scott Allen Sattizahn; David William Schweitzer
Original assignee: Banyan Licensing LLC
Current assignee: Banyan Licensing LLC
Priority date: 2020-07-15
Filing date: 2021-07-15
Publication date: 2022-01-20
Also published as: EP4181665A1; WO2022016002A1

Abstract

Embodiments of the invention relate to a customizable pillow apparatus. Typically, the customizable pillow apparatus comprises an outer shell and a support filler assembly contained within the outer shell. The support filler assembly comprises a plurality of support layer components arranged in a first configuration with each support layer component being structured to provide predetermined support characteristics. The support filler assembly is structured to be transformed from a disassembled mode to an assembled mode by rotating a first support layer of the plurality of support layers in a first direction such that the rotated first support layer at least partially overlaps a second support layer to form the first configuration. Moreover, arrangement, ordering, and positioning of the plurality of internal layer components is easily adjustable. The customizable pillow apparatus is configured to be modified into a second configuration from the first configuration to provide targeted support to the user.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/052,105 filed on Jul. 15, 2020, the contents of which are relied upon and incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to support devices and, more specifically, an adjustable or customizable pillow apparatus. The invention provides a pillow apparatus comprising a plurality of layer components, with each layer component being structured to provide a predetermined support parameter. Moreover, arrangement, ordering, and positioning of the plurality of internal layer components is easily adjustable to provide targeted support to a user.

BACKGROUND

A pillow is generally useful for the purpose of rendering comfort or support to a user. Conventional pillows are manufactured using filler material such as high resilient (“HR”) urethane foam and are typically structured to support the head of a user. However, the support characteristics of the filler material and the pillow, such as firmness and thickness, are fixed and cannot be modified after the manufacture of the pillow. Thus, there is a need for a novel pillow that is structured to be customized and whose support characteristics such as firmness and thickness can be modified to obtain optimal support for a variety of body regions (e.g., head, neck, shoulders, stomach, legs, etc., to obtain requisite alignment of the body, to alleviate pain/stress in certain body portions, and/or to obtain optimal support a variety of positions (e.g., sleep positions such as reclining on the user's back, side-sleeping, etc.).

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The foregoing and other advantages and features of the invention, and the manner in which the same are accomplished, will become more readily apparent upon consideration of the following detail description of the invention taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, which illustrate preferred and exemplary embodiments and which are not necessarily drawn to scale, wherein:

FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view 10 of a pillow apparatus 100, in accordance with one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 2A illustrates a schematic depiction 20A of a support filler assembly 200 of the pillow apparatus 100 of FIG. 1, in accordance with one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 2B illustrates a schematic depiction 20B of the support filler assembly 200 of FIG. 2A, in accordance with one embodiment of the invention.

FIGS. 3A-3C illustrate schematic cut-away sectional views 30A-30C depicting the assembly process of the support filler assembly 200 of FIG. 2A, in accordance with one embodiment of the invention.

FIGS. 4A-4B illustrate schematic cut-away sectional views 40A-40B depicting the assembly process of the support filler assembly 200 of FIG. 2A, in accordance with one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 5 illustrates schematic cut-away sectional views 50 depicting the assembly process of the support filler assembly 200 of FIG. 2A, in accordance with one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 6 illustrates a schematic cut-away sectional view 60 of the support filler assembly 200, in accordance with one embodiment of the invention.

FIGS. 7A-7C illustrate schematic cut-away sectional views 70A-70C of arrangements of support layer components of the support filler assembly 200, in accordance with various embodiments of the invention.

FIGS. 8A-8D illustrate schematic cut-away sectional views 80A-80D of arrangements of support layer components of the support filler assembly 200, in accordance with various embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 9 illustrates a perspective view 90 of a pillow apparatus, in accordance with one embodiment of the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF AN EMBODIMENT OF THE INVENTION

