Mat

Abstract

A mat, comprising: a pillow portion, an elongate trunk portion and a scarf; the pillow portion having a front side and a rear side and defining a support surface on the front side for supporting the head of a user of the mat; the trunk portion extending away from the pillow portion and having a distal end remote from the pillow portion, wherein the scarf is connected to the pillow portion and / or the trunk portion at a first end portion of the scarf and is engageable with the trunk portion in use at a portion of the scarf spaced from the first end portion.

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to cushions, particularly but not limited to portable travel pillows, such as pillows for supporting the resting head of a traveler sitting on a generally upright vehicle seat during travel.

[0002] Cushions for supporting the resting head of a sitting person are commonly referred to as travel pillows, although their use is not restricted to when people are traveling. There are many different designs of travel pillows, each designed to comfortably support the user's head in a position that the user can maintain without burden or effort. This has proven to be a difficult problem to solve effectively.

[0003] Although many cushion designs can provide comfort when ideally positioned around the user, it is not uncommon for the shape of the cushion to be such that it is not conducive to maintaining the ideal position without some effort on the part of the user. A common problem is that the cushion slips off the user's shoulders. Ideally, if the cushion is to effectively support the user's resting head, the cushion should remain on the user's shoulders. The user will typically try to hold the cushion in place by using their hands or by shrugging their shoulders to clamp the cushion between the head and shoulders. This inevitably causes discomfort.

[0004] Other designs can provide means for holding the cushion in the desired position around the user. These can involve structures and shapes added to or formed by the cushion that reduce the versatility and / or convenience of comfortable use of the cushion. For example, complex and elaborate shapes designed to hold the cushion in place typically limit the range of positions around the user in which the cushion can be placed during use.

[0005] An ideal object of the present invention is to provide a safe, versatile, and comfortable cushion for supporting the resting head of a user sitting on a generally upright seat or the like.

[0006] In the most general case, the present invention provides a cushion for supporting a person's head, the cushion comprising a first part that can be used to provide support for the back of the person's head or neck and / or the side of the person's head, a second part extending from the first part that can be used to provide support for the person's chin, and a scarf that can be selectively wrapped around the user's neck to help hold the cushion in place during use.

[0007] According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a mat comprising: a pillow portion, an elongate trunk portion, and a scarf; the pillow portion having a front side and a rear side and defining a support surface on the front side, the support surface being adapted to support the head of a user of the mat; the trunk portion extending away from the pillow portion and having a distal end remote from the pillow portion, wherein the scarf is connected to the pillow portion and / or the trunk portion at a first end portion of the scarf and is engageable with the trunk portion in use at a portion of the scarf spaced from the first end portion.

[0008] The scarf preferably extends from the rear side of the pillow portion and / or the rear side of the trunk portion.

[0009] The scarf may be connected to the pillow portion and / or the trunk portion at a point corresponding generally to the midpoint of the pillow portion in the longitudinal axis direction of the pillow portion. This point may be a point on a plane bisecting the pillow portion. Such a plane may contain the trunk portion.

[0010] The scarf is preferably connected to the pillow portion and / or the trunk portion along a connecting line extending in a direction generally transverse to the longitudinal axis direction of the pillow portion. The connecting line may extend generally parallel to the extending direction of the trunk portion remote from the pillow portion.

[0011] Such a connecting line (particularly, but not exclusively, in combination with connection at the midpoint and / or generally parallel to the extending direction of the trunk portion remote from the pillow portion, as described above) has a number of advantages. When the pillow portion is switched to the other side, the connecting line enables the scarf to be easily pulled to the right or left side of the user. In addition, the connecting line enables the scarf to move independently of the pillow portion, i.e., the scarf can be pulled and manipulated in all directions without affecting the position of the pillow portion. This means that the user can position the pillow portion on one side of the head and then adjust the scarf until they find a comfortable position. Even though the scarf is connected to the pillow portion, from a usage perspective, it remains an independent entity. When the scarf is used on the other side, it is not necessary to rotate the mat when using the scarf. Since the scarf can be used in exactly the same way on both sides, this also means that the 'experience' of the scarf is the same for both sides.

