HEAD SUPPORT SYSTEM AND METHOD OF USE THEREOF

Abstract

Systems and methods are provided for supporting a user's head for extended periods of time, such as while the user tilts his / her head downward or leans forward. In one example, a harness configured to be worn on a user's body is provided, the harness including a shoulder harness configured to be worn on or around one or both shoulders of the user, and a head support mechanism. The head support mechanism can include a support bracket including a first end attached to the harness and a rest member coupled to a second end of the support bracket, the rest member extending at least partially across the user's forehead and / or around the user's head to support the user's forehead when the harness is worn.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present application relates to systems, devices and methods for supporting a user's body, for example the user's head and / or arms.

[0002] Related Application Data This application claims priority to U.S. Application No. 17 / 676,726, filed February 21, 2022, the entire disclosure of which is expressly incorporated by reference herein. [Background technology]

[0003] Many tasks require workers to tilt their head down and / or lean forward to properly visualize the task. Examples include surgery and welding. Working with the head tilted (down) for extended periods of time can have adverse effects on the neck structures that support the weight of the worker's head, including fatigue, discomfort, and injury.

[0004] 1A and 1B show a user U in a typical working position wearing an arm support system 10 that can optionally adaptively support the left arm LA and the right arm RA, for example, by using an interchangeable cassette 12 and arm rest 14. This transfers all or part of the weight of the user's arms from the shoulders and upper back muscles to the user's torso. As shown in FIG. 1B, the head H of the user U is pointing downwards approximately along a path P1, which puts strain on the structure of the user's neck N to support the weight of the user's head H. The optional arm support system 10 can support the user's arms (RA and LA), but cannot assist in supporting the user's head H, and therefore cannot reduce strain on the user's neck N.

[0005] No. 5,242,377 discloses a medical restraint device intended to maintain the head of an individual with a neck disorder in a desired head position, and U.S. Patent No. 5,306,232 discloses a head alignment system for maintaining the head of an individual with reduced muscle strength or loss of muscle control in a generally upright position. That is, these devices are intended to restrain the user's head rather than support it during normal activities.

[0006] Thus, devices, systems and methods that support a user's head while performing a task, while allowing the user to freely move the head, for example to prevent or reduce fatigue, would be useful. Summary of the Invention

[0007] The present application is directed to systems, devices and methods for supporting a user's body, for example the user's head and / or arms.

[0008] According to one example, a system for supporting a user's head is provided, the system comprising: a harness configured to be worn on a user's body, including a shoulder harness configured to be worn on or around one or both shoulders of the user; and a head support mechanism comprising a support bracket including a first end attached to the harness, and a rest member coupled to a second end of the support bracket, the rest member extending across the user's forehead when the harness is worn to support the user's forehead.

[0009] According to another example, a system for supporting a user's head is provided, the system comprising: a harness configured to be worn on a user's body, the harness including a shoulder harness configured to be worn on or around one or both shoulders of the user; and a head support mechanism including a support bracket including a first end attached to the harness in a position such that the support bracket is positioned behind or adjacent to the head of a user wearing the harness; and a rest member coupled to a second end of the support bracket, the rest member extending around the user's head and contacting the user's forehead when the harness is worn.

[0010] According to yet another example, a system for supporting a user's head is provided, the system comprising: a harness configured to be worn on a user's body, the harness including a shoulder harness configured to be worn on or around one or both shoulders of the user; and a head support mechanism on the harness. Optionally, the system may further include an arm support mechanism configured to support the user's arm and coupled to the harness, the arm support mechanism configured to accommodate the movement of the user's arm while following the movement of the user's arm without substantially interfering with the movement of the arm; and one or more compensation elements attached to the arm support mechanism to at least partially counteract the force of gravity acting on the user's arm as the user moves and the arm bracket follows the movement of the user's arm. The one or more compensation elements may be configured to provide a force profile that varies the offset force based on the orientation of the arm support mechanism.

[0011] According to yet another example, a system for supporting a user's head is provided, the system comprising: a harness configured to be worn on a user's body, the harness including a shoulder harness configured to be worn on or around one or both shoulders of the user; and a head support mechanism including a support bracket including a first end attached to the harness such that a second end of the support bracket is disposed adjacent to a head of a user wearing the harness, one or more pulleys carried by the second end of the support bracket, a rest member sized to extend at least partially around the user's head and contact the user's forehead when the harness is worn, and an elongated cord coupled to the rest member and extending partially around the one or more pulleys to accommodate rotation of the user's head, the elongated cord including a resilient structure that allows the user to lower the head and provides a counterbalance force to at least partially support the weight of the head.

[0012] According to yet another example, a system for supporting a user's head is provided, the system including: a harness configured to be worn on a user's body, the harness including a shoulder harness configured to be worn on or around one or both shoulders of the user; a head support mechanism including a support bracket, the support bracket including a first end attached to the harness in a position such that a second end of the support bracket is positioned adjacent to a rear of the head of a user wearing the harness; headgear configured to be worn on the user's head, the headgear including a band sized to extend around the rear of the user's head; and an elongated cord coupled between the second end of the support bracket and the headgear, the elongated cord including an elastic structure that allows the user to lower their head and provides a counterbalancing force to at least partially support the weight of the head.

[0013] According to another example, a method for supporting a user's head is provided, the method including the steps of: attaching a harness holding a head support mechanism having a support bracket to a user's body, the support bracket having a first end attached to the harness in a position such that a second end of the support bracket is positioned adjacent to a rear of the user's head; positioning a rest member coupled to the support bracket such that the rest member extends at least partially around the user's head and contacts the user's forehead; and performing one or more tasks involving lowering and rotating the head, the rest member accommodating the rotation of the head and providing a counterbalancing force to at least partially offset the weight of the head when the head is lowered.

