mat

Abstract

A mattress (1) capable of facilitating respiration when lying on the back is provided. The mattress (1) includes: a pair of iliac bone support portions (11) respectively configured below positions corresponding to portions (LMb) on at least a width direction outer side of iliac spines (LMa) on a pair of iliac bones (LM) in a pelvis (PV), thereby respectively supporting the positions corresponding to the pair of iliac bones (LM) from below; and a sacrum corresponding portion (12) configured between the pair of iliac bone support portions (11) and below a sacrum (S) between the pair of iliac bones (LM) in the pelvis (PV). The pair of iliac bone support portions (11) and the sacrum corresponding portion (12) are configured in a manner that body pressure from the sacrum corresponding portion (12) is lower than body pressure from the pair of iliac bone support portions (11).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to mats, and more particularly to mats that promote breathing when lying on one's back. Background Technology

[0002] Among mats are those used to support the human body when lying down. Such mats are required to have the function of providing a comfortable lying experience for the person lying on them.

[0003] The comfort of a sleeping mat depends on the balance between its rebound and the body pressure of the person lying on it. Body pressure refers to the pressure exerted on the mat by the person lying on it, and its distribution varies depending on body posture. For example, in the supine position, body pressure is highest at the hips. If the mat's rebound is equally high when supporting the entire body of a supine person, the body pressure will concentrate in the hips and back, causing congestion in these areas. As a result, the person will turn over more frequently to relieve congestion, leading to lighter sleep. Conversely, if the mat's rebound is equally low, the hips will sink deeply into the mat. Consequently, the spine in the supine position will deform significantly from the S-shape seen when standing, contributing to lower back pain and kyphosis.

[0004] As a method to improve lying comfort, there are known mats that vary in rebound force or surface shape according to position along the spine of a supine person (see, for example, Patent Documents 1 to 3). In these mats, the areas in contact with the buttocks and back are designed to be softer or lower than other areas. As a result, the body pressure concentrated on the buttocks and back is distributed to other parts, resulting in a more uniform body pressure across the entire mat, thus enabling the spine to maintain a similar S-shape when supine as when upright.

[0005] The comfort level of lying down depends not only on the frequency of turning over and the shape of the spine, but also on the depth of breathing. The deeper the breathing during sleep, the better the lying comfort. However, even with a mat like the one described above where the overall body pressure is nearly uniform, breathing can sometimes become shallow when lying on your back, and there is room for improvement to promote breathing.

[0006] Existing technical documents

[0007] Patent documents

[0008] Patent Document 1: Japanese Utility Model Publication No. 06-058762

[0009] Patent Document 2: Japanese Patent Publication No. 2002-119382

[0010] Patent Document 3: Japanese Patent Publication No. 2016-506797 Summary of the Invention

[0011] The present invention was made in view of the above circumstances, and its object is to provide a mat that can promote breathing when lying on one's back.

[0012] The cushion of the present invention supports at least the portion corresponding to the pelvis of a supine person, comprising: a pair of iliac bone support portions, each disposed below a portion corresponding to at least the outer width of the iliac bone ridge on a pair of iliac bones in the pelvis, thereby supporting the portion corresponding to the pair of iliac bones from below; and a sacral corresponding portion, disposed between the pair of iliac bone support portions and located below the portion corresponding to the sacrum between the pair of iliac bones in the pelvis; wherein the pair of iliac bone support portions and the sacral corresponding portion are configured such that the body pressure from the sacral corresponding portion is lower than the body pressure from the pair of iliac bone support portions. Attached Figure Description

[0013] Figure 1 This is a perspective view showing the overall structure of the mat according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0014] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A top view of the mat.

[0015] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 The view is oriented in direction A.

[0016] Figure 4 It means that a person is lying on their back. Figure 1 A diagram illustrating the state of the mat.

[0017] Figure 5 It is a schematic representation. Figure 1 The mat and the relative position of the person's skeleton when lying supine are shown in the back view.

[0018] Figure 6 This is a three-dimensional diagram of the pelvis used to illustrate the nodding motion of the sacrum.

[0019] Figure 7 It is a schematic representation of a person lying supine. Figure 1 A cross-sectional diagram of the internal rotation of the iliac bones and the nodding motion of the sacrum during the movement of the iliac crest.

[0020] Figure 8 It means that a person is lying on their back. Figure 1 A cross-sectional diagram showing the state in which the part corresponding to the sacrum is supported by the sacral support when the pad is in place.

[0021] Figure 9This is a cross-sectional schematic diagram illustrating, as a variation of the present invention, that the mounting surface of the sacral support portion has a shape that decreases towards the leg side, and that the portions corresponding to the sacrum and lumbar vertebrae are supported by the mounting surface of the sacral support portion.

[0022] Figure 10 This is a perspective view showing a pad formed by the non-supporting portion of the sacrum at the corresponding part of the sacrum, as another variation of the present invention.

[0023] Figure 11 This is a perspective view showing a cushion with a back support portion omitted, as another variation of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0024] Hereinafter, a preferred embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0025] (Overview of Mat 1)

[0026] Figures 1 to 3 The mat 1 shown is, for example, integrally formed from a thin, rectangular polyurethane or other elastic material. The mat 1, together with the frame or stand (not shown) supporting it, constitutes a bed. The mat 1, for example, is capable of supporting a person 50 (see reference) lying supine on it entirely with its upper side. Figures 4 to 5 The dimensions of the mat 1 are based on the body size of a standard adult (e.g., a Japanese adult male who is 170cm tall and weighs approximately 70kg). Furthermore, in this invention, the mat 1 is designed to support at least the pelvic PV (see reference 50) of a supine person. Figures 4 to 5 The dimensions of the corresponding part can be determined.