[0012] The scarf may be generally rectangular, triangular, conical or other shapes. It may be connected to the pillow portion and / or the trunk portion along the edge of the scarf. For example, when the scarf is rectangular, it may be connected along the short side. For example, when the scarf is conical, the wider or narrower end of the scarf may be connected to the pillow portion and / or the trunk portion.

[0013] As will be readily understood by those skilled in the art, the length of the connecting edge and the width of the scarf can vary. The length of the connecting edge can be between 4 cm and 26 cm, between 5 cm and 20 cm, or between 10 cm and 20 cm. It can be any width between 4 cm and 26 cm. In a particularly preferred arrangement, it is 16 cm. The length of the connecting edge can be substantially equal to the width of the pillow part in a direction substantially transverse to the longitudinal axis of the pillow part. Otherwise it can be longer or shorter. If shorter, then the scarf can be further connected downwards to the pillow part (in the direction towards the trunk part), as this will help to provide more support.

[0014] Preferably, connecting means are provided for detachably connecting the scarf to the trunk part at a part of the scarf spaced from the first end part of the scarf. The connecting means can include one or more openings in the scarf, the openings being adapted to receive the trunk part passing therethrough to hook the scarf onto the trunk part. A plurality of openings can be provided in the scarf, the openings being spaced apart from each other along the length of the scarf. Such a plurality of openings allows adjustability.

[0015] The scarf is preferably stretchable. It can also be non-stretchable. The scarf can be made of wool or a breathable fabric, such as bamboo fabric.

[0016] The scarf can be permanently or detachably connected to the pillow part and / or the trunk part.

[0017] The cushion can include a pocket for storing the scarf when not in use. This is particularly preferred when the scarf is permanently connected. The user can choose whether to unfold the scarf.

[0018] For a detachable scarf, a first loop or hole can be provided at the first end part of the scarf for receiving the trunk part passing therethrough to connect the scarf to the end part of the trunk part close to the pillow part.

[0019] The scarf can also be provided at its first end part with a second loop, hole or snap fastener for connection to a fixing means on the pillow part, the fixing means can include a loop, button or clip. Optionally, the loop, hole or snap fastener can be provided on the pillow part and the fixing means on the scarf.

[0020] The scarf can be provided at its first end part with a ridge. This is particularly applicable to detachable scarves to provide integrity to the scarf at its fixed end. The provision or omission of the ridge may depend on many factors, including but not limited to the thickness of the scarf. Thicker / sturdier materials do not require a ridge, while thinner / softer materials may require a ridge.

[0021] The scarf can be wider than the pillow part in a direction generally transverse to the longitudinal axis of the pillow part. Otherwise, it can have the same or a narrower width. If a scarf with a narrower width is used, the ends of the scarf can be further connected downward (in the direction towards the main body part), as this will help to provide more support.

[0022] The width of the pillow part (the longitudinal dimension of the pillow part) is preferably wider than the main body part. The width of the pillow part can be at least 10 cm, preferably between 20 cm and 35 cm.

[0023] The shape of the pillow part can generally be concave.

[0024] The pillow part preferably protrudes from the main body part transversely to the elongation of the main body part.

[0025] The main body part is preferably configured to be usable to contact the underside of the chin of a user whose head is supported by the pillow part.

[0026] The pillow part can protrude from opposite sides of the main body part transversely to the elongation of the main body part. The cushion can be substantially symmetric such that the pillow part can be used to support the user's head from either side of the user's head. The cushion can be substantially symmetric about a plane that bisects the pillow part and includes the main body part.

[0027] There may be only one main body part. The main body part can have a substantially constant cross-section along its length, or can taper towards its ends. In some arrangements, it can have a bifurcated second end part.

[0028] Optionally, multiple main body parts can be provided. In the case where the cushion is substantially symmetric and two main body parts are provided, the cushion can be substantially symmetric about a plane that bisects the pillow part and is located between the two main body parts. The two main body parts can extend from the pillow part at an angle inclined to each other.

[0029] The main body part preferably protrudes from the rear side of the pillow part. It can appear as a ridge extending to the rear side of the pillow part. In this case, the scarf can be connected to the ridge.

[0030] The main body part can be formed such that its rest shape is curved or non-straight.

[0031] The main body part can have a rest shape that has a forward hooked structure such that the end is located in front of the pillow part.