[0014] Other aspects and features of the present invention will become apparent from consideration of the following description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0015] The invention is best understood from the following detailed description read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which it will be understood that the exemplary devices illustrated in the drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale, emphasis instead being placed upon illustrating various aspects and features of the depicted examples. [Figure 1] 1A and 1B are perspective views of an arm support system worn by a user to support the user's arm, showing the user's head in raised and lowered positions, respectively. [Diagram 2] 2A-2D are perspective views of an example of a support system worn by a user to support the user's head in various head positions. [Diagram 3] 3A and 3B are side views illustrating another example of a support system for supporting a user's head in both an unlowered and lowered position. [Figure 4]4A-4C are perspective views of yet another example of a support system supporting a user's head in unlowered, lowered, and rotated head positions, respectively. [Diagram 5] FIG. 5 is a side view of yet another example of a head support system for supporting a user's head. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of an alternative head support system including a headband that encircles the user's head. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of an alternative head support system including a headband that encircles the user's head. [Figure 8] 8A and 8B show an alternative example of a head support system that includes one or more pulleys to increase mobility of the user's head. [Figure 9] 9A and 9B show an alternative example of a head support system that includes one or more pulleys to increase mobility of the user's head. [Figure 10] 10A and 10B show another example of a head support system that includes an elastic member that supports a headband that supports a user's head. [Figure 11] Figures 11A-11C show yet another example of a head support system similar to that shown in Figure 6, illustrating how it provides a counterbalancing force to headgear worn by a user. Figures 11D and 11E are detailed views of an alternative clip for attaching headgear to a head support system such as the system shown in Figures 11A-11C. [Figure 12] 12A and 12B are perspective views of another example of a head support system. [Figure 13] 13A-13C show another example of a head support system that provides a balancing force to headgear worn by a user. [Figure 14]Figures 14A and 14B show another example of a head support system included in an exoskeleton with an arm support system, with the user's head in an upright and lowered position, respectively. Figure 14C is an exploded detailed view of the head support system of Figures 14A and 14B. Figures 14D and 14E are detailed views of the head support system of Figures 14A and 14B, respectively. [Figure 15] 15A and 15B are perspective views of another example of a counterbalance element in which the counterbalance force is provided by a torsion spring. [Figure 16] 16A and 16B are perspective views of another example of a counterbalance element in which a counterbalance force is provided by a tension spring acting on a lever. [Figure 17] 17A and 17B are perspective views of another example of a counterbalance element in which the counterbalance force is provided by a tension spring acting on a pulley. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0016] Before describing the examples, it is to be understood that the invention is not limited to particular examples described, as such may, of course, vary. Also, it is to be understood that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular examples only, and is not intended to be limiting, since the scope of the present invention will be limited only by the appended claims.

[0017] Where a range of values ​​is given, it is understood that each intervening value between the upper and lower limits of that range, to the tenth of the unit of the lower limit, is also specifically disclosed unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Each smaller range between any stated value or intervening value in a stated range and any other stated value or intervening value in a stated range is encompassed within the invention. The upper and lower limits of such smaller ranges may each be independently included or excluded within the range, and each range is encompassed within the invention, whether or not both or either are included in the smaller range, subject to the specifically excluded limit in the stated range. Where a stated range includes one or both of the limits, ranges excluding either or both of those included limits are also intended to be included within the invention.

[0018] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by those skilled in the art to which this invention belongs. Although any methods and materials similar or equivalent to those described herein can be used in the practice or testing of the present invention, some possible exemplary methods and materials are described herein.

[0019] It should be noted that, as used herein and in the appended claims, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Thus, for example, a reference to a "compound" includes a plurality of such compounds, and a reference to a "polymer" includes a reference to one or more polymers and equivalents thereof known to those skilled in the art.

[0020] In this specification, certain ranges are indicated by the term "about" before the numerical values. The term "about" is used in this specification to provide literal support for the exact numerical value following the term and for a numerical value close to or close to the numerical value following the term. In determining whether a numerical value is close to or close to a specifically stated numerical value, the close or close unstated numerical value may be a numerical value that provides a substantial equivalent to the specifically stated numerical value in the context in which it is presented.

[0021] 2A-2D show a first example of a support system 50 worn by a user U. Generally, system 50 includes a harness and a head support mechanism, and may optionally include an arm support mechanism for supporting one or both of the user's arms (two arm support mechanisms are shown supporting the user's right and left arms). The harness typically may include a mounting band configured to be worn around the user's torso, e.g., chest, waist, and / or hips, a shoulder harness configured to be worn on and / or around the user's shoulders, and / or one or more vertical supports (not all shown for clarity), e.g., extending between the mounting band and the shoulder harness, similar to the support systems disclosed in, e.g., U.S. Publication Nos. 2012 / 0184880, 2014 / 0033391, 2014 / 0158839, and 2015 / 0316204 (the entire disclosures of which are expressly incorporated herein by reference). Additionally, the harness may include a shoulder bracket and / or frame having a fixed end disposed above or adjacent the user's shoulder, to which other components of system 10 may be coupled to provide an arm support mechanism that pivots about one or more axes relative to the shoulder bracket, similar to the systems of the above publications. The systems described herein may also include additional components similar to those disclosed in the above publications, such as cassette 12 and arm rests 14 for providing desired and / or variable offset forces, as desired.