[0027] To indicate directions, the following are defined in the specification and drawings of this application: the direction of the supine person 50 extending the body X (head side X1, leg side X2), the width direction of the supine person 50 Y (right side Y1, left side Y2), and the vertical direction of the mat 1 Z (upper side Z1, lower side Z2).

[0028] The portion of the mat 1 that contacts the back 52, pelvis PV, and legs of a supine person 50 has an upward Z1 protrusion. Specifically, the mat 1 includes: a flat, rectangular base 2; and three portions protruding upward Z1 from the upper side 2a of the base 2, namely, a back support portion 3, a pelvic support portion 4, and a leg support portion 5. The back support portion 3 supports the back 52 of the supine person 50 (see reference). Figures 4 to 5 The pelvic support 4 is located on the leg side X2 relative to the back support 3, and supports the pelvis PV (see reference). Figures 4 to 5 The corresponding part. The leg support part 5 is located on the leg side X2 relative to the pelvic support part 4, and supports the femur FM of the leg (see reference). Figures 4 to 5 The part corresponding to the area near )

[0029] In the cushion 1, a headrest 51 is formed on the head side X1 relative to the back support 3 (see reference). Figure 4 The head configuration area 6 of the base 2 is exposed in the head configuration area 6, and a pillow P supporting the head 51 is configured thereon.

[0030] Between the pelvic support portion 4 and the leg support portion 5 in the mat 1, a space is formed for the placement of the hip joint J2 (see reference). Figures 4 to 5 The hip joint configuration area 7 of the space 7a. When the person 50 is supine, the hip joint J2 is housed in the space 7a and is not compressed by the pad 1, so as not to hinder the movement of the pair of hip bones HB in the width direction Y as described later.

[0031] When lying supine, the pelvic support 4 (specifically, the iliac support 11 described later) and the leg support 5 are compressed by the weight of the person 50. However, since the space 7a is not compressed when lying supine, the hip joint J2 is unsupported. Therefore, the depth of the space 7a is set to a level that will not be compressed by the weight of the person 50. Alternatively, instead of the shape forming the space 7a, the hip joint mounting area 7 can be made to have the same height as the pelvic support 4 and the leg support 5 and be formed of a material with low hardness to avoid compressing the hip joint J2.

[0032] (Explanation of pelvic PV)

[0033] Here, the pelvic PV supported by the pelvic support portion 4 is described in detail. For example... Figures 4 to 6 As shown, the pelvis PV has a pair of hip bones HB spaced apart in the width direction Y, a sacrum S located between the pair of hip bones HB, and a coccyx CC connected to the end of the sacrum S on the leg side X2.

[0034] The hip bone HB has the ilium LM forming part of its cephalic X1 side, extending from the leg-side X2 end of the ilium LM towards the front of the body ( Figure 4 The upper side (Z1) and the arched pubis PB extending from the center of the body, and the arched ischium SN bending from the leg side (X2) of the ilium LM toward the leg side (X2) and connecting to the end of the pubis PB on the center of the body. Each of the pair of ilium LMs is connected to the sacrum S via the sacroiliac joint (J1).

[0035] Figures 4 to 6 As shown, the ilium (LM) is a curved, plate-like, flat bone. At its cephalic end (X1), the ilium (LM) has a laterally (Y) extension in the width direction of the body and anteriorly (…). Figure 4 The upper Z1) curved arc-shaped ridge is also known as the iliac ridge LMa. In other words, the iliac ridge LMa is the edge of the ilium LM on the head 51 side (cephalic side X1) of a supine person 50.

[0036] (Detailed description of pelvic support 4)

[0037] In order to support the part corresponding to the pelvis PV having the structure described above, the pelvic support part 4 of this embodiment is configured as follows.

[0038] like Figures 1 to 5 As shown, the pelvic support 4 includes: a pair of iliac bone support portions 11 spaced apart from each other in the width direction Y; and a sacral support portion 12a disposed between the pair of iliac bone support portions 11. In this embodiment, a gap 13 (see reference) separates the sacral support portion 12a from the iliac bone support portions 11 on both sides. Figures 1 to 2 The sacrum S is separated from the iliac crest 11, thus avoiding the influence of body pressure on the sacrum S and not hindering the nodding movement of the sacrum S as described later.

[0039] A pair of iliac bone support portions 11 are respectively positioned below the iliac ridges LMa of a pair of iliac bones LM in the pelvic PV, at a distance Z2 that is lateral to the portion LMb corresponding to at least the width direction Y of the iliac ridge LMa (see reference). Figure 7 The location where the part of the ) touches. For example Figure 7 As shown, the portion LMb of the iliac ridge LMa that extends outward in the width direction Y refers to the area of ​​the iliac ridge LMa that faces downward Z2 and extends outward in the width direction Y. Therefore, as... Figure 7 As shown, a pair of iliac bone support portions 11 can support the parts corresponding to a pair of iliac bones LM from below Z2. Each iliac bone support portion 11 has a mounting surface 11a for mounting the iliac bone LM, an inner upper edge 11b on the side of the mounting surface 11a near the center of the width direction Y of the pad 1, and a leg-side edge 11c on the leg-side X2 of the mounting surface 11a.

[0040] The mounting surface 11a is a rectangular plane when viewed from above, and it is continuous with the upper side of the back support 3 at the same height. Alternatively, the mounting surface 11a may be higher than the upper side of the back support 3.

[0041] The dimensions of the mounting surface 11a are set such that it can abut against, for example, a portion of an adult Japanese male corresponding to at least the outer side in the width direction Y of the iliac crest LMa. Specifically, it can abut against the portion LMb corresponding to the outer side in the width direction of the iliac crest LMa (see reference). Figure 7 The area that abuts against the pubic bone (PB) and ischium (SN) is not the area that abuts against the pubic bone (SN). In this case, such as Figure 2As shown, for example, when the interval I between a pair of iliac bone support portions 11 is set to about 20 cm (about 15 to 25 cm), the transverse width II (length in the width direction Y) of the mounting surface 11a is set to 9 cm or more, and the longitudinal width III (length in the long side direction X) is set to about 11.5 cm (about 10 to 15 cm).

