WO2022016002A1 - Appareil de type oreiller - Google Patents

Appareil de type oreiller Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2022016002A1
WO2022016002A1 PCT/US2021/041864 US2021041864W WO2022016002A1 WO 2022016002 A1 WO2022016002 A1 WO 2022016002A1 US 2021041864 W US2021041864 W US 2021041864W WO 2022016002 A1 WO2022016002 A1 WO 2022016002A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
support layer
support
filler assembly
pillow apparatus
layer component
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/US2021/041864
Other languages
English (en)
Inventor
E. Scott Davis
Antonio Arcieri
Charles Francis Treadwell MERRITT
Timothy James Rohm
Scott Allen Sattizahn
David William Schweitzer
Original Assignee
Banyan Licensing L.L.C.
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Banyan Licensing L.L.C. filed Critical Banyan Licensing L.L.C.
Priority to EP21841490.2A priority Critical patent/EP4181665A1/fr
Publication of WO2022016002A1 publication Critical patent/WO2022016002A1/fr

Links

Classifications

    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47G—HOUSEHOLD OR TABLE EQUIPMENT
    • A47G9/00—Bed-covers; Counterpanes; Travelling rugs; Sleeping rugs; Sleeping bags; Pillows
    • A47G9/10—Pillows
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47G—HOUSEHOLD OR TABLE EQUIPMENT
    • A47G9/00—Bed-covers; Counterpanes; Travelling rugs; Sleeping rugs; Sleeping bags; Pillows
    • A47G9/10—Pillows
    • A47G9/1072—Pillows for lying in reclined position, e.g. for reading
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47G—HOUSEHOLD OR TABLE EQUIPMENT
    • A47G9/00—Bed-covers; Counterpanes; Travelling rugs; Sleeping rugs; Sleeping bags; Pillows
    • A47G9/10—Pillows
    • A47G9/1081—Pillows comprising a neck support, e.g. a neck roll
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47G—HOUSEHOLD OR TABLE EQUIPMENT
    • A47G9/00—Bed-covers; Counterpanes; Travelling rugs; Sleeping rugs; Sleeping bags; Pillows
    • A47G9/10—Pillows
    • A47G9/1081—Pillows comprising a neck support, e.g. a neck roll
    • A47G9/109—Pillows comprising a neck support, e.g. a neck roll adapted to lie on the side and in supine position
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47G—HOUSEHOLD OR TABLE EQUIPMENT
    • A47G9/00—Bed-covers; Counterpanes; Travelling rugs; Sleeping rugs; Sleeping bags; Pillows
    • A47G2009/001—Anti-allergen; Anti-mite
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47G—HOUSEHOLD OR TABLE EQUIPMENT
    • A47G9/00—Bed-covers; Counterpanes; Travelling rugs; Sleeping rugs; Sleeping bags; Pillows
    • A47G9/10—Pillows
    • A47G2009/1018—Foam pillows

Definitions

  • 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.
  • 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.
  • HR high resilient
  • 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.
  • 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.).
  • body regions e.g., head, neck, shoulders, stomach, legs, etc.
  • positions e.g., sleep positions such as reclining on the user’s back, side-sleeping, etc.
  • Figure 1 illustrates a perspective view 10 of a pillow apparatus 100, in accordance with one embodiment of the invention.
  • Figure 2A illustrates a schematic depiction 20A of a support filler assembly 200 of the pillow apparatus 100 of Figure 1, in accordance with one embodiment of the invention.
  • Figure 2B illustrates a schematic depiction 20B of the support filler assembly 200 of Figure 2 A, in accordance with one embodiment of the invention.
  • Figures 3A-3C illustrate schematic cut-away sectional views 30A-30C depicting the assembly process of the support filler assembly 200 of Figure 2 A, in accordance with one embodiment of the invention.
  • Figures 4A-4B illustrate schematic cut-away sectional views 40A-40B depicting the assembly process of the support filler assembly 200 of Figure 2 A, in accordance with one embodiment of the invention.