[0032] The main body can be configured such that it hooks sharply upward. In this arrangement, the end of the main body part can be located above the bottom edge of the pillow part.

[0033] The backbone portion can be elastically compliant. In this case, the backbone portion can be manipulated to form a backbone portion that bends as needed.

[0034] The cushion can be filled with a soft or compliant material, which can include foam, fiber fill material, or other materials. The cushion can be inflatable.

[0035] The scarf can be permanently or removably attached to a covering, namely a pillowcase, that is sized and shaped to accommodate a cushion having a pillow portion and a backbone portion.

[0036] Reference will now be made to the accompanying drawings to describe, by way of example only, non - limiting embodiments of the present invention, in which:

[0037] Figure 1 is a front perspective view of a cushion according to a first embodiment of the present invention (the scarf is not visible);

[0038] Figure 2 is Figure 1 a side perspective view of the cushion;

[0039] Figure 3 is Figure 1 and Figure 2 a rear view of the cushion, showing the scarf and the connection arrangement of the scarf to the pillow and backbone portions;

[0040] Figure 4 is Figures 1 to 3 a front perspective view of the cushion, in which the scarf is shown attached to the backbone portion;

[0041] Figure 5 is Figures 1 to 4 a front view of a user of the cushion, showing the cushion in use;

[0042] Figure 6 is Figures 1 to 4 a rear view of a user of the cushion, showing the cushion in use;

[0043] Figure 7 is Figures 1 to 4 a side view of a user of the cushion, showing the cushion in use;

[0044] Figure 8 is Figures 1 to 4 a front view of a user of the cushion, showing the cushion in use, in which the scarf portion is sandwiched between the user's body and the backbone portion (rather than being attached to the backbone portion as in Figure 4 、 Figure 5 and Figure 7 );

[0045] Figure 9Is a rear perspective view of a cushion according to a second embodiment, which includes an alternative connection arrangement of a scarf to a pillow portion and a trunk portion, including an internal pocket - when the pocket is opened, the scarf is shown as being retracted;

[0046] Figure 10 Is Figure 9 Rear perspective view of the cushion with the scarf unfolded;

[0047] Figure 11 Is a rear perspective view of a cushion according to a third embodiment, which includes an alternative connection arrangement of a scarf to a pillow portion and a trunk portion, including an external pocket;

[0048] Figure 12 Is a perspective view of a detachable scarf;

[0049] Figure 13 Shows a side perspective view of a cushion including a Figure 12 scarf in use;

[0050] Figure 14 Shows Figure 12 A partial close-up perspective view of the cushion, showing the connection of the scarf to the pillow portion; and

[0051] Figure 15 Shows a view similar to Figure 5 where the cushion is in use, but the scarf extends under the user's armpit (as opposed to around the user's neck).

[0052] Referring to the accompanying drawings, embodiments of the present invention will now be discussed.

[0053] According to all the described arrangements, a cushion 1 is provided, including a pillow portion 2, an elongated trunk portion 3, and a scarf 4. The pillow portion 2 has a front side 2a and a rear side 2b, and a support surface 10 is defined on the front side 2a, which can be used to support the head of the user of the cushion 1. The trunk portion 3 extends away from the pillow portion 2 and has an end 5 away from the pillow portion 2. The scarf 4 is connected to the pillow portion and / or the trunk portion at a first end 7 of the scarf 4, and can be engaged with the trunk portion 3 at a portion of the scarf 4 spaced apart from the first end 7 in use.

[0054] The support surface 10 of the head defined by the front side 2a of the pillow portion is adapted and arranged to support the resting head of a user sitting on a substantially upright seat. The elongated trunk portion 3 is adapted and arranged to contact the lower side of the user's chin when the user's head is supported by the pillow portion 2. The scarf 4 is adapted and arranged to wrap around the user's neck when the user's head is supported by the pillow portion 2 and the trunk portion 3 contacts the lower side of its chin, for holding the cushion in place during its use.