[0022] As shown in FIG. 2A, a user U is shown wearing an arm support system 50 including components that also serve to support the user U's head H, which is shown horizontally (referred to herein as "not lowered"). A forehead band 76 is positioned on the user's forehead F. An optional pad 88 can be positioned between the forehead band 76 and the user's forehead F. The forehead band 76 may be flexible, semi-flexible or rigid. An optional crown band 80 includes one or more straps positioned to extend at least partially over the top of the user's head H to aid in positioning the forehead band 76 on the forehead F. Optionally, a strap can be provided that extends, for example, around the back of the user's head (not shown) to help keep the forehead band 76 in place. Elastic elements, elongated elastic bands 70, 72, are coupled at both ends to the forehead band 76 at locations 71, 73 (73 is shown in FIG. 2B) and to buckles 84, 86, respectively. Buckles 84, 86 may provide adjustment for the length of the elastic elements 70, 72, and are (optionally pivotally) connected to Y-frame bars 60, 62 which are connected to the Y-frame posts 58 and ultimately to a frame at the rear of the arm support system 50, as described below. The elastic elements 70, 72 may be made from known elastic materials such as latex rubber, silicone or polyurethane elastomers, or may be formed from known spring structures such as coil springs or constant force springs. In the illustrated unlowered head H position, there is little stress on the user's neck and the elastic bands 70, 72 are relatively free of tension.

[0023] FIG. 2B is a rear view of the system 50 of FIG. 2A. The Y-frame post 58, which supports and positions the Y-frame bars 60, 62, is coupled to the socket post 52. The socket post 52 is inserted into the frame socket 24 and can rotate relative to the frame socket 24 approximately along an arc A1 by using commonly known components such as, for example, bearings or bushings (not shown). The socket post 52 can also be vertically adjusted relative to the frame socket 24 approximately along a path P2 by using commonly known components such as, for example, clamps, screws, shaft collars, clips or screws (not shown). The socket post 52 and attached Y-frame bars 60, 62 may be removable from the frame socket 24, for example, when a head support mechanism is not required. The Y-frame post 58 and Y-frame bars 60, 62 may be rigid or flexible and can be molded by bending to provide a desired shape. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, both the Y-frame post 58 and the Y-frame bars 60, 62 are rigid, while the elastic bands 70, 72 elastically stretch to accommodate movement of the user's head H.

[0024] The Y-frame post 58 may be coupled, for example, to a frame of a harness carrying the arm support system. For example, as shown in FIG. 2B, the frame socket 24 is coupled to a frame T 16, which is coupled to a spine tube 18, which is coupled to one or more belt struts 20. The frame socket 24, frame T 16, spine tube 18 and belt strut(s) 20 provide a substantially rigid structure that transfers loads, such as the weight of a user's arms and head, through flexible elements to the user's torso and hips.

[0025] FIG. 2C shows a user U wearing the arm support system 50 of FIGS. 2A and 2B with the user's head H bent forward (herein referred to as "down") at the neck approximately along path P3. The elastic elements 70, 72 stretch accordingly, lengthening. For elastic elements that approximately follow Hooke's Law, the force of the elastic elements increases as they stretch, increasing the counterbalance force to support the user's head H. The magnitude of the counterbalance force at a given position can be selected by the user, for example, by selecting an elastic element with a larger or smaller spring constant or by adjusting the length of the elastic element with the buckles 84, 86. For elastic elements that do not follow Hooke's Law, such as constant force springs, the counterbalance force remains the same.

[0026] FIG 2D illustrates a user U wearing the arm support system 50 of FIG 2C with the user's head lowered and rotated generally to the left along path P4. As the user U rotates his head to one side, the elastic elements 70, 72 can expand or contract accordingly. Additionally, the buckles 84, 86 can pivot about the ends of the Y-frame bars 60, 62 accordingly. The elastic element 72 can expand in response to the movement along path P4, and the elastic element 70 can shorten or remain the same length.

[0027] Referring to FIG. 3A, another example of an arm support system 90 is shown, generally similar to system 50 of FIGS. 2A-2D, where the head H of user U is not lowered and head support flexibility is provided by the Y-frame bar and post. Unlike system 50, at least one of the Y-frame post 92 and Y-frame bar 94 is elastically flexible in one or more directions to accommodate movement of the head H, while the elongated element 96 connecting the forehead band 76 to the Y-frame bar 94 is substantially inelastic. As shown in FIG. 3A, the Y-frame post 92 and Y-frame bar 94 do not flex when the user is working without lowering the head H. The elongated element 96 attached to the Y-frame bar 94 by the buckle 84 and attached to the forehead band 76 at point 71 may be a relatively inelastic elongated cord, cable, wire, or the like.

[0028] 3B shows arm support system 90 with user's head H lowered, generally along path P5. In response, Y-frame post 92 and Y-frame bar 94 flex generally along arc A2, e.g., acting as leaf springs, to provide a counterbalancing force to the user's head. Each elongated element 96 (which is non-elastic) remains approximately the same length.

[0029] FIG. 4A shows another example of an arm support system 100 with a head support system, which is a variation of the system 50 of FIGS. 2A-2D. The Y-frame bars 60, 62, Y-frame post 58, socket post 52 and buckles 84, 86 are the same as in the system 50. The forehead band 130 may be flexible, semi-flexible or rigid and is positioned on the user's forehead F. The crown band 80 assists in properly positioning the forehead band 130. Optionally, a strap (not shown) may be provided that extends around the back of the user's head, for example to help keep the band 76 in place. The guide tube 134 is secured to the forehead band by, for example, a guide tube clip 136 or other connector (not shown). The guide tube 134 may be rigid or flexible and may be made from or lined with a low friction material, such as PTFE or nylon. The guide tube 134 provides a track along which the cord 112 slides. Optionally, a lubricant (not shown) may be provided within guide tube 134 to aid in the smooth sliding movement of cord 112 within guide tube 134. The smooth sliding movement of cord 112 within guide tube 134 facilitates side-to-side head rotation with minimal resistance.