  • Figure 5 illustrates schematic cut-away sectional views 50 depicting the assembly process of the support filler assembly 200 of Figure 2 A, in accordance with one embodiment of the invention.
  • Figures 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.
  • Figures 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.
  • Figure 9 illustrates a perspective view 90 of a pillow apparatus, in accordance with one embodiment of the invention.
  • 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.
  • the outer shell 110 or cover 110 may partially or fully enclose the support filler assembly 200.
  • 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 Figures 2A-8D later on.
  • the pillow apparatus 100 can comprise more or fewer components as required for various embodiments.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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 1-1/2 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.
  • 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.
  • 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 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.
  • Figure 2A illustrates a schematic depiction 20A of a support filler assembly 200 of the pillow apparatus 100 of Figure 1, in accordance with one embodiment of the invention.
  • Figure 2B illustrates a schematic depiction 20B of the support filler assembly 200 of Figure 2A, in accordance with one embodiment of the invention.
  • Figures 2A and 2B illustrate the support filler assembly 200 in its disassembled mode, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention.
  • support filler assembly 200’ refers to the support filler assembly 200 in its disassembled mode.
  • support filler assembly 200 refers to the support filler assembly 200 in its assembled mode, unless specified otherwise.
  • the support filler assembly 200 comprises a plurality of support layer components 211 (21 la, 21 lb, ... , 21 In), arranged next to each other (e.g., adjacent to each other, in an end-to-end manner, etc.) e.g., along their thickness.
  • 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 (21 la, 21 lb, ... , 21 In) 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.
  • 21 In 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 (21 la, 211b,
  • 21 In 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.
  • the plurality of support layer components 211 may be made of materials that have a predetermined high permeability and predetermined high wickability.
  • 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.
  • the plurality of support layer components 211 (21 la, 21 lb, ... , 21 In) 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 (21 la, 21 lb, ... , 21 In) 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.
  • plurality of support layer components 211 (21 la, 21 lb, ... , 21 In) of the support filler assembly 200 may be made from foams having different durometers, plastics having different durometers, etc.
  • the support layer component 211a may be made from a foam having a lower durometer/hardness, while the support layer component 211b may be made from a foam having medium durometer/hardness, and the support layer component 21 In may be made from a foam having a higher durometer/hardness.
  • the support layer component 211a 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 21 lb (e.g., on the Shore A scale).
  • the hardness of the support layer component 21 lb may exceed the hardness of the support layer component 211a, e.g., such that the support layer component 211b 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 211a.
  • the support layer component 211b 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 21 In (e.g., on the Shore A scale).
  • the hardness of the support layer component 21 In may exceed the hardness of the support layer component 21 lb, e.g., such that the support layer component 21 In 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 211b.
  • the support layer component 211a may be a thin layer (e.g., a thin foam layer)
  • the support layer component 211b may be an orthopedic layer (e.g., an orthopedic foam layer)
  • the support layer component 21 In 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 (21 la, 21 lb, 211c, 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.
  • Figures 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.
  • all of the support layer components may comprise the same shape, or the support layer components may comprise different shapes.
  • the support layer components (21 la, 21 lb, 21 lc, and 21 Id) may be removably attached to each other via connection elements (221a, 221c, 221 d).
  • the connection elements (221a, 221c, 22 Id) are structured for removably attaching or operatively physically connecting the support layer components (21 la, 21 lb, 21 lc, and 21 Id), while still allowing the customizable folding assembly of the support filler assembly 200’ (described in detail with respect to Figure 3A to Figure 5).
  • a first support layer component 211a may be removably attached to a first end of a second support layer component 211b via a first connection element 221a.
  • a third support layer component 21 lc may be removably attached to a second end of the second support layer component 211b via a second connection element 221c
  • a fourth support layer component 21 Id may be removably attached to a third end of the second support layer component 211b via a third connection element 22 Id.
  • 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.
  • the fourth support layer component 21 Id may be removably attached to the third support layer component 21 lc via the third connection element 221d, e.g., to form a linear shape of the support filler assembly 200’.