The present invention now will be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which some, but not all embodiments of the invention are shown. This invention may be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein; rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will fully convey the scope of the invention to those skilled in the art. Like numbers refer to like elements throughout.
FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view 10 of a pillow apparatus 100, in accordance with one embodiment of the invention. The pillow apparatus 100 includes an outer shell 110 or cover 110 enclosing a support filler assembly 200. Here, the outer shell 110 or cover 110 may partially or fully enclose the support filler assembly 200. In some embodiments, the support filler assembly 200 comprises a plurality of support layer components. The configuration of the support filler assembly 200, the plurality of support layer components, and the assembly process thereof, are described in detail with respect to FIGS. 2A-8D later on. The pillow apparatus 100 can comprise more or fewer components as required for various embodiments.
Referring to FIG. 1, the pillow apparatus 100 comprises a first surface 111 and a second surface 112. The first surface 111 may be a flat surface or a three-dimensional contoured surface and the first surface 111 may be shaped like a rectangle, a polygon, an ellipse, an oval, a circle, and/or any other suitable curvilinear shape with sharp or curved corners. The second surface 112 may be shaped like a rectangle, a polygon or any suitable curvilinear shape. The second surface 112 can be a flat surface or a three-dimensional contoured surface. The pillow apparatus 100 comprises a first lateral side 113, a second lateral side 114, a third lateral side 115 and a fourth lateral side 116, each of which extends between and separates the first surface 111 and the second surface 112. Each of the edges formed between the first lateral side 113, second lateral side 114, third lateral side 115 and fourth lateral side 116 and the adjacent the first surface 111 may be defined by a sharp corner, a bevel, a chamfer, a fillet and/or any other suitable contour between the first surface 111 and the respective lateral side. Similarly, each of the edges formed between the first lateral side 113, second lateral side 114, third lateral side 115 and fourth lateral side 116 and the adjacent the second surface 112 may be defined by a sharp corner, a bevel, a chamfer, a fillet and/or any other suitable contour between the second surface 112 and the respective lateral side.
The pillow apparatus 100 typically defines a thickness function “T”, a length function “L” and a width function “W”, which are typically measured in mutually perpendicular directions. In some embodiments, the value of thickness function T of the pillow apparatus 100 may be defined as the distance between the first surface 111 and the second surface 112, e.g., measured on a plane perpendicular to both the first surface 111 and the second surface 112. The value of the thickness function T of the pillow apparatus may be constant across the length function L and the width function W, or the value of the thickness function T of the pillow apparatus may vary across the length function L and/or the width function W. In some embodiments, the value of the length function L of the pillow apparatus 100 is defined as the distance between a first pair of opposing lateral sides (e.g., perpendicular distance between opposing lateral sides 114 and 116, measured on a plane perpendicular to both the lateral surfaces 114 and 116). The value of the length function L of the pillow apparatus may be constant across the thickness function T and the width function W, or the value of the length function L of the pillow apparatus may vary across the thickness function T and/or the width function W. In some embodiments, the value of the width function W of the pillow apparatus 100 is defined as the distance between a second pair of opposing lateral sides (e.g., perpendicular distance between opposing lateral sides 113 and 115, measured on a plane perpendicular to both the lateral surfaces 113 and 115). The value of the width function W of the pillow apparatus may be constant across the thickness function T and the length function L, or the value of the width function W of the pillow apparatus may vary across the thickness function T and/or the length function L. In some embodiments, the first surface 111 and the second surface 112 are symmetric, while in other embodiments, the first surface 111 and the second surface 112 are asymmetric.
The outer shell 110 or cover 110 preferably, at least substantially or fully, covers the support filler assembly 200, wherein the support filler assembly 200 is in contact with the internal surface of the outer shell 110 at one or multiple points. The outer shell 110 or cover 110 can be constructed using a variety of materials, including synthetic and natural fabrics and natural/synthetic blends. The outer shell 110 or cover 110 is preferably made from allergy barrier materials comprising, but not limited to, tightly woven barriers, coated barriers to prevent mold spores, pollen, dust mites, and other contaminants from entering through the outer shell 100 or cover 110. The gauge measurement of the outer shell 110 or cover 110 (i.e., the number of needles per inch or per 1½ inches in a knitting machine) is preferably large enough to ensure a finer knit.
The support filler assembly 200 provides customizable resiliency and support to the pillow apparatus 100. The support filler assembly 200, in its assembled form, can have a shape similar to or different from that of the outer shell 110 or cover 110 and can have similar or different dimensions. Here, as will be described in greater detail with FIG. 2, typically, the support filler assembly 200 in its disassembled mode, typically comprises shape and dimensions different from the outer shell 110 or cover 110, such that the support filler assembly 200 in its disassembled mode cannot be enclosed fully by the outer shell 110 or cover 110. Typically, In some embodiments, the support filler assembly 200 is structured to allow the pillow apparatus 100 to conform to the user's shape and is resilient enough to regain its original shape. The support characteristics of the support filler assembly 200, such as firmness, thickness, durometer, and resiliency, may be modified and customized based on the user's current needs, based on the desired body portion to be supported, the desired alignment, etc. The support filler assembly 200 can be fabricated as a single part, or multiple parts which can be assembled in a variety of ways. In some embodiments the support filler assembly 200 comprises two or more parts that can be attached and assembled suitably. In other words, the support filler assembly 200 of the present invention is infinitely customizable.
FIG. 2A illustrates a schematic depiction 20A of a support filler assembly 200 of the pillow apparatus 100 of FIG. 1, in accordance with one embodiment of the invention. FIG. 2B illustrates a schematic depiction 20B of the support filler assembly 200 of FIG. 2A, in accordance with one embodiment of the invention. Specifically, FIGS. 2A and 2B illustrate the support filler assembly 200 in its disassembled mode, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention. As used henceforth, support filler assembly 200′ refers to the support filler assembly 200 in its disassembled mode. Moreover, support filler assembly 200 refers to the support filler assembly 200 in its assembled mode, unless specified otherwise.
As illustrated by FIGS. 2A and 2B, in some embodiments, the support filler assembly 200 comprises a plurality of support layer components 211 (211 a, 211 b, . . . , 211 n), arranged next to each other (e.g., adjacent to each other, in an end-to-end manner, etc.). e.g., along their thickness. As such, the support filler assembly 200 may comprise “n” number of support layer components 211, with “n” being any suitable number such as 2, 3, 4, 5, 10, etc. The number of support components “n” may be customized by the user based on the desired support characteristics and comfort. It is noted that in other embodiments, “n” may be 1.
Each of the plurality of support layer components 211 (211 a, 211 b, . . . , 211 n) of the support filler assembly 200 may be made from a variety of materials based on their individual and also cumulative support characteristics, such as firmness, thickness, durometer, and resiliency, and comfort. The plurality of support layer components 211 (211 a, 211 b, . . . , 211 n) may be made from one or more materials, such as a foam material, orthopedic foam, orthopedic memory foam, a loose material such as fiber or poly beads, polyfiber, reticulated foam, hollow petrochemical beads, expanded polystyrene beads or any other materials that collectively allow the support filler assembly 200 to have desired the resilient, conforming and supporting properties. That said, the plurality of support layer components 211 (211 a, 211 b, . . . , 211 n) may be constructed using a variety of materials, including but not limited to, metals, alloys, composites, plastics, natural materials (e.g., wood), other synthetic materials, synthetic and natural fabrics, foams and other materials and/or natural/synthetic blends. In some embodiments the plurality of support layer components 211 (211 a, 211 b, . . . , 211 n) may be made of materials that have a predetermined high permeability and predetermined high wickability. As used herein, wickability of the filler material of the support filler assembly 200 and the filter barrier means the ability of the filler material of the support filler assembly 200 and the filter barrier to disperse moisture and allow it to pass through to the surface of the fabric, so that evaporation can take place. In some embodiments the plurality of support layer components 211 (211 a, 211 b, . . . , 211 n) comprise performance materials/fabrics to provide functional qualities like moisture management, UV protection, anti-microbial, thermoregulation and wind and water resistance.