[0030] The cord 112 may be coupled to the Y-frame bar 60, for example, via one or more elastic elements. For example, both ends of the core 112 may be coupled to separate elastic elements 110 at couplings 115. The elastic elements 110 are coupled to the Y-frame bar 60 at buckles 84. An equivalent elastic element 120 is coupled to the other end of the cord 112 at couplings 125 and is coupled to the Y-frame bar 62 at buckles 86. As shown, when the user's head H is not lowered, the elastic elements 110, 120 are relatively free of tension. Alternatively, a single elastic element may be provided at one end of the (non-elastic) cord, with the other end of the cord directly connected to the buckles 86 or to the Y-frame bar 62.

[0031] FIG. 4B shows the arm support system 100 of FIG. 4A with the user's head lowered approximately along path P6. As in FIG. 2C, the elastic elements 110, 120 have stretched accordingly. For elastic elements that approximately follow Hooke's Law, the force of the elastic elements increases as they stretch, increasing the counterbalance force to support the user's head H. The magnitude of the counterbalance force at a given position can be selected by the user, for example, by selecting an elastic element with a larger or smaller spring constant or by adjusting the length of the elastic element with the buckles 84, 86. For elastic elements that do not follow Hooke's Law, such as constant force springs, the counterbalance force does not change. The amount of cord 112 that extends from the guide tube 134 is shown as length L1.

[0032] 4C shows the arm support system 100 with the user's head lowered and rotated to the right generally along path P7. As the user's head rotates to the right, the length of the cord 112 extending from the guide tube 134 (shown as length L2) increases as the cord 112 slides within the guide tube 134. The length of the elastic elements 110, 120 remains essentially the same, thus providing the same counterbalancing force as before and not stretching any further with the rotational movement of the user's head. The stretch of the elastic elements 110, 120 is decoupled from the side-to-side movement of the user's head H and instead responds only to the lowering of the user's head H as needed.

[0033] FIG. 5 shows another example of an arm support system 150 similar to that shown in FIGS. 4A-4C, where the user's head is lowered and flexibility of the head support mechanism is provided by the Y-frame bar and post. The Y-frame post 92 and Y-frame bar 94 are shown flexing (almost along an arc A3) as the user works with the head H lowered. The cord 145 attached to the Y-frame bar 94 by the buckle 84 may be substantially inelastic. The cord 145 may slide within the guide tube 134 in response to side-to-side movement of the user's head, as described with reference to FIGS. 4A-4C. Thus, in this example, the Y-frame bar 92 and / or Y-frame 94 may flex elastically to accommodate the lowering of the head H while providing support, while the inelastic core 145 may simply slide within the guide tube 134 to accommodate the rotation of the head H with minimal resistance.

[0034] 6 shows yet another example of an arm support system 170 with the user's head lowered. Unlike the previously described systems, the forehead band 76 or 130 is replaced with a headband 156 that encircles substantially the entire user's head. The headband 156 may be flexible, semi-flexible or rigid, as desired. An optional crown band 80 helps keep the headband 156 properly positioned on the user's head. A single elastic element 160 provides the elastic support provided by the dual element described in the previously described systems.

[0035] For example, as shown, the elastic element 160 is connected to the rear of the headband 156 at location 164 and to the support post 152 at connector 154. The support post 152 is coupled to the socket post 52, which is in turn coupled to the harness and / or frame of the arm support system 170 (similar to the systems previously described). The elastic element 160 may be made from known elastic materials such as latex rubber, silicone, polyurethane elastomers, or may be formed from commonly known spring structures such as coil springs or constant force springs. The elastic element 160 stretches and lengthens as the user U works by lowering his / her head H generally along path P8.

[0036] For elastic elements that approximately follow Hooke's Law, the force of the elastic element increases as it stretches, providing an increasing counterbalance force to support the user's head H. The magnitude of the counterbalance force at a given position can be selected by the user, for example, by selecting an elastic element with a larger or smaller spring constant, or by adjusting the length of the elastic element with connector 154. For elastic elements that do not follow Hooke's Law, such as constant force springs, the counterbalance force does not change. Optionally, connector 154 can incorporate an elastic element adjustment feature similar to buckles 84, 86 mentioned in the description of Figures 2-4.

[0037] FIG. 7 shows yet another example of an arm support system 180, which is a variation of the arm support system 170 shown in FIG. 6, in which flexibility of the head support mechanism is provided by a support post 172. The headband 156 may be flexible, semi-flexible or rigid. An optional crown band 80 assists in proper placement of the headband 156 on the user's head. A single inelastic cord 174 is connected to the rear of the headband 156 at point 176 and to the support post 172 at connector 154. The support post 172 is coupled to the socket post 52, which in turn is coupled to the harness and / or frame of the arm support system 180 (similar to the previously described systems). The user U is shown with his head H lowered approximately along path P9. The support post 172 flexes accordingly approximately along arc A4, acting, for example, like a leaf spring, to provide a counterbalancing force to the user's head. The cord 174 (inelastic) remains approximately the same length.

[0038] 8A and 8B, another example of an arm support system 200 is shown, which is a variation of the arm support system 170, in which a pulley provides additional mobility. The headband 188 can substantially completely encircle the user's head and can be flexible, semi-flexible or rigid. The optional crown band 80 helps the headband 188 to be properly positioned on the user's head. A single elastic element 190 coupled to the sides of the headband 188 at locations 194, 196 (location 196, not shown, is substantially opposite location 194) provides elastic support. The elastic element 190 is within a groove 186 of the pulley 184. The pulley 184 is free to rotate about a support post 182 on the hub 188 using, for example, rolling element (ball or roller) bearings, bushings, or spherical bearings that allow the pulley 184 to tilt in response to the angle of the elastic element 190.