[0042] The sacral corresponding portion 12 is positioned between a pair of iliac bone supporting portions 11, located Z2 below the portion corresponding to the sacral S between a pair of iliac bones LM in the pelvic PV. For example... Figures 1 to 2 and Figure 8 As shown, the sacral corresponding portion 12 has: a sacral support portion 12a, which is set to be at a height H1 greater than that of the iliac support portion 11 (see reference). Figure 3 The lower height H2 supports the part of the supine person 50 corresponding to the head-side X1 portion S1 of the sacrum S; the unsupported part 12b of the sacrum is set to a lower height than the height H2 of the sacral support part 12a, and is spaced Z2 downward relative to the leg-side X2 portion S2 of the sacrum S, so as not to support the part corresponding to the leg-side X2 portion S2.

[0043] The sacral support portion 12a is the portion that supports the part corresponding to the head side X1 of the sacrum S of the supine person from below Z2. The sacral support portion 12a has: a mounting surface 12a1 for mounting the part corresponding to the sacrum S; and a leg side X2 edge 12a2 of the mounting surface 12a1.

[0044] The mounting surface 12a1, viewed from above, is a rectangular, flat plane in the horizontal direction, and is lower than the mounting surface 11a of the iliac bone support 11 and the upper surface of the back support 3. The dimensions of the mounting surface 12a1 are set such that it can abut against, for example, a portion S1 of the sacrum S corresponding to at least the cephalic side X1 of an adult Japanese male, but not against a portion corresponding to the iliac bone LM. In this case, as... Figure 2 As shown, for example, the width IV (length in the width direction Y) of the mounting surface 12a1 is set to about 8 to 10 cm, and the width V (length in the long side direction X) is set to about 8 to 12 cm (smaller than the width III of the mounting surface 11a). Ideally, the width V is set to about 6 to 12 cm.

[0045] The sacral unsupported portion 12b is the portion that does not support the part S2 corresponding to the leg-side X2 portion of the sacrum S. The sacral unsupported portion 12b is located at a position lower than the mounting surface 12a1 of the sacral support portion 12a and is located on the leg-side X2 plane relative to the leg-side edge 12a2. In this embodiment, the sacral unsupported portion 12b is continuous with the upper surface 2a of the base 2 at the same height, but it may be higher than the upper surface 2a if it does not abut against the part S2 corresponding to the leg-side X2 portion of the sacrum S. Furthermore, the sacral unsupported portion 12b in this invention assumes that there is no body pressure (no pressure) from the sacral unsupported portion 12b when the supine person 50 is of standard body size and weight, but in the case of a heavier person, the cushion 1 can be lowered so that a certain degree of body pressure is applied from the sacral unsupported portion 12b to the corresponding part of the sacrum. Even in this case, the body pressure from the sacral unsupported portion 12b remains lower than the body pressure from the iliac bone support portion 11.

[0046] The pair of iliac bone supports 11 and sacral corresponding portions 12 are configured such that the body pressure applied from the sacral corresponding portion 12 to the supine person 50 corresponding to the sacrum S is lower than the body pressure applied from the pair of iliac bone supports 11 to the supine person 50 corresponding to the pair of iliac bones LM. In this embodiment, the body pressure from the sacral support 12a is locally reduced by changing the relative height of the iliac bone supports 11 and the sacral support 12a. However, as in the modified examples described later, the body pressure from the sacral support 12a can also be locally reduced by changing the stiffness of the iliac bone supports 11 and the sacral support 12a. Moreover, as in the modified examples described later (see...), the body pressure from the sacral support 12a can also be locally reduced by changing the stiffness of the iliac bone supports 11 and the sacral support 12a. Figure 10 In this way, by constructing the sacral corresponding portion 12 as a whole by the sacral unsupported portion 12b that does not support the sacral S, the body pressure from the sacral corresponding portion 12 (i.e., the sacral unsupported portion 12b) is 0. In other words, the body pressure from the sacral corresponding portion 12 in this invention includes 0.

[0047] Here, the individual body pressures from the iliac support portion 11 and the corresponding sacral portion 12 are measured, for example, using a conventional body pressure measuring machine. When using a body pressure measuring machine, the area on the mat 1 is divided into a matrix, and the load of each square is measured as body pressure. By using this body pressure measuring machine, the individual body pressures from the iliac support portion 11 and the sacral support portion 12a can be obtained, for example, as the average body pressure applied from the iliac support portion 11 to the area corresponding to the iliac ridge LMa and as the average body pressure applied from the sacral counterpart portion 12 to the area corresponding to the sacral ridge S.

[0048] When the relative heights of the iliac support portion 11 and the sacral support portion 12a are changed, specifically, as follows: Figure 3As shown, the height H1 of the iliac bone support portion 11 is set to be relatively higher than the height H2 of the sacral bone support portion 12a. Using the upper side 2a of the base 2 as a reference, the height H1 of the iliac bone support portion 11 is set in a range of approximately 5mm to 4cm, depending on the firmness of the pad, and ideally, it is set to approximately 2cm. Here, if the height H1 of the iliac bone support portion 11 is less than 5mm, it does not effectively support the lateral portion LMb of the iliac bone ridge LMa in the width direction Y. On the other hand, if it is greater than 4cm, it protrudes excessively relative to the back support portion 3 of the pad 1, resulting in a sense of disharmony and other undesirable conditions. Therefore, to eliminate these undesirable conditions, it is ideal for the height H1 of the iliac bone support portion 11 to be set in a range of approximately 5mm to 4cm, as described above.

[0049] In this embodiment, the height of the back support 3 and the leg support 5 is set to the same height as the iliac bone support 11. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the iliac bone support 11 may also be set to be higher than the back support 3 and the leg support 5 described above.