The plurality of support layer components 211 (211 a, 211 b, . . . , 211 n) of the support filler assembly 200, may have different durometers. The durometer or hardness used herein may refer to the hardness described by procedure ASTM 2240 (American Society of Testing and Materials) using the Shore A scale. The durometer or durometers may vary from resilient to compressible. In some embodiments, plurality of support layer components 211 (211 a, 211 b, . . . , 211 n) of the support filler assembly 200 may be made from foams having different durometers, plastics having different durometers, etc. For example, the support layer component 211 a may be made from a foam having a lower durometer/hardness, while the support layer component 211 b may be made from a foam having medium durometer/hardness, and the support layer component 211 n may be made from a foam having a higher durometer/hardness. In other words, for example, the support layer component 211 a may be made from a material exhibiting greater softness (e.g., greater compressibility, greater flexibility, etc.) and lesser durometer or hardness than the material of the support layer component 211 b (e.g., on the Shore A scale). Here, the hardness of the support layer component 211 b may exceed the hardness of the support layer component 211 a, e.g., such that the support layer component 211 b has 1.1 times, 1.2 times, 1.3 times, 1.5 times, 2 times, 1-2 times, 1-2.5 times, 1.5-3 times, 1-4 times, greater hardness that that of the support layer component 211 a. Continuing with the example, the support layer component 211 b may be made from a material exhibiting greater softness (e.g., greater compressibility, greater flexibility, etc.) and lesser durometer or hardness than the material of the support layer component 211 n (e.g., on the Shore A scale). Here, the hardness of the support layer component 211 n may exceed the hardness of the support layer component 211 b, e.g., such that the support layer component 211 n has 1.1 times, 1.2 times, 1.3 times, 1.5 times, 2 times, 1-2 times, 1-2.5 times, 1.5-3 times, 1-4 times, greater hardness that that of the support layer component 211 b. As a non-limiting example, the support layer component 211 a may be a thin layer (e.g., a thin foam layer), the support layer component 211 b may be an orthopedic layer (e.g., an orthopedic foam layer), and the support layer component 211 n may be a thick layer (e.g., a thick foam layer).
FIGS. 2A and 2B illustrate a non-limiting example of the plurality of support layer components 211 with “n” being 4, i.e., with four support layer components (211 a, 211 b, 211 c, and 211 d). That said, it is understood that the plurality of support layer components 211 may comprise more or fewer support layer components 211 in any suitable arrangement. Each of the support layer components may be substantially planar, in some embodiments. That said, the support layer components may comprise flat surfaces and/or a three-dimensional contoured surfaces. Although, FIGS. 2A and 2B illustrates the support layer components having a quadrilateral or rectangular shape, the support layer components may comprise a polygonal shape (e.g., square, rectangle, parallelogram, trapezium, pentagon, hexagon, etc.), an elliptical shape, and/or any other suitable curvilinear shape with sharp or curved corners. Moreover, all of the support layer components may comprise the same shape, or the support layer components may comprise different shapes.
As illustrated, the support layer components (211 a, 211 b, 211 c, and 211 d) may be removably attached to each other via connection elements (221 a, 221 c, 221 d). The connection elements (221 a, 221 c, 221 d) are structured for removably attaching or operatively physically connecting the support layer components (211 a, 211 b, 211 c, and 211 d), while still allowing the customizable folding assembly of the support filler assembly 200′ (described in detail with respect to FIG. 3A to FIG. 5). Specifically as illustrated by FIG. 2A, as a non-limiting example, a first support layer component 211 a may be removably attached to a first end of a second support layer component 211 b via a first connection element 221 a. Moreover, a third support layer component 211 c may be removably attached to a second end of the second support layer component 211 b via a second connection element 221 c, while a fourth support layer component 211 d may be removably attached to a third end of the second support layer component 211 b via a third connection element 221 d. Although, a “T” shaped arrangement of the support filler assembly 200′ is illustrated herein, it is understood that any suitable attachment may be easily achieved based on the user's requirement. For instance, the fourth support layer component 211 d may be removably attached to the third support layer component 211 c via the third connection element 221 d, e.g., to form a linear shape of the support filler assembly 200′. As another instance, another fifth support layer component (not illustrated) may be removably attached to a fourth end of the second support layer component 211 b, e.g., to form a “+” shape of the support filler assembly 200′. Moreover, one or more support layer components may be detached, e.g., to form a “L” shape for the support filler assembly 200′. In this way, the support layer components may be arranged to form a variety of shapes of the support filler assembly 200′, such as “C”, “I”, “Y”, “K”, “U”. “E”, and/or other suitable shapes. In other words, the number and arrangement of the support layer components may be easily varied, to form infinitely customizable shapes and properties of the support filler assembly 200′, without having to innately deconstruct/damage the support layer components.
As illustrated by FIG. 2A, the arrangement of the support filler assembly 200′ in its disassembled mode exhibits a maximum length “Lsf” and a maximum width “Wsf”. Typically, in some embodiments, the (i) maximum length “Lsf” and/or the (ii) maximum width “Wsf” of the support filler assembly 200′ in its disassembled mode, is typically greater than the corresponding the (i) maximum length L and/or the (ii) maximum width W of the pillow apparatus 100 and the outer shell 110 or cover 110, such that the such that the support filler assembly 200′ in its disassembled mode cannot be enclosed fully by the outer shell 110 or cover 110. Here, the (i) maximum length “Lsf” and/or the (ii) maximum width “Wsf” of the support filler assembly 200′ in its disassembled mode may be about 1.2 to 2, 1.5 to 2, 1.2 to 4, 1.5 to 3, 1.8 to 2.2, 1.5 to 4.5, times greater than that of the corresponding the (i) maximum length L and/or the (ii) maximum width W of the pillow apparatus 100 and the outer shell 110 or cover 110. Upon converting the support filler assembly 200 into its assembled mode, the support filler assembly 200 in its assembled mode may comprise a maximum length and maximum width that is equal to or lesser than that of the pillow apparatus 100 and the outer shell 110 or cover 110.
As illustrated by FIG. 2B, the support layer components (211 a, 211 b, 211 c, and 211 d) may be detached or operatively decoupled or disconnected from each other via the connection elements (221 a, 221 c, 221 d), without having to innately deconstruct/damage the support layer components. The connection elements (221 a, 221 c, 221 d) are structured for (i) removably attaching or operatively physically coupling/connecting the support layer components (211 a, 211 b, 211 c, and 211 d), and (ii) detaching or decoupling the support layer components (211 a, 211 b, 211 c, and 211 d). The connection elements may comprise a suitable coupling mechanism such as snap mechanisms, clips, pins, hook-and-loop fasteners (e.g., Velcro), adhesives, tension/interference fits, belts, straps, chords, buttons, zippers, ties, an overall cover to hold the pillows, elastics, press fits, hooks, and/or another suitable mechanism (e.g., chosen based on comfort reasons). In this regard, the connection elements may be made from a suitable material or a combination of materials such as plastics, textiles, fibers, metals, composites, foam, wood, paper/boards, and/or the like.
The connection elements may each comprise coupling portions, e.g., complementary coupling portions form a coupling pair that can be operatively coupled for removably attaching or operatively physically coupling/connecting the corresponding adjacent support layer components. As discussed above, the first support layer component 211 a may be removably attached to and detached from the first end of the second support layer component 211 b via the first connection element 221 a. Here, as a non-limiting example, the first connection element 221 a may comprise a first coupling portion 221 a(i) at the first support layer component 211 a, and a second coupling portion 221 a(ii) at the second support layer component 211 b. The first coupling portion 221 a(i) may be compatible with and/or complementary to the second coupling portion 221 a(ii), such that the first coupling portion 221 a(i) may be removably attached to/operatively coupled with the second coupling portion 221 a(ii) for removably attaching the first support layer component 211 a with the second support layer component 211 b. Similarly, the third connection element 221 d may comprise a first coupling portion 221 d(i) (similar to the first coupling portion 221 a(i)) at the second support layer component 211 b, and a second coupling portion 221 d(ii) (similar to the second coupling portion 221 a(ii)) at the fourth support layer component 211 d. The first coupling portion 221 d(i) may be compatible with and/or complementary to the second coupling portion 221 d(ii), such that the first coupling portion 221 d(i) may be removably attached to/operatively coupled with the second coupling portion 221 d(ii) for removably attaching the second support layer component 211 b with the fourth support layer component 211 d.