[0039] Figure 8B shows the arm support system of Figure 8A with the user's head lowered generally along path P10. The elastic element 190 has stretched accordingly, lengthening. The pulley 184 is free to rotate about the support post 182 on the hub 188, facilitating movement of the elastic element 190 about the support post as the user U rotates their head from side to side.

[0040] Alternatively, as with other systems herein, in place of (or in addition to) elastic element 190, elastic element 190 can be replaced by a non-elastic cord (not shown), and the support force of the head support mechanism can be provided by, for example, a support post (182 in this embodiment) that is biased to be straight or other configuration, but which can be elastically deflected to accommodate lowering of head H.

[0041] 9A and 9B, another example of an arm support system 220 is shown, which is a variation of the arm support system 200 shown in FIGS. 8A and 8B, where a pair of pulleys rather than a single pulley provides additional mobility. As shown, the headband 188 can encircle substantially the entire head of the user and can be flexible, semi-flexible or rigid. An optional crown band 80 assists in properly positioning the headband 188 on the user's head. Alternatively, a forehead band can be provided in place of the headband 188, if desired.

[0042] A single elastic element 204 joined to the side of the headband 188 (or end of the forehead band, not shown) at locations 194, 196 (location 196, not shown, is generally opposite location 194) provides elastic support. The elastic element 204 resides within a groove 186 in the pulley 184. The pulley 184 is free to rotate about the Y-frame bars 60, 62 on the hub 188 and may be a rolling element, e.g., (ball or roller) bearing, bushing, or may be a spherical bearing that allows the pulley 184 to tilt in response to the angle of the elastic element 204.

[0043] 9B shows the arm support system 220 with the user's head lowered generally along path P11. The elastic element 204 stretches and lengthens accordingly. The pulley 184 is free to rotate about the Y-frame bars 60, 62 on the hub 188, facilitating movement of the elastic element 204 about the Y-frame bars 60, 62 as the user U rotates his head H from side to side.

[0044] As with other systems herein, an additional variation (not shown) has flexibility of the head support mechanism provided by the Y-frame bars and posts (58, 60, 62 in this embodiment) rather than the elastic elements 204.

[0045] 10A and 10B, yet another example of an arm support system 250 is shown that includes a head support mechanism employing an elastic element structure 230 including, for example, elastic rods 232, similar to that disclosed in U.S. Publication No. 2014 / 003391. The headband 224 can essentially completely encircle the user's head and can be flexible, semi-flexible or rigid. An optional crown band 80 helps keep the headband 224 properly positioned on the user's head.

[0046] The pivot mount 242 is attached to the headband 224 and includes a pivot point 244. The slide mount 240 is attached to the pivot mount 242 at the pivot point 244 using known fastening elements such as screws or pins. The slide mount 240 surrounds the slide rod 236 and is free to translate and rotate relative to the slide rod. The elastic rod 232 is joined to one end of the slide rod 236 and provides a counterbalance force to support the user's head H. For example, the rod 232 may be biased to be substantially straight or in other positions, but may be elastically bent to accommodate lowering of the head H, thereby providing a restoring force that biases the head H to a substantially straight position. The elastic rod 232 may be made of metal, plastic, or other suitable elastic material. The other end of the elastic rod 232 is attached (optionally pivotally) to a socket post 226 disposed in the frame socket 24. 10A, the user's head H is not lowered and the elastic rod 232 is relatively straight, so it exerts a relatively small restoring force on the user's head H. Optionally, multiple elastic element structures 230 can be used to achieve the desired balancing force.

[0047] 10B illustrates the arm support system 250 with the user's head H lowered generally along a path P12. In response, the elastic rod 232 is shown deflected generally along an arc A5. In this deflected position, the elastic rod 232 provides a counterbalance force to support the user's head H. The sliding mount 240 is movable along the sliding rod 236 generally along a path P13 to accommodate changes in the position and angle of the user's head.

[0048] FIG. 11A shows yet another example of an arm support system 320, a variation of the arm support system 170 of FIG. 6, intended for use when the user U is wearing existing headgear while performing a task. Examples of such headgear include a protective helmet, a head-mounted lamp, and a head-mounted magnifier. In such a case, the user U is already wearing a headband as part of the existing equipment, which may interfere with the forehead band 76 or headband 156 described above. For example, as shown in FIG. 11A, the user U is wearing a typical welding helmet 270 including a shield 272, a headband 274, and an adjustment knob 278. A clip 296 is shown attached to the welding helmet 270 at the adjustment knob 278. An elastic element 292 is attached to the clip 296 at a point 306 and to the support post 152 at a connector 154. The support post 152 is located within a socket post 52, which is thereby positioned in the harness and / or frame of the arm support system 320 (similar to any of the systems described above). The resilient element 292 is thus joined to a clip 296 attached to the welding helmet 270 to provide a counterbalance force for supporting the head H of the user.

[0049] FIG. 11B shows details of the welding helmet 270 of FIG. 11A, showing the helmet and clip 296 features (clip 296 is shown from both sides). The helmet adjustment knob 278 can be attached to the headband 274 by a neck 276 that has a smaller diameter than the adjustment knob 278. The clip 296 has a front plate 304 that includes a notch 302. The notch 302 is sized to fit over the neck 276 but interfere with the adjustment knob 278. Side straps 308 connect the front plate 304 to the back plate 300 and can provide space between the front plate 304 and the back plate 300 to accommodate the adjustment knob 278. The side straps 308, front plate 304 and back plate 300 can be flexible, rigid or semi-rigid. The elastic element 292 is attached to the back plate 300 at attachment points 306.

