Adaptable headrest aid

Abstract

An adjustable headrest aid that includes the following: i) a body 101 which a user can access as a pillow, wherein the body 101 is made with a layer of fur to provide the user with a soothing experience while the user places the body 101 under the headboard while resting; ii) an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 102, installed on the body 101 and paired with a processor to capture and process multiple images of the environment in order to determine the dimensions of the head and neck area of ​​the user resting above the body 101, wherein the microcontroller, on this basis, operates an air compressor 201 installed with the body 101 to inflate an inflatable element 202 configured inside the body 101 to provide the user with a comfortable resting experience; iii) an LDR sensor (Light Dependent Resistor) configured on the body 101 to monitor the ambient light intensity, the microcontroller, on the basis of which, actuates an L-shaped telescopic rod 103 attached to the body 101 to extend and unfold a curved plate 104 attached to the rod 103 above the user's head to provide a shade over the user; iv) several motorized hinge joints 105 integrated into the plate 104, wherein, upon successful extension of the rod 103s, the microcontroller actuates the hinge joints 105 to modulate the shape of the plate 104 with regard to providing shade from multiple directions and effectively protecting the entire face area of ​​the user from incident light; and v) an electronic nozzle 107, which is connected to a chamber 106 containing liquid fragrance, and which is built into the body 101, wherein the microcontroller detects an unpleasant odor in the environment via an odor sensor located on the body 101, and activates the nozzle 107 to release the liquid fragrance into the environment in order to eliminate the unpleasant odor.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to an adaptable head support device that adapts to the head and neck area of ​​the user to provide comfort to the user while sleeping and thereby improve the user's sleeping experience. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] An adaptable pillow arises from the need for greater comfort and privacy during rest or relaxation. This aid combines the functionality of a pillowcase with the added feature of a built-in hood that covers the user's head and provides shade for improved sleep quality or relaxation. Traditionally, eye masks are used as a sleep aid in bed to cover the eyes and prevent light from entering, allowing for better sleep.

[0003] While the traditional method of using an eye mask as a sleep aid has proven effective to some extent, it does have limitations. They may not provide the same level of comfort as a headrest, leading to discomfort or difficulty maintaining the hood during sleep. Furthermore, they are not readily available and may require custom fitting, making them less accessible to consumers. Therefore, there is a need to develop a device that provides a consistent means of securing to the user's pillow where conventional methods may fail, and that meets the evolving needs of modern needs.

[0004] US2013000042A1 discloses a combined sleeve / glove pillow that provides additional comfort for arm sleepers and in situations such as work breaks or unusual sleeping spaces. A padded cylindrical pillow material, between 1 and 3 cm thick and between 20 and 30 cm long, is covered with fabric through which an arm can slide. The cylindrical portion is then connected to an upper and lower hand portion, each made of fabric-covered pillow material and attached to each other. The pillow provides comfort in various situations while allowing the user to freely move their hand. While US'042 provides additional comfort for arm sleepers and in situations such as work breaks or unusual sleeping spaces, these devices lack monitoring of the light intensity in the user's environment, thus providing the user with a means of shading.

[0005] WO2015154685A1 discloses a pillow system for resting and sleeping. The pillow is filled with soft and elastic materials, such as sponges. A forehead pillow is provided, and the forehead is the location where the head touches the forehead pillow when in use. Face pillows are also provided under two sides of the forehead pillow. A base is also included, and the head pillow and face pillows are provided on the base. Although WO '685 discloses a pillow system for resting and sleeping, these devices lack monitoring of the light intensity in the user's environment and, accordingly, provide a means of providing a shadow over the user.

[0006] Conventionally, many devices have been developed to provide the user with the opportunity to rest and sleep, but these devices lack the ability to detect the light intensity in the user's environment while resting and accordingly, they provide the user with the opportunity to avoid any discomfort while resting.

[0007] To overcome the above-mentioned disadvantages, there is a need in the art to develop a device that provides the user with a means of supporting the head area in an automated manner according to the dimensions of the user's head and neck area, thereby providing the user with comfort while resting. Additionally, the device is also capable of monitoring the light intensity in the user's environment and, accordingly, providing the user with a means of casting a shadow over the user. OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION

[0008] The main object of the present invention is to overcome the disadvantages of the prior art.

