Pillow

Abstract

The pillow may include a first arm and a second arm, and a connecting section that may be connected to the first arm and the second arm. The connecting section is sized and configured to allow the first arm and the second arm to move independently. For example, the first arm may rotate relative to the connecting section by at least about 30°, at least about 45°, at least about 60°, at least about 75°, at least about 90°, or more. The second arm may rotate relative to the connecting section by at least about 30°, at least about 45°, at least about 60°, at least about 75°, at least about 90°, or more.

Description

[0001] Related Applications

[0002] This application claims priority to and the benefit of U.S. Priority Application No. 62 / 594,996, filed on December 5, 2017, entitled “PILLOW,” the entire contents of which are incorporated herein.

[0003] This application also claims priority to and the benefit of U.S. utility patent application No. 16 / 211,044, filed on December 5, 2018, entitled “PILLOW,” the entire contents of which are incorporated herein. Technical Field

[0004] The present disclosure relates generally to pillows and, more particularly, may relate to pillows that provide one or more functions. Background Art

[0005] Due to the rounded shape of the pillow filling, when used to support the neck and head, traditional pillows often force the head upward or forward. Forcing the head upward or forward may cause the user to experience discomfort in the head, neck or shoulder area.

[0006] Conventional pillows may be uncomfortable to use because the pillows may not provide enough cushioning. To increase cushioning, more compressible materials have been used, but these materials have a tendency to deform or twist. More compressible materials may also have a tendency to sag or become squashed.

[0007] The shape of known pillows may also make the pillows uncomfortable to use in certain situations. For example, a known pillow may have an ideal shape when the pillow is used in one position, but may have an undesirable shape when the pillow is used in a different position. In addition, some known pillows may not be suitable for use because the shape of the pillow may limit the potential uses of the pillow. For example, a traditional pillow may have a rectangular shape, and it may be useful for sleeping or resting in one posture (such as lying down), but may be difficult to use when in another posture (such as sitting or traveling). In addition, the size of many known pillows may limit their usability. For example, a large size of a traditional pillow may make the pillow convenient to use in some activities, but make the pillow inconvenient to use in other activities. Similarly, a small size of a known pillow may be useful in some situations, but may be useless in other situations. Summary of the invention

[0008] Therefore, there is a need for a pillow that eliminates the above-mentioned shortcomings and problems.

[0009] One aspect is that the pillow can support the user's head without forcing the head upward or forward. For example, the pillow may include a first section and a second section to support one or both sides of the user's head and / or neck. A connecting section, such as a third section, can connect the first section and the second section. In an exemplary embodiment, the first section and the second section of the pillow may have substantially the same shape, size, configuration and / or arrangement. For example, the first section and the second section of the pillow may have a substantially cylindrical shape, and the size and shape of these sections may be designed to support both sides of the user's head and / or neck. In particular, the first section and the second section may have a length and diameter that allows the pillow to support both sides of the head and / or neck. For example, the first section and the second section may have a shape, size and configuration of the upper section that allows the pillow to contact the user's shoulders. This can allow the pillow to rest on the user's shoulders if desired.

[0010] Advantageously, if the first section and the second section of the pillow have substantially the same shape, size, configuration and / or arrangement, the versatility of the pillow may be increased. For example, the first section and the second section of the pillow may have substantially symmetrical shapes and allow the pillow to be easily used in a variety of positions, such as facing upward and / or downward. Importantly, if the first section and the second section of the pillow are substantially the same, the first section and the second section may be used interchangeably. For example, the first section and / or the second section of the pillow may be used to support the left and / or right side of the user's head and / or neck. If the first section and the second section of the pillow have substantially symmetrical shapes, the potential uses of the pillow may be increased. In addition, if the first section and the second section of the pillow have substantially symmetrical shapes, the ease of use of the pillow may be improved because, for example, the pillow can be oriented in different positions and still perform the same or related functions.