[0050] 11C shows a detailed view of FIG. 11B showing the clip 296 fully attached to the welding helmet 270. The clip 296 is held by the adjustment knob 278, allowing the resilient element 292 to provide a counterbalance force to support the head H of the user.

[0051] 11D shows an alternative clip 324 for existing headgear, such as a welding helmet 270. A backplane 326 is joined to straps 330, which provide attachment points 336 for elastic elements 340, 342. The elastic elements 340, 342 may be joined into a single elastic element 344. The backplane 326 and straps 330 may be flexible, rigid or semi-rigid.

[0052] FIGURE 11E shows the alternative clip 324 of FIGURE 11D fully attached to the welding helmet 270. The backplane 326 is located inside the headband 274. The strap 330 passes over the top of the headband 274 and terminates on the outside of the headband 274. An optional fastening strap 332 reaches under the headband 274 and can be attached to the strap 330 using known connectors such as Velcro or snaps for additional fastening. The clip 324 is thus secured to the headband 274, allowing the elastic elements 340, 342, 344 to provide a counterbalance force to support the user's head H.

[0053] 12A and 12B, another example of a head support system 400 is shown, similar to the system 100 of FIGS. 4A-4C, but without the arm support feature. A user U is shown wearing the frame and head support elements of FIGS. 4A-4C, with the head H lowered generally along path P14. A forehead band 130, which may be flexible, semi-flexible or rigid, is positioned on the user's forehead F. A crown band 80 assists in proper positioning of the forehead band 130. A guide tube 134 is secured to the forehead band, for example, by a guide tube clip 136. The guide tube 134 may be rigid or flexible, and is made from or lined with a low friction material, such as PTFE or nylon. The guide tube 134 provides a track along which the cord 112 slides. A lubricant (not shown) may aid in smooth sliding movement of the cord 112 within the guide tube 134. The smooth sliding movement of cord 112 within guide tube 134 facilitates side to side rotation of head H. Cord 112 is coupled to elastic element 110 at coupling 115. Elastic element 110 is coupled to Y-frame bar 60 at buckle 84. A comparable elastic element 120 is coupled to the other end of cord 112 at coupling 125 and to Y-frame bar 62 at buckle 86.

[0054] FIG. 12B shows the head support system 400 from the rear. The Y-frame post 58, which supports and positions the Y-frame bars 60, 62, is joined to the socket post 52. The socket post 52 is inserted into the frame socket 24 and can rotate relative to the frame socket 24 as described above. The socket post 52 can also be adjusted vertically relative to the frame socket 24 by using commonly known components as described above. The Y-frame post 58 and the Y-frame bars 60, 62 can be rigid or flexible and can be bent and molded to a desired shape. The frame socket 24 is connected to a frame T 16, which is connected to a spine tube 18, which is connected to one or more belt struts 20. The frame socket 24, frame T 16, spine tube 18 and belt strut(s) 20 provide a substantially rigid structure that transfers loads, such as the weight of the user's head, through flexible elements to the user's torso and hips.

[0055] 13A-13C, another example of arm support system 450, which is a variation of arm support system 320 of FIG. 11D, is shown, which is intended for use, for example, when user U is wearing existing headgear while performing a task. Examples of such headgear include a protective helmet, a head-mounted lamp, and head-mounted magnifying glasses. In those cases, user U is already wearing a headband as part of the existing equipment, which may interfere with forehead band 76 or headband 156 described above. In FIG. 13A, user U is shown wearing a typical welding helmet 270 including shield 272, headband 274, and adjustment knob 278. Alternative clip 460 is shown fully attached to welding helmet 270, similar to alternative clip 324 of FIG. 11D. Backplane 462 (corresponding to 326 in FIG. 11D, not shown) is disposed inside headband 274.

[0056] The strap 464 extends to the top of the headband 274 and terminates on the outside of the headband 274. An optional fastening strap 466 extends to the bottom of the headband 274 and can be attached to the strap 464 using known connectors such as Velcro or snaps for additional fastening. The clip 460 provides a mounting surface for the rear rail 474, which includes a rail end 478 and a rail body 480. The rail end 478 is attached to the clip 460 at a rail pivot 470 and can optionally rotate freely within the rail pivot 470 as needed. The rail body 480 provides a track for the clevis 490, which is free to move along the rail body 480 in response to the movement of the user's head H. This allows the user to freely rotate the head H from side to side while the clevis 490 slides along the rail body 480 and maintains the clevis 490 substantially centered behind the user's head H adjacent the support post 152.

[0057] The rail body 480 may be curved, straight, have various curvatures, or may be curved in three dimensions, depending on the desires of the user. The rail body 480 may be rigid, semi-rigid, and / or formed into various shapes, depending on the desires of the user. The length of the rail body 480 may be varied as needed to increase the range of motion of the user's head. Finally, the rail body 480 may have various cross-sectional shapes, for example, circular, rectangular, oval, or other desired shapes.

[0058] The clevis 490 surrounds the rail body 480, for example, by a pin 494 that holds the clevis 490 on the rail body 480. To reduce friction as the clevis 490 moves along the rail body 480, an optional rotating element (not shown), such as a roller or wheel, that rotates about the pin 494, may be provided within the clevis 490. The clevis 490 also includes a mounting location 498 to which a tension element 500 is attached. The other end of the tension element 500 is attached to the support post 152 by a connector 154. The support post 152 is secured to the socket post 52, and thereby secured to the frame of the arm support system 450 (similar to any of the systems previously described). In this manner, the tension element 500, coupled to the clip 460 via the back rail 474 and the clevis 490, may be coupled between the welding helmet 270 and the support post 152, thereby providing a counterbalance force to support the user's head H.