  • another fifth support layer component may be removably attached to a fourth end of the second support layer component 211b, e.g., to form a “+” shape of the support filler assembly 200’.
  • one or more support layer components may be detached, e.g., to form a “L” shape for the support filler assembly 200’.
  • 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”. ⁇ ”, and/or other suitable shapes.
  • 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.
  • the arrangement of the support filler assembly 200’ in its disassembled mode exhibits a maximum length “Lsf ’ and a maximum width “Wsf ’.
  • 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.
  • 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,
  • 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.
  • connection elements (221a, 221c, 221 d) may be detached or operatively decoupled or disconnected from each other via the connection elements (221a, 221c, 221 d), without having to innately deconstruct/damage the support layer components.
  • the connection elements (221a, 221c, 22 Id) are structured for (i) removably attaching or operatively physically coupling/connecting the support layer components (21 la, 21 lb, 21 lc, and 21 Id), and (ii) detaching or decoupling the support layer components (211a, 211b, 211c, and 21 Id).
  • 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).
  • 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).
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • first support layer component 211a may be removably attached to and detached from the first end of the second support layer component 211b via the first connection element 221a.
  • the first connection element 221a may comprise a first coupling portion 221a(i) at the first support layer component 211a, and a second coupling portion 221 a(ii) at the second support layer component 211b.
  • the first coupling portion 221 a(i) may be compatible with and/or complementary to the second coupling portion 221a(ii), such that the first coupling portion 221a(i) may be removably attached to/operatively coupled with the second coupling portion 221 a(ii) for removably attaching the first support layer component 211a with the second support layer component 21 lb.
  • the third connection element 22 Id may comprise a first coupling portion 221 d(i) (similar to the first coupling portion 221a(i)) at the second support layer component 211b, and a second coupling portion 221 d(ii) (similar to the second coupling portion 221a(ii)) at the fourth support layer component 21 Id.
  • the first coupling portion 221d(i) may be compatible with and/or complementary to the second coupling portion 221d(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 21 lb with the fourth support layer component 21 Id.
  • the first coupling portion (221a(i), 221d(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), 221d(ii)) (e.g., to facilitate a snap-fit).
  • the first coupling portion (221a(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 (221a(ii), 221 d(ii)).
  • first coupling portion (221a(i), 221d(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), 221d(h)).
  • the support filler assembly 200’ is structured such that, some or all of the support layer components (21 la, 21 lb, 21 lc, and 21 Id) may be rotated or pivoted (or folded) (e.g., along a corresponding connection elements (221a, 221c, 22 Id)) 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.
  • the first support layer component 211a (i) can be rotated or pivoted (or folded) (e.g., along the first connection element 221a) in a direction “Al” (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 221a) in a direction “A2” (e.g., counter-clockwise, illustrated in Figure 3 A) opposite direction Al for 150 to 180 degrees, as well.
  • a surface of the first support layer component 21 la 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 211b).
  • the third support layer component 211 c (i) can be rotated or pivoted (or folded) (e.g., along the second connection element 221c) in a direction “Cl” (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 221c) in a direction “C2” (e.g., clockwise, illustrated in Figure 3 A) opposite direction Cl for 150 to 180 degrees, as well.
  • a direction “Cl” e.g., counter clockwise
  • C2 e.g., clockwise, illustrated in Figure 3 A
  • a surface of the third support layer component 21 lc 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 21 lb).
  • the fourth support layer component 21 Id (i) can be rotated or pivoted (or folded) (e.g., along the third connection element 221 d) in a direction “Dl” (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 221d) in a direction “D2” (e.g., counter-clockwise, illustrated in Figure 4A) opposite direction Dl for 150 to 180 degrees, as well.
  • a surface of the fourth support layer component 21 Id 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
  • Figures 3A-3C illustrate schematic cut-away sectional views 30A-30C depicting the assembly process of the support filler assembly 200 of Figure 2A, in accordance with one embodiment of the invention. Specifically, Figures 3A-3C illustrate schematic cut-away sectional views 30A-30C along a section M-M of the support filler assembly 200 of Figure 2A. Moreover, Figure 3A depicts the support filler assembly 200’ in its resting, disassembled position, as depicted in Figure 2A, while Figures 3B and 3C illustrate the assembly folding process for assembling the support filler assembly 200’.