[0011] For example, depending on the intended use of the pillow, the size of the first section and the second section thereof may vary. For example, the diameter of the first section and the second section of the pillow for an adult-sized pillow may be larger than that for a child-sized pillow. The diameter of the first section and the second section of the pillow for a male may also be larger than that for a female. For example, the outer diameter of the first section and the second section of an adult-sized pillow may be approximately 4 inches and the length may be approximately 9 inches. The outer diameter of the first section and the second section of a child-sized pillow may be approximately 3 inches and the length may be approximately 6.5 inches. The connecting section of the adult-sized pillow and the connecting section of the child-sized pillow may be approximately 2.5 inches. After reviewing the present disclosure, one skilled in the art will recognize that, for example, depending on the intended use of the pillow, the different components of the pillow may have different shapes, sizes, configurations, and arrangements. For example, the outer diameter of an adult-sized pillow may be approximately 4.5 inches, approximately 5 inches, approximately 5.5 inches, approximately 6 inches, approximately 6.5 inches, or larger. The length of an adult-sized pillow may be less than approximately 9 inches, such as approximately 8 inches, approximately 7 inches, approximately 6 inches, approximately 5 inches, or smaller. The length of the adult-sized pillow may also be greater than about 9 inches, such as about 10 inches, about 11 inches, about 12 inches, about 13 inches or more. The outer diameter of the child-sized pillow may be greater than or less than about 3 inches, such as about 1 inch, about 1.5 inches, about 2 inches, about 2.5 inches, about 3.5 inches or about 4 inches. The length of the child-sized pillow may be less than about 6.5 inches, such as about 6 inches, about 5 inches, about 4 inches, about 3 inches or less. The length of the child-sized pillow may be greater than about 6.5 inches, such as about 7 inches, about 8 inches, about 9 inches or more. For example, depending on the size of the first section and the second section, the connecting section of the adult-sized and child-sized pillows may be greater than or less than about 2.5 inches. For example, the connecting section may be smaller, such as about 2 inches, about 1.5 inches, about 1 inch or less, or the connecting section may be larger, such as about 3 inches, about 3.5 inches, about 4 inches or more. It will be further appreciated after reviewing this disclosure that the first segment, the second segment, and / or the connecting segment may have other suitable shapes, sizes, configurations, and / or arrangements, for example, depending on the intended use of the pillow. It will also be appreciated after reviewing this disclosure that the pillow or portions of the pillow may be symmetrical and / or asymmetrical, and the pillow or portions of the pillow may be proportional or non-proportional, for example, depending on the intended use of the pillow.

[0012] The first section and the second section of the pillow can be made of a relatively firm material so that the first section and the second section of the pillow can generally maintain their shape during use. For example, the first section and the second section of the pillow can be made of a relatively firm material such as foam, memory foam, etc. The first section and the second section of the pillow can also be filled with various natural and synthetic materials, such as polyester, polyester particles, microbeads, polystyrene, foam, natural latex rubber, down, feathers, wool, buckwheat, flax seeds, etc. The type and / or amount of material helps the first section and the second section of the pillow generally maintain their shape during use. The type and / or amount of material can also allow the first section and the second section of the pillow to deform and / or deform resiliently during use.

[0013] Another aspect is that the pillow may include a first section and a second section connected by a connecting section, and the connecting section may be relatively thin, relatively flat and / or have a relatively small thickness. For example, while the size and configuration of the first section and the second section of the pillow may be designed to support the sides and / or neck of the user, the connecting section may only provide some support and / or cushioning. Advantageously, because the connecting section may have a relatively small thickness, such as generally equal to or less than about 1.0 inches, about 0.75 inches, about 0.5 inches, about 0.25 inches or less, the connecting section may not push the user's head upward or forward during use. In an exemplary embodiment, the connecting section may provide cushioning for the back of the user's head and / or neck, but the thickness of the connecting section may be such that the user's head and / or neck is not pushed upward when the user is in a generally horizontal or prone position, such as when lying flat on the user's back. The connecting section may also not push the user's head or neck forward when the user is in an upright position or sitting position. Because the pillow may not push the user's head upward or forward, the pillow may be significantly more comfortable to use. The connecting section may also have an outer surface that is relatively flatter or less curved than the first section and / or the second section. Thus, for example, the outer radius of curvature of the first section and / or the second section may be much larger than the outer radius of curvature of the connecting section. In an exemplary embodiment, the outer radius of curvature of the first section and / or the second section may be at least two, three, four, five, or more times the radius of curvature of the connecting section. In another exemplary embodiment, the thickness of the first section and the second section may be at least two, three, four, five, or more times the thickness of the connecting section.