[0050] Furthermore, the height H2 of the sacral support portion 12a is set such that the body pressure applied from the sacral support portion 12a to the portion corresponding to the sacrum S is lower than the body pressure applied from the iliac support portion 11 to the portion corresponding to the iliac LM, and is configured to support the portion corresponding to the sacrum S. Specifically, the height H2 of the sacral support portion 12a is set to be lower than the height H1 of the pair of iliac support portions 11 and as... Figure 8 The height at which the part corresponding to the sacrum S can abut is set, for example, to about 1 cm. The height H2 of the sacral support 12a is such that the part corresponding to the sacrum S can at least abut against the sacral support 12a locally, specifically, against the side edge 12a2 of the leg.

[0051] (Explanation of the relationship between exhalation and the nodding motion of the sacrum S)

[0052] The inventors conducted an in-depth study on the fact that breathing tends to be shallower when lying on one's back. The results showed that the obstruction of sacral nutation when lying on one's back is related to breathing. The inventors also studied the factors that obstruct sacral nutation as follows.

[0053] Breathing during sleep is unconscious and natural, making it important to ensure this natural breathing is performed fully. The most crucial aspect of breathing is exhalation (expiration), and the ability to exhale deeply is closely related to the amount of air inhaled. Deep exhalation corresponds to a correspondingly large amount of air inhaled. Achieving deep, natural breathing during sleep prevents a drop in blood oxygen levels. By ensuring sufficient exhalation, the vagus nerve becomes dominant, thus promoting restful sleep.

[0054] To facilitate exhalation, simply make it easy for the diaphragm DP to move to the head side X1 so that... Figure 5 The thoracic RC (respiratory vertebral column) can be contracted as shown. The diaphragm DP is a muscular membrane that closes the lower end of the thoracic RC. The diaphragm DP is dome-shaped, protruding towards the head (X1). It remains dome-shaped during relaxation (exhalation) and flattens out in the center while moving towards the legs (X2) during tension (inhalation). The diaphragm DP is connected to the second lumbar vertebra L2, which runs along the sacrum S, specifically to the lumbar vertebrae L1 to L3.

[0055] based on Figures 4 to 7 The sacrum S shown points anterior to the human body at a distance of 50 degrees (and...). Figure 4 The head nodding motion (in the same direction as Z1 above) moves the lumbar vertebrae L1 to L5, which are connected to the sacrum S, forward. This allows the dome-shaped diaphragm DP, connected to the lumbar vertebrae L1 to L3, to relax more easily. Consequently, the diaphragm DP easily moves towards the head X1, promoting exhalation.

[0056] However, because the sacroiliac joint J1, which connects the sacrum S to the pair of iliac bones LM, is covered by multiple strong ligaments, the sacrum S cannot be moved independently. Therefore, the inventors considered facilitating the nodding movement of the sacrum S through the coordinated movement of the pair of iliac bones LM and the sacrum S.

[0057] like Figure 6 As shown, during the nodding motion of the sacrum S, an application is made to the ilium LM of each pair of hip bones HB, causing the cephalic end X1 of the ilium LM, i.e., the lateral portion LMb of the ilium ridge LMa in the width direction Y, to move forward towards the body (in line with the ilium LM). Figure 4 The force moves the ilium (in the same direction as Z1 above). As a result, the pair of ilium LMs move in a direction that closes inward (towards the center of the body). At this time, a gap or free space is created at the sacroiliac joint J1, making the sacrum S more mobile. Consequently, the cephalic end X1 of the sacrum S, i.e., the promontory Sa, moves forward (in the same direction as Z1 above). Figure 4 The sacrum moves in the same direction as Z1 above, and the portion of the sacrum S on the leg side X2 moves backward (in the same direction as Z1 above). Figure 4 Moving downwards (in the same direction as Z2), the sacrum S can smoothly nod forward (in direction Z1). If the nodding motion of the sacrum S increases, the diaphragm DP, which is connected to the second lumbar vertebra L2 (within the range of L1 to L3), relaxes and moves more easily toward the head (X1), making exhalation more complete. Consequently, the contraction of the lower thoracic rib cage RC for exhalation becomes more complete.

[0058] The pad 1 in this embodiment eliminates the situation where the sacrum S is hindered from nodding movement by the pressure of the pad 1 when lying supine, and as a result, the range of motion of the sacrum S can be expanded.

[0059] In addition, such as Figure 6As shown, during a nodding motion in the sacrum S, the ilium LM in the hip bone HB moves medially in the width direction Y. Therefore, the interval between the pair of ilium LM narrows, increasing abdominal pressure, thus making it easier for the diaphragm DP to move cephalad X1. In the portion of the hip bone HB other than the ilium LM, the pubis PB and ischium SN move laterally in the width direction Y. (i.e., towards...) Figure 7 The pubic symphysis (PBa) moves in the direction of opening.

[0060] On the other hand, after the sacrum S nods and exhales briefly, a reaction occurs that causes the sacrum S to rise, which is the opposite of the nodding motion. During the rising motion of the sacrum S, the sacral promontory Sa of the cephalic side X1 of the sacrum S moves posteriorly (towards...). Figure 4 The sacrum moves in the same direction as Z2 below, and the sacrum S moves anteriorly on the leg side X2 (in the same direction). Figure 4 (In the same direction as Z1 above). After the sacrum rises, the diaphragm DP, which is connected to the second lumbar vertebra L2 (L1 to L3), moves towards the leg X2, which widens the thoracic cavity RC, thereby enabling a large amount of inhalation.

[0061] (Features of this embodiment) (1)

[0063] As described above, the inventors focused on the movement of the pelvic PV (peripheral vertebrae) to promote breathing while supine and conducted repeated in-depth research. The results showed that promoting the anterior movement of the sacrum S (between the iliac bones LM) located in the pelvic PV (and...) Figure 4 The nodding motion (in the same direction as Z1 above) can promote breathing, thus the above-described mat 1 was invented.