  • the support filler assembly 200’ is structured such that the first support layer component 21 la (i) can be rotated or pivoted (or folded) (e.g., along the first connection element 221a) in a direction “Al” (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 221a) in a direction “A2” (e.g., counter-clockwise) opposite direction A1 for 150 to 180 degrees, as well.
  • a direction “Al” e.g., clockwise
  • A2 e.g., counter-clockwise
  • the third support layer component 211c (i) can be rotated or pivoted (or folded) (e.g., along the second connection element 221c) in a direction “Cl” (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 221c) in a direction “C2” (e.g., clockwise) opposite direction Cl for 150 to 180 degrees, as well.
  • a direction “Cl” e.g., counter-clockwise
  • C2 e.g., clockwise
  • Figure 3B illustrates the third support layer component 211c rotated or pivoted (or folded), along the second connection element 221c, in the direction “Cl” (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 211c contacts and/or at least partially overlaps/covers a previously non-facing or flush or non-overlapping surface 1 lb (as illustrated in the position depicted by Figure 3A) of the second support layer component 211b.
  • l e.g., counter clockwise
  • Figure 3C illustrates the first support layer component 211a rotated or pivoted (or folded) (e.g., along the first connection element 221a) in the direction “A2” (e.g., counter-clockwise) for 150 to 180 degrees, such that a surface 21a of the first support layer component 21 la contacts and/or at least partially overlaps/covers a previously non-facing or flush or non-overlapping surface 21b (as illustrated in the position depicted by Figures 3A and 3B) of the second support layer component 21 lb.
  • the surfaces 1 la of the first support layer component 21 la and surface 21c of the third support layer component 21 lc form the outer surfaces, while the other surfaces (21a, 1 lb, 21b, and l ie) are folded in internally, as illustrated by Figure 3C.
  • the arrangement may also be flipped by the user.
  • the assembly process may end at the position illustrated in Figure 3C, or the assembly process may continue with the rotation/folding of other support layer component(s).
  • 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.
  • the assembled support filler assembly 200 may be inserted into the cover 110 to form the pillow apparatus 100 of a certain arrangement/configuration.
  • Figures 3B and 3C depict one possible arrangement, for illustrative purposes.
  • the third support layer component 21 lc may be rotated or pivoted (or folded), along the second connection element 221c, in the direction “Cl” (e.g., counter-clockwise) from its base/resting position of Figure 3A for 150 to 180 degrees, such that, a surface 11 c of the third support layer component 211c contacts and/or at least partially overlaps/covers a previously non-facing or flush or non overlapping surface l ib of the second support layer component 21 lb.
  • the first support layer component 211a may be rotated or pivoted (or folded) (e.g., along the first connection element 221a) in a direction “Al” (e.g., clockwise) from its base/resting position of Figure 3A for 150 to 180 degrees, such that a surface 1 la of the first support layer component 211a contacts and/or at least partially over laps/co vers a previously non-facing or flush or non-overlapping surface 21c of the third support layer component 211c.
  • the surfaces 21a of the first support layer component 211a and surface 21b of the second support layer component 211b form the outer surfaces, while the other surfaces (11a, l ib, 11c, and 21c) are folded in internally.
  • the first support layer component 211a may be rotated or pivoted (or folded) (e.g., along the first connection element 221a) in a direction “A2” (e.g., counter-clockwise) for 150 to 180 degrees, such that, a surface 21a of the first support layer component 21 la contacts and/or at least partially overlaps/covers a previously non-facing or flush or non-overlapping surface 21b of the second support layer component 211b.
  • the third support layer component 21 lc may be rotated or pivoted (or folded) (e.g., along the second connection element 221c) in a direction “C2” (e.g., clockwise) for 150 to 180 degrees, such that a surface 21c of the third support layer component 211c contacts and/or at least partially overlaps/covers a previously non-facing or flush or non-overlapping surface 1 la of the first support layer component 211a.