For instance, the first coupling portion (221 a(i), 221 d(i)) may be in the form of a recess/aperture, which is sized/dimensioned and/or otherwise structured to receive a projection from the corresponding second coupling portion (221 a(ii), 221 d(ii)) (e.g., to facilitate a snap-fit). As another example, the first coupling portion (221 a(i), 221 d(i)) may be in the form of a projection, which is sized/dimensioned and/or otherwise structured to be received at an aperture of the corresponding second coupling portion (221 a(ii), 221 d(ii)). As another example, the first coupling portion (221 a(i), 221 d(i)) may be in the form of hooks, which is sized/dimensioned and/or otherwise structured to be received at loops of the corresponding second coupling portion (221 a(ii), 221 d(ii)).
As illustrated by FIG. 2A, the support filler assembly 200′ is structured such that, some or all of the support layer components (211 a, 211 b, 211 c, and 211 d) may be rotated or pivoted (or folded) (e.g., along a corresponding connection elements (221 a, 221 c, 221 d)) for about 300 to 360 degrees or ±150 to 180 (i.e., 150 to 180 degrees in either direction) with respect to the adjacent support layer component, for assembling the support filler assembly. For example, the first support layer component 211 a (i) can be rotated or pivoted (or folded) (e.g., along the first connection element 221 a) in a direction “A1” (e.g., clockwise) from its base/resting position for 150 to 180 degrees, and also (ii) can be rotated or pivoted (or folded) (e.g., along the first connection element 221 a) in a direction “A2” (e.g., counter-clockwise, illustrated in FIG. 3A) opposite direction A1 for 150 to 180 degrees, as well. Upon rotation, a surface of the first support layer component 211 a is structured to contact and/or at least partially cover a (previously non-facing or flush) surface of an adjacent connection element (e.g., the second support layer component 211 b).
Similarly, the third support layer component 211 c (i) can be rotated or pivoted (or folded) (e.g., along the second connection element 221 c) in a direction “C1” (e.g., counter-clockwise) from its base/resting position for 150 to 180 degrees, and also (ii) can be rotated or pivoted (or folded) (e.g., along the second connection element 221 c) in a direction “C2” (e.g., clockwise, illustrated in FIG. 3A) opposite direction C1 for 150 to 180 degrees, as well. Upon rotation, a surface of the third support layer component 211 c is structured to contact and/or at least partially cover a (previously non-facing or flush) surface of an adjacent connection element (e.g., the second support layer component 211 b). Moreover, the fourth support layer component 211 d (i) can be rotated or pivoted (or folded) (e.g., along the third connection element 221 d) in a direction “D1” (e.g., clockwise) from its base/resting position for 150 to 180 degrees, and also (ii) can be rotated or pivoted (or folded) (e.g., along the third connection element 221 d) in a direction “D2” (e.g., counter-clockwise, illustrated in FIG. 4A) opposite direction D1 for 150 to 180 degrees, as well. Upon rotation, a surface of the fourth support layer component 211 d is structured to contact and/or at least partially cover a (previously non-facing or flush) surface of an adjacent connection element (e.g., the second support layer component 211 b).
Although, the examples have been described with respect to “clockwise” or “counter-clockwise” directions for illustrative purposes, it is understood that the direction is dependent on the observer. Moreover, the 150 to 180 degree range on rotation or movement of the support layer component(s) is described with respect to a midway or median resting/base position of the support layer component(s) between the two extreme opposite positions possible, for illustrative purposes only. It is understood that in the instances where the base/resting position does not lie in a midway or median between the extreme positions, the rotational range in the first direction and the opposite second direction may be greater than or lesser than 150 to 180 degrees, such that the cumulative rotational range in the first direction and the opposite second direction would fall between 300 to 360 degrees.
FIGS. 3A-3C illustrate schematic cut-away sectional views 30A-30C depicting the assembly process of the support filler assembly 200 of FIG. 2A, in accordance with one embodiment of the invention. Specifically, FIGS. 3A-3C illustrate schematic cut-away sectional views 30A-30C along a section M-M of the support filler assembly 200 of FIG. 2A. Moreover, FIG. 3A depicts the support filler assembly 200′ in its resting, disassembled position, as depicted in FIG. 2A, while FIGS. 3B and 3C illustrate the assembly folding process for assembling the support filler assembly 200′.
As illustrated by FIG. 3A, the support filler assembly 200′ is structured such that the first support layer component 211 a (i) can be rotated or pivoted (or folded) (e.g., along the first connection element 221 a) in a direction “A1” (e.g., clockwise) from its base/resting position for 150 to 180 degrees, and also (ii) can be rotated or pivoted (or folded) (e.g., along the first connection element 221 a) in a direction “A2” (e.g., counter-clockwise) opposite direction A1 for 150 to 180 degrees, as well. Moreover, the third support layer component 211 c (i) can be rotated or pivoted (or folded) (e.g., along the second connection element 221 c) in a direction “C1” (e.g., counter-clockwise) from its base/resting position for 150 to 180 degrees, and also (ii) can be rotated or pivoted (or folded) (e.g., along the second connection element 221 c) in a direction “C2” (e.g., clockwise) opposite direction C1 for 150 to 180 degrees, as well.
FIG. 3B illustrates the third support layer component 211 c rotated or pivoted (or folded), along the second connection element 221 c, in the direction “C1” (e.g., counter-clockwise) from its base/resting position for 150 to 180 degrees, such that, a surface 11 c of the third support layer component 211 c contacts and/or at least partially overlaps/covers a previously non-facing or flush or non-overlapping surface 11 b (as illustrated in the position depicted by FIG. 3A) of the second support layer component 211 b. Next, FIG. 3C illustrates the first support layer component 211 a rotated or pivoted (or folded) (e.g., along the first connection element 221 a) in the direction “A2” (e.g., counter-clockwise) for 150 to 180 degrees, such that a surface 21 a of the first support layer component 211 a contacts and/or at least partially overlaps/covers a previously non-facing or flush or non-overlapping surface 21 b (as illustrated in the position depicted by FIGS. 3A and 3B) of the second support layer component 211 b. Here, the surfaces 11 a of the first support layer component 211 a and surface 21 c of the third support layer component 211 c form the outer surfaces, while the other surfaces (21 a, 11 b, 21 b, and 11 c) are folded in internally, as illustrated by FIG. 3C. The arrangement may also be flipped by the user. The assembly process may end at the position illustrated in FIG. 3C, or the assembly process may continue with the rotation/folding of other support layer component(s). Upon converting the support filler assembly 200 into its assembled mode, the support filler assembly 200 in its assembled mode may comprise a maximum length and maximum width that is equal to or lesser than that of the pillow apparatus 100 and the outer shell 110 or cover 110. Once the assembly folding process in completed, the assembled support filler assembly 200 may be inserted into the cover 110 to form the pillow apparatus 100 of a certain arrangement/configuration.
FIGS. 3B and 3C depict one possible arrangement, for illustrative purposes. As an example of another arrangement not illustrated herein, as a first step, the third support layer component 211 c may be rotated or pivoted (or folded), along the second connection element 221 c, in the direction “C1” (e.g., counter-clockwise) from its base/resting position of FIG. 3A for 150 to 180 degrees, such that, a surface 11 c of the third support layer component 211 c contacts and/or at least partially overlaps/covers a previously non-facing or flush or non-overlapping surface 11 b of the second support layer component 211 b. Next, the first support layer component 211 a may be rotated or pivoted (or folded) (e.g., along the first connection element 221 a) in a direction “A1” (e.g., clockwise) from its base/resting position of FIG. 3A for 150 to 180 degrees, such that a surface 11 a of the first support layer component 211 a contacts and/or at least partially overlaps/covers a previously non-facing or flush or non-overlapping surface 21 c of the third support layer component 211 c. In this arrangement, the surfaces 21 a of the first support layer component 211 a and surface 21 b of the second support layer component 211 b form the outer surfaces, while the other surfaces (11 a, 11 b, 11 c, and 21 c) are folded in internally.