[0009] The aim of the present invention is to develop a device that is capable of adapting to the head and neck area of ​​the user in order to provide comfort to the user while sleeping and thereby improve the user's sleeping experience.

[0010] Another object of the present invention is to develop a device capable of monitoring the intensity of light in the user's environment and, accordingly, providing the user with a means of casting a shadow over the user and thereby preventing the user from feeling uncomfortable during his or her rest time.

[0011] Another object of the present invention is to develop a device capable of detecting any unpleasant odor in the user's environment and accordingly providing the user with a means to eliminate the unpleasant odor.

[0012] Another object of the present invention is to develop a device that provides the user with a means to massage the head area of ​​the user while resting.

[0013] The foregoing and other objects, features and advantages of the present invention will become readily apparent upon closer examination of the following detailed description of the preferred embodiment as illustrated in the accompanying drawings. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0014] The present invention relates to an adaptable headrest device capable of adapting to the user's head and neck area to provide comfort to the user while resting and thereby improve the user's sleeping experience.

[0015] According to one embodiment of the present invention, an adjustable headrest device comprises a body that a user can access as a pillow, the body being made with a fur layer to provide the user with a comfortable experience while the user places the body under the head area while resting, an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit installed on the body to capture the dimensions of the head and neck area of ​​the user resting above the body, an air compressor installed with the body to inflate an inflatable element configured within the body to provide the user with a comfortable resting experience, an LDR (light dependent resistor) sensor configured on the body that monitors the intensity of light in the environment, a L-shaped telescopic rod connected to the body to form a curved plate,which is connected to the rod to unfold over the user's headboard to provide a shade over the user, a plurality of motorized hinge joints integrated into the panel to modulate the shape of the panel to provide shadows from multiple directions and effectively cover the entire face part of the user from incoming light, an odor sensor positioned on the body detects any unpleasant odor in the environment, an electronic nozzle connected to a chamber stored with liquid fragrance installed in the body to release the liquid fragrance into the environment to eliminate the unpleasant odor.

[0016] While the invention has been described and shown with particular reference to the preferred embodiment, it will be apparent that variations are possible which would fall within the scope of the present invention. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0017] These and other features, aspects and advantages of the present invention will become more apparent from the following description, the appended claims and the accompanying drawings: Fig. shows a perspective view of an adaptable headrest auxiliary device; and Fig. shows an isometric view of an internal part of a body connected to the proposed device. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0018] The following description contains the preferred best mode for carrying out an embodiment of the present invention. From this description of the invention, it will be apparent that the invention is not limited to the illustrated embodiments, but that the invention also includes a variety of modifications and embodiments thereto. Therefore, the present description should be considered as illustrative and not restrictive. While the invention is susceptible to various modifications and alternative constructions, it should be understood that there is no intention to limit the invention to the specific form disclosed, but on the contrary, the invention is intended to cover all modifications, alternative constructions, and equivalents falling within the spirit and scope of the invention as defined in the claims.

[0019] In any embodiment described herein, the open-ended terms “comprising,” “comprises,” and the like (which are synonymous with “including,” “with,” and “characterized by”) may be replaced by the respective partially closed terms “consists essentially of,” “consists essentially of,” and the like, or the respective closed terms “consists of,” “consists of,” and the like.

[0020] The singular forms “a”, “an” and “the” used here refer to both the singular and the plural, unless expressly intended to refer to only the singular.

[0021] The present invention relates to an adaptable headrest device capable of adapting to the user's head and neck area to provide comfort to the user while resting and thereby improve the user's sleeping experience.

[0022] Referring to Fig.1 shows a perspective view of an adaptive headrest auxiliary device and an isometric view of an inner part of a body connected to the proposed device, comprising a body 101 accessible to a user as a cushion, an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 102 installed on the body 101, an air compressor 201 installed with the body 101, an inflatable element 202 configured within the body 101, an L-shaped telescopic rod 103 connected to the body 101, a curved plate 104 connected to the rod 103, several motorized hinge joints 105 integrated into the plate 104, a motorized blower 108 installed on the body 101, a pair of massage units 203 integrated on the body 101, and an electronic nozzle. 107, which is connected to a chamber 106,which is installed on the body 101.,

[0023] The device disclosed herein includes a body 101 that the user can access as a pillow. The body 101 is provided with a fur layer to provide the user with a comfortable feeling when placing the body 101 under the headboard while resting.