  • the surfaces 1 lb of the second support layer component 211b and surface 1 lc of the third support layer component 211c form the outer surfaces, while the other surfaces (11a, 21a, 21b, and 21c) are folded in internally.
  • Figures 4A-4B illustrate schematic cut-away sectional views 40A-40B depicting the assembly process of the support filler assembly 200 of Figure 2A, in accordance with one embodiment of the invention. Specifically, Figures 4A-4B illustrate schematic cut-away sectional views 40A-40B along a section N-N of the support filler assembly 200 of Figure 2A. Moreover, Figure 4A depicts the support filler assembly 200’ in its resting, disassembled position, as depicted in Figure 2 A, while Figure 4B illustrates the assembly folding process for assembling the support filler assembly 200’.
  • the support filler assembly 200’ is structured such that the fourth support layer component 21 Id (i) can be rotated or pivoted (or folded) (e.g., along the third connection element 221c) in a direction “Dl” (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 221c) in a direction “D2” (e.g., counter-clockwise) opposite direction Dl for 150 to 180 degrees, as well.
  • Dl e.g., clockwise
  • D2 e.g., counter-clockwise
  • Figure 4B illustrates the fourth support layer component 21 Id rotated or pivoted (or folded) (e.g., along the third connection element 221c) in the direction “D2” (e.g., counter-clockwise) for 150 to 180 degrees, such that a surface 21d of the fourth support layer component 21 Id contacts and/or at least partially overlaps/covers a previously non-facing or flush or non-overlapping surface 21b (as illustrated in the position depicted by Figure 4 A) of the second support layer component 211b.
  • the surfaces 1 Id of the fourth support layer component 21 Id and surface 1 lb of the second support layer component 211b form the outer surfaces, while the other surfaces (21b and 21d) are folded in internally, as illustrated by Figure 4B.
  • the arrangement may also be flipped by the user.
  • the assembly process may end at the position illustrated in Figure 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 Figure 4B may be combined with any of the steps previously with respect to Figures 3A-3C.
  • 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.
  • the assembled support filler assembly 200 may be inserted into the cover 110 to form the pillow apparatus 100 of a certain arrangement/configuration.
  • support filler assembly 200 is infinitely customizable such that the user may position the plurality of support layer components 211 (21 la, 21 lb, ... , 21 In) 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 Figures 3A to 5) and easily attach or detach the plurality of support layer components 211 (21 la, 21 lb, ... , 21 In) (e.g., as described with respect to Figure 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 (211a, 211b,
  • 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 Figure 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.
  • Figure 5 illustrates schematic cut-away sectional views 50 depicting the assembly process of the support filler assembly 200 of Figure 2A into a new configuration/arrangement, in accordance with one embodiment of the invention.
  • Figure 5 illustrates schematic cut-away sectional views along section M-M and section N-N of the support filler assembly 200 of Figure 2A.
  • the “origin” depicts the support filler assembly 200’ in its resting, disassembled position, as depicted in Figure 2A, while steps 1 to n-1 illustrate the assembly folding process for assembling the support filler assembly 200’.
  • the assembly folding process may involve “n-1” steps.
  • Figure 5 illustrates the first support layer component 211a being rotated or pivoted (or folded) (e.g., along the first connection element 221a) in a direction “Al” from its base/resting position for 150 to 180 degrees, such that the first support layer component 21 la contacts and/or at least partially overlaps/covers a previously non-facing or flush or non overlapping second support layer component 211b.
  • Figure 5 illustrates the n th support layer component 21 In (e.g., fourth support layer component 21 Id) 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 21 In (e.g., fourth support layer component 21 Id) contacts and/or at least partially overlaps/covers a previously non-facing or flush or non-overlapping second support layer component 211b.
  • N2 e.g., counter-clockwise
  • Figure 5 illustrates the third support layer component 211c rotated or pivoted (or folded) in a direction “C2” (e.g., clockwise) for 150 to 180 degrees, such that the third support layer component 211c contacts and/or at least partially overlaps/covers a previously non-facing or flush or non-overlapping n th support layer component 21 In (e.g., fourth support layer component 21 Id), thereby forming the assembled support filler assembly 200.