[0059] The tension element 500 can be elastic, inelastic, or a combination of both. If the tension element 500 is elastic, it provides a counterbalance force for the weight of the user's head H, which changes as the user raises and lowers his / her head. For example, when the user holds his / her head almost upright and does not require much counterbalance force, the elastic tension element 500 is relatively untensioned and therefore does not provide much counterbalance force. If the user lowers his / her head and more counterbalance force is desired, the elastic tension element 500 stretches and provides a larger counterbalance force according to Hooke's Law. The tension element 500 may optionally be elastic, but not according to Hooke's Law, e.g., a constant force spring. If the tension element 500 is inelastic, the support post 152 or other components of the frame of the arm support system may flex, e.g., be flexible or elastic, to provide a counterbalance force for the weight of the user's head, which changes as the head lowers (as described with reference to the previous examples).

[0060] FIG. 13B shows the arm support system 450 with the user's head H lowered and rotated generally toward the left shoulder. In response to this movement, the back of the user's head H moves generally along path P15, as does the back rail 474. The clevis 490 is free to slide (or roll) along the rail body 480, but remains in generally the same position relative to the support post 152 as in FIG. 13A. Because the clevis 490 remains in generally the same position as it was originally, the tension element 500 does not need to stretch in response to the rotational (side-to-side) movement of the user's head H, and therefore does not stretch further due to that side-to-side movement. In this way, the extension of the tension element 500 is decoupled from the side-to-side movement of the user's head H, and instead responds only to the lowering of the user's head, as needed.

[0061] 13C shows the arm support system 450 with the user's head H lowered and rotated generally toward the right shoulder. In response to this movement, the back of the user's head H moves generally along path P16, as does the rear rail 474. Again, the clevis 490 is free to slide (or roll) along the rail body 480 and remains in generally the same position relative to the support post 152 as in FIG. 13A. As described in connection with FIG. 13B, the extension of the tension element 500 is decoupled from the side-to-side movement of the user's head H, and instead responds only to the lowering of the user's head H, as needed.

[0062] Any of the other variations of the head support mechanism described above may also be used without the arm support feature, i.e., as a stand-alone head support system. Optionally, in any of the examples herein, at least a portion of the head support mechanism may be removable, for example, the base of the Y-frame bar may be removably attached to the harness, allowing the head support mechanism to be removed when not needed, for example, similar to system 50 shown in FIG. 2B.

[0063] Additionally, any of the head support components previously described, such as the forehead band 130, crown band 80, guide tube 134, guide tube clip 136, cord 112, elastic elements 110, 120, Y-frame bars and posts 60, 62, 58 and buckles 84, 86, may be reusable or disposable.

[0064] 14A-14E, another example of an arm support system or exoskeleton 600 is shown including a head support or counterbalance element 610 that may include some features in common with the clevis and rail based support system shown in FIGS. 13A and 13B, where the adaptive counterbalance element 610 may include features in common with the support system shown in FIGS. 10A and 10B. As previously described with reference to FIGS. 13A and 13B, a back rail 474 is shown attached to head gear, in this case a welding helmet 270. A clevis 520 may be similar to the clevis 490 shown in FIGS. 13A and 13B, and may slide or roll, for example horizontally, along the back rail 474 to transmit a counterbalance force to the user's head H in response to rotation of the user's head H. The back rail 474 may be removable or may be permanently fixed to the head gear 270, and / or may include features similar to the system shown in FIGS. 13A and 13B and / or other systems described herein.

[0065] 14A and 14B, the counterbalance element 610 may be mounted to a "T" shaped bracket 16 integrated into a frame, such as an exoskeleton or other harness such as included in arm support system 50 as in the previous examples. As in the previous examples, the arm support component is optional, i.e., the counterbalance element 610 may be mounted to a simplified harness without an arm support mechanism, such as in system 400 shown in FIGS. 12A and 12B.

[0066] In the example shown in Figures 14A and 14B, the counterbalance element 610 can include one or more angle adjustment knobs 634, 656 that allow for angular adjustment about axes 638, 658, respectively. For example, the adjustment knob 634 can allow for adjustment of the angle of the yoke 650 about axis 638, thereby allowing the counterbalance element 610 to conform to the size and shape of the user's back and neck. The adjustment knob 656 can allow for adjustment of the angle of the spring base 660 about axis 658, thereby providing further conformance to the shape and size of the user's back and neck and / or providing adjustment of the magnitude of the counterbalance force and the angle at which it is greatest. The spring base 660 provides an attachment point 662 for a proximal end 668 (not shown) of one or more counterbalance rods 664. A distal end 669 (shown in Figure 14C) of the counterbalance rod 664 is attached to a bearing block 670. The counterbalance rods 664 may be biased to be substantially linear or other shapes, but may be elastically bendable to accommodate the lowering of the user's head H, as shown, for example, in FIG. 14B. The counterbalance rods 664 may include one or more elastic elongated members made of various materials, including metals, polymers, composites, and / or elastomers. The counterbalance rods 664 may also be shaped to provide various counterbalancing effects, for example, curved, coiled, or tapered. As described further below, the counterbalance rods 664 may flex and bend like a cantilever under the load of the user's head H, thereby providing a restoring force that acts to support and counterbalance all (or a portion) of the weight of the user's head H. Optionally, the number of counterbalance rods 664 may be varied to provide an increased or decreased level of support, depending on the user's desires. By adding or removing counterbalance rods 664 and / or by adjusting the angle of the spring base 660 about the axis 658, the user may adjust the counterbalance force as needed.