As yet another example of another arrangement not illustrated herein, as a first step, the first support layer component 211 a may be rotated or pivoted (or folded) (e.g., along the first connection element 221 a) in a direction “A2” (e.g., counter-clockwise) for 150 to 180 degrees, such that, a surface 21 a of the first support layer component 211 a contacts and/or at least partially overlaps/covers a previously non-facing or flush or non-overlapping surface 21 b of the second support layer component 211 b. Next, the third support layer component 211 c may be rotated or pivoted (or folded) (e.g., along the second connection element 221 c) in a direction “C2” (e.g., clockwise) for 150 to 180 degrees, such that a surface 21 c of the third support layer component 211 c contacts and/or at least partially overlaps/covers a previously non-facing or flush or non-overlapping surface 11 a of the first support layer component 211 a. In this arrangement, the surfaces 11 b of the second support layer component 211 b and surface 11 c of the third support layer component 211 c form the outer surfaces, while the other surfaces (11 a, 21 a, 21 b, and 21 c) are folded in internally.
FIGS. 4A-4B illustrate schematic cut-away sectional views 40A-40B depicting the assembly process of the support filler assembly 200 of FIG. 2A, in accordance with one embodiment of the invention. Specifically, FIGS. 4A-4B illustrate schematic cut-away sectional views 40A-40B along a section N-N of the support filler assembly 200 of FIG. 2A. Moreover, FIG. 4A depicts the support filler assembly 200′ in its resting, disassembled position, as depicted in FIG. 2A, while FIG. 4B illustrates the assembly folding process for assembling the support filler assembly 200′.
As illustrated by FIG. 4A, the support filler assembly 200′ is structured such that the fourth support layer component 211 d (i) can be rotated or pivoted (or folded) (e.g., along the third connection element 221 c) in a direction “D1” (e.g., clockwise) from its base/resting position for 150 to 180 degrees, and also (ii) can be rotated or pivoted (or folded) (e.g., along the third connection element 221 c) in a direction “D2” (e.g., counter-clockwise) opposite direction D1 for 150 to 180 degrees, as well. FIG. 4B illustrates the fourth support layer component 211 d rotated or pivoted (or folded) (e.g., along the third connection element 221 c) in the direction “D2” (e.g., counter-clockwise) for 150 to 180 degrees, such that a surface 21 d of the fourth support layer component 211 d contacts and/or at least partially overlaps/covers a previously non-facing or flush or non-overlapping surface 21 b (as illustrated in the position depicted by FIG. 4A) of the second support layer component 211 b. Here, the surfaces 11 d of the fourth support layer component 211 d and surface 11 b of the second support layer component 211 b form the outer surfaces, while the other surfaces (21 b and 21 d) are folded in internally, as illustrated by FIG. 4B. The arrangement may also be flipped by the user. The assembly process may end at the position illustrated in FIG. 4B, or the assembly process may continue with the rotation/folding of other support layer component(s). It is noted that the assembly folding process of FIG. 4B may be combined with any of the steps previously with respect to FIGS. 3A-3C. Upon converting the support filler assembly 200 into its assembled mode, the support filler assembly 200 in its assembled mode may comprise a maximum length and maximum width that is equal to or lesser than that of the pillow apparatus 100 and the outer shell 110 or cover 110. Once the assembly folding process in completed, the assembled support filler assembly 200 may be inserted into the cover 110 to form the pillow apparatus 100 of a certain arrangement/configuration.
As advantages of the present invention, support filler assembly 200 is infinitely customizable such that the user may position the plurality of support layer components 211 (211 a, 211 b, 211 n) of various softness/hardness for assembly within the pillow apparatus 100, without having to replace the entire pillow apparatus by merely performing the assembly folding process (e.g., as described with respect to FIGS. 3A to 5) and easily attach or detach the plurality of support layer components 211 (211 a, 211 b, . . . , 211 n) (e.g., as described with respect to FIG. 2B) without having to structurally damage the pillow apparatus 100. The user may arrange/fold/rotate all or some of the plurality of support layer components 211 (211 a, 211 b, . . . , 211 n), in any suitable order/arrangement, to assemble/form the support filler assembly 200, and insert the assembled support filler assembly 200 into a cover 110 to form the pillow apparatus 100 of a first arrangement/configuration. Moreover, the user may easily modify the pillow apparatus 100 into a second configuration. For instance, the user may withdraw the support filler assembly 200 assembled in the first arrangement/configuration from the cover 110, and then easily disassemble it into the base/resting position (e.g., as illustrated by FIG. 2A). The user may then (i) detach one or more support layer components, (ii) attach one or more new support layer components, and/or (iii) rotate/fold the support layer components in another sequence, to assemble/form the support filler assembly 200 assembled in a second arrangement/configuration. The support filler assembly 200 assembled in a second arrangement/configuration may then be inserted into the cover 110 to form the pillow apparatus 100 of a second arrangement/configuration.
FIG. 5 illustrates schematic cut-away sectional views 50 depicting the assembly process of the support filler assembly 200 of FIG. 2A into a new configuration/arrangement, in accordance with one embodiment of the invention. Specifically, FIG. 5 illustrates schematic cut-away sectional views along section M-M and section N-N of the support filler assembly 200 of FIG. 2A. Moreover, the “origin” depicts the support filler assembly 200′ in its resting, disassembled position, as depicted in FIG. 2A, while steps 1 to n−1 illustrate the assembly folding process for assembling the support filler assembly 200′. In some embodiments, for a support filler assembly 200′ having “n” number of support layer components, the assembly folding process may involve “n−1” steps.
At step 1, FIG. 5 illustrates the first support layer component 211 a being rotated or pivoted (or folded) (e.g., along the first connection element 221 a) in a direction “A1” from its base/resting position for 150 to 180 degrees, such that the first support layer component 211 a contacts and/or at least partially overlaps/covers a previously non-facing or flush or non-overlapping second support layer component 211 b.
Next, at step 2, FIG. 5 illustrates the n^th support layer component 211 n (e.g., fourth support layer component 211 d) rotated or pivoted (or folded) in the direction “N2” (e.g., counter-clockwise) for 150 to 180 degrees, such that the n^th support layer component 211 n (e.g., fourth support layer component 211 d) contacts and/or at least partially overlaps/covers a previously non-facing or flush or non-overlapping second support layer component 211 b.
Finally, at step n−1, FIG. 5 illustrates the third support layer component 211 c rotated or pivoted (or folded) in a direction “C2” (e.g., clockwise) for 150 to 180 degrees, such that the third support layer component 211 c contacts and/or at least partially overlaps/covers a previously non-facing or flush or non-overlapping n^th support layer component 211 n (e.g., fourth support layer component 211 d), thereby forming the assembled support filler assembly 200. The arrangement may also be flipped by the user. Upon converting the support filler assembly 200 into its assembled mode, the support filler assembly 200 in its assembled mode may comprise a maximum length and maximum width that is equal to or lesser than that of the pillow apparatus 100 and the outer shell 110 or cover 110. Once the assembly folding process in completed, the assembled support filler assembly 200 may be inserted into the cover 110 to form the pillow apparatus 100 of a certain arrangement/configuration. Moreover, the steps may be performed in the reverse order to place support filler assembly 200 in its disassembled mode.
As advantages of the present invention, support filler assembly 200 is infinitely customizable such that the user may position the plurality of support layer components 211 (211 a, 211 b, . . . , 211 n) of various softness/hardness for assembly within the pillow apparatus 100, without having to replace the entire pillow apparatus by merely performing the assembly folding process (e.g., as described with respect to FIGS. 3A to 5) and easily attach or detach the plurality of support layer components 211 (211 a, 211 b, . . . , 211 n) (e.g., as described with respect to FIG. 2B) without having to structurally damage the pillow apparatus 100. The user may arrange/fold/rotate all or some of the plurality of support layer components 211 (211 a, 211 b, . . . , 211 n), in any suitable order/arrangement, to assemble/form the support filler assembly 200, and insert the assembled support filler assembly 200 into a cover 110 to form the pillow apparatus 100 of a first arrangement/configuration. Moreover, the user may easily modify the pillow apparatus 100 into a second configuration. For instance, the user may withdraw the support filler assembly 200 assembled in the first arrangement/configuration from the cover 110, and then easily disassemble it into the base/resting position (e.g., as illustrated by FIG. 2A). The user may then (i) detach one or more support layer components, (ii) attach one or more new support layer components, and/or (iii) rotate/fold the support layer components in another sequence, to assemble/form the support filler assembly 200 assembled in a second arrangement/configuration. The support filler assembly 200 assembled in a second arrangement/configuration may then be inserted into the cover 110 to form the pillow apparatus 100 of a second arrangement/configuration.