  • the arrangement may also be flipped by the user.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • support filler assembly 200 is infinitely customizable such that the user may position the plurality of support layer components 211 (21 la, 21 lb, ... , 21 In) 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 Figures 3A to 5) and easily attach or detach the plurality of support layer components 211 (21 la, 21 lb, ... , 21 In) (e.g., as described with respect to Figure 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 (211a, 211b,
  • 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 Figure 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.
  • the arrangement of support filler assembly 200 of Figure 6 is substantially similar to that described previously with respect to Figures 2A to 5.
  • each of the support layer components (21 la, 21 lb, ... , 21 In) may comprise a width (Wla, Wlb, ... , Win) measured parallelly to the width function W of the pillow apparatus 100.
  • the widths (Wla, Wlb, ... , Win) of the support layer components (211a, 211b, ... , 21 In) may be substantially equal to the width function W of the pillow apparatus 100, while in other embodiments, the widths (Wla, Wlb, ... , Win) of the support layer components (21 la, 21 lb,
  • the support filler assembly 200 in its assembled mode may comprise a reduced width from the maximum width (“Wsf ’, depicted in Figure 2A) of the disassembled mode.
  • 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.
  • the widths (Wla, Wlb, ... , Win) of the support layer components (21 la, 21 lb, ... , 21 In) may be substantially equal to each other, or they may vary from each other.
  • the widths (Wla, Wlb, ... , Win) of the support layer components (21 la, 21 lb, ... , 21 In) may be constant, or they may vary with respect to their respective thickness and/or length.
  • Each of the support layer components (21 la, 21 lb, ... , 21 In) may comprise a thickness (Tla, Tib, ... , Tin), respectively, measured parallelly to the thickness function T of the pillow apparatus 100, as illustrated by Figure 6.
  • each of the thicknesses (Tla, Tib, ... , Tin) of the support layer components (21 la, 21 lb, ... , 21 In) may be lesser that that of the thickness function T of the pillow apparatus 100.
  • the support layer components (21 la, 21 lb, ... , 21 In) are arranged such that the sum of the thicknesses (Tla, Tib, , Tin) of some or all of the support layer components (21 la, 211b, ... , 21 In) is substantially equal to the thickness function T of the pillow apparatus 100.
  • each of the thicknesses (Tla, Tib, ... , Tin) of the support layer components (21 la, 21 lb, ... , 21 In) may vary from each other, or they may be substantially equal.
  • the thicknesses (Tla, Tib, ... , Tin) of the support layer components (21 la, 21 lb, ... , 21 In) may be constant, or they may vary with respect to their respective width and/or length.
  • each of the support layer components may comprise a length measured parallelly to the length function L of the pillow apparatus 100, not illustrated in this cross-sectional view of Figure 6.
  • the support filler assembly 200 in its assembled mode may comprise a reduced length from the maximum width (“Lsf ’, depicted in Figure 2A) of the disassembled mode.
  • 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.
  • the support layer components (21 la, 21 lb, ... , 21 In) may be positioned adjacent to each other such that adjacent surfaces are in contact.
  • adjacent surfaces of the support layer components (21 la, 21 lb, ... , 21 In) may be substantially in contact with each other, or there may be voids, gaps, or spaces therebetween (e.g., to allow for flexibility).
  • 211b, ... , 21 In 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 (21 la, 21 lb, ... , 21 In) 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.
  • 21 In 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 (21 la, 211b,
  • 21 In 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.
  • the plurality of support layer components 211 may be made of materials that have a predetermined high permeability and predetermined high wickability.
  • 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.
  • the plurality of support layer components 211 (21 la, 21 lb, ... , 21 In) 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 (21 la, 21 lb, ... , 21 In) 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.
  • plurality of support layer components 211 (21 la, 21 lb, ... , 21 In) of the support filler assembly 200 may be made from foams having different durometers, plastics having different durometers, etc.