[0014] On the other hand, the pillow may include a closure, and the closure may help keep the pillow in a desired configuration or arrangement. For example, a connecting section may be connected to one end of the first and second sections of the pillow, and a closure may be connected to the other end of the first and second sections of the pillow. The closure may allow the pillow to remain in a generally U-shaped configuration or arrangement. For example, during use of the pillow, the first and second sections of the pillow may be arranged along both sides of the user's head and / or neck, and the connecting section may be arranged at least near the back of the user's head and / or neck. In this configuration, the pillow may have a generally U-shaped arrangement. The closure may help keep the pillow in a generally U-shaped arrangement, and the closure may attach the pillow to the user and / or help keep the pillow in a generally the same position relative to the user. In an exemplary embodiment, the length of the closure is adjustable. For example, the closure may include a first section attached to the first section of the pillow and a second section attached to the second section of the pillow. The first and second sections of the closure may be connected by tying, buttons, snaps, hook and loop fasteners, etc. Although the length of the closure is preferably adjustable, those skilled in the art will appreciate after reviewing this disclosure that the length of the closure need not be adjustable and that the closure may have other suitable structures, configurations, and arrangements, depending, for example, on the intended use of the pillow.

[0015] In another aspect, the pillow can support the user's head while the user is lying down without pushing the user's head upward or forward. For example, the first side and the second side of the pillow can provide lateral support, which helps prevent the head from moving to one or both sides. In other words, the first side and the second side of the pillow help prevent the user's head from accidentally moving or rotating.

[0016] Another aspect is that the pillow can support the user's head without pushing the user's head forward when the user is in a standing or sitting position. The first side and the second side of the pillow can support one or both sides of the user's head, and the thin connecting section may not push the user's head and / or neck forward. Therefore, the pillow can provide lateral support for the user's head without pushing the user's head forward, which can increase the user's comfort. In addition, the closure helps to keep the pillow in a desired position. The pillow can therefore provide increased comfort to the user, for example when traveling, because lateral support can be provided to one or both sides of the user's head without uncomfortably pushing the user's head forward.

[0017] In a further aspect, the pillow can have one or more different configurations or arrangements. For example, the pillow can be arranged in a generally U-shaped configuration, having a first section arranged along a first side of the user's head and / or neck, a second section arranged along a second side of the user's head and / or neck, and a connecting section connecting the first section and the second section. In an exemplary embodiment, the connecting section can be flexible or bendable. In addition or alternatively, one or more connectors between the first section and the second section and the connecting section can be flexible or bendable. For example, the connecting section and / or one or more connectors between the first section and the second section can also provide a hinge-like feature. For example, this can allow the pillow to be arranged in different configurations and arrangements (such as generally L-shaped or angled configurations). In more detail, the connector between the first section and the connecting section and / or the connector between the second section and the connecting section can be flexible or bendable, which allows the first section and the second section of the pillow to be arranged at an angle, such as about 90°, about 75°, about 60°, about 45°, about 30° and / or about 15°. Advantageously, the pillow may be positioned at a variety of suitable angles, depending, for example, on its intended use.

[0018] On the other hand, the pillow can include one or more flexible connectors, and the flexible connectors can allow the pillow to be arranged in a variety of configurations and arrangements. The flexible connectors can allow the pillow to be easily manipulated into different configurations, and the connectors can allow the pillow to maintain a desired shape. If desired, the flexible connectors can also be elastic, flexible and / or biased. The flexible connectors can also allow the pillow to be adapted for different functions and purposes.

[0019] On the other hand, the pillow can be arranged in a variety of different configurations, which can allow the pillow to be suitable for different purposes. For example, the size and configuration of the pillow can be designed to support both sides of the user's head when in an upright, angled or prone position. In an exemplary configuration, the pillow can be arranged around the user's head and / or neck, and the pillow can have a generally U-shaped configuration. The size and configuration of the pillow can also be designed to support one side of the user's head or neck. In this exemplary configuration, the pillow can have an L-shaped or angled configuration. In the angled configuration, the first section and the second section of the pillow can be arranged at an angle (such as about 30°, about 60°, about 90°, about 120°, about 150° or more). The pillow can also include one or more sections aligned roughly along an axis. For example, the first section, the second section and the connecting section of the pillow can be aligned roughly along the axis. In an exemplary configuration, the pillow can extend along a generally straight line. In other exemplary configurations, the first section and the connecting section of the pillow can be aligned and / or the second section and the connecting section of the pillow can be aligned. In addition, in another exemplary configuration, the first section and the second section of the pillow can be arranged in a generally parallel configuration. In the generally parallel configuration, the first section and the second section of the pillow can be spaced apart by a certain distance and / or can be in contact or touching.