FIG. 6 illustrates a schematic cut-away sectional view 60 of the support filler assembly 200 in its assembled mode, in accordance with one embodiment of the invention. Specifically, the arrangement of support filler assembly 200 of FIG. 6 is substantially similar to that described previously with respect to FIGS. 2A to 5. As illustrated, each of the support layer components (211 a, 211 b, . . . , 211 n) may comprise a width (W1 a, W1 b, . . . , W1 n) measured parallelly to the width function W of the pillow apparatus 100. In some embodiments, the widths (W1 a, W1 b, . . . , W1 n) of the support layer components (211 a, 211 b, . . . , 211 n) may be substantially equal to the width function W of the pillow apparatus 100, while in other embodiments, the widths (W1 a, W1 b, . . . , W1 n) of the support layer components (211 a, 211 b, . . . , 211 n) may be lesser than the width function W of the pillow apparatus 100. Thereby, upon converting the support filler assembly 200 into its assembled mode, the support filler assembly 200 in its assembled mode may comprise a reduced width from the maximum width (“Wsf”, depicted in FIG. 2A) of the disassembled mode. Moreover, the maximum width of the support filler assembly 200 in its assembled mode is equal to or lesser than that of the pillow apparatus 100 and the outer shell 110 or cover 110. Moreover, the widths (W1 a, W1 b, . . . , W1 n) of the support layer components (211 a, 211 b, . . . , 211 n) may be substantially equal to each other, or they may vary from each other. The widths (W1 a, W1 b, . . . , W1 n) of the support layer components (211 a, 211 b, . . . , 211 n) may be constant, or they may vary with respect to their respective thickness and/or length.
Each of the support layer components (211 a, 211 b, . . . , 211 n) may comprise a thickness (T1 a, T1 b, . . . , T1 n), respectively, measured parallelly to the thickness function T of the pillow apparatus 100, as illustrated by FIG. 6. As illustrated, each of the thicknesses (T1 a, T1 b, . . . , T1 n) of the support layer components (211 a, 211 b, . . . , 211 n) may be lesser that that of the thickness function T of the pillow apparatus 100. In the arrangement illustrated in FIG. 6, a sum of the thicknesses (T1 a, T1 b, . . . , T1 n) of the support layer components (211 a, 211 b, . . . , 211 n), i.e., (T1 a+T1 b+, . . . , +T1 n) substantially equals the thickness function T of the pillow apparatus 100. In other words, in the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 6, the support layer components (211 a, 211 b, . . . , 211 n) are arranged such that the sum of the thicknesses (T1 a, T1 b, . . . , T1 n) of some or all of the support layer components (211 a, 211 b, . . . , 211 n) is substantially equal to the thickness function T of the pillow apparatus 100. Moreover, each of the thicknesses (T1 a, T1 b, . . . , T1 n) of the support layer components (211 a, 211 b, . . . , 211 n) may vary from each other, or they may be substantially equal. The thicknesses (T1 a, T1 b, . . . , T1 n) of the support layer components (211 a, 211 b, . . . , 211 n) may be constant, or they may vary with respect to their respective width and/or length.
Moreover, each of the support layer components (211 a, 211 b, . . . , 211 n) may comprise a length measured parallelly to the length function L of the pillow apparatus 100, not illustrated in this cross-sectional view of FIG. 6. Although not illustrated herein, upon converting the support filler assembly 200 into its assembled mode, the support filler assembly 200 in its assembled mode may comprise a reduced length from the maximum width (“Lsf”, depicted in FIG. 2A) of the disassembled mode. Moreover, the maximum length of the support filler assembly 200 in its assembled mode is equal to or lesser than that of the pillow apparatus 100 and the outer shell 110 or cover 110.
As illustrated by FIG. 6, the support layer components (211 a, 211 b, . . . , 211 n) may be positioned adjacent to each other such that adjacent surfaces are in contact. Here, adjacent surfaces of the support layer components (211 a, 211 b, . . . , 211 n) may be substantially in contact with each other, or there may be voids, gaps, or spaces therebetween (e.g., to allow for flexibility). However, in some embodiments, a surface of a support layer component (211 a, 211 b, . . . , 211 n) may comprise at least one support recess (not illustrated) structured for at least partially (or entirely) receiving and/or securing the a corresponding complementary protrusion (not illustrated) provided on an adjacent surface of an adjacent support layer component, for easily securing the pair of support layer components, e.g., via a snap fit.
Each of the plurality of support layer components 211 (211 a, 211 b, . . . , 211 n) of the support filler assembly 200 may be made from a variety of materials based on their individual and also cumulative support characteristics, such as firmness, thickness, durometer, and resiliency, and comfort. The plurality of support layer components 211 (211 a, 211 b, . . . , 211 n) may be made from one or more materials, such as a foam material, orthopedic foam, orthopedic memory foam, a loose material such as fiber or poly beads, polyfiber, reticulated foam, hollow petrochemical beads, expanded polystyrene beads or any other materials that collectively allow the support filler assembly 200 to have desired the resilient, conforming and supporting properties. That said, the plurality of support layer components 211 (211 a, 211 b, . . . , 211 n) may be constructed using a variety of materials, including but not limited to, metals, alloys, composites, plastics, natural materials (e.g., wood), other synthetic materials, synthetic and natural fabrics, foams and other materials and/or natural/synthetic blends. In some embodiments the plurality of support layer components 211 (211 a, 211 b, . . . , 211 n) may be made of materials that have a predetermined high permeability and predetermined high wickability. As used herein, wickability of the filler material of the support filler assembly 200 and the filter barrier means the ability of the filler material of the support filler assembly 200 and the filter barrier to disperse moisture and allow it to pass through to the surface of the fabric, so that evaporation can take place. In some embodiments the plurality of support layer components 211 (211 a, 211 b, . . . , 211 n) comprise performance materials/fabrics to provide functional qualities like moisture management, UV protection, anti-microbial, thermoregulation and wind and water resistance.
The plurality of support layer components 211 (211 a, 211 b, . . . , 211 n) of the support filler assembly 200, may have different durometers. The durometer or hardness used herein may refer to the hardness described by procedure ASTM 2240 (American Society of Testing and Materials) using the Shore A scale. The durometer or durometers may vary from resilient to compressible. In some embodiments, plurality of support layer components 211 (211 a, 211 b, . . . , 211 n) of the support filler assembly 200 may be made from foams having different durometers, plastics having different durometers, etc. For example, the support layer component 211 a may be made from a foam having a lower durometer/hardness, while the support layer component 211 b may be made from a foam having medium durometer/hardness, and the support layer component 211 n may be made from a foam having a higher durometer/hardness. In other words, for example, the support layer component 211 a may be made from a material exhibiting greater softness (e.g., greater compressibility, greater flexibility, etc.) and lesser durometer or hardness than the material of the support layer component 211 b (e.g., on the Shore A scale). Here, the hardness of the support layer component 211 b may exceed the hardness of the support layer component 211 a, e.g., such that the support layer component 211 b has 1.1 times, 1.2 times, 1.3 times, 1.5 times, 2 times, 1-2 times, 1-2.5 times, 1.5-3 times, 1-4 times, greater hardness that that of the support layer component 211 a. Continuing with the example, the support layer component 211 b may be made from a material exhibiting greater softness (e.g., greater compressibility, greater flexibility, etc.) and lesser durometer or hardness than the material of the support layer component 211 n (e.g., on the Shore A scale). Here, the hardness of the support layer component 211 n may exceed the hardness of the support layer component 211 b, e.g., such that the support layer component 211 n has 1.1 times, 1.2 times, 1.3 times, 1.5 times, 2 times, 1-2 times, 1-2.5 times, 1.5-3 times, 1-4 times, greater hardness that that of the support layer component 211 b. As a non-limiting example, the support layer component 211 a may be a thin layer (e.g., a thin foam layer), the support layer component 211 b may be an orthopedic layer (e.g., an orthopedic foam layer), and the support layer component 211 n may be a thick layer (e.g., a thick foam layer).
FIGS. 7A-7C illustrate schematic cut-away sectional views 70A-70C of arrangements of support layer components of the support filler assembly 200 in its assembled mode, in accordance with various embodiments of the invention. FIGS. 7A-7C illustrate the pillow apparatus 100 having the support filler assembly 200 in its assembled mode comprising specific arrangements of plurality of support layer components 212 (212 a, 212 b, 212 c), similar to the plurality of support layer components 211 (211 a, 211 b, . . . , 211 n), and plurality of support layer components 211 (211 a, 211 b, . . . , 211 n), with “n” being 3, described previously. FIGS. 7A-7C illustrate non-limiting examples of the configurations of the pillow apparatus utilizing various arrangements of support layer components 212 (212 a, 212 b, 212 c), in order to achieve different support characteristics. These arrangements may be achieved using the assembly process steps described with respect to FIGS. 3A to 5 previously.