  • the support layer component 211a may be made from a foam having a lower durometer/hardness, while the support layer component 211b may be made from a foam having medium durometer/hardness, and the support layer component 21 In may be made from a foam having a higher durometer/hardness.
  • the support layer component 211a 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 21 lb (e.g., on the Shore A scale).
  • the hardness of the support layer component 21 lb may exceed the hardness of the support layer component 211a, e.g., such that the support layer component 211b 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 211a.
  • the support layer component 211b 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 21 In (e.g., on the Shore A scale).
  • the hardness of the support layer component 21 In may exceed the hardness of the support layer component 21 lb, e.g., such that the support layer component 21 In 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 211b.
  • the support layer component 211a may be a thin layer (e.g., a thin foam layer)
  • the support layer component 211b may be an orthopedic layer (e.g., an orthopedic foam layer)
  • the support layer component 21 In may be a thick layer (e.g., a thick foam layer).
  • Figures 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.
  • Figures 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 (212a, 212b, 212c), similar to the plurality of support layer components 211 (21 la, 21 lb, ... , 21 In), and plurality of support layer components 211 (211a, 211b, ... , 21 In), with “n” being 3, described previously.
  • Figures 7A-7C illustrate non-limiting examples of the configurations of the pillow apparatus utilizing various arrangements of support layer components 212 (212a, 212b, 212c), in order to achieve different support characteristics. These arrangements may be achieved using the assembly process steps described with respect to Figures 3A to 5 previously.
  • the support layer component 212a may be made from a foam having a lower durometer/hardness, while the support layer component 212b may be made from a foam having medium durometer/hardness, and the support layer component 212c may be made from a foam having a higher durometer/hardness.
  • the support layer component 212a may be a thin layer (e.g., a thin foam layer)
  • the support layer component 212b may be an orthopedic layer (e.g., an orthopedic foam layer)
  • the support layer component 212c may be a thick layer (e.g., a thick foam layer).
  • Figure 7A illustrates a schematic representation 70A of a configuration of the pillow apparatus 100, in order to achieve soft neck support.
  • the support layer component 212a e.g., a thin foam layer
  • the support layer component 212b e.g., an orthopedic foam layer
  • the support layer component 212c e.g., a thick foam layer
  • the support layer component 212a e.g., a thin foam layer
  • the support layer component 212b e.g., an orthopedic foam layer
  • Figure 7B illustrates a schematic representation 70B of a configuration of the pillow apparatus 100, in order to achieve medium neck support.
  • the support layer component 212a e.g., a thin foam layer
  • the support layer component 212c e.g., a thick foam layer
  • the support layer component 212b e.g., an orthopedic foam layer
  • the support layer component 212a e.g., a thin foam layer
  • the support layer component 212c e.g., a thick foam layer
  • Figure 7C illustrates a schematic representation 70C of a configuration of the pillow apparatus 100, in order to achieve firm neck support.
  • support layer component 212b e.g., an orthopedic foam layer
  • the support layer component 212c e.g., a thick foam layer
  • the support layer component 212a e.g., a thin foam layer
  • the support layer component 212b e.g., an orthopedic foam layer
  • the support layer component 212c e.g., a thick foam layer
  • Figures 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.
  • Figures 8A-8D illustrate the pillow apparatus 100 having a plurality of support layer components 213 (213a, 213b, 213c), similar to the plurality of support layer components 211 (21 la, 21 lb, ... , 21 In), and plurality of support layer components 212 (212a, 212b, ... , 212n), with “n” being 3, described previously.
  • Figures 8A-8D illustrate non-limiting examples of the configurations of the pillow apparatus utilizing various arrangements of support layer components 213 (213a, 213b, 213c), in order to achieve a comfort/weight characteristics. These arrangements may be achieved using the assembly process steps described with respect to Figures 3A to 5 previously.
  • the support layer component 213a may be made from a foam having a lower durometer/hardness
  • the support layer component 213b may be made from a foam having medium durometer/hardness
  • the support layer component 213c may be made from a foam having a higher durometer/hardness.