[0020] Another aspect is that the pillow can provide one or more functions. For example, the size and configuration of the pillow can be designed to support one or both sides of the user's head and / or neck. In another exemplary embodiment, the pillow can support the user's back. For example, all or a portion of the pillow can be used to support the user's lower back. Thus, for example, the first section or the second section of the pillow can be used to support the user's lower back, or the first section and the second section of the pillow can be used to support the user's lower back. For example, based on how the user expects to use the pillow to support his or her back, the pillow can be arranged in a straight line, angled, U-shaped, or parallel configuration. In yet another exemplary embodiment, the pillow can support the user's legs. For example, based on how the user expects to support his or her legs, the pillow can be placed under the user's knees or ankles, and the pillow can be arranged in a straight line, angled, U-shaped, or parallel configuration. Therefore, the pillow can support different sections of the body. It should also be understood that the pillow can support other sections of the body, such as arms, core areas, etc.

[0021] Another aspect is that the pillow can be designed to be used on the road and at home. For example, the pillow can be used when traveling by plane, train, car, etc. In particular, because the pillow can provide support for the head and / or neck when in an upright posture or sitting position, and will not cause the head or neck to be in an uncomfortable position, the pillow can promote sleep and / or rest when traveling. For example, the pillow can support the head and / or neck while keeping the head and neck roughly aligned with the user's spine, and will not push the user's head or neck forward to an uncomfortable position. By placing all or part of the pillow between the user's lower back and the chair backrest, the pillow can also provide lumbar support when traveling. The pillow can also be used at home when watching TV, reading, etc.

[0022] Advantageously, the versatility of the pillow allows the user to change the shape of the pillow to best fit and support various body parts. In addition, the multifunctional pillow can eliminate the pressure or discomfort experienced by a conventional pillow forcing the user's head forward.

[0023] These and other aspects, features and advantages of the present invention will become more fully apparent from the following brief description of the drawings, the accompanying drawings, the detailed description of exemplary embodiments, and the appended claims. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0024] The drawings include diagrams of preferred embodiments to further illustrate and clarify the above and other aspects, advantages and features of the present invention. It should be recognized that these drawings depict only preferred embodiments of the present invention and are not intended to limit the scope thereof. In addition, it should be recognized that although the drawings may illustrate preferred dimensions, proportions, relationships and configurations of the present invention, the drawings are not intended to limit the scope of the claimed invention. The present invention will be described and explained through the use of additional features and details in the drawings, in which:

[0025] Figure 1 is an upper perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a pillow, showing the pillow in an exemplary configuration;

[0026] Figure 2 This is a top view of the pillow;

[0027] Figure 3 This is a bottom view of the pillow;

[0028] Figure 4 This is the left side view of the pillow;

[0029] Figure 5 This is the right side view of the pillow;

[0030] Figure 6 It is the rear view of the pillow;

[0031] Figure 7 This is the main view of the pillow;

[0032] Figure 8 is a top view of an exemplary embodiment of a pillow showing the pillow in an exemplary configuration;

[0033] Fig. 9 is a top view of an exemplary embodiment of a pillow showing the pillow in an exemplary configuration;

[0034] Fig.10 is an upper perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a pillow, showing the pillow in an exemplary configuration; and

[0035] Fig.11 is an upper perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a pillow showing the pillow in an exemplary configuration.

[0036] Detailed Description of Exemplary Embodiments

[0037] The present invention generally relates to a pillow. However, the principles of the present invention are not limited to pillows. In addition, for ease of describing the pillow, words such as top, bottom, front, back, right and left are used to describe the drawings. However, it should be understood that the pillow can be positioned in various desired positions or orientations (including various angles, sideways, and even upside down).