As a non-limiting example, the support layer component 212 a may be made from a foam having a lower durometer/hardness, while the support layer component 212 b may be made from a foam having medium durometer/hardness, and the support layer component 212 c may be made from a foam having a higher durometer/hardness. As another non-limiting example, the support layer component 212 a may be a thin layer (e.g., a thin foam layer), the support layer component 212 b may be an orthopedic layer (e.g., an orthopedic foam layer), and the support layer component 212 c may be a thick layer (e.g., a thick foam layer).
FIG. 7A illustrates a schematic representation 70A of a configuration of the pillow apparatus 100, in order to achieve soft neck support. Here, the support layer component 212 a (e.g., a thin foam layer) may be placed proximate the first surface 111, to be positioned proximate a user's neck and/or head, while the support layer component 212 b (e.g., an orthopedic foam layer) may be placed proximate the second surface 112 and away from the user's neck and/or body. The support layer component 212 c (e.g., a thick foam layer) may be placed in between the support layer component 212 a (e.g., a thin foam layer) and the support layer component 212 b (e.g., an orthopedic foam layer).
FIG. 7B illustrates a schematic representation 70B of a configuration of the pillow apparatus 100, in order to achieve medium neck support. Here, the support layer component 212 a (e.g., a thin foam layer) may be placed proximate the first surface 111, to be positioned proximate a user's neck and/or head, while the support layer component 212 c (e.g., a thick foam layer) may be placed proximate the second surface 112 and away from the user's neck and/or body. The support layer component 212 b (e.g., an orthopedic foam layer) may be placed in between the support layer component 212 a (e.g., a thin foam layer) and the support layer component 212 c (e.g., a thick foam layer).
FIG. 7C illustrates a schematic representation 70C of a configuration of the pillow apparatus 100, in order to achieve firm neck support. Here, support layer component 212 b (e.g., an orthopedic foam layer) may be placed proximate the first surface 111, to be positioned proximate a user's neck and/or head, while the support layer component 212 c (e.g., a thick foam layer) may be placed proximate the second surface 112 and away from the user's neck and/or body. The support layer component 212 a (e.g., a thin foam layer) may be placed in between the support layer component 212 b (e.g., an orthopedic foam layer) and the support layer component 212 c (e.g., a thick foam layer).
FIGS. 8A-8D illustrate schematic cut-away sectional views 80A-80D of arrangements of support layer components of the support filler assembly 200 in its assembled mode, in accordance with various embodiments of the invention. FIGS. 8A-8D illustrate the pillow apparatus 100 having a plurality of support layer components 213 (213 a, 213 b, 213 c), similar to the plurality of support layer components 211 (211 a, 211 b, . . . , 211 n), and plurality of support layer components 212 (212 a, 212 b, . . . , 212 n), with “n” being 3, described previously. FIGS. 8A-8D illustrate non-limiting examples of the configurations of the pillow apparatus utilizing various arrangements of support layer components 213 (213 a, 213 b, 213 c), in order to achieve a comfort/weight characteristics. These arrangements may be achieved using the assembly process steps described with respect to FIGS. 3A to 5 previously. As a non-limiting example, the support layer component 213 a may be made from a foam having a lower durometer/hardness, while the support layer component 213 b may be made from a foam having medium durometer/hardness, and the support layer component 213 c may be made from a foam having a higher durometer/hardness. As another non-limiting example, the support layer component 213 a may be a thin layer (e.g., a thin foam layer), the support layer component 213 b may be an orthopedic layer (e.g., an orthopedic foam layer), and the support layer component 213 c may be a thick layer (e.g., a thick foam layer).
FIG. 8A illustrates a schematic representation 80A of a configuration of the pillow apparatus 100, in order to achieve a thick configuration with a higher weight. Here, the support layer component 213 a (e.g., a thin foam layer) may be placed proximate the first surface 111, to be positioned proximate a user's neck and/or head or shoulder, while the support layer component 213 c (e.g., a thick foam layer) may be placed proximate the second surface 112 and away from the user's neck and/or body. The support layer component 213 b (e.g., an orthopedic foam layer) may be placed in between the support layer component 213 a (e.g., a thin foam layer) and the support layer component 213 c (e.g., a thick foam layer). This configuration may also be reversed such that the support layer component 213 c (e.g., a thick foam layer) may be placed proximate the user's neck and/or head or shoulder, while support layer component 213 a (e.g., a thin foam layer) may be placed away from the user's neck and/or head.
FIGS. 8B and 8C illustrate schematic representations 80B and 80C having medium thickness configurations of the pillow apparatus 100, having medium weights. FIG. 8B illustrates a schematic representation 80B of a configuration of the pillow apparatus 100, in order to achieve a thin-medium thickness/weight configuration. Here, the support layer component 213 c (e.g., a thick foam layer) is removed. The support layer component 213 a (e.g., a thin foam layer) may be placed proximate the first surface 111, to be positioned proximate a user's neck and/or head, while the support layer component 213 b (e.g., an orthopedic foam layer) may be placed proximate the second surface 112 and away from the user's neck and/or body. This configuration may also be reversed such that the support layer component 213 b (e.g., an orthopedic foam layer) may be placed proximate the user's neck and/or head or shoulder, while support layer component 213 a (e.g., a thin foam layer) may be placed away from the user's neck and/or head.
Moreover, FIG. 8C illustrates a schematic representation 80C of a configuration of the pillow apparatus 100, in order to achieve a thick-medium thickness/weight configuration. Here, the support layer component 213 c (e.g., a thick foam layer) is removed. The support layer component 213 c (e.g., a thick foam layer) may be placed proximate the first surface 111, to be positioned proximate a user's neck and/or head, while the support layer component 213 b (e.g., an orthopedic foam layer) may be placed proximate the second surface 112 and away from the user's neck and/or body. This configuration may also be reversed such that the support layer component 213 b (e.g., an orthopedic foam layer) may be placed proximate the user's neck and/or head or shoulder, while support layer component 213 c (e.g., a thick foam layer) may be placed away from the user's neck and/or head.
FIG. 8D illustrates a schematic representation 80D of a configuration of the pillow apparatus 100, in order to achieve thin thickness/weight configuration. Here, only the support layer component 213 b (e.g., an orthopedic foam layer) is provided.
FIG. 9 illustrates a perspective view 90 of a pillow apparatus, in accordance with one embodiment of the invention. FIG. 9 illustrates the pillow apparatus of FIG. 1 with the outer shell 110 or cover 110 enclosing the assembled support filler assembly 200, and the outer shell 110 or cover 110 an aperture or opening 118 (illustrated in an open position). Although, FIG. 9 illustrates the aperture or opening 118 being provided on lateral side 116, it is understood that the aperture may be provided on any suitable side or surface. Moreover, the user may easily modify the pillow apparatus 100 into a second configuration. For instance, the user may withdraw the support filler assembly 200 assembled in the first arrangement/configuration from the cover 110 via the aperture or opening 118, and then easily disassemble it into the base/resting position (e.g., as illustrated by FIG. 2A). The user may then (i) detach one or more support layer components, (ii) attach one or more new support layer components, and/or (iii) rotate/fold the support layer components in another sequence, to assemble/form the support filler assembly 200 assembled in a second arrangement/configuration. The support filler assembly 200 assembled in a second arrangement/configuration may then be inserted into the cover 110 via the aperture or opening 118 to form the pillow apparatus 100 of a second arrangement/configuration.
Many modifications and other embodiments of the inventions set forth herein will come to mind to one skilled in the art to which these inventions pertain having the benefit of the teachings presented in the foregoing descriptions and the associated drawings. Therefore, it is to be understood that the inventions are not to be limited to the specific embodiments disclosed and that modifications and other embodiments are intended to be included within the scope of the appended claims. Although specific terms are employed herein, they are used in a generic and descriptive sense only and not for purposes of limitation. In addition, where possible, any terms expressed in the singular form herein are meant to also include the plural form and/or vice versa. As used herein, “at least one” shall mean “one or more” and these phrases are intended to be interchangeable. Accordingly, the terms “a” and/or “an” shall mean “at least one” or “one or more,” even though the phrase “one or more” or “at least one” is also used herein.