  • the support layer component 213a may be a thin layer (e.g., a thin foam layer)
  • the support layer component 213b may be an orthopedic layer (e.g., an orthopedic foam layer)
  • the support layer component 213c may be a thick layer (e.g., a thick foam layer).
  • Figure 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.
  • the support layer component 213a e.g., a thin foam layer
  • the support layer component 213c e.g., a thick foam layer
  • the support layer component 213b (e.g., an orthopedic foam layer) may be placed in between the support layer component 213a (e.g., a thin foam layer) and the support layer component 213c (e.g., a thick foam layer).
  • This configuration may also be reversed such that the support layer component 213c (e.g., a thick foam layer) may be placed proximate the user’s neck and/or head or shoulder, while support layer component 213a (e.g., a thin foam layer) may be placed away from the user’s neck and/or head.
  • Figures 8B and 8C illustrate schematic representations 80B and 80C having medium thickness configurations of the pillow apparatus 100, having medium weights.
  • Figure 8B illustrates a schematic representation 80B of a configuration of the pillow apparatus 100, in order to achieve a thin-medium thickness/weight configuration.
  • the support layer component 213c e.g., a thick foam layer
  • the support layer component 213a e.g., a thin foam layer
  • the support layer component 213a may be placed proximate the first surface 111 , to be positioned proximate a user’s neck and/or head
  • the support layer component 213b e.g., an orthopedic foam layer
  • This configuration may also be reversed such that the support layer component 213b (e.g., an orthopedic foam layer) may be placed proximate the user’s neck and/or head or shoulder, while support layer component 213a (e.g., a thin foam layer) may be placed away from the user’s neck and/or head.
  • the support layer component 213b e.g., an orthopedic foam layer
  • support layer component 213a e.g., a thin foam layer
  • Figure 8C illustrates a schematic representation 80C of a configuration of the pillow apparatus 100, in order to achieve a thick-medium thickness/weight configuration.
  • the support layer component 213c e.g., a thick foam layer
  • the support layer component 213c may be placed proximate the first surface 111, to be positioned proximate a user’s neck and/or head, while the support layer component 213b (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 213b (e.g., an orthopedic foam layer) may be placed proximate the user’s neck and/or head or shoulder, while support layer component 213c (e.g., a thick foam layer) may be placed away from the user’s neck and/or head.
  • the support layer component 213b e.g., an orthopedic foam layer
  • support layer component 213c e.g., a thick foam layer
  • Figure 8D illustrates a schematic representation 80D of a configuration of the pillow apparatus 100, in order to achieve thin thickness/weight configuration.
  • the support layer component 213b e.g., an orthopedic foam layer
  • Figure 9 illustrates a perspective view 90 of a pillow apparatus, in accordance with one embodiment of the invention.
  • Figure 9 illustrates the pillow apparatus of Figure 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).
  • Figure 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.
  • the user may easily modify the pillow apparatus 100 into a second configuration.
  • 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 Figure 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.

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  • General Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
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Abstract

Des modes de réalisation de la présente invention concernent un appareil de type oreiller personnalisable. Typiquement, l'appareil de type oreiller personnalisable comprend une enveloppe externe et un ensemble garniture de support contenu à l'intérieur de l'enveloppe externe. L'ensemble garniture de support comprend une pluralité de composants de couche de support agencés dans une première configuration, chaque composant de couche de support étant structuré pour fournir des caractéristiques de support prédéterminées. L'ensemble garniture de support est structuré pour être transformé d'un mode désassemblé à un mode assemblé par rotation d'une première couche de support de la pluralité de couches de support dans une première direction de sorte que la première couche de support ayant subi la rotation chevauche au moins partiellement une deuxième couche de support pour former la première configuration. De plus, l'agencement, l'ordonnancement et le positionnement de la pluralité de composants de couche interne sont facilement ajustables. L'appareil de type oreiller personnalisable est configuré pour être modifié vers une seconde configuration à partir de la première configuration pour fournir un support ciblé à l'utilisateur.
PCT/US2021/041864 2020-07-15 2021-07-15 Appareil de type oreiller WO2022016002A1 (fr)

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