[0038] The pillow shown in the drawings and described in more detail below (which is an exemplary embodiment of a pillow) can support various sections of a user's body. In addition, the pillow can be used in various environments and locations (such as at home or on the road).

[0039] The pillows shown in the drawings may be drawn to scale and / or one or more parts or components of the pillows shown in the drawings may be drawn to scale. However, the drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale. Thus, although the pillows shown in the drawings may illustrate exemplary shapes, sizes, configurations, and / or arrangements, and these exemplary shapes, sizes, configurations, and / or arrangements may be drawn to scale, the pillows may have other suitable shapes, sizes, configurations, and / or arrangements, for example, depending on the intended use of the pillow.

[0040] Those skilled in the art will appreciate upon reviewing this disclosure that, for example, pillows may have a variety of shapes, sizes, configurations, and arrangements, depending on the intended use of the pillow. Those skilled in the art will also appreciate upon reviewing this disclosure that pillows may include any appropriate number and combination of features, components, and aspects, etc. In addition, although the pillows shown in the accompanying drawings may have a particular structure, style, and configuration, it should be understood that the pillows may have a variety of suitable structures, styles, and configurations. In addition, although the accompanying drawings may be drawn to scale and may illustrate the relationships between various parts and components, the pillows may have other shapes, sizes, configurations, and arrangements.

[0041] Those skilled in the art will appreciate, after reviewing this disclosure, that different embodiments may have one or more different parts, components, features, and aspects. Furthermore, these different parts, components, features, and aspects may not be necessary in different embodiments. Furthermore, it should be understood that different embodiments may include different combinations of these parts, components, features, and aspects, which may vary depending on the intended use of the pillow. The following is a detailed description of an exemplary embodiment of a pillow.

[0042] like Figure 1 As shown in , an exemplary pillow 10 may include a first section 12, such as a first arm, and a second section 14, such as a second arm. The first arm 12 may include a proximal end 16, and the second arm 14 may include a proximal end 18. The first arm 12 may also include a distal end 20, and the second arm 14 may include a distal end 22.

[0043] The pillow 10 may include a third section 24, such as a connecting section. The connecting section 24 may be connected to the first arm 12 and the second arm 14. In more detail, the connecting member 24 may be disposed between the first arm 12 and the second arm 14, and the connecting section may constitute at least a portion of the middle region of the pillow 10. For example, the connecting section 24 may be connected to the proximal end 16 of the first arm 12 and the proximal end 18 of the second arm 14. If desired, the connecting section 24 may be substantially aligned with the proximal end 16 of the first arm 12 and the proximal end 18 of the second arm 14. The connecting section 24 may also be connected to other suitable sections of the pillow 10.

[0044] The pillow 10 may include a fastener or closure 26 that can be used to secure the pillow in a desired position and / or arrangement. The fastener 26 may be adjustable, which can increase the versatility of the pillow 10. For example, the length of the fastener 26 may be adjustable. The fastener 26 may allow the pillow 10 to be used by people of different body types, and the fastener may allow the pillow to be adjusted according to the needs of the user. The fastener 26 may also allow the pillow 10 to be set in different configurations and / or arrangements. In an exemplary embodiment, the fastener 26 may be connected to the distal end 20 of the first arm 12 and the distal end 22 of the second arm 14. If desired, the fastener 26 may be roughly aligned with the distal end 20 of the first arm 12 and the distal end 22 of the second arm 14. The fastener 26 may also be connected to other suitable sections of the pillow 10.

[0045] In addition, the pillow 10 may include an outwardly extending section 28, such as a connector, tab, loop, hanging assembly, etc. The connector 28 may facilitate movement, use, and / or storage of the pillow. For example, the connector 28 may allow the pillow 10 to be hung from a structure such as a hook.

[0046] As shown in the accompanying drawings, an exemplary embodiment of the pillow 10 may include a first arm 12 and a second arm 14, and the first arm 12 and the second arm 14 may have similar shapes, sizes, configurations and / or arrangements. For example, the first arm 12 and the second arm 14 may have a generally cylindrical configuration with an outer diameter of about 2 inches, about 2.5 inches, about 3 inches, about 3.5 inches, about 4 inches or more. The length of the first arm 12 and the second arm 14 may be about 6 inches, about 8 inches, about 10 inches, about 12 inches or more. The ends of the first arm 12 and the second arm 14 may be rounded or curved. The first arm 12 and the second arm 14 may also have different shapes, sizes, configurations and arrangements. For example, the lengths of the first arm 12 and the second arm 14 may be different, and one arm may be longer than the other arm and / or have a different width, diameter, radius of curvature, configuration, arrangement, etc. than the other arm. Therefore, it should be understood that the size, shape, configuration and / or arrangement of the first arm 12 and the second arm 14 may be different.