[0024] When the body 101 is placed under the user's head in a resting state, an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 102 installed on the body 101 is activated by a built-in microcontroller to capture multiple images of the user's surroundings. The imaging unit 102 includes an image pickup assembly with a set of lenses that captures multiple images of the user's surroundings, and the captured images are stored in the memory of the imaging unit 102 in the form of optical data. The imaging unit 102 also includes a processor integrated with artificial intelligence protocols, so the processor processes the optical data and extracts the required data from the captured images. The extracted data is converted into digital pulses and bits and forwarded to the microcontroller.The microcontroller processes the received data and determines the dimensions of the head and neck part of the user resting on the body 101.

[0025] The microcontroller mentioned here is preferably an Arduino microcontroller. The Arduino microcontroller used here controls the overall functionality of the components connected to it. The Arduino microcontroller is an open-source programming platform. The microcontroller receives data from various electronic units and generates a command signal for further processing.

[0026] Based on the determined dimensions of the head and neck of the user resting above the body 101, the microcontroller actuates an air compressor 201 installed with the body 101 to inflate an inflatable element 202 configured within the body 101 to provide the user with a comfortable lying experience. The air compressor 201 works by sucking in air and then compressing it to increase the pressure. The air compressor 201 used here consists of an impeller equipped with a motor and connected to the microcontroller. The mechanical energy of the motor is used to transfer air from the surrounding environment to the inflatable element 202. The inflatable element 202 consists of several thin polymer films. When air is introduced into the inflatable element 202 with the help of the air compressor 201, the films are inflated and the element 202 becomes soft, providing comfort to the user.When the motor is actuated, the impeller rotates to draw in the ambient air and directs compressed air into the inflatable element 202 at high speed to inflate the element 202 and provide the user with a comfortable lying experience.

[0027] An LDR (Light Dependent Resistor) sensor located on the body 101 monitors the light intensity in the user's environment. The LDR sensor consists of a photodiode capable of measuring the light intensity. When a light beam from the environment hits the photodiode, the photodiode tends to release electrons, causing an electric current to flow. The higher the light intensity, the stronger the electric current generated by the sensor, which is then passed on to the microcontroller. The LDR (Light Dependent Resistor) sensor sends the detected data to the microcontroller, which analyzes the received data to monitor the light intensity in the user's environment.

[0028] Based on the monitored light intensity in the user's environment, the microcontroller actuates an L-shaped telescopic rod 103 connected to the body 101 to extend a curved plate 104 connected to the rod 103 over the user's head to create a shadow over the user.

[0029] The L-shaped telescopic rod 103 is connected to a pneumatic unit comprising an air compressor 201, air cylinders, air valves, and a piston, which work together to assist in the extension and retraction of the rod 103. The pneumatic unit is controlled by the microcontroller. The microcontroller actuates a valve to allow compressed air from the compressor 201 to pass into the cylinder. The compressed air continues to build pressure against the piston, causing the piston to push and extend. The piston is connected to the rod 103, and due to the applied pressure, the rod 103 extends. Similarly, the microcontroller retracts the telescopic rod 103 by closing the valve, causing the piston to retract. In this way, the microcontroller controls the extension / retraction of the rod 103 to place the curved plate 104 over the user's head for shading.

[0030] Upon successful extension of the rod 103, the microcontroller actuates several motorized hinge joints 105 integrated into the plate 104 to modulate the shape of the plate 104 to provide shadows from multiple directions and effectively shield the user's entire face from incident light. The motorized hinge joint consists of a pair of wings bolted to the surfaces of the plate 104. The wings are interconnected by a cylindrical member 202, into which a shaft is integrated, coupled to a DC motor to impart the required movement to the hinge. Clockwise and counterclockwise rotation of the shaft assists in opening and closing the hinge, respectively.Therefore, the microcontroller actuates the hinge, which in turn changes the shape of the plate 104 to provide shadows from multiple directions and effectively protect the entire facial area of ​​the user from incoming light.