[0064] On a normal, evenly flat mat, when lying supine, body pressure is applied to both the iliac crest (LM) and the sacrum (S), with a particular tendency for greater pressure to be applied to the sacrum. In this situation, the nodding motion of the sacrum is hindered, and breathing is not facilitated.

[0065] In this embodiment, the pad 1 has the iliac bone support portion 11 described above, and the height of the sacral bone support portion 12a in the vertical direction Z is set to be lower than that of the iliac bone support portion 11. As a result, the body pressure from the sacral bone support portion 12a is lower than that from the iliac bone support portion 11, so the nodding movement of the sacrum S can be performed smoothly.

[0066] Furthermore, due to the decrease in body pressure from the sacral support portion 12a, the body pressure from the iliac support portion 11 relatively increases. Consequently, the lateral portion LMb of the iliac ridge Lma in the pair of iliac bones LM is pressed towards the closing direction (towards the center of the body in the width direction Y). On the other hand, due to the opening of the sacroiliac joint J1, the nodding movement of the sacrum S is facilitated. Therefore, even when lying supine, the nodding movement of the sacrum S can proceed smoothly, thus enabling deep breathing during sleep and improving lying comfort.

[0067] That is, in order to promote the nodding movement of the sacrum S as described above, the cushion 1 in this embodiment is as follows: Figures 1 to 5 As shown, it comprises: a pair of iliac bone support portions 11, which are respectively positioned at the edge of a pair of iliac bones LM in the pelvis PV on the side near the head of the supine person 50 (head side X1), i.e. below the iliac bone ridge LMa, Z2, so as to abut against a portion LMb corresponding to at least the outer side of the width direction Y of the iliac bone ridge LMa; and a sacral corresponding portion 12, having a sacral support portion 12a and a sacral non-support portion 12b disposed between the pair of iliac bone support portions 11.

[0068] Therefore, as Figures 4 to 5 and Figure 7 As shown, when a person 50 lies supine on the mat 1 constructed as described above, the pair of iliac bone support portions 11 (specifically, the inner upper edge 11b and its surrounding portion of the iliac bone support portion 11) can support the portions corresponding to the pair of iliac bones LM from below Z2 in a state of contact with the portions of the respective iliac ridges LMa of the pair of iliac bones LM. At this time, the pair of iliac bones LM receive the reaction force (body pressure) from the iliac bone support portions 11 at the portions corresponding to the iliac ridges LMa, thereby promoting a rotational (internal rotation) movement towards the center of the width direction Y in the forward direction (same direction as above Z1).

[0069] Furthermore, in the aforementioned mat 1, the pair of iliac bone support portions 11 and sacral corresponding portions 12 (i.e., sacral support portion 12a and sacral non-support portion 12b) are configured such that the body pressure exerted from the sacral corresponding portion 12 on the supine person 50 corresponding to the sacrum S is lower than the body pressure exerted from the pair of iliac bone support portions 11 on the supine person 50 corresponding to the pair of iliac bones LM. Therefore, the sacrum S between the pair of iliac bones LM rotates forward (in the same direction as the upper Z1) and rotates to the leg side X2 with the internal rotation of the pair of iliac bones LM, that is, the nodding movement can be carried out without being hindered by the reaction force (body pressure) from the sacral corresponding portion 12.

[0070] like Figures 6 to 7 As shown, during the nodding motion of the sacrum S, as described above, the end of the cephalic side X1 of the sacrum S, i.e., the promontory Sa, moves forward (towards the sacrum S). Figure 4The sacrum moves in the same direction as Z1 above, and the portion of the sacrum S on the leg side X2 moves backward (in the same direction as Z1 above). Figure 4 Moving in the same direction as Z2 below, the sacrum S as a whole performs a nodding motion forward (direction Z1). Furthermore, in Figure 7 In the diagram, the sacrum S represents the state just before nodding, while the state after the sacrum S has performed the nodding motion is shown in other diagrams. Figure 8 As shown, the part corresponding to the sacrum S abuts against the leg-side edge 12a2 and its surrounding portion on the mounting surface 12a1 of the sacral support 12a.

[0071] Nodding motion is performed based on the sacral S, and the diaphragm DP (refer to the sacral S) connects to the lumbar vertebrae L1 to L3, which are continuous with the second lumbar vertebra L2 near the sacral S. Figure 5 Moving the head towards the supine person (50°) X1 causes the rib cage (RC) to contract, making exhalation easier. Furthermore, since exhalation is easier, inhalation also becomes easier due to its reaction. As a result, breathing while supine is facilitated.

[0072] In commercially available mats with a uniform, flat shape, the area corresponding to the sacrum S is supported by body pressure equal to that borne by the areas corresponding to the iliac bones LM on either side. Therefore, the sacroiliac joint J1 connecting the sacrum S to the iliac bones LM on either side remains stable, preventing the sacrum S from performing a forward tilting motion relative to the iliac bones LM, i.e., a nodding motion. On the other hand, in the mat 1 of this embodiment, by changing the body pressure borne by the areas corresponding to the pair of iliac bones LM and the area corresponding to the sacrum S, a nodding motion of the sacrum S can be performed smoothly. (2)

[0074] The mat 1 in this embodiment has a structure integrally formed from the same material as polyurethane, such as... Figure 3 As shown, the height H1 of the iliac support portion 11 is set to be relatively higher than the height H2 of the sacral support portion 12a corresponding to the sacral portion 12. According to this configuration, while suppressing the reaction force (body pressure) from the sacral support portion 12a to the portion corresponding to the sacrum S, the iliac support portion 11 reliably supports the portion corresponding to the iliac LM, thereby promoting internal rotation of the iliac LM and nodding movement of the sacrum S. As a result, reliably promoting breathing while supine. (3)

[0076] The mat 1 of this embodiment includes a back support 3 that supports the back 52 of a supine person 50. The height of the back support 3 is set to be the same as the height of the iliac bone support 11. With this configuration, the parts of the supine person 50 corresponding to the back 52 and the iliac bone LM are supported by the same plane on the mat 1, thus reducing the feeling of disharmony caused by the upward Z1 protrusion of the iliac bone support 11. (4)

[0078] In the mat 1 of this embodiment, the sacral corresponding portion 12 has: a sacral support portion 12a, which is set to a height H2 that is lower than the height H1 of the iliac support portion 11, and supports the portion S1 of the supine person 50 corresponding to the head side X1 of the supine person on the sacrum S; and a sacral non-support portion 12b, which is set to a height lower than the height H2 of the sacral support portion 12a, and is spaced Z2 downward relative to the portion S2 of the leg side X2 of the supine person 50 on the sacrum S, so as not to support the portion corresponding to the portion S2 of the leg side X2.

[0079] When the sacrum S is nodding, the cephalic portion S1 of the sacrum S is positioned Z1 above the calf-side portion S2 of the leg-side portion X2. Therefore, in the above configuration, the sacral support portion 12a locally supports the portion S1 corresponding to the cephalic portion X1 of the sacrum S, while the sacral non-support portion 12b is positioned Z2 downwards relative to the portion S2 and does not support it. This allows for a gradual reduction of body pressure in the order of pressure from the iliac support portion 11, the sacral support portion 12a, and the sacral non-support portion 12b, further reducing the average body pressure on the sacrum S from the sacral counterpart portion 12 while maintaining the forward tilt of the sacrum S. This facilitates the nodding motion of the sacrum S, resulting in more reliable improvement in respiration during supine positions. (5)

[0081] In the mat 1 of this embodiment, as Figure 8 As shown, the height H2 of the sacral support portion 12a is set such that the body pressure applied from the sacral support portion 12a to the part corresponding to the sacrum S is lower than the body pressure applied from the iliac support portion 11 to the part corresponding to the iliac LM, and is thus able to support the height of the sacrum S.

[0082] According to this configuration, alignment becomes easier because it is visually perceptible. Furthermore, by utilizing height for body pressure adjustment, body pressure can be predicted during mat manufacturing, simplifying product management. Based on the sacral support 12a, the sacrum S can be supported in a nodding motion, resulting in reduced load on the lumbar vertebrae L3 to L5 connected to the sacrum S. (6)

[0084] In this embodiment, such as Figures 1 to 5 As shown, a hip joint mounting region 7 is formed between the iliac bone support portion 11 of the pelvic support portion 4 and the leg support portion 5. The hip joint mounting region 7 has a mounting area for the hip joint J2 (see reference). Figures 4 to 5 The space 7a is used for the hip joint J2. Therefore, when the person is supine at 50°, the hip joint J2 is housed in the space 7a and is not compressed by the cushion 1, thus not hindering the width-direction Y movement of the pair of hip bones HB. Therefore, the hip joint J2 is unrestricted, allowing for smooth internal rotation of the iliac bone LM and nodding movement of the sacrum S, which, as a result, promotes respiration. Furthermore, in Figure 5 Within the range of the hip joint configuration area 7, the lower part of the ilium LM and the upper part of the ischium SN in the hip bone HB are configured. However, as long as the part corresponding to this part does not compress the hip joint J2, it can also abut against the bottom surface of the space 7a of the hip joint configuration area 7 and bear the body pressure.

[0085] (Modified Example)

[0086] (A)

[0087] In the above embodiment, the mounting surface 12a1 of the sacral support portion 12a is a flat plane in the horizontal direction; however, the present invention is not limited thereto. As a variation of the present invention, it may also be as follows: Figure 9 As shown, the height of the sacral support 12a is set to decrease as the supine person 50 moves toward the leg side (i.e., toward the leg side X2). The sacral support 12a continuously supports the supine person 50 from below at least the portion corresponding to the sacrum S and the lumbar vertebrae adjacent to the sacrum S. That is, the mounting surface 12a1 of the sacral support 12a can also be formed as an inclined shape that decreases as the person moves toward the leg side X2. Based on this inclined mounting surface 12a1, the load applied to the lumbar vertebrae L3 to L5 connected to the sacrum S can be reduced.

[0088] According to this configuration, when the sacrum S nods forward (above Z1), the sacral support portion 12a abuts against a wide area corresponding to the sacrum S and lumbar vertebrae L4 to L5, providing support while distributing body pressure. As a result, the load applied to the lumbar vertebrae L3 to L5 connected to the sacrum S can be further reduced.

[0089] That is, such as Figure 9 As shown, the portions corresponding to lumbar vertebrae L4 to L5 and sacrum S are entirely supported on an inclined support surface 12a1, thereby reducing the angle of curvature between lumbar vertebrae L3 and L4 on the leg-side edge 3a of the back support 3. This is similar to... Figure 8Compared to the case shown where the lumbar spine is locally placed on the leg-side edge 12a2 of the horizontal placement surface 12a1 of the sacrum S, the bending angle between the lumbar vertebrae L3 and L4 is significantly reduced, and the load applied to the lumbar vertebrae L3 to L5 is reduced.

[0090] (B)

[0091] In the above embodiments, an example is shown where the cushion 1 is integrally formed from a material such as polyurethane; however, the present invention is not limited thereto. As another variation of the present invention, the sacral corresponding portion 12 has a sacral support portion 12a that supports the supine person 50 at the portion corresponding to the sacrum S. When the height of the sacral support portion 12a is set to be the same as the height of the iliac support portion 11, the hardness of the sacral support portion 12a can be set to be lower than the hardness of the iliac support portion 11 by changing the material properties of at least one of the iliac support portion 11 and the sacral support portion 12a.

[0092] According to this configuration, since the sacral support portion 12a is more flexible than the iliac support portion 11, the sacral support portion 12a can support the sacral S in a nodding motion while suppressing the reaction force (body pressure) from the sacral support portion 12a to the part corresponding to the sacral S. As a result, the load applied to the lumbar vertebrae L3 to L5 connected to the sacral S can be reduced.

[0093] (C)

[0094] In the above embodiment, each pair of iliac bone support portions 11 has a mounting surface 11a for placing the portion corresponding to the iliac bone ridge LMa, and has an inner upper edge 11b on the side of the mounting surface 11a closest to the sacral corresponding portion 12, i.e., the inner upper edge 11b. Figure 1 The inner upper edge 11a2 is shown as pointed. However, as a variation of the present invention, the inner upper edge 11a2 can also be chamfered to be flat or rounded.

[0095] At this time, when lying supine, even if the part corresponding to the iliac crest LMa abuts against the inner upper edge 11b of the iliac support 11, the body pressure from the inner upper edge 11b is dispersed because the inner upper edge 11b is beveled, thus alleviating the pain and incoordination when lying supine.

[0096] (D)

[0097] In the above embodiment, as an example of a sacral corresponding portion 12 disposed between a pair of iliac bone support portions 11 and located below the sacrum S, a sacral corresponding portion 12 with a sacral support portion 12a supporting the portion corresponding to the sacrum S is shown. However, the present invention is not limited to this. The sacral corresponding portion 12 of the present invention is only required to be disposed between a pair of iliac bone support portions 11 and located below the sacrum S, and the pair of iliac bone support portions 11 and the sacral corresponding portion are only required to be configured such that the body pressure applied from the sacral corresponding portion to the portion corresponding to the sacrum S of a supine person is lower than the body pressure applied from the pair of iliac bone support portions 11 to the portion corresponding to the pair of iliac bones LM of a supine person 50.

[0098] Therefore, as a variation of the present invention, such as Figure 10 As shown, the sacral corresponding portion 12 can also be entirely composed of a sacral unsupported portion 12b, which is spaced apart from the part corresponding to the sacral S in a supine person, thus not supporting the part corresponding to the sacral S. In this configuration, there is no sacral support portion 12a protruding upward Z1 from the upper side 2a of the base 2; the sacral unsupported portion 12b exists only at the same height as the upper side 2a. A space portion 16 is formed based on the facing surfaces of the sacral unsupported portion 12b and a pair of iliac bone support portions 11 on both sides thereof.

[0099] According to this configuration, since the sacral non-support portion 12b constituting the entire sacral corresponding portion 12 is spaced apart from the portion corresponding to the sacral S and thus does not support the portion corresponding to the sacral S, the sacral S is housed in the space portion 16 formed above the sacral non-support portion 12b. In this configuration, the portion corresponding to the sacral S is completely unaffected by the reaction force (body pressure) from the sacral non-support portion 12b constituting the sacral corresponding portion 12, and is supported in a nodding motion. As a result, the load applied to the lumbar vertebrae L3 to L5 connected to the sacral S can be reduced.

[0100] (E)

[0101] In the above embodiments, such as Figures 1 to 5 The illustration shows an example where a back support portion 3 is provided as a protrusion supporting the back 52 of a supine person 50; however, the present invention is not limited to this. As a variation of the present invention, for example, [further details may be provided]. Figure 11 As shown, the back support portion 3, which is a protrusion, is omitted, and the back 52 is supported by the upper side 2a of the base portion 2.

[0102] (G)

[0103] like Figures 1 to 5As shown, the back support portion 3, pelvic support portion 4 (a pair of iliac bone support portions 11 and sacral bone support portions 12a), and leg support portion 5 of the cushion 1 in the above embodiment have a flat rectangular thick plate shape. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and it can also be formed into a curved shape that follows the body shape of a supine person 50. Particularly ideally, the portion supporting the part corresponding to the sacroiliac joint J1 has a smooth slope and a spacious shape that does not exert stress on the part corresponding to the sacroiliac joint J1.

[0104] <Summary of Implementation Methods>

[0105] The implementation methods are summarized as follows.

[0106] The cushion according to the embodiment supports at least the pelvic region of a supine person, comprising: a pair of iliac bone supports, each disposed below a portion corresponding to at least the lateral portion of the iliac ridges on a pair of iliac bones in the pelvis, thereby supporting the portions corresponding to the pair of iliac bones from below; and a sacral corresponding portion, disposed between the pair of iliac bone supports and located below the sacral corresponding portion between the pair of iliac bones in the pelvis; wherein the pair of iliac bone supports and the sacral corresponding portion are configured such that the body pressure from the sacral corresponding portion is lower than the body pressure from the pair of iliac bone supports.

[0107] The aforementioned mat includes: a pair of iliac bone supports, each positioned below the iliac ridge on the side of the iliac bones in the pelvis closest to the head of a supine person, i.e., below the iliac ridge; and a sacral counterpart positioned between the pair of iliac bone supports. Therefore, when a person lies supine on the mat, the pair of iliac bone supports can support the corresponding portions of the iliac bones from below by contacting the portions corresponding to the respective iliac ridges. At this time, the iliac bones receive the reaction force (body pressure) from the iliac bone supports at the portions corresponding to the iliac ridges, thereby promoting a rotational (internal rotation) movement towards the front and center of the body.

[0108] Furthermore, in the aforementioned mat, the iliac crests and the corresponding sacral region are configured such that the body pressure from the corresponding sacral region is lower than the body pressure from the iliac crests. Therefore, the sacrum between the iliac crests rotates forward and laterally with the internal rotation of the iliac crests, allowing nodding movements to proceed without being hindered by the reaction force (body pressure) from the corresponding sacral region. Nodding based on the sacrum causes the diaphragm, which is connected to the lumbar vertebrae continuous with the sacrum, to move towards the head of the supine person, resulting in thoracic contraction and facilitating exhalation. Furthermore, since exhalation is easier, inhalation also becomes easier due to its reaction. As a result, respiration is facilitated while supine.

[0109] In the aforementioned pad, it is ideal that the height of the iliac bone support is set to be relatively higher than the height of the corresponding sacral bone.

[0110] According to this configuration, while suppressing the reaction force (body pressure) from the sacral region to the corresponding area, the iliac bone support reliably supports the area corresponding to the ilium, thereby promoting internal rotation of the ilium and nodding motion of the sacrum. As a result, reliably promoting breathing while supine.

[0111] In the aforementioned pad, it is ideal that the pair of iliac bone support portions each have a mounting surface for placing the portion corresponding to the iliac bone ridge, and the edge on the side of the mounting surface corresponding to the sacrum is chamfered.

[0112] According to this configuration, when lying supine, even if the part corresponding to the iliac crest abuts against the edge of the sacrum near the iliac crest, the body pressure from the edge is dispersed because the edge is beveled, thus alleviating pain and discomfort when lying supine.

[0113] Ideally, the mat described above also includes a back support section to support the back of the supine person; wherein the height of the back support section is set to be the same as the height of the iliac crest support section.

[0114] According to this design, the areas of the supine person corresponding to the back and iliac bone are supported by the same plane on the mat, thus reducing the feeling of disharmony caused by the upward protrusion of the iliac bone support. Furthermore, to enhance the effect of the iliac bone support on internal rotation of the iliac bone, it is ideal for the iliac bone support to be slightly higher than the back support.

[0115] In the aforementioned mat, it is preferable that the sacral corresponding portion has: a sacral support portion that supports the portion of the sacrum on the head side of the supine person; and a sacral non-support portion that is spaced downward relative to the portion of the sacrum on the leg side of the supine person, thereby not supporting the leg side portion.

[0116] According to this configuration, when the sacrum is nodding, the cephalic portion of the sacrum is positioned above the iliac portion. Therefore, in this configuration, the cephalic portion of the sacrum is locally supported by a sacral support portion, while the iliac unsupported portion is positioned downwards relative to the iliac portion and does not support it. This allows for a gradual reduction of body pressure in the order of pressure from the iliac support portion, the sacral support portion, and the iliac unsupported portion, and further reduces the average body pressure on the sacrum from the corresponding portion while maintaining an anterior tilt. Consequently, sacral nodding movements are smoothly facilitated, resulting in more reliable improvement in respiration during supine positions.

[0117] In the aforementioned mat, it is ideal that the height of the sacral support is set in such a way that it decreases as the supine person moves toward the leg side, and the sacral support continuously supports the supine person from below at least the head-side portion of the sacrum and the lumbar vertebrae adjacent to the sacrum.

[0118] According to this configuration, when the sacrum is tilted forward, the sacral support abuts against a wide area corresponding to the sacrum and lumbar vertebrae, providing support while distributing body pressure. As a result, the load applied to the lumbar vertebrae connected to the sacrum can be further reduced.

[0119] Ideally, the sacral part of the mat should have a sacral support portion that supports the supine person at the location corresponding to the sacrum. The height of the sacral support portion should be set to be the same as the height of the iliac bone support portion, and the hardness of the sacral support portion should be set to be lower than that of the iliac bone support portion.

[0120] According to this configuration, since the sacral support is more flexible than the iliac support, the sacrum can be supported by the sacral support in a nodding motion while suppressing the reaction force (body pressure) from the sacral support to the sacrum and stomach. As a result, the load applied to the lumbar vertebrae connected to the sacrum can be reduced.

[0121] In the aforementioned mat, it is ideal that the sacral corresponding part is composed of a sacral non-supporting part, which is spaced apart from the part of the supine person corresponding to the sacrum, thus not supporting the sacrum.

[0122] According to this configuration, the sacrum can be completely unaffected by the reaction force (body pressure) from the unsupported portion of the sacrum corresponding to the sacrum and can be supported during head nodding movements. As a result, the load applied to the lumbar vertebrae connected to the sacrum can be reduced. The mat of this embodiment, configured as described above, can promote breathing when lying supine.

Claims

1. A cushion for supporting at least the portion of a supine person corresponding to the pelvis, characterized in that... include: A pair of iliac bone support portions are respectively disposed below the portion corresponding to at least the outer width of the iliac bone ridge on a pair of iliac bones in the pelvis, thereby supporting the portion corresponding to the pair of iliac bones from below. as well as, The sacral corresponding portion is disposed between the supporting portions of the pair of iliac bones, and is located below the portion corresponding to the sacrum between the pair of iliac bones in the pelvis; wherein, The pair of iliac bone support portions and the corresponding sacral portion are configured such that the body pressure from the corresponding sacral portion is lower than the body pressure from the pair of iliac bone support portions. The height of the iliac bone support portion is set to be relatively higher than the height of the corresponding portion of the sacrum. The corresponding part of the sacrum has: The sacral support portion is positioned at a height lower than that of the iliac support portion, and supports the portion of the supine person corresponding to the head-side portion of the sacrum; and, The unsupported portion of the sacrum is positioned at a height lower than that of the supporting portion of the sacrum, and is spaced downward relative to the leg-side portion of the sacrum of the supine person, thus not supporting the portion corresponding to that leg-side portion; The pair of iliac bone supports and the sacral bone supports are separated by a gap.

2. The mat according to claim 1, characterized in that... Also includes: A back support section supports the back of the supine person; wherein, The height of the back support is set to be the same as the height of the iliac bone support.

3. The mat according to claim 1, characterized in that: The height of the sacral support is set in such a way that it decreases as the person moves toward the legs of the supine person. The sacral support portion continuously supports from below at least the head-side portion of the supine person in the sacrum and the portion of the lumbar vertebrae adjacent to the sacrum.

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