[0055] As shown, the main body portion 3 preferably defines an elastically compliant bending portion that extends from the pillow portion 2 such that the main body portion is generally hook-shaped at least towards the free end (or end 5) away from the pillow portion 2. The main body portion 3 can have a rest shape that has a forward hook-like structure such that the end 5 is in front of the pillow portion 2, as Figure 2 best shown in

[0056] The pillow portion 2 preferably projects from the main body portion 3 such that the support surface 10 for the head extends in a direction generally transverse to the elongation of the main body portion. The elongation of the main body portion is preferably directed to bend (i.e., hook) along a direction generally transverse to the direction in which the support surface of the head extends, so as to position the end 5 of the main body portion 3 near the support surface 10 of the head. The degree of bending of the main body portion can vary. In some arrangements, the main body portion can extend substantially straight along all, a small portion, or a large portion of its length.

[0057] The pillow portion 2 is preferably shaped to define a pillow structure that includes, on one side (as Figure 1 shown), a support surface 10 for the head defined by a peripheral pillow edge. In the present arrangement, these edges define a generally semi-circular (e.g., "D"-shaped) boundary. The pillow portion can of course be of an alternative shape, such as but not limited to rectangular, triangular, or oval, with the pillow edge defining a boundary of an appropriate shape. The pillow is preferably shaped such that the support surface 10 for the head is concave and the shape of the pillow portion 2 is generally concave, as shown. In alternative arrangements, it can be flat or of other shapes.

[0058] The main body portion 3 defines an elongate pad that extends from the pillow portion 2. It can be substantially continuously curved. It can take alternative forms, including an angular form, a form including one or more substantially straight portions, or other forms. Preferably, it is integrally formed with the pillow portion 2 to extend from the rear side 2b of the pillow portion 2 to the opposite side of the side 2b that defines the support surface 10 for the head. If substantially continuously curved, the main body portion 3 can be generally crescent-shaped.

[0059] The main body portion 3 can appear as a ridge or bulge from the rear side of the pillow portion. The main body portion 3 can have a ridge or bulge that bisects the rear surface 2a of the pillow portion 2. This increases the strength of the pad and makes the relative positioning and orientation of the pillow portion and the hooked main body portion more rigid and resilient, i.e., far less likely for the pillow portion 2 to sag, deform, or become flaccid relative to the main body portion 3. However, it should be noted that the main body portion 3 can extend from the pillow portion 2. For example, instead of extending from the rear side 2b of the pillow portion 2, it can extend from the side edge of the pillow portion, or, in particular, from the bottom edge (in use, as Figures 5 to 8 shown).

[0060] The pillow portion 2 is preferably wider than the trunk portion 3, as is clearly shown in the figure. The pillow portion 2 preferably projects from opposite sides of the trunk portion 3 transversely to the elongation of the trunk portion 3, as is clearly shown in the figure. The cushion can be substantially symmetrical such that the pillow portion 2 can be used to support the user's head from either side of the user's head. The cushion is most preferably substantially symmetrical about a plane bisecting the pillow portion 2 and containing the trunk portion 3, again as shown in the figure. The trunk portion 3 is preferably formed such that its rest shape is curved. Alternatively, it can also be elastically compliant. In this case, the trunk portion can be manipulated to form a trunk portion that is curved as required.

[0061] As shown in the figure, there can be a single trunk portion 3. Optionally, multiple trunk portions can be provided. The (multiple) trunk portions 3 in any arrangement can have bifurcated second end portions, or other end portions. In any configuration, the trunk portion can have a sharp hook-shaped end 5.

[0062] Figures 5 to 8 The support position of the cushion placed on the user's shoulder is shown, where the support surface 2a of the head of the pillow portion 2 supports one side of the user's head, and the hooked trunk portion 3 hooks under the head to support the user's chin simultaneously. The scarf 4 is shown as extending (as preferred) from the back 2b of the pillow portion, winding around the user's neck, and joining the trunk portion 3 at a portion of the scarf 4 spaced apart from the first end portion of the scarf 4. As described above, the scarf 4 helps to hold the cushion in place during use. In Figure 5 and Figure 7 the scarf 4 is shown as connected to the trunk portion 3, and in Figure 8 as a possible alternative, the scarf 4 is clipped between the trunk portion 3 and the user's body. The scarf can also be clipped above the trunk portion and wedged under the chin, or wound around the end of the trunk portion.

[0063] As Figure 5 and Figure 8 shown, in this use of the cushion 1, it is preferred that the trunk portion 3 extends through the lower side of the user's chin of the cushion user, extending to a point beyond the midpoint of the user's chin. The trunk portion 3 provides support for substantially the entire lower side of the user's chin.

[0064] As Figure 7 shown, in this use of the cushion, it is also preferred that the pillow portion 2 substantially extends through the entire side of the user's head of the cushion 1, that is, the pillow portion 2 substantially extends from the rear of the user's head to the front of the user's head, for example, extending to a position just beyond the front of the user's face. The user's ears are completely covered by the pillow portion 2.

[0065] Although the cushion is typically filled with a soft or compliant material, which may include foam, fiber fill material, or other materials, an inflatable arrangement is also possible.

[0066] In addition, according to any of the connecting devices discussed herein, the scarf can be connected to a covering, namely a pillowcase, which is sized and shaped to accommodate a cushion having a pillow portion and a trunk portion.

[0067] The scarf 4 will now be considered in more detail.

[0068] As described above, the scarf 4 preferably extends from the rear side 2b of the pillow portion 2. In the illustrated arrangement, the width of the scarf is greater than the pillow portion 2. In an alternative arrangement, this need not be the case and the scarf 4 can be narrower. The scarf 4 is also shown as being connected to both the pillow portion 2 and the trunk portion 3. This need not be the case either. Instead, the scarf can be connected to either the pillow portion 2 or the trunk portion 3. In particular, for example, when the scarf is narrower than the pillow portion, it can be connected only to the pillow portion.

[0069] Regardless of its size or specific connection, i.e., connection to the pillow portion 2 and / or the trunk portion 3, it is preferred that the scarf 4 is connected at a point corresponding generally to the midpoint of the pillow portion 2 in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the pillow portion. As shown, when the cushion 1 is symmetric with respect to a single trunk portion 3, the scarf 4 can be connected to coincide with the plane bisecting the pillow portion 2 and containing the trunk portion 3. It should be understood that in alternative arrangements, including for example asymmetric arrangements or other arrangements, the scarf 4 can be connected in other ways. For example, it can be connected near a lateral edge of the pillow portion 2 or otherwise.

[0070] Preferably, the scarf 4 is shown as being connected along a connecting line in all of the described arrangements, which extends generally transverse to the longitudinal axis of the pillow portion 2. However, it should be noted that it need not be connected in this way. The connection can depend in part on the way the scarf 4 is connected and / or the specific shape of the scarf 4. In the described arrangement, the scarf 4 is substantially rectangular and is connected along the short side of the scarf 4. Alternative scarf shapes may be applied and the present application is not limited to any particular shape of the scarf 4.

[0071] As referred to Figure 5 and Figure 8As described, the scarf 4 can be arranged to engage the main body portion 3 at a portion of the scarf 4 spaced apart from the first end portion such that the scarf 4 is connected to or simply contacts the main body portion 3 and is sandwiched between the main body portion 3 and the user's body (chest). Alternatively, it can also be sandwiched between the main body and the user's chin, or the scarf can be pulled over or wound around the main body portion. The scarf 4 can be arranged to engage the main body portion 3 at the second end portion of the scarf 4. In the sandwiched case, the force applied by the user's chin to the main body portion 3 is generally sufficient to hold the scarf 4 in place so as to have the effect of helping to keep the cushion 1 in position during use. However, preferably, some form of connecting means is provided for detachably connecting / fixing the scarf 4 to the main body portion 3 at a portion of the scarf 4 spaced apart from the first end portion of the scarf 4.

[0072] Figure 4 , Figure 5 , Figure 7 and Figure 12 show particularly preferred but non-limiting connecting means. A plurality of openings 11 are provided in the scarf 4, and the openings are adapted to receive the main body portion 3 passing therethrough to hook the scarf 4 onto the main body portion 3. It is preferred to provide a plurality of openings 11 to provide adjustability and maintain the tension of the scarf, which helps to prevent the pillow from sliding. However, an alternative arrangement can have only a single opening 11. As Figure 12 shown, the plurality of openings 11 are spaced apart from each other along the length of the scarf 4. As will be understood by those skilled in the art, many alternative connecting means can be provided, including but not limited to hook-and-loop fasteners, buttons, press buttons, clips or other connecting means.

[0073] It can be understood that although all arrangements are described as including connecting means (in the exemplary form of the openings 11), the connecting means can be omitted from any of the shown arrangements.

[0074] The scarf 4 is preferably stretchable to assist in its function. For comfort purposes, it preferably comprises a soft fabric. However, it does not need to be stretchable. It could be non-elastic wool, looking and feeling more like a traditional scarf, or it could be a bamboo fabric.

[0075] The scarf can be permanently connected or detachably connected. Figure 3 , Figure 9 and 10 , Figure 11 and Figure 12 show four different arrangements.

[0076] Figure 3Shows the permanent connection of the scarf 4. The scarf 4 is fixed by sewing along the connecting line. It can be sewn into the seam of the cushion 1. It can be connected in other ways, such as using an adhesive connection.

[0077] Figure 9 and Figure 10 as well as Figure 11 Shows the use of the pocket for storing the scarf 4 when the scarf 4 is not in use. Figure 9 and Figure 10 The pocket 20 in Figure 11 is an internal pocket, while the pocket 21 in Figures 12 to 14 is an external pocket. Although the scarf is permanently connected in these arrangements and the scarf is fixed within the pocket, alternatively, such pockets can store detachable scarves, such as the scarf shown in

[0078] and discussed below, or other scarves. Figure 9 and Figure 10 Referring to Figure 10 and

[0079] Figure 11 The internal pocket 20 is formed in any conventional manner and includes a closure element 23 for closing the pocket when the scarf is not in use. The closure element 23 in this device is a hook-and-loop fastener, but can include any suitable alternative, including press studs, buttons, etc. The pocket opening extends in a direction generally transverse to the longitudinal axis of the pillow portion, and the scarf 4 has a connecting line 24 parallel thereto (indicated by the arrow in Figure 9 and Figure 10 ), however, this need not be the case, the pocket 20 can be oriented in other ways, and the scarf 4 can be connected in other ways. The scarf 4 is preferably sewn in place, but can be held in place in any other way, including by an adhesive.

[0080] Figures 12 to 14 Shows an exemplary detachable scarf 4 according to a preferred embodiment. A first loop 12 is provided at the first end portion of the scarf 4 to receive the trunk portion 3 passing therethrough (as shown in Figure 13 ) so as to connect the scarf 4 to the end portion of the trunk portion 3 near the pillow portion 2. The first end portion of the scarf 4 is provided with a hole 13 for connection to the fixing means 14 on the pillow portion 2 (as shown in Figure 13 and Figure 14As shown). In this device, the fixing device 14 includes a ring that can be opened. It is closed by a press button 15. It should be understood that the fixing device 14 can include any optional suitable device, including for example a button or a clip, or a ring arranged in other ways. It should also be understood that the first ring 12 of the scarf 4 can be replaced by a hole in the scarf, and / or the hole 13 can be replaced by a ring. In addition, a fixing device, including any of the above exemplary fixing devices, can be provided near the end of the main body portion 3 close to the pillow portion 2. In this case, the main body portion 3 will not pass through any ring or hole and be accommodated by them.

[0081] Regardless of the connecting device of any detachable scarf 4, the scarf preferably has a ridge 16 provided at its first end portion. The ridge 16 can be formed by folding or rolling up the end of the scarf 4 and fixing it to keep it folded or rolled up; or it can be formed by connecting a piece of material or fabric with greater hardness than the rest of the scarf 4. The ridge 16 can define the connection line of the detachable scarf. Any fixed scarf can be provided with a ridge, although they are likely not to include a ridge.

[0082] The optional detachable scarf 4 can include a suitable hook-and-loop fastener arrangement for engaging the outer surface of the cushion or corresponding fasteners on the outer surface of the cushion or in the pockets 20, 21 (if provided), or any optional fixing device, such as a press button, a button or a clip. Any hook-and-loop fastener can extend along the ridge 16 if it exists.

[0083] It can be clearly seen from the above arrangement that during use, the cushion and the scarf are preferably asymmetrical. The pillow portion is preferably symmetrical in its static state but asymmetrical during use (i.e., the main body extends forward under the chin - depicting a main body version). The scarf is specially designed to adapt to the asymmetry of the cushion during use. The scarf is connected to the asymmetrical part of the cushion (i.e., the main body portion). It does not connect back to the pillow portion.

[0084] There are several advantages for the scarf to be connected to the main body portion rather than back to the pillow portion:

[0085] 1. The scarf prevents the pillow portion from slipping by fixing it in place.

[0086] 2. Pulling the scarf will push the pillow portion towards the side closer to the head, thus providing more support.

[0087] 3. Generally, the tighter the scarf is wrapped around the user's neck, the more the pillow portion is pushed into one side of the head, and thus the greater the support force. In contrast, if the scarf is to be wrapped around the neck, if the user wraps the scarf tightly around the neck (to increase the support force) and then connects the scarf back to the pillow portion, this will cause the scarf to be wrapped too tightly around the user's neck (i.e., it will suffocate them). However, for the combination of the present cushion and scarf, according to any of the arrangements described above, the scarf is connected to the main body portion, so the main body portion bears all the tension from the scarf. This means that the scarf can be tightened without the scarf wrapping around the user's neck.

[0088] Although the cushion has been described as being used in a single direction and the scarf being wrapped around the user's neck, the unique arrangement of the cushion allows it to be used in different directions and / or the scarf to be wrapped in other ways.

[0089] Figure 15 An exemplary alternative is shown, where the scarf has the same orientation as described above, but where the scarf passes under the user's arm. This can be directly contrasted with Figure 5 the use of the cushion shown.

[0090] In another direction (not shown), the cushion can be used with the main body portion placed on the back of the neck (instead of under the chin). To use the pillow in this direction, the pillow portion will be folded together substantially along its symmetry line (forming an "apostrophe shape") and used on the side of the head. Then the main body is placed on the back of the neck. The scarf will still come from the back side of the pillow portion, but will wrap around the front of the user's neck and then connect to the main body portion on the other side of the head.

[0091] It should be understood that any feature of the different arrangements can be adopted in isolation and integrated into any other arrangement. In addition, those skilled in the art will readily understand many alternative arrangements within the scope of the claims. The presently described arrangements should not be considered as limiting the scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A mat, comprising: a pillow portion, an elongate trunk portion, and a scarf; the pillow portion having a front side and a rear side, and defining a support surface on the front side, the support surface being adapted to support the head of a user of the mat; the trunk portion extending away from the pillow portion and having a distal end remote from the pillow portion, wherein the scarf is connected to the pillow portion and / or the trunk portion at a first end portion of the scarf, and in use, the scarf is engageable with the trunk portion at a portion of the scarf spaced from the first end portion; wherein the pillow portion projects from opposite sides of the trunk portion transversely to an elongation of the trunk portion; wherein the scarf is connected to the pillow portion and / or the trunk portion along a connecting line at a point corresponding to a substantially midpoint of the pillow portion in a longitudinal axis direction of the pillow portion, the connecting line extending in a direction substantially transverse to the longitudinal axis direction of the pillow portion.

2. The mat according to claim 1, wherein, the scarf extends from the rear side of the pillow portion.

3. The mat according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, connecting means are provided for detachably connecting the scarf to the trunk portion at a portion of the scarf spaced from the first end portion of the scarf.

4. The mat according to claim 3, wherein, the connecting means includes one or more openings in the scarf, the openings being adapted to receive the trunk portion passing therethrough to hook the scarf on the trunk portion.

5. The mat according to claim 4, wherein, a plurality of the openings are provided in the scarf, the openings being spaced apart from each other along the length of the scarf.

6. The mat according to claim 1, wherein, the mat includes a pocket for storing the scarf when not in use.

7. The mat according to claim 1, wherein, the scarf is detachable and has a first loop or hole at a first end portion of the scarf for receiving the trunk portion passing therethrough to connect the scarf to an end portion of the trunk portion adjacent the pillow portion.

8. The mat according to claim 7, wherein, the scarf has a second loop or hole at a first end portion of the scarf for connection to a fixing means on the pillow portion.

9. The mat according to claim 1, wherein, the scarf has a ridge at its first end portion.

10. The mat according to claim 1, wherein, the trunk portion is configured to be usable to contact the underside of the chin of a user whose head is supported by the pillow portion.

11. The mat according to claim 1, wherein, the mat is substantially symmetric such that the pillow portion is adapted to support the head of a user from either side of the user's head.

12. The mat according to claim 1, wherein, the mat is substantially symmetric about a plane bisecting the pillow portion.

Images