[0031] A motorized ball joint, located between the rod 103 and the plate 104, is actuated by the microcontroller to impart multi-axis rotational movement to the plate 104 to shield the user's facial area from light. The ball joint allows rotation of the plate 104 to rotate the plate 104 to a desired angle. The ball joint is a coupling consisting of a ball joint securely locked within a socket joint, with the ball joint capable of 360-degree rotation within the socket, thus enabling the required rotational movement of the plate 104. The ball joint is driven by a DC motor actuated by the microcontroller, thus enabling multi-directional movement of the plate 104 to shield the user's facial area from light.

[0032] Additionally, an odor sensor attached to the body 101 detects any unpleasant odor in the user's environment. The odor sensor, often considered an electronic nose, can detect changes caused by specific odor molecules in the user's environment. The odor sensor used here is preferably a surface acoustic wave (SAW) sensor, which uses acoustic waves propagating along the surface of a piezoelectric substrate. When the target molecules interact with the user's environment, the properties of the acoustic waves change, resulting in changes in frequency and speed. These changes are measured by the microcontroller to detect an unpleasant odor in the user's environment.

[0033] Based on the detected unpleasant odor in the user's environment, the microcontroller actuates an electronic nozzle 107 connected to a chamber 106 filled with liquid fragrance and built into the body 101 to dispense the liquid fragrance into the environment and eliminate the unpleasant odor. The electronic nozzle 107 operates using electrical energy to automate the flow of the solution in a controlled flow pattern by converting the pressure energy of a liquid into kinetic energy, which increases the velocity of the liquid for delivery. When the microcontroller actuates the nozzle 107, the electric motor or pump pressurizes the liquid fragrance in the chamber 106, significantly increasing the pressure. The high pressure allows the solution to be sprayed with great force into the user's environment to eliminate the unpleasant odor.

[0034] In addition, a pair of massage units 203 integrated into the body 101 are rotated by the microcontroller to massage the user's head area. The massage units 203 consist of a ball-like structure connected to a motor via a shaft. When the microcontroller actuates the massage units 203, the motor begins to rotate clockwise to impart a rotational motion to the ball-like structure, causing the ball-like structure to rotate to provide a massage sensation to the user's head.

[0035] Additionally, a PIR (passive infrared) sensor attached to the body 101 detects the presence of insects. The passive infrared (PIR) sensors measure the thermal energy in the environment using a pair of pyroelectric sensors. The PIR sensor consists of several infrared-sensitive elements connected in a grid that generate electrical signals based on the infrared radiation received by the sensor. The sensors consist of two halves arranged side by side in the housing 101 and snap into place when the sensor detects a significant change in the infrared radiation in the chamber 106s. Thermal energy is emitted by anything with a temperature above absolute zero in the form of electromagnetic radiation. The electromagnetic radiation is emitted in the form of infrared wavelengths, which are normally invisible to the naked eye.Infrared wavelengths are used to calculate the distance between two bodies and their position. Insects, being cold-blooded, emit infrared radiation in the chamber 106, which causes a change in the infrared radiation received by the sensor elements. This change is detected by comparing the signals from the two halves. The sensor's electronics process the difference signals and, if a significant change occurs, trigger an output signal to the microcontroller. The microcontroller further processes the signal to detect the presence of insects and flies.

[0036] Based on the detected presence of insects and flies in the user's environment, the microcontroller activates a motorized fan 108 installed on the body 101 to repel the insects and flies. The motorized fan 108 consists of a motor connected via a shaft to a set of blades, which are connected to a motor for repelling the insects and flies. The motor is the key component that converts electrical energy into mechanical energy to move the blades. When the microcontroller activates the fan 108, the motor begins to rotate the blades clockwise or counterclockwise, transmitting the rotational motion to the blades, thus repelling the insects and flies.

[0037] Finally, a battery is installed in the device which is connected to the microcontroller that supplies power to all the electrically operated components that require a certain amount of electrical energy to perform their functions and operation in an efficient manner. The battery used here is usually a dry battery, which is made of lithium-ion material and provides the device with a long lifespan along with an efficient direct current that helps all the components to function properly and efficiently. Since the device is battery-operated, it does not require any electrical voltage for its operation. The presence of a battery leads to the portability of the device, meaning the user can carry and move the device from one place to another as per their need.

[0038] The present invention works best in the following manner, where the body 101 is accessed by the user as the pillow. When the body 101 is placed under the user's head while resting, the artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 102 is activated by the microcontroller to determine the dimensions of the user's head and neck resting above the body 101. Based on the determined dimensions of the user's head and neck resting above the body 101, the microcontroller actuates the air compressor 201 to inflate the inflatable member 202 to provide the user with a comfortable lying experience. The LDR (Light Dependent Resistor) monitors the light intensity in the user's environment.Based on the monitored light intensity in the user's environment, the microcontroller operates the L-shaped telescopic rod 103 to extend it and place the curved plate 104 over the user's head to shade the user. After the rod 103 is successfully extended, the microcontroller operates several motorized hinge joints 105 to modulate the shape of the plate 104 to provide shade from multiple directions, effectively shielding the user's entire face from incident light. Furthermore, the odor sensor detects any unpleasant odor in the user's environment. Based on the detected unpleasant odor in the user's environment, the microcontroller operates the electronic nozzle 107 to dispense the liquid fragrance in the user's environment.

[0039] Although the scope of the invention has been described herein with limited reference to specific embodiments, this description is not intended to be limiting. Various modifications to the disclosed embodiments, as well as alternative embodiments of the invention, will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the description of the invention. QUOTES CONTAINED IN THE DESCRIPTION

[0000] This list of documents submitted by the applicant was generated automatically and is included solely for the convenience of the reader. This list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA assumes no liability for any errors or omissions. Cited patent literature

[0000] US 2013000042A1

[0004] WO 2015154685A1

[0005]

Claims

[1] An adaptable headrest assist device comprising: i) a body 101 that a user can access as a pillow, the body 101 being made with a fur layer to provide the user with a soothing experience while the user places the body 101 under the headboard while resting; ii) an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 102 installed on the body 101 and paired with a processor to capture and process multiple images of the environment to determine the dimensions of the head and neck area of ​​the user resting over the body 101, based on which the microcontroller actuates an air compressor 201 installed with the body 101 to inflate an inflatable element 202 configured within the body 101 to provide the user with a comfortable resting experience; iii) an LDR (Light Dependent Resistor) sensor configured on the body 101 to monitor the light intensity in the environment, based on which the microcontroller actuates an L-shaped telescopic rod 103 attached to the body 101 to extend and unfold a curved plate 104 attached to the rod 103 over the user's head to provide a shadow over the user; iv) a plurality of motorized hinge joints 105 integrated into the plate 104, wherein upon successful extension of the rod 103s, the microcontroller actuates the hinge joints 105 to modulate the shape of the plate 104 with a view to providing shadows from multiple directions and effectively shielding the entire facial area of ​​the user from incident light; and v) an electronic nozzle 107 connected to a chamber 106 containing liquid fragrance and incorporated in the body 101, wherein the microcontroller, upon detecting an unpleasant odor in the environment via an odor sensor located on the body 101, actuates the nozzle 107 to release the liquid fragrance into the environment to eliminate the unpleasant odor. [2] The device of claim 1, wherein a motorized ball joint is arranged between the rod 103 and the plate 104, which is actuated by the microcontroller to cause the plate 104 to rotate in multiple axes to protect the user's facial area from light. [3] The device according to claim 1, wherein a temperature sensor is installed on the body 101 to detect the ambient temperature, whereupon the microcontroller controls the operation of a Peltier unit configured within the body 101 to maintain an optimal temperature level within the body 101 to provide the user with a comfortable resting experience. [4] The device according to claim 1, wherein a PIR (Passive Infrared Sensor) sensor is installed on the body 101 to detect the presence of insects and flies in the vicinity of the body 101, and upon successful detection, the microcontroller operates a motorized fan 108 installed on the body 101 to drive away the insects and flies. [5] The device according to claim 1, wherein a pair of massage units 203 are integrated into the body 101 and are controlled by the microcontroller to rotate to massage the head part of the user. [6] The device of claim 1, wherein the device is associated with a battery used to power electrical and electronically operated components associated with the device.

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