[0047] The first arm 12 and the second arm 14 can be filled or stuffed with a sufficiently dense material (e.g., memory foam, cotton, microbeads, bean bag filler, foam, wool, feathers, polyester, polyester particles, seeds, silk, etc.) to support various body parts of the user. For example, depending on the intended use of the pillow 10, the first arm 12 and the second arm 14 can also have different densities. The type and / or amount of material can allow the first section and / or the second section of the pillow to generally maintain its shape during use. The type and / or amount of material can also allow the first section and / or the second section of the pillow to deform and / or elastically deform during use. Those skilled in the art will understand after reading the present disclosure that different types and / or amounts of material can be used, for example, depending on the intended use of the pillow 10.

[0048] The first arm 12 and the second arm 14 can be movably connected by a connecting member 24. For example, the first arm 12 can move relative to the second arm 14. In addition, the first arm 12 can be movably connected to the connecting section 24, and the second arm 14 can be movably connected to the connecting section 24. Advantageously, the movable connection can allow the pillow 10 to be arranged in a variety of configurations. For example, the first arm 12, the second arm 14 and / or the connecting section 24 can be aligned generally in a straight line, arranged in an angled position, or arranged in a generally U-shaped configuration.

[0049] In more detail, the first arm 12 may be connected to the connection section 24 via a hinge-like feature 30, and the second arm 14 may also be attached to the connection section 24 via a hinge-like feature 32. Thus, the first arm 12 may pivot or rotate relative to the connection section 24 about a first rotation axis, and the second arm 14 may pivot or rotate relative to the connection section 24 about a second rotation axis. The first rotation axis may be spaced a distance from the second rotation axis. Furthermore, the first rotation axis and the second rotation axis may be arranged in a substantially parallel configuration.

[0050] As shown in the figures, the proximal end 16 of the first arm 12 and the proximal end 18 of the second arm 14 can have substantially the same size and shape. In addition, the proximal end 16 of the first arm 12 and the proximal end 18 of the second arm 14 can be separated by a connecting section 24. In addition, when the pillow 10 is in a substantially U-shaped configuration, the proximal end 16 of the first arm 12 and the proximal end 18 of the second arm 14 can be substantially aligned and / or aligned in the same plane.

[0051] The distal end 20 of the first arm 12 and the distal end 22 of the second arm 14 can have substantially the same size and shape. It should be appreciated that the distal end 20 of the first arm 12 and the distal end 22 of the second arm 14 can vary in shape or size. When the pillow 10 is in a substantially U-shaped configuration, the proximal end 16 of the first arm 12 and the proximal end 18 of the second arm 14 can be substantially aligned and / or disposed in the same plane.

[0052] The connecting section 24 can be filled or stuffed with a sufficiently dense material to support and / or provide cushioning for a portion of the user (e.g., the back of the head or neck). The material can be memory foam, cotton, micro beads, bean bag filler, foam, wool, feathers, polyester, polyester particles, seeds, silk, etc. The type and / or amount of material can allow the connecting section 24 to generally maintain its shape during use. The type and / or amount of material can also allow the connecting section 24 to deform and / or ductilely deform during use. Those skilled in the art will understand after reading this disclosure that different types and / or amounts of materials can be used to manufacture the connecting section 24, for example, depending on the intended use of the pillow 10.

[0053] The hinge-like features 30, 32 may allow one or more sections of the pillow 10 to fold, pivot, rotate, or bend. The hinge-like features 30, 32 may also allow the first arm 12 and the second arm 14 to move independently of each other. These hinge-like features 30, 32 may also allow the user to arrange the pillow 10 in a variety of positions to best support various body parts of the user.