Claims

What is claimed is:

1. A customizable pillow apparatus, comprising:

an outer shell;

a support filler assembly comprising a plurality of support layer components, wherein the support filler assembly is structured to be transformed from a disassembled mode to an assembled mode by:

rotating a first support layer of the plurality of support layers in a first direction such that the rotated first support layer at least partially overlaps a second support layer to form a first configuration, wherein the first support layer and the second support layer are non-overlapping in the disassembled mode of the support filler assembly.

2. A customizable pillow apparatus according to claim 1, wherein in the customizable pillow apparatus is configured to be modified into a second configuration from the first configuration.

3. A customizable pillow apparatus according to claim 2, wherein modifying the customizable pillow apparatus into the second configuration comprises, rearranging an order of the plurality of support layer components.

4. A customizable pillow apparatus according to claim 2, wherein modifying the customizable pillow apparatus into the second configuration comprises, adding a new support layer to the plurality of support layer components.

5. A customizable pillow apparatus according to claim 2, wherein modifying the customizable pillow apparatus into the second configuration comprises, removing a new support layer from the plurality of support layer components.

6. A customizable pillow apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the second support layer is structured to be rotated in a range of about 300 to 360 degrees.

7. A customizable pillow apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the second support layer is structured to be rotated in a range of about 150 to 180 degrees in the first direction.

8. A customizable pillow apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the second support layer is structured to be rotated in a second direction opposite to the first direction.

9. A customizable pillow apparatus according to claim 8, wherein the second support layer is structured to be rotated in a range of about 150 to 180 degrees in the second direction.

10. A customizable pillow apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the second support layer is structured to be rotated in a second direction opposite to the first direction.

11. A customizable pillow apparatus according to claim 1, wherein transforming the support filler assembly from the disassembled mode to the assembled mode further comprises rotating a third support layer of the plurality of support layers in a second direction such that the rotated third support layer at least partially overlaps the second support layer, wherein the second support layer and the third support layer are non-overlapping in the disassembled mode of the support filler assembly.

12. A customizable pillow apparatus according to claim 1, wherein transforming the support filler assembly from the disassembled mode to the assembled mode further comprises rotating a third support layer of the plurality of support layers in a second direction such that the rotated third support layer at least partially overlaps the first support layer, wherein the first support layer and the third support layer are non-overlapping in the disassembled mode of the support filler assembly.

13. A customizable pillow apparatus according to claim 1, wherein transforming the support filler assembly from the disassembled mode to the assembled mode further comprises rotating a third support layer of the plurality of support layers in the first direction such that the rotated third support layer at least partially overlaps the second support layer, wherein the second support layer and the third support layer are non-overlapping in the disassembled mode of the support filler assembly.

14. A customizable pillow apparatus according to claim 1, wherein transforming the support filler assembly from the disassembled mode to the assembled mode further comprises rotating a third support layer of the plurality of support layers in the first direction such that the rotated third support layer at least partially overlaps the first support layer, wherein the first support layer and the third support layer are non-overlapping in the disassembled mode of the support filler assembly.

15. A customizable pillow apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the support filler assembly in the disassembled mode comprises a maximum length greater than a maximum length of the outer shell such that the outer shell is not structured to enclose the support filler assembly in the disassembled mode.

16. A customizable pillow apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the support filler assembly in the disassembled mode comprises a maximum width greater than a maximum width of the outer shell such that the outer shell is not structured to enclose the support filler assembly in the disassembled mode.

17. A customizable pillow apparatus, comprising: