Pillow and method for supporting head

Abstract

To provide a pillow capable of generating sounds that promote sleep with movement of a head without inhibiting the movement of the head while stably holding the head.SOLUTION: A pillow comprises: a head support sheet 2a formed of a flexible thin sheet; a base member 2b capable of forming a predetermined fluid holding space 10 between the base member and the head support sheet with a circumference of the head support sheet joined; a cushion body 3 held on the head support sheet side of the base member; and a fluid 5 held in the fluid holding space, and having a predetermined fluidity. A head 6 can eliminate the fluid in the fluid holding space to bring an inner surface of the head support sheet into contact with the cushion body in a predetermined range, and the pillow is configured such that a weight of the head can be supported by both a pressure of the fluid acting through the head support sheet and the cushion body that can be deformed by the head.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a pillow and a head supporting method in the pillow, and more particularly to a pillow that can hold the head securely while sleeping, can easily move the head when turning over in sleep, and can support the head in various ways, and a method of supporting the head in the pillow. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, various pillows for a good night's sleep have been provided. In recent years, pillows using a sponge-like material (hereinafter referred to as a low-resilience sponge) that changes its surface shape according to the shape of the head when pressure is applied to the head and can hold the head with uniform pressure while maintaining this changed shape, and pillows filled with a fluid such as water have been provided.

[0003] Furthermore, in recent years, research into sleep has progressed, and various pillows incorporating the results of that research are now available. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Patent Publication 2002-159388 [Patent Document 2] Patent Publication 2009-207750 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] People turn over in their sleep several times to several dozen times. Not only is turning over extremely important for sleep, but research has shown that turning over infrequently can cause back pain and the like. When turning over in sleep, the head also moves, but if the head cannot move smoothly, it becomes difficult to turn over in sleep. In addition, if you go to sleep with the muscles around your neck tense, or if the movement of your head is hindered when turning over in sleep, you are likely to develop stiff neck and shoulders. Furthermore, if a large force is applied to the head when turning over in sleep, there is an increased risk of developing a neck injury (a type of sprain).

[0006] A pillow using the above-mentioned low-resilience sponge can apply a uniform force to a wide area of ​​the head and can hold the head in a natural position. However, a pillow using a low-resilience sponge holds the head in a sinking manner and has high shape retention in this state. Therefore, in order to move the head, the above-mentioned low-resilience sponge, which has been deformed according to the shape of the head, must be further deformed. This creates a problem in that a large resistance force is generated to the movement of the head, which impedes the movement of the head when turning over in sleep.

[0007] On the other hand, in a pillow in which a fluid such as water is filled in one storage space, the fluid can flow freely within the storage space, so there is very little resistance when the head rolls and moves. In particular, there is almost no resistance when the moving speed is low. Therefore, in a pillow that supports the head with the fluid, there is almost no resistance to the movement of the head, and the movement of the head is not hindered.

[0008] However, since there is almost no resistance when the head moves, the head moves significantly even with a small force. This makes it difficult to stably hold the head in a specified position and posture. In addition, since the head position can be changed without resistance, people often feel unstable when they are starting to sleep or while they are sleeping. Furthermore, if there is little resistance to the movement of the head, there is also the problem that the head easily falls off the pillow.

[0009] In the above-mentioned Patent Document 1, the space filled with fluid is divided so that the head can be stably held. However, because the movement of the fluid is restricted by dividing the space, the resistance when the head moves does not decrease. Also, in order for the head to move (roll), it needs to overcome the step formed between the divided spaces, so the resistance to moving the head changes significantly, which may disturb sleep.

[0010] In order to solve the above problems, the inventors of the present invention have devised the pillow according to Patent No. 7108991. This pillow supports the weight of the head with both a deformable bag-shaped sealed container made of a flexible thin sheet filled with fluid, and a cushion body arranged below the sealed container, thereby stably holding the head and reducing resistance when moving, promoting sleep.

[0011] In the above invention, the cushion body is disposed below the sealed container as a separate body, and therefore, when using the pillow, the cushion body and the sealed container must be stacked together. Therefore, if the cushion body and the sealed container are misaligned, the comfort of use may be reduced. In addition, since the cushion body and the sealed container are separate bodies, a separate member such as a cover is required to integrate them. Furthermore, the sealed container is formed into a bag shape from a flexible thin sheet, and is not filled with the maximum amount of fluid that it can hold. Therefore, there is a problem that the sealed container has low shape retention and is easily deformed and damaged. Therefore, some shape retention member is required when transporting the pillow, and there is also a problem that care must be taken when handling the pillow.

[0012] The present invention has been devised to solve the above-mentioned problems, and has an object to provide a pillow that stably holds the head without hindering head movement, and further has improved shape retention and strength, by placing a cushion body in a fluid retention space filled with fluid and integrating the cushion body and the fluid retention space. [Means for solving the problem]

[0013] The present invention is a pillow for supporting the head, comprising a head support sheet formed from a flexible thin sheet, a base member to which the periphery of the head support sheet is joined to form a predetermined fluid retention space between the head support sheet, a cushion body held on the head support sheet side of the base member, and a fluid having a predetermined fluidity that is held in the fluid retention space, wherein the head can displace the fluid in the fluid retention space and bring the inner surface of the head support sheet into contact with the cushion body within a predetermined range, and the weight of the head can be supported by both the pressure of the fluid acting through the head support sheet and the cushion body which is deformed by the head.

[0014] The head support sheet is made of a flexible thin sheet and the fluid holding space is filled with a predetermined amount of the fluid, so that the head is held on the cushion body via the head support sheet in a state where the fluid below the head in the fluid holding space is expelled by the weight of the head. The weight of the head is supported by the pressure of the fluid acting via the head support sheet and the cushion body. Since the fluid is caused to flow in the fluid holding space by the movement of the head, almost no resistance to deformation of the head support sheet is generated. On the other hand, a movement resistance is generated according to the amount of deformation of the cushion body, but the movement resistance is significantly smaller than when the entire weight of the head is supported by the cushion body.

[0015] That is, in the present invention, the weight of the head is supported not only by the pressure from the fluid acting through the head support sheet, but also by the cushion body. That is, the fluid is filled so that the fluid between the head support sheet and the cushion body is removed by the weight of the user's head, and the inner surface of the head support sheet and the cushion body are brought into contact with each other within a predetermined range. With this configuration, the head can be supported by two forces, the pressure acting from the fluid through the head support sheet and the pressure acting from the cushion body.

[0016] The cushion body may be made of various materials as long as it is deformed by the weight of the head and generates deformation resistance. In addition to materials that can be used when immersed in the fluid, the cushion body may be made of materials that cannot be used when immersed in the fluid, as described below. The force acting on the head from the cushion body is not limited to elastic force. For example, a cushion body that utilizes the force generated when an aggregate of red beans, buckwheat husks, etc. is deformed may be used.

[0017] The cushion body may be an elastic body with no air permeability, such as a sponge body having closed cells. Alternatively, a porous elastic body may be used, such as a sponge body having open cells or a fibrous intertwining body, which is configured so that the fluid can flow within the porous elastic body when immersed in the fluid. In this case, the fluid removed from the cushion body is moved to other fluid holding spaces, so that the fluid pressure does not affect the deformation of the cushion body and the deformation characteristics of the cushion body do not change. In addition, since the fluid within the cushion body is moved to the surrounding fluid holding spaces, it is expected to have the effect of increasing the reaction force acting from the fluid.

[0018] It is also possible to use materials that are generally used as pillow materials but cannot be used by immersing them directly in fluids such as water due to deterioration, for example, particulate materials such as red beans and buckwheat husks. When using such materials, a cushion body can be used that is constructed by sealing and packaging an aggregate of the particulate materials in a deformable waterproof sheet or the like.

[0019] Unlike the fluid filled in the fluid holding space, the cushion body itself must be deformed to move the head, and resistance is generated when the head moves. The present invention is configured so that the weight of the head is shared and supported by both the pressure of the fluid filled in the fluid holding space filled with the fluid and the cushion body, thereby making it possible to stably hold the head in a predetermined position and reducing the resistance required for head movement associated with turning over, etc., compared to conventional pillows, so as not to disturb sleep.

[0020] The deformation amount of the fluid holding space and the deformation amount of the cushion body when the head is placed on the space changes in a complex manner depending on the fluid-fillable capacity (maximum fillable capacity) of the fluid holding space, the amount of fluid filled, the deformation characteristics of the cushion body, the size of the head, and the like. For this reason, it is difficult to define the characteristics of a pillow based on these many characteristics. In particular, if the filling rate of the fluid relative to the maximum fillable capacity of the fluid holding space is high, when the head is placed on the space, the head is supported by the fluid pressure without coming into contact with the cushion body, and the cushion body cannot support the weight of the head. Also, even if the filling rate of the fluid holding space is the same, the weight ratio of the head supported by the cushion body changes greatly depending on the shape of the pillow.

[0021] On the other hand, the area of ​​the range (contact surface) where the inner surface of the head support sheet comes into contact with the cushion body when a sphere having a predetermined diameter is pressed against it can be easily measured. Moreover, the area of ​​the contact range directly indicates the amount of deformation of the cushion body, and by identifying this, it is possible to specify the resistance to movement of the head, etc., and also to identify the characteristics of the pillow. The surface area of ​​the spherical crown of the sphere is proportional to the height of the sphere. In other words, the height to which the cushion body sinks into the sphere is proportional to the contact surface area of ​​the sunk sphere. Therefore, instead of the contact area, the height to which the sphere sinks into the cushion body can be measured and used as a reference.

[0022] When the head is placed on the head support sheet, the larger the area of ​​the region where the inner surface of the head support sheet contacts the cushion body, the larger the deformation amount of the cushion body and the weight supported by the cushion body. It is also clear that the larger the area of ​​the region where the inner surface of the head support sheet contacts the cushion body, the larger the deformation resistance of the cushion body when the head is moved.

[0023] Although the size of a person's head varies with age, it is not distributed widely. Therefore, if a person's head is assumed to be a sphere with a specific radius, it is possible to easily measure the area of ​​the contact region (or the height of the sphere crown) even if the deformation characteristics of each component (the shape of the fluid holding space and the cushion body) are different, and it is also possible to set a fluid holding space and a cushion body with required deformation characteristics by specifying the contact area where the inner surface of the head support sheet contacts the cushion body. In other words, it is possible to specify the characteristics of the pillow related to comfort by the contact area.

[0024] In the present invention, the fluid is filled in the fluid holding space so that the inner surface of the head support sheet and the cushion body can contact each other in a predetermined range in a state of use, i.e., in a state where the head is placed. The size and shape of a person's head vary depending on the person and age, but as described above, they fall within a certain range. Therefore, the range of the contact area in the state of use can be easily defined. In the present invention, when a sphere having a diameter of at least 20 cm is considered to be the head and pressed from above the head support sheet, the sphere displaces the fluid in the fluid holding space and the inner surface of the head support sheet contacts the cushion body in a predetermined range. That is, when the sphere considered to be the head is placed on a pillow, first, the sphere sinks into the fluid holding space via the head support sheet by an amount equivalent to the amount of fluid displaced from the fluid holding space by the sphere. Next, the sunk sphere brings the inner surface of the head support sheet into contact with the cushion body. Then, the sphere sinks into the cushion body so that the contact area of ​​the inner surface of the head support sheet increases. Furthermore, when the fluid displaced by the sphere reaches the maximum capacity of the fluid holding space, i.e., when there is no more volume to which the fluid displaced by the sphere can escape, the pressure in the fluid holding space increases and the sphere will no longer sink further into the fluid holding space. This deformation mode also occurs when various materials and shapes are used as the cushion body.

[0025] The circumference of a person's head (head circumference) is a criterion for choosing a hat, and is 570 mm on average for adult males, with a distribution ranging from 528 mm to 613 mm. If we assume that the head is spherical, the diameter is 181 mm on average, ranging from 168 mm to 195 mm, based on the head circumference value. Therefore, by setting a sphere having a diameter of at least 20 cm so that the sphere displaces the fluid in the fluid retention space and the inner surface of the head support sheet and the cushion body come into contact in a predetermined range when the head of almost all people is placed on the head support sheet, the inner surface of the head support sheet comes into contact with the cushion body. In addition, by using a sphere of the above diameter, it is possible to specify the range of the contact area when a person's head is placed on the head support sheet, that is, the weight range supported by the cushion body. In addition, when the weight and dimensions of the head are small, such as a child's head, it is possible that the weight of the head is supported only by the buoyancy of the fluid in the fluid retention space acting through the head support sheet (i.e., there is no contact between the head support sheet and the cushion body). However, since the specific gravity of the fluid that can ensure the fluidity required in the present invention is smaller than the specific gravity of the head, and it is unlikely that the entire head will sink into the fluid retention space, it is not considered necessary to take this into consideration.

[0026] By adopting the above configuration, it becomes possible to support the head by both the reaction force due to the pressure of the fluid filled in the fluid holding space and the reaction force acting due to the deformation of the cushion body. Note that, although the above contact area has been described in the case where the head is placed directly on the head support sheet, the weight of the head is ultimately supported by the fluid acting via the head support sheet and the cushion body, and similar effects can be obtained even if a thin sheet-like member such as a towel is placed on the upper surface of the head support sheet.

[0027] When the contact area between the head support sheet and the cushion body is small, the force acting from the cushion body is small, and the resistance when the head is moved is also small. In order to generate the required resistance to the movement of the head, it is desirable to configure the area of ​​the region where the inner surface of the head support sheet is in contact with the cushion body to be at least 1 / 20 of the total surface area of ​​the sphere (head).

[0028] Assuming that the head is spherical, when the inner surface of the head support sheet is brought into contact with the cushion body by 1 / 20 of the total surface area, the head will sink into the cushion body by a height of about 1 / 20 of the diameter. In order for the head to roll and move, the fluid in the fluid holding space and the cushion body must move. Since the fluid in the fluid holding space can flow easily, there is almost no resistance to deformation caused by the movement of the head. On the other hand, since the cushion body generates resistance to deformation, a certain resistance is generated against the movement of the head. In addition, since the cushion body is not a fluid and has an inherent resistance to deformation, a holding force is also generated to hold the head in a predetermined position and posture. In the present invention, since a part of the head weight is held by the cushion body, it is also easy to rock the head so that a part of the lower surface of the head is held. In other words, when a ship runs aground on a reef, it is in a state where it is rocked by the waves while maintaining a predetermined position. By allowing a certain degree of head swaying in a specified position, a certain sense of stability can be obtained, and the swaying is expected to have the effect of promoting blood circulation and relaxing the muscles in the neck etc., promoting sleep.

[0029] The resistance and holding force change according to the deformation characteristics of the cushion body. However, since it is not the entire weight of the head that acts on the cushion body, the movement resistance is smaller than when the entire head is directly supported by the cushion body as in conventional pillows, and the head can be moved more easily than with normal pillows. This makes it easier to turn over in sleep. On the other hand, since the entire weight of the head is not supported by a fluid as in a water pillow, a holding force is also generated to hold the head in a specified position.

[0030] It is desirable to configure the inner surface of the head support sheet so that it is in contact with the cushion over an area of ​​1 / 20 to 1 / 3 of the total surface area of ​​the head (if assumed to be a sphere, a sphere with a diameter of 20 cm), more preferably over an area of ​​1 / 10 to 1 / 3 of the total surface area. If the contact area is 1 / 20 or less of the total surface area of ​​the head, the resistance to movement of the head becomes small and the head cannot be stably supported. On the other hand, if the contact area is 1 / 3 or more, the head sinks significantly into the cushion (more than 1 / 3 of the diameter of the head, assumed to be a sphere, sinks into the cushion), which may make it difficult to move the head. By setting the area within the above range, it is possible to ensure an appropriate resistance to movement of the head.

[0031] The base member can be made of various materials as long as it can hold the cushion body. For example, it can be made of a plate-shaped material such as hard resin, wood, or aluminum that does not basically deform, or it can be made of a deformable sheet-shaped material similar to the head support sheet. Even if the base member is made of a flexible sheet similar to the head support sheet, the cushion body can be held on the head support sheet side of the base member. Since the cushion body has deformation resistance as described above, it can function as a shape-retaining member for the entire pillow by being placed in the fluid retention space. In particular, it can increase the shape retention of the fluid retention space, so it also functions as a reinforcing material for the pillow. Of course, if the base member is made of a hard plate-shaped member, the deformation of the head support sheet is restricted, so that the shape retention and strength are further increased.

[0032] When the cushion body is held in the fluid holding space, it is not necessary to fix and hold the cushion body on the base member, and it is sufficient that the cushion body is supported by the base member during use. That is, it is sufficient that the cushion body is configured to be held at a predetermined position on the base member at least in a use state with the head placed thereon. For example, when the cushion body is configured to be immersed in the fluid, it can be configured to be movable within a predetermined range in the fluid holding space when not in use, but to be held in a predetermined area of ​​the base member by placing the head thereon. For example, it can be configured to be provided with projections and recesses that can move within a predetermined range in the fluid holding space when separated from the cushion body, but can be positioned by fitting to the cushion body when it is in close contact with the cushion body.

[0033] The cushion body does not necessarily need to be immersed in the fluid and held in the fluid holding space. For example, the cushion body can be configured to be covered with a waterproof sheet and placed in the fluid holding space. Also, a cushion body sealing sheet made of a waterproof sheet can be placed in the center of the upper surface of the base member so as to cover the cushion body, and the edge of the cushion body sealing sheet and the upper surface of the base member can be joined to seal the cushion body between these members. The cushion body sealing sheet can be configured to cooperate with the head support sheet and the base member to form a fluid holding space that holds the fluid. In this case, the cushion body is in a form that bulges into the fluid holding space via the cushion body sealing sheet, which is substantially the same as a configuration directly placed in the fluid holding space, and the same action and effect can be obtained.

[0034] The base member may be configured to include a plate-like member whose edge can be joined to the edge of the head support sheet, and a cushion body sealing sheet formed of a flexible sheet or film and having an edge joined to the inside of the plate-like member so as to cover the surface of the cushion body and seal the cushion body between these members. This allows the cushion body to be held in the fluid holding space formed between the head support sheet and the plate-like member without coming into contact with the fluid.

[0035] Furthermore, an opening means for attaching and detaching the cushion body can be provided in the region of the base member where the cushion body is arranged. For example, the region of the plate member where the cushion body is arranged is opened, a lid body that can open and close the opening is provided, and the edge of the cushion body sealing sheet is joined to the edge of the opening, so that the cushion body can be replaceably provided on the base member. Moreover, the sealing sheet prevents the cushion body from coming into contact with the fluid. Therefore, cushion bodies made of various materials or materials having deformation characteristics can be replaceably arranged. This makes it possible to adopt cushion bodies according to the preferences and physical conditions of the user.

[0036] The characteristics of the pillow can be shown by specifying the diameter of a sphere that can bring the inner surface of the head support sheet into contact with the cushion body. As described later, there may be cases where the cushion body needs to be selected depending on the user's preference or sleeping posture. In addition, there may be cases where the characteristics (specifications) of the fluid retention space are specified, and the material and thickness of the cushion body are set so as to obtain the above-mentioned contact area. For this reason, it is necessary to specify the characteristics of the fluid retention space that are compatible with a predetermined range of cushion bodies. For example, when a material that constitutes the fluid retention space without the cushion body is placed on a flat surface that does not deform, and a sphere having a diameter of at least 25 cm is placed on it, the sphere can be configured to displace the fluid in the fluid retention space, so that the inner surface of the head support sheet is brought into contact with the inner surface of the base member, and the volume of the fluid retention space becomes full.

[0037] A sphere with a diameter of 25 cm is approximately 1.5 times the diameter of a human head. Since the flat surface and the sphere do not deform, theoretically, the inner surface of the head support sheet is brought into contact with the inner surface of the base member at one point. If a cushion body that can be configured as a pillow is provided in the standard fluid holding space, it is possible to bring the inner surface of the head support sheet into contact with the cushion body within the above-mentioned area range in the state of use.

[0038] As described in Patent Document 2, it has been proven that music and the like have a sleep-inducing effect. However, the effect of sound during sleep has not been well known until now. With recent progress in research, it has been found that certain sounds stimulate the brain during sleep, improve the quality of sleep, and are effective against dementia. In the present invention, the cushion body can be held in contact with the fluid in the fluid holding space. If a porous body through which the fluid can flow in and out is adopted as the cushion body, it is also possible to generate a flow sound flowing within the cushion body. For example, it is conceivable to place a reed or the like that vibrates due to the flow of the fluid within the cushion body.

[0039] In addition, the fluid holding space can be filled with a fluid containing a liquid having a predetermined fluidity and a gas in a predetermined ratio. By using a fluid mixture of liquid and gas, the movement of the head causes fluids with different viscosities to flow, resulting in a speed difference between these fluids. In addition, gas has a lower specific gravity than liquid, and is caused to flow along the upper inner surface of the fluid holding space, and becomes a type of bubble by the movement of the head, which is then divided and collected. Therefore, by mixing liquid and gas and filling the fluid holding space, a desired flow sound can be generated.

[0040] The detailed effects of the sound on the user while sleeping have not been proven. However, it is well known that natural sounds such as ocean waves and river babbling have a positive effect on inducing sleep. The sound generated in the fluid holding space according to the present invention is close to the above-mentioned waves and river babbling, and therefore can be expected to promote sleep induction.

[0041] In addition, cognitive function for sound is exerted even during sleep, and it has been demonstrated that sound stimulates the brain when turning over during REM sleep. Research has also shown that sound stimulation during sleep is effective in preventing or treating dementia. In the present invention, the flowing sound accompanying head movement is a sound generated by the movement of one's own head, and since it is the sound of liquid flowing, it is close to the sound of water in nature and does not disturb sleep.

[0042] The viscosity of the fluid can be set within a range that does not generate a large resistance due to the movement of the head, and can be set so as to generate a required flow sound by mixing with gas. For example, the viscosity of the liquid can be set in the range of 0.1 to 20 mPa·s. In addition, it is preferable to set the viscosity of the liquid to 0.5 to 10 mPa·s. If the viscosity of the liquid is less than 0.1 mPa·s, the flow resistance is small, and the generated flow sound is different from the flow sound of water. In addition, liquids less than 0.1 mPa·s tend to be volatile, making them difficult to use. On the other hand, if the viscosity of the liquid exceeds 20 mPa·s, the flow resistance increases and the flow speed decreases, making it difficult to generate a flow sound, and it is far from the sound of waves or babbling, so it is thought that the sleep-promoting effect cannot be expected. In addition, the viscosity of water at 20°C is 1.0 mPa·s, and in order to generate a flow sound close to the sound of waves or babbling of a river, it is preferable to adopt water as the fluid, or a fluid with a viscosity close to the viscosity of water.

[0043] Since the flow sound changes depending on the properties of the fluid, such as the viscosity, a fluid having a desired viscosity can be selected according to the user's preference. For example, water can be used as the fluid, and air can be used as the gas. Also, various types of liquid oils and fats that have flowability can be used as long as safety can be ensured. Although gas also has viscosity, it is very small compared to liquids, so the viscosity of the gas has almost no effect on the generated sound, and it is not considered necessary to take it into consideration.

[0044] The flow noise is also caused by the difference between the flow resistance (flow speed) of the liquid and the flow resistance (flow speed) of the gas, and the flow noise changes depending on the mixing ratio. For example, the flow noise changes depending on the mixing ratio, like a water fountain made by filling a rubber balloon with water and air.

[0045] To generate a flow sound suitable for sleep, it is preferable to use a mixture of the gas and the liquid at a volume ratio of 0.5 to 10% under atmospheric pressure. By setting the ratio within the above range, the flow of the liquid caused by the movement of the head can generate a sound similar to the sound of waves or the murmuring of a river, making it possible to generate a flow sound that can promote sleep.

[0046] If the mixing ratio is less than 0.5%, the flow noise will be too small to generate a flow noise that a sleeping person can detect, whereas if it exceeds 10%, the elasticity of the air will affect the deformation of the material that constitutes the fluid retention space, which may reduce the comfort of sleeping.

[0047] There are various reports that the sound of waves crashing on a sandy beach promotes sleep. The sound of waves crashing on a sandy beach includes the collision sound when the sand on the beach is fluidized by the fluid. Therefore, by mixing the particulate solids suspended in the fluid in the fluid holding space, it is possible to generate collision sounds between particles by moving the head, and a sound similar to the sound of waves crashing on a sandy beach can be generated.

[0048] The fluid retention space may contain 5 to 20% by volume of particulate solid matter. If the proportion of particulate solid matter is less than 5% by volume, it is difficult to generate effective collision sounds. On the other hand, if the proportion is 20% by volume or more, the fluidity of the fluid is reduced, and the above-mentioned effects of the present invention may be lost.

[0049] It is preferable that the particulate solid used has a specific gravity equal to or less than the specific gravity of the liquid filled in the fluid retention space, and a particle size equal to or less than one-fifth of the thickness of the fluid retention space when the pillow is placed on a flat surface.

[0050] By adopting a particulate solid having a specific gravity equal to or less than that of the liquid, the particulate solid can be held in a state of being suspended in the liquid. Therefore, the particulate solid can be effectively caused to flow with the flow of the liquid, and the required collision sound can be generated. Furthermore, by causing the particulate solid to float, it is not pinched under the head, and there is no risk of the sleeping comfort being deteriorated. Furthermore, if the size of the particulate solid is large, it will hinder the flow of the liquid. If a particle size of more than one-fifth of the thickness of the fluid holding space is adopted, it becomes difficult to cause the particulate solid to flow due to the flow of the fluid caused by the movement of the head. Therefore, it becomes impossible to generate an effective collision sound.

[0051] The particulate solid material is not particularly limited as long as it generates a collision sound upon collision. Natural or artificial inorganic substances with a specific gravity lighter than the filled liquid can be used. For example, when water is used as the liquid, pumice particles that float on water or resin particles with a specific gravity smaller than water can be used. Also, particles made of hard rubber or hard plastic can be used. Rubber and plastic generate smaller sounds upon collision than metals, and the frequency of the sounds is also smaller. For this reason, collision sounds that disturb sleep are less likely to be generated.

[0052] In the present invention, a cushion body made of a porous body having open cells (pores) can be placed in the fluid holding space while being immersed in the fluid. In this case, when the cushion body is deformed by turning over in bed, the fluid is also caused to flow inside the cushion body. The flow of the fluid inside the porous body can be used to generate flow sound. For example, a vibrator that vibrates due to the flow of the fluid, a flow path that increases the flow speed of the fluid to generate flow sound, etc. can be provided inside the porous body.

[0053] In addition to the cushion body held in the fluid holding space, various sheet-like members having cushioning properties can be stacked above or below the head support sheet to complement the characteristics of the cushion body. Also, a plurality of sheet-like cushion bodies can be selected and stacked to adjust the amount of elastic deformation of the cushion body. In this case, the weight of the head is supported by the pressure of the fluid acting through the head support sheet and the cushion body, so that the above-mentioned action and effect are achieved.

[0054] The area of ​​the region where the head support sheet contacts the cushion body and the height of the pillow change depending on the amount of fluid filled in the fluid holding space (the filling ratio to the maximum fillable volume). Therefore, by changing the filling ratio of the fluid to the maximum filling volume of the fluid holding space, it is possible to change the comfort of sleep and expand the range of application. For example, the head support sheet or the base member can be configured to be deformed at least at one edge so that the volume of the space filled with the fluid can be adjusted. By adopting this configuration, it is possible to adjust the filling ratio of the fluid to the maximum filling volume of the fluid holding space, and it is possible to change the ratio of the head weight shared and held by the fluid holding space and the cushion body. Therefore, it is possible to easily change the comfort of sleep.

[0055] In addition, a part of the fluid holding space can be left open so as to be sealable, so that the cushion body can be replaced and the amount of the fluid filled therein can be adjusted. This greatly expands the range of pillow characteristics that can be selected.

[0056] In the present invention, since the fluid retention space can be filled with a liquid, by using a liquid with a large heat capacity, a cooling effect similar to that of a water pillow can be expected. For example, various liquid cooling materials with low viscosity can be used as the fluid.

[0057] The pillow is usually provided with a cover, and various covers can be used as long as they do not prevent the head support sheet from deforming. Effect of the Invention

[0058] The weight of the head is shared and supported by the fluid filled in the fluid holding space and the deformable cushion, so that the head is held stably and the resistance to movement is reduced, making it easy to turn over in sleep, etc. Also, by disposing the cushion in the fluid holding space, the shape retention of the pillow can be ensured and its strength can be increased. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0059] [Figure 1] 1 is a cross-sectional view showing a structure of a pillow according to a first embodiment of the present invention when not in use. [Diagram 2] 1 is a cross-sectional view showing a structure of a pillow according to a first embodiment of the present invention when in use. [Diagram 3] 5 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a schematic view of deformation of a fluid holding space and a cushion body when the head is moved in the first embodiment. FIG. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the process of deformation of the pillow when the head is placed on it in the first embodiment. [Diagram 5] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of the first embodiment in which a porous body made of entangled fibers is used as the cushion body. [Figure 6] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of the first embodiment in which a sponge body having continuous pores is used as the cushion body. [Figure 7] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of the cushion body of the first embodiment, in which a brush-like stem body is provided. [Figure 8] FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view of a pillow according to a second embodiment, in which a hard plate material is used for the base member. [Figure 9] FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view of a pillow according to a third embodiment, in which a dish-shaped resin molded product is used as the base member. [Figure 10] FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view of a pillow according to a fourth embodiment, in which a base member of another form is used. [Figure 11]FIG. 13 is a diagram of a pillow according to a fifth embodiment, and is a cross-sectional view of a form in which the cushion body is held replaceably without coming into contact with fluid. [Figure 12] 12 is an exploded cross-sectional view of the pillow according to the embodiment shown in FIG. 11. [Figure 13] 12 is a cross-sectional view showing an example in which a cushion body of another type is adopted in the pillow according to the embodiment shown in FIG. [Figure 14] 11 is a cross-sectional view showing an example in which the volume of a fluid holding space is adjustable. FIG. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0060] Hereinafter, the embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. In this embodiment, the present invention is applied to a pillow having a rectangular external shape, but it can also be applied to pillows having other external shapes such as a circular shape. The head 6 of the pillow user is shown as a sphere.

[0061] As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the pillow 1 comprises a head support sheet 2a formed from a flexible thin sheet, a base member 2b to which the periphery of the head support sheet 2a is joined so as to form a predetermined fluid retention space 10 between the head support sheet 2a and the base member 2b, a cushion body 3 arranged in the fluid retention space 10, and a fluid 5 that is held in the fluid retention space 10 and has a predetermined fluidity.

[0062] In this embodiment, as shown in Fig. 1, the cushion body 3 is held so as to be able to move freely within the fluid filled in the fluid holding space 10 when not in use. On the other hand, as shown in Fig. 2, when in use with the head 6 placed on the head support sheet 2a, the bottom surface of the cushion body 3 is attached to the inner surface of the base member placed on the flat surface H by its own weight or the weight of the head 6. Note that, although the cushion body 3 is held so as to be able to move freely in the fluid holding space 10 in this embodiment, it may also be configured so as to be held on the inner surface of the base member 2b.

[0063] As shown in FIG. 2, when the head 6 is placed on the head support sheet 2a, the head 6 displaces the fluid 5 in the fluid holding space 10, and the inner surface of the head support sheet 2a can be brought into contact with the cushion body 3 in a predetermined range S. With the above configuration, the weight of the head 6 can be supported by both the pressure of the fluid 5 acting through the head support sheet 2a and the cushion body 3 deformed by the head 6. In this embodiment, both the head support sheet 2a and the base member 2b are made of thin sheets made of flexible resin. In addition, as shown in FIG. 2 and subsequent figures, this embodiment will be described based on a state in which the base member 2b is placed on a flat surface H.

[0064] The fluid holding space 10 has a rectangular bag-like shape formed by joining the edges of the head supporting sheet 2a, which is made up of upper and lower flexible thin sheets, and the base member 2b, and the fluid holding space 10 is filled with fluid 5.

[0065] As long as the head support sheet 2a can be easily deformed, the material of the head support sheet 2a is not limited. For example, various plastic sheets or rubber sheets can be used. Also, a composite material sheet formed of plastic or rubber and fiber or the like can be used. The thickness of the head support sheet 2a is not particularly limited as long as the sheet has flexibility to be easily deformed by the weight of the head and strength to support the weight of the head 6. When using a plastic sheet, it is preferable to use one having a thickness of 0.05 mm to 0.3 mm. In this embodiment, a polyethylene sheet having a thickness of 0.1 mm is used. The base member 2b can be formed of the same sheet as the head support sheet 2a, but the base member 2b does not need to be made of a material that can be deformed, and a hard plate-like material or the like can be used.

[0066] The fluid holding space 10 is filled with a cushion body 3 made of an elastic material such as rubber, and a fluid 5. In this embodiment, a bag is first formed by welding three edges of the head support sheet 2a and the base member 2b, and the fluid 5 and the cushion body 3 are filled from an opening provided in one edge that is not welded, and then the one edge is welded. In this embodiment, a mixture of water and air is used as the fluid 5.

[0067] The cushion body 3 can be made of various materials. In this embodiment, since the cushion body 3 is immersed in the fluid 5, it is preferable to use a material that is not altered by the fluid 5. For example, when water is used as the fluid, a water-resistant sponge body or a porous body formed by intertwining water-resistant fibers can be used. When the cushion body 3 is made of a material that is altered, the cushion body can be covered and sealed with a waterproof sheet or the like to prevent the fluid 5 from coming into contact with the material that constitutes the cushion body 3. For example, a cloth material such as cotton or a towel can be used as the cushion body 3 by sealing it with a waterproof sheet or the like. Also, a waterproof bag filled with particulate matter such as resin beads or buckwheat husks can be used.

[0068] The cushion body 3 is held so as to be in close contact with the inner surface of the base member 2b at least when in use, as shown in Figures 1 and 2. The cushion body 3 can be fixedly provided on the inner surface of the base member 2b using an adhesive or the like, or can be held so as to be movable within the fluid holding space 10 when not in use, as shown in Figure 1. By selecting a material having shape retention for the cushion body 3, it is possible to increase the shape retention of the fluid holding space 10, as shown in Figure 1, and the strength of the pillow 1 can be increased.

[0069] The fluid holding space 10 is filled with a fluid 5 which is a mixture of water and air. In this embodiment, the fluid 5 is mixed with 2% by volume of air 8 relative to the water. The mixing ratio of the air 8 can be set in the range of 0.5 to 10%. By setting the mixing ratio in the above range, when the fluid flows, the air 8 becomes bubbles and is dispersed and collected, generating a flow sound. The configuration of the fluid 5 is not particularly limited. For example, a mixture of a fluid oil and fat and an inert gas such as nitrogen can be used as the fluid. In order to ensure the required fluidity, it is preferable to adopt a liquid having a viscosity of 0.5 to 20 mPa·s as the liquid. The viscosity of water is 1 mPa·s at room temperature (20°C).

[0070] The pillow 1 according to the present invention is configured so that the weight of the head 6 is supported by the pressure of the fluid 5 acting through the head supporting sheet 2a and the deformation reaction force from the cushion body 3. The dimensions and deformation characteristics of the fluid holding space 10 and the deformation characteristics of the cushion body 3 are set so that the inner surface of the head supporting sheet 2a can be brought into contact with the upper surface of the cushion body 3 within a predetermined range in a state of use.

[0071] The structure and function of the pillow 1 according to this embodiment will be specifically described with reference to Fig. 3 and Fig. 4. For ease of understanding, these figures assume that the user's head 6 is a sphere in the pillow 1, and show a modified form in which the head 6 is placed directly on the head support sheet 2a. Also, the case in which the pillow 1 is placed on a flat surface for use is shown.

[0072] Fig. 4 shows a schematic diagram of the change in shape of the pillow 1 in the process of placing the head 6 on it. The actual change in shape is a three-dimensional change in the fluid holding space 10, but is shown as a two-dimensional change in shape. Fig. 4(a) shows the state before the head 6 is placed on it, Fig. 4(b) shows the state in which the head 6 sinks into the fluid holding space 10 but does not sink into the cushion body 3, Fig. 4(c) shows the state in which the head 6 sinks into the cushion body 3 and causes a predetermined amount of deformation of the cushion body 3, but there is still room in the capacity of the fluid holding space 10, and Fig. 4(d) shows the state in which there is no room in the capacity to evacuate (move) the fluid 5 expelled by the head 6 in the fluid holding space 10 to another part.

[0073] In the state where the head 6 is not placed on the pillow 1 (FIG. 4(a)), the base member 2b is held along the flat surface H, and the fluid 5 is held at a predetermined height between the inner surface of the head supporting sheet 2a and the upper surface of the cushion body 3. In FIG. 4(a), since the specific gravity of the cushion body 3 is greater than that of the fluid 5, it sinks downward under its own weight and is attached to the lower inner surface of the base member 2b.

[0074] As shown in Fig. 4(b), when the head 6 sinks into the head support sheet 2a, the fluid in the fluid holding space 10 located below is expelled, but the expelled fluid is made to flow into the fluid holding space 10 around the submerged head 6, and the head support sheet 2a around the head 6 is deformed so as to swell. That is, if there is a margin in the filling capacity of the fluid holding space in the above-mentioned form, the fluid 5 expelled by the head 6 is absorbed by increasing the thickness of the surrounding fluid holding space. In this case, it is considered that a buoyant force corresponding to the weight of the liquid 5 expelled acts on the head 6.

[0075] 4(b), when the head 6 sinks further, the inner surface of the head supporting sheet 2a and the upper surface of the base member 2b come into contact with each other, and the head 6 sinks together with the head supporting sheet 2a into the cushion body 3, as shown in FIG. 4(c). In this state, the weight of the head 6 is supported by the elastic force of the cushion body 3 and a kind of buoyancy due to the fluid 5.

[0076] 4(d), when the head 6 sinks into the fluid holding space 10 and the capacity of the fluid holding space 10 becomes full, the fluid 5 expelled by the head 6 cannot move to other parts and the cushion body 3 cannot deform any further. If a further weight acts from the head 6 through the head supporting sheet 2a after the deformation stops, the pressure of the fluid 5 increases and the proportion of the force supporting the head by the fluid 5 increases.

[0077] The pillow 1 according to the present invention is used in the state shown in Fig. 4(c) and the state shown in Fig. 4(d). That is, it can be used in a state where the head supporting sheet 2a and the cushion body 3 are brought into contact with the head 6 in a predetermined range S and sunk into the cushion body 3 (Fig. 4(c)), and in a state where the fluid 5 expelled by the head 6 makes it impossible for the fluid holding space 10 to deform any further (Fig. 4(d)).

[0078] In the state of FIG. 4(c) and FIG. 4(d), the weight of the head 6 is supported by both the pressure of the fluid acting through the head support sheet 2a and the cushion body 3. On the other hand, when the head 6 tries to move laterally from each of the above states, resistance is generated to deform the cushion body 3. As shown in FIG. 3, the resistance when the head 6 moves (resistance to rolling movement) is generated when the cushion body 3, which is in a deformed state due to the contact, is further displaced or deformed from the deformed state. Therefore, by specifying the amount of deformation of the contact range S shown in FIG. 2, the movement resistance of the head when turning over in sleep can be estimated. From this, the deformation characteristics of the pillow 1 can be specified by specifying the area of ​​the contact range S.

[0079] On the other hand, when the moving speed is low, almost no resistance to deformation of the fluid 5 and the head supporting sheet 2a supported by the fluid 5 occurs. Therefore, the resistance to the movement of the head 6 is reduced. Although it is expected that resistance to the movement of the fluid 5 in the fluid holding space 10 occurs, when the moving speed of the head 6 is low, the flow resistance of the fluid 5 is also small compared to the deformation resistance of the cushion body 3.

[0080] As described above, when the fluid holding space 10 has a sufficient capacity to hold the fluid 5 displaced by the head 6, when the user places the head 6 on the pillow, the water below the head 6 is displaced and the thickness of the other portions is increased. This change increases until the capacity of the fluid holding space 10 is full. The change in thickness varies depending on the water filling ratio relative to the fillable capacity of the fluid holding space 10, the shape of the fluid holding space 10, and the like. In addition, since the cushion body 3 is disposed in the fluid holding space 10, the deformation shape of the fluid holding space 10 also varies greatly depending on the deformation characteristics of the cushion body 3. For this reason, it is difficult to specify the deformation characteristics of the pillow 1 depending on the filling ratio of water constituting the fluid 5, the elasticity of the cushion body 3, and the like.

[0081] On the other hand, in order to make the cushion body 3 support part of the weight of the head 6, it is necessary to configure the inner surface of the head supporting sheet 2a and the upper surface of the cushion body 3 to be in contact with each other. Moreover, as shown in FIG. 2, when the area of ​​the contact range S increases, the amount of deformation of the cushion body 3 increases, and the reaction force supporting the head 6 also increases. In addition, since the amount of deformation and deformation resistance of the cushion body 3 can be measured relatively easily, it is also possible to obtain the weight of the head supported by the cushion body 3. Therefore, it is also possible to easily obtain the ratio of the fluid 5 filled in the fluid holding space 10 to the force of the cushion body 3 supporting the head. For example, if a transparent sphere is used as the sphere representing the head 6, it is possible to visually confirm the contact surface from above, and the contact area can be easily measured.

[0082] It is desirable to configure the inner surface of the head support sheet 2a and the upper surface of the cushion body 3 so that, at least in the state of use, they are in contact over an area of ​​1 / 20 to 1 / 3 of the total surface area of ​​the head 6, which is assumed to be a sphere. If the contact area is 1 / 20 or less of the total surface area of ​​the head, the resistance to movement of the head becomes small and the head cannot be stably supported. On the other hand, if the contact area is 1 / 3 or more, the head sinks significantly into the cushion body (more than 1 / 3 of the diameter of the head, which is assumed to be a sphere, sinks into the cushion body), which may make it difficult to move the head. By setting the area within the above range, it is possible to ensure an appropriate resistance to movement of the head.

[0083] The force acting from the head 6 (weight of the head) corresponds to the sum of the reaction force from the fluid acting from the head support sheet 2a and the reaction force due to the deformation of the cushion body 3. It is desirable to set the force due to the weight of the fluid removed by the head 6 to be the reaction force acting from the head support sheet 2a to the head 6 (sphere). In other words, it is desirable to configure so that the weight of the head 6 does not increase the pressure in the fluid holding space 10. As a result, the pressure of the fluid 5 becomes the same as when the surface is in contact with the atmosphere, the fluidity of the fluid 5 is not hindered, and no pressure change occurs in the fluid holding space 10. It is also possible to set the filling rate of the fluid filled in the fluid holding space 10 to be large, support the head 6 in a state where there is no capacity to spare, increase the pressure in the fluid holding space 10, and increase the proportion of the head supporting force shared by the fluid 5.

[0084] On the other hand, the cushion body 3 is deformed in the portion with which the head supporting sheet 2a is in contact in accordance with the shape of the head 6. The force required for this deformation acts directly on the head 6 from the contact area S as a reaction force, and this reaction force becomes the force shared by the cushion body 3 for supporting the head 6.

[0085] As shown in FIG. 3, when the head 6 rolls, that is, when a sphere rolls, the portion of the cushion body 3 in the moving direction must be deformed. Since the fluid holding space 10 is filled with the fluid 5, when the moving speed of the head 6 is low, the fluid 5 flows in the fluid holding space 10, and there is almost no deformation resistance. Therefore, there is almost no lateral movement resistance of the head 6 due to the deformation of the fluid holding space 10. On the other hand, since the cushion body 3 has elasticity or plasticity, there is deformation resistance when the head 6 rolls, and there is rolling resistance in the lateral direction of the head 6. Therefore, the resistance (rolling resistance) to the movement of the head 6 at a very low speed is almost equal to the force to directly deform the cushion body 3. Therefore, the larger the area of ​​the range S where the inner surface of the head support sheet 2a is in contact with the cushion body 3, the greater the rolling resistance of the head 6. In addition, the area of ​​the contact range S is smaller by the amount of force acting on the head 6 from the fluid holding space 10, and is therefore smaller than when the head 6 is placed directly on the cushion body 3. This makes it possible to adjust the rolling resistance of the head 6 by adjusting the area of ​​the contact range S.

[0086] The area of ​​the contact range S varies depending on the weight of the head and the elasticity of the cushion body. The weight of the head varies from person to person, but is not distributed over a wide range and is said to be approximately one tenth of the body weight. The purpose of the pillow according to this embodiment is to be configured to generate optimal rolling resistance. Therefore, regardless of the weight of the head 6, it is desirable to set the area of ​​the contact region in the range of 1 / 20 to 1 / 3 of the total surface area of ​​a sphere assumed to be the head 6, more preferably in the range of 1 / 10 to 1 / 3. The area of ​​the contact range S can also be determined by the amount of sinking (sinking depth) of the head 6 into the cushion body 3. It is preferable to adjust the shape of the cushion body 3 and the fluid retention space 10 according to the shape and dimensions of the user's head to configure it to have an optimal contact area.

[0087] With the above configuration, it is possible to configure a pillow 1 having a required rolling resistance. The rolling resistance of the pillow 1 is smaller than that of a case in which the head 6 is placed directly on the cushion body 3, making it easier to turn over in sleep, and improving comfort in sleep.

[0088] Furthermore, in this embodiment, air 8 is filled into the fluid holding space 10 together with the water as the fluid 5. The mixing ratio of the air 8 is 2% by volume of the mixed fluid of water and air.

[0089] Since the specific gravity of air 8 is smaller than that of water, the air 8 gathers along the upper inner surface of the head supporting sheet 2a in the fluid holding space 10. When the head 6 is placed on the pillow 1, the head 6 is separated into two sides.

[0090] When the head 6 rolls, the air becomes bubbles and is dispersed and collected by the flow of the water (fluid 5) caused by the movement of the head 6. At this time, a difference occurs in the flow speed of the air 8 and the water, generating a flow sound. The flow sound is considered to be a vibration sound generated when the air bubbles are dispersed and collected due to the difference in flow speed between the water and the air 8.

[0091] The flow sound is generated by the movement of the user's head, and is not loud or has a high frequency. Therefore, there is no risk of disturbing sleep. The flow sound is a mixture of water and air, similar to the sound of waves or a babbling river, and is expected to have a sleep-promoting effect. In order to generate a flow sound that is expected to have a sleep-promoting effect, it is preferable to mix 0.5 to 10% of air 8 by volume of the filled fluid.

[0092] In the above embodiment, the characteristics of the pillow including the fluid holding space 10 and the cushion body 3 have been described, but there are cases where a user wishes to adopt various cushion bodies according to their preferences. In such cases, it is necessary to provide a pillow that can obtain a required range of contact area regardless of the weight or shape of the user's head.

[0093] In such a case, it is theoretically possible to regulate the deformation characteristics by regulating the filling amount relative to the maximum filling capacity of the fluid holding space 10. However, the area of ​​the contact range S varies depending not only on the capacity of the fluid holding space 10 but also on its shape and size. For this reason, it is often the case that a pillow 1 having the desired characteristics cannot be obtained by regulating only the filling ratio of the fluid.

[0094] In the above-described embodiment, a solid rubber body is used as the cushion body 3, but it is possible to use cushion bodies made of various materials as the cushion body 3. Figs. 5 to 7 show examples in which various materials are used as the cushion body 3.

[0095] FIG. 5 shows a cushion body 301 formed by intertwining fibers. Various fibers can be used as the fibers, but it is preferable to use elastic fibers that are not altered by the fluid 5. For example, intertwined polyethylene fibers can be used. The cushion body 301 is formed in a porous shape having continuous voids as shown in FIG. 5, and the fluid 5 can freely enter and exit. Therefore, compared to a case where a solid elastic body is used, the cushion body 301 can be formed with various deformation characteristics. In addition, since the fluid can enter and exit the cushion body 301, the proportion of the weight supported by the fluid 5 can be increased, albeit slightly. Furthermore, since the fluid can flow inside the porous body, sound can be generated by the flow of the fluid.

[0096] In the embodiment shown in Fig. 6, a sponge body having open cells is used as the material of the cushion body 302. In this embodiment, the same effects as those of the embodiment shown in Fig. 5 can be obtained. It is preferable to use a sponge body made of a material that is resistant to the liquid 5. For example, a sponge body made of a material such as neoprene rubber, silicone rubber, or EPDM can be used.

[0097] In the embodiment shown in Fig. 7, the cushion body 303 is formed by implanting elastic fibers 303b in a deformable substrate 303a. For example, a cushion body 303 configured like artificial grass can be used. In this embodiment, the same effects as those of the embodiment shown in Fig. 5 can be obtained. Furthermore, a massage effect can be expected from the tips of the elastic fibers 303b.

[0098] The pillow 104 according to the embodiment shown in FIG. 8 employs a hard plate-like member as the base member 202b. In this embodiment, a head support sheet 202a made of a thin sheet formed from a flexible resin is joined to the edge of the base member 202b. In this embodiment, since the base member 202b does not deform, the pillow as a whole can have a high shape retention. In addition, the joining strength between the head support sheet 202a and the base member 202b can be increased.

[0099] In the above embodiment, a cushion body sealing sheet may be provided which is made of a flexible sheet or film and has an edge portion joined to the inner side of the upper surface of the plate-like member (base member) so as to cover the surface of the cushion body arranged on the upper surface of the plate-like member, thereby sealing the cushion body 302 without contacting the fluid. In this case, the fluid is held in the space formed by the head support sheet 202a, the base member 202b, and the cushion body sealing sheet. Meanwhile, the cross-sectional form is the same as that of the embodiment shown in FIG. 8, and the cushion body is substantially the same as that of the embodiment shown in FIG. 8, and exerts the same effect. By configuring in this way, it is also possible to employ a cushion body formed of a material which cannot be used in contact with the fluid 5.

[0100] By using a moldable resin material for the base member, various types of base members can be configured. For example, a dish-shaped base member 203b formed by molding a hard resin as shown in Fig. 9 can be used. In this embodiment, a rising portion 501 and a flange portion 502 are integrally formed around the periphery of the base member 203b, and the head support sheet 203a is joined to the flange portion 502.

[0101] By forming the base member 203b in a dish shape, the strength of the edge of the pillow can be significantly increased. In addition, since various shapes of fluid holding spaces 10 can be formed while ensuring the shape retention of the pillow 105, pillows with various characteristics can be formed. In addition, since the shape retention is high, a pillow with a large area can be formed. Note that the above-mentioned rising portion 501 does not need to be provided around the entire circumference of the pillow, and only the edge on the user side can be made flat.

[0102] Further, in the embodiment shown in FIG. 10, the base member (base portion) 204b and the cushion body (cushion portion) 304 are integrally formed from a deformable rubber-like material. A bank-shaped bulging portion 503 is provided on the edge of the base member 204b, and the head support sheet 204a is joined to the bulging portion 503. In this embodiment, the cushion body 304 is integrally formed from the same material as the base member 204b and is integrally molded to bulge into the fluid holding space 10. In addition, in order to adjust the deformation characteristics of the upper portion of the cushion body 304 on which the head 6 is held, unevenness 304b is formed on the surface side. This makes it possible to adopt a material with high shape retention as the base member 204b, and to impart deformation characteristics different from those of the base member 204b to the portion (cushion body 304) on which the head 6 is placed while adopting the same material.

[0103] In the embodiment shown in Figs. 11 to 13, the cushion body 305 is configured not to come into contact with the fluid filled in the fluid holding space 10 and is held replaceably. In the above-mentioned embodiment, each cushion body is formed by each head holding sheet and each base member, and is held in the fluid holding space 10 filled with fluid. Therefore, it is difficult to replace the cushion body. In addition, it is considered that the characteristics and shape of the cushion body used for a long period of time will change. Furthermore, it is difficult to respond to changes in the user's body shape. In addition, there is a demand to select and use cushion bodies formed from various materials according to preference.

[0104] The pillow 107 according to this embodiment is configured to include a plate-shaped member 601, the edge of which can be joined to the edge of the head support sheet 205a, and a cushion body sealing sheet 603, which is formed from a soft sheet or film and has an edge joined to the inner side of the upper surface of the plate-shaped member 601 so as to cover the surface of the cushion body 305 arranged in the center of the plate-shaped member 601, and cooperates with the head support sheet 205a and the plate-shaped member 601 to hold the fluid 5. The plate-shaped member 601 has an opening 605 in the center, and the cushion body 305 is held in this opening 605. The cushion body sealing sheet 603 allows the cushion body 305 to be held in the fluid holding space 10 without coming into contact with the fluid 5. Furthermore, a cover 602 is provided to cover the opening 605 in an openable and closable manner. The cover 602 is configured so as to be attached to the plate-like member 601 by means of screws 604 so as to cover the opening 605 .

[0105] In the above configuration, the cushion body 305 is held in the fluid holding space 10 so as to bulge via the cushion body sealing sheet 603, and is substantially held within the fluid holding space 10. In this configuration as well, similar to the pillow according to the embodiment described above, the weight of the head 6 is shared and held by the pressure of the fluid 5 and the cushion body 305. Therefore, it is possible to achieve the same effects as the pillow according to the embodiment described above.

[0106] Furthermore, the cushion body 305 can be held replaceably without contacting the fluid 5. That is, as shown in Fig. 12, by removing the screws of the lid body 602, the lid body 602 can be separated from the plate-like member 601 having the opening 605, and the cushion body 305 can be taken out from the opening 605. By employing this configuration, the cushion body 305 can be formed not only from a material that cannot be used in contact with the fluid 5, but also from materials having various properties.

[0107] 13, the cushion body 305 can be constructed by combining members made of various materials. This makes it possible to construct the cushion body 305 having deformation characteristics that cannot be obtained with a rubber-like material or a sponge material, i.e., deformation characteristics that cannot be obtained with an elastic material.

[0108] In the above embodiment, the base member 205b is made of a hard material, but it may be made of a soft material such as a resin sheet. For example, the base member may be made of the same material as the head support sheet, and a pocket-shaped storage section in which the cushion body can be detachably installed may be provided on the opposite side (lower surface) of the base member to the head support sheet.

[0109] 14 is configured so that the capacity of the fluid holding space 10 can be changed to change the deformation characteristics of the pillow 109. The movement resistance of the head 6 varies greatly depending on the area of ​​the range S where the inner surface of the head supporting sheet 206a contacts the cushion body 306, and the sleeping comfort also changes. The area of ​​the contact range S varies depending on the ratio between the fillable capacity of the fluid holding space 10 and the volume of the fluid filled therein.

[0110] In the present embodiment shown in Fig. 14, one edge of the head supporting sheet 206a can be overlapped and tightly attached to the base member 206b by a volume adjusting means 900 composed of a clamping member 901 and a clamping clip 902. By varying the size of the clamping surface of the clamping member 901, the area of ​​the head supporting sheet 206a overlapping the base member 206b can be adjusted. This makes it possible to adjust the volume of the fluid holding space 10, and by adjusting the filling volume of the fluid holding space 10 and changing the area of ​​the range S where the head supporting sheet 206a is in contact with the cushion body 306, it becomes possible to adjust the head weight shared by the cushion body and change the sleeping comfort.

[0111] It is preferable that the pillow is designed so that it can be used after being cooled in a refrigerator or the like. On the other hand, if the fluid freezes, the above-mentioned effects of the present invention cannot be achieved. For this reason, it is preferable to select a liquid material that does not freeze even at temperatures below 0°C, or, if water is used, to include an antifreeze component such as glycerin so that the predetermined fluidity of the fluid can be ensured even at temperatures below 0°C. [Industrial Applicability]

[0112] To provide a pillow which allows the head to move easily, making it easy to turn over in sleep, and which promotes sleep by generating a fluid flow sound as the head moves. [Explanation of symbols]

[0113] 1 pillow 2a Head support sheet 2b Base material 3 Cushion body 5 fluid 6 head

Claims

1. A pillow for supporting the head, A head support sheet formed from a flexible thin sheet; a base member to which the periphery of the head support sheet is joined, so as to form a predetermined fluid holding space between the head support sheet and the base member; a cushion body held on the head support seat side of the base member; A fluid is held in the fluid holding space and has a predetermined fluidity, The head can expel fluid from the fluid holding space and bring the inner surface of the head support sheet into contact with the cushion body in a predetermined range, A pillow configured to support the weight of the head by both the pressure of the fluid acting through the head support sheet and the cushion body which is deformed by the head.

2. 2. The pillow according to claim 1, wherein the cushion body is a porous elastic body having continuous pores, and is configured so that the fluid can flow within the porous elastic body.

3. 2. The pillow according to claim 1, wherein the cushion body is a non-breathable elastic body.

4. The fluid includes a predetermined liquid and a gas, The pillow according to claim 1, wherein the gas is mixed with the liquid at a volume ratio of 0.5 to 10% under atmospheric pressure.

5. The pillow according to claim 1, wherein the pillow is configured such that 20 to 80% of the weight of the head is supported by the pressure of the fluid.

6. 2. The pillow of claim 1, wherein when a sphere having a diameter of at least 20 cm is pressed against the head support sheet from above, the sphere displaces the fluid in the fluid retention space and causes the inner surface of the head support sheet to come into contact with a predetermined area of ​​the cushion body.

7. 7. The pillow according to claim 6, wherein the inner surface of the head support sheet is in contact with the cushion body over an area that is 1 / 20 to 1 / 3 of the total surface area of ​​the sphere.

8. The pillow according to claim 1, wherein the viscosity of the liquid is 0.5 to 20 mPa·s.

9. 5. The pillow of claim 4, wherein said liquid is water and said gas is air.

10. The pillow according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the fluid comprises a liquid material that does not freeze in a temperature range below 0°C.

11. The pillow according to any one of claims 1 to 9, further comprising a volume adjustment means for adjusting the volume of the fluid holding space filled with the fluid by deforming at least a portion of the head support sheet.

12. A pillow for supporting the head, A head support sheet formed from a flexible thin sheet; A base member to whose edge the edge of the head support sheet can be joined; a cushion body held on the head support seat side of the base member; a cushion body sealing sheet formed from a flexible sheet or film, the edge of which is joined to the inner side of the upper surface of the base member so as to cover the surface of the cushion body arranged on the base member, and which cooperates with the head support sheet and the base member to form a fluid retention space for retaining the fluid; The pillow is configured so that the cushion body can be held without coming into contact with the fluid by the sealing sheet.

13. providing an opening means for allowing the cushion body to be attached and detached in an area of ​​the base member where the cushion body is disposed; 13. The pillow according to claim 12, wherein the cushion body is replaceable.

14. A method for supporting the head with a pillow, comprising: The pillow is configured to include a head support sheet formed from a soft thin sheet, a base member to which the periphery of the head support sheet is joined so as to form a predetermined fluid holding space between the head support sheet and a cushion body held on the head support sheet side of the base member and formed from a material that can be deformed by the weight of the head, A method of supporting a head in a pillow, in which the weight of the head is supported by both the pressure of the fluid acting through the head support sheet and the cushion body by using the head to expel the fluid from the fluid holding space and deforming the cushion body.

15. The fluid includes a liquid and a gas. The gas is mixed with the liquid at a volume ratio of 0.5 to 10% under atmospheric pressure, and 15. The method for supporting a head with a pillow according to claim 14, wherein a flow sound of the fluid is generated by movement of the head.

16. The head supporting method with a pillow according to claim 14 or 15, wherein an area of ​​the deformed portion of the cushion body deformed by the head is 1 / 20 to 1 / 3 of the total surface area of ​​the head.

17. The method for supporting a head with a pillow according to claim 16, wherein the cushion body supports 20% to 80% of the weight of the head.

Images