[0054] The fastener 26 may include two or more parts or components. For example, a first part may be attached to the distal end 20 of the first arm 12, and a second part may be attached to the distal end 22 of the second arm 14. The first part and the second part of the fastener 26 may be selectively connected. For example, the first part and the second part of the fastener 26 may be connected by a buckle, a button, a hook and loop fastener (such as ), ties, hooks, snaps, pins, zippers, magnets, etc. The length of the fastener 26 is adjustable, which can increase the versatility of the pillow 10.

[0055] The pillow 10 can be used to support the neck and / or head of a user who is sitting in a vertical or nearly vertical posture when traveling or at home. In addition, the pillow 10 can be used to support the neck and / or head of a user who is lying in a horizontal or nearly horizontal posture when traveling or at home. When used to support the neck and / or head of the user, the pillow 10 does not force the neck and / or head forward or upward, which can significantly increase the comfort of the pillow 10. In particular, when the pillow 10 is a generally U-shaped configuration and is arranged around the neck and / or head of the user, the distal end 20 of the first arm 12, the distal end 22 of the second arm 14, and the connecting section 24 can be generally aligned and / or arranged in a flush configuration. Because the thickness of the connecting section 24 can be relatively small, such as 1 / 2, 1 / 3, 1 / 4, 1 / 5 or more of the diameter or thickness of the first arm 12 and / or the second arm 14, the connecting member 24 does not push the user's head forward when in a sitting position, or push the user's head upward when in a generally horizontal posture.

[0056] Advantageously, the pillow 10 can be used to support various body parts of a user who is sitting in a vertical or near vertical posture when traveling or at home. When traveling or at home, the pillow 10 can be used additionally or alternatively to support various body parts of a user who is lying in a horizontal / near horizontal posture or in a vertical / near vertical posture. The pillow 10 can support body parts such as feet, legs, back, etc. For example, all or a portion of the pillow 10 can be placed under one or both feet of the user, which can allow one or both feet to be raised. In an exemplary embodiment, the pillow 10 can be placed between the legs of the user. In another exemplary embodiment, the pillow 10 can be placed behind the back of the user. Those skilled in the art will recognize after reading this disclosure that the pillow 10 can support, provide cushioning, increase comfort, etc. In addition, those skilled in the art will recognize after reviewing this disclosure that the pillow 10 can be placed in various positions and / or different configurations. For example, depending on the user, the pillows 10 can be placed in a generally parallel, angled, aligned, or other configuration, and the pillows 10 can be positioned in a desired arrangement proximate to the user's feet, legs, torso, arms, neck, and / or head. In addition, if desired, the user can use multiple pillows 10. For example, the user can use one pillow 10 to support a first portion of the user's body, and a second pillow 10 to support a second portion of the user's body.

[0057] Advantageously, two or more pillows 10 can be connected together if desired. For example, fasteners 26 can connect multiple pillows 10 together. This can increase the functionality and / or potential use of the pillow 10.

[0058] Although the present invention has been described in terms of certain preferred embodiments, other embodiments apparent to those skilled in the art are also within the scope of the present invention. Therefore, the scope of the present invention is intended to be limited only by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A pillow, comprising: a first arm arranged in a cylindrical configuration, the first arm comprising a proximal end and a distal end, the first arm having a length measured between the proximal end and the distal end, the proximal end forming a base perpendicular to an outer surface of the cylindrical first arm; a second arm arranged in a cylindrical configuration, the second arm comprising a proximal end and a distal end, the second arm having a length measured between the proximal end and the distal end, the proximal end forming a base perpendicular to an outer surface of the cylindrical second arm; and a connecting section filled with material to support a portion of a user, the connecting section having a linear configuration with a first end connected at least at a connection proximate the base and outer surface of the first arm and a second end connected at least at a connection proximate the base and outer surface of the second arm, the connecting section being sized and configured to allow the first arm and the second arm to move independently of each other, the connecting section having a length measured between the connection with the first arm and the connection with the second arm, the length of the connecting section being at most 1 / 2 the length of the first arm or the length of the second arm, the thickness or diameter of the connecting section being at most 1 / 2 the thickness or diameter of the first arm or the thickness or diameter of the second arm, the connecting section having a curved outer surface that is less curved than the outer surface of the first arm or the outer surface of the second arm; wherein the connecting section is configured not to push the user's head upward when the user is in a horizontal or prone position; and Wherein, the connecting section is configured not to push the head forward when the user is in an upright or sitting position.

2. The pillow according to claim 1, characterized in that: The thickness of the connecting section is at most 1 / 3 of the diameter of the first arm or the diameter of the second arm.

3. The pillow according to claim 1, characterized in that: The length of the connecting section is at most 1 / 3 of the length of the first arm or the length of the second arm.

4. The pillow according to claim 1, characterized in that: The first arm is rotatable at least ninety degrees relative to the connecting section; and Therein, the second arm can be rotated at least ninety degrees relative to the connecting section.

5. The pillow according to claim 1, characterized in that: When the pillow is in the U-shaped configuration, the connecting section is aligned with the proximal end of the first arm; and Wherein, when the pillow is in a U-shaped configuration, the connecting section is aligned with the proximal end of the second arm.

6. The pillow according to claim 1, characterized in that: The thickness of the connecting section is at most ¼ of the diameter of the first arm or of the second arm.

7. The pillow according to claim 1, characterized in that: The length of the connecting section is at most 1 / 4 of the length of the first arm or the length of the second arm.

8. The pillow according to claim 1, characterized in that: The thickness of the connecting section is at most 1 / 5 of the diameter of the first arm or of the second arm.

9. The pillow according to claim 1, characterized in that: The length of the connecting section is at most 1 / 5 of the length of the first arm or the length of the second arm.

10. The pillow according to claim 1, characterized in that: The first arm is rotatable at least forty-five degrees relative to the connecting section; and The second arm is rotatable at least forty-five degrees relative to the connecting section.

11. A pillow, comprising: a first arm having a cylindrical configuration with a circular outer surface and a bottom; a second arm having a cylindrical configuration with a circular outer surface and a bottom; a connecting section filled with material to support a portion of a user, the connecting section including a first end connected at least near the junction of the outer surface and the bottom of the first arm and a second end connected at least near the junction of the outer surface and the bottom of the second arm, the connecting section being sized and configured to allow the first arm and the second arm to move independently of each other, the length of the connecting section being at most 1 / 2 the length of the first arm or the length of the second arm, the thickness of the connecting section being at most 1 / 2 the diameter of the first arm or the diameter of the second arm, the connecting section having a curved outer surface that is less curved than the outer surface of the first arm or the outer surface of the second arm; wherein the first arm and the second arm are movable between a U-shaped configuration, an angled configuration, and an aligned configuration; wherein the connecting section is configured not to push the user's head upward when the user is in a horizontal or prone position; and Wherein, the connecting section is configured not to push the head forward when the user is in an upright or sitting position.

12. The pillow according to claim 11, characterized in that: The length of the connecting section is at most 1 / 3 of the length of the first arm or the length of the second arm.

13. The pillow according to claim 11, characterized in that: The thickness of the connecting section is at most 1 / 3 of the diameter of the first arm or the diameter of the second arm.

14. The pillow according to claim 11, characterized in that: The length of the connecting section is at most 1 / 3 of the length of the first arm or the length of the second arm; and The thickness of the connecting section is at most 1 / 3 of the diameter of the first arm or the diameter of the second arm.

15. The pillow according to claim 11, characterized in that: The first arm is rotatable relative to the connecting section about a first axis; wherein the second arm is rotatable relative to the connecting section about a second axis; wherein the first axis is spaced a distance from the second axis; and The first axis is arranged parallel to the second axis.

16. The pillow according to claim 11, characterized in that The first arm and the second arm are symmetrical.

17. The pillow according to claim 11, characterized in that: When the first arm and the second arm are arranged in a U-shaped configuration, the first arm and the second arm are aligned along parallel axes.

18. The pillow according to claim 11, characterized in that: When the first arm and the second arm are disposed in an aligned configuration, the first arm and the second arm are aligned along an axis.

19. The pillow according to claim 11, characterized in that The thickness of the connecting section is less than half the width of the first arm; wherein the thickness of the connecting section is less than half the width of the second arm; wherein the length of the connecting section is smaller than the width of the first arm; and The length of the connecting section is smaller than the width of the second arm.

20. The pillow according to claim 11, characterized in that The thickness of the connecting section is less than half the radius of the first arm; and The thickness of the connecting section is less than half the radius of the second arm.

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