[0067] In FIG. 14A, the user's head H is shown generally upright, e.g., generally horizontal and pointing forward. In this position, the user is likely to require little counterbalance force. Consistent with this, the counterbalance rod 664 is shown in a relatively unloaded state, in this case biased to a generally straight shape. Optionally, the counterbalance rod 664 can also be biased to other shapes, e.g., simple curved shapes or multi-radius curved shapes. Optionally, the counterbalance rod 664 can also be preloaded, i.e., can store energy even when the user is not bowing his / her head or placing weight on the rod 664.

[0068] Another component of the counterbalance element 610 is best shown in FIG. 14D. A telescoping shaft 690, slidably coupled to a bearing block or base 670 by a guide wheel 680, is also coupled to the clevis 520 at a mounting hook 694, for example by a clevis loop 528. Similar to the system of FIGS. 13A and 13B, the clevis 520 may at least partially surround or be slidably coupled to the back rail 474 and transfer a counterbalance force from the counterbalance rod 664 to the user's head H via the back rail 474. For example, the clevis 520 may slide or roll along the back rail 474 and may optionally include a rolling element (not shown) to reduce friction between the clevis 520 and the back rail 474.

[0069] In the upright position, the telescoping shaft 690 is shown retracted with the upper shaft end 692 relatively close to the top surface 676 of the bearing block 670. This position is consistent with a user holding their head upright, e.g., facing forward. The long axis 606 of the telescoping shaft 690 forms a rest angle A8 with the substantially vertical axis 605. If desired, the telescoping shaft 690 is free to extend further out of the bearing block 670, guided by the guide wheel 680, in response to the user lowering their head, as will be described below.

[0070] FIG. 14B shows a perspective view of the system 600 of FIG. 14A with the user's head H lowered, consistent with many work positions such as welding, assembly, machining, and surgery. In this position, the counterbalance element 610 applies a counterbalance force, thereby helping to reduce strain on the user's neck. The long axis 606' of the telescopic shaft 690 forms a new angle A9 with the substantially vertical axis 605. The clevis 520, which transmits the counterbalance force to the user's head H, is free to move along the back rail 474, for example, as the user U rocks the head H from side to side. As the user U lowers the head H, the counterbalance rod 664 flexes accordingly (in this case from its straight shape to the illustrated curved shape approximately along an arc A10) to provide the desired counterbalance force. The resulting force may be proportional to the deflection of the rod 664, similar to, for example, a cantilever beam.

[0071] As the user U lowers his / her head H, the distance from the counterbalance element 610 to the head H increases. In response, the telescoping shaft 690 extends from the bearing block 670, generally along a path P19, to increase the distance between the upper shaft end 692 and the upper surface 676 of the bearing block 670. The ability of the telescoping shaft 690 to extend and retract has at least two advantages. First, the telescoping shaft 690 can accommodate the movement of the user's head H as it moves up and down. In addition, the telescoping shaft 690 can alleviate counterbalance forces by increasing the leverage of the user's head H against the counterbalance rod 664.

[0072] For example, as user U lowers his head H, rod 664 flexes further, thereby increasing the applied force. Generally, without the additional leverage provided by telescoping shaft 690, the increase in force would be uncomfortable for the user and may require user U to apply undesirable force to lower his head H. The increased leverage provided by telescoping shaft 690, which progressively extends (along path P19) against counterbalance rod 664, mitigates this increase in force, thereby, for example, lengthening the moment arm and providing a comfortable counterbalance force in the working position.

[0073] 14C, an exploded view of the counterbalance element 610 is shown to further clarify the component parts. As shown, the support tube 630 couples the counterbalance element 610 to an existing exoskeleton, such as the frame 16 that carries the arm support mechanism, or to the frame of a simplified harness that does not have an arm support mechanism, such as similar to the spine tube 18 of the system 40 shown in FIGS. 12A and 12B.

[0074] An angle adjustment hub 632 is joined to the support tube 630 and houses a toothed angle adjustment element 636, which may include a Hirth joint or other joint, including, for example, interlocking Hirth coupling teeth, to maintain a desired angle of the yoke 650. The knob 634 and bolt 635 may provide a mechanism for tightening and loosening the toothed angle adjustment element 636 when adjusting the angle. As shown, the yoke 650 houses two pairs of toothed angle adjustment elements 636, which are tightened and loosened using the knob 656 when adjusting the angle of the spring base 660. The spring base 660 includes an attachment feature 662 that captures a proximal end 668 of a counterbalance rod 664. The attachment feature 662 may include conventional attachment methods for retaining the rod 664, such as fasteners, clips, clamps, adhesives, welding, and the like. The distal end 669 of the counterbalance rod 664 is in turn retained in a mounting feature 672 of a bearing block 670. The bearing block 670 also houses a guide wheel 680, which is rotatably mounted to the bearing block 670, for example, via a shaft 684 press-fitted into a hole 674. The telescoping shaft 690 rolls on the guide wheel 680 as the shaft 690 retracts and retracts in response to the user U lowering and raising the head U. To limit the movement of the telescoping shaft, a stopper can be provided, for example, a stop ring 696 that prevents the telescoping shaft 690 from completely separating from the bearing block 670 during use. The upper shaft end 692 can include a mounting hook 694 that can be used to couple the counterbalance element 610 to the rear rail 474 of the headgear, as described above.

[0075] 15A and 15B, there is shown another example of a counterbalance element 700 that may be included in an exoskeleton, frame and / or harness with or without an arm support mechanism, as well as other systems herein. In the example shown, the counterbalance element 700 includes similar components as the counterbalance element 610, except that the counterbalance force is provided by a torsion spring 750.

[0076] In Figure 15A, the counterbalance element 700 is shown in a generally undeflected state. The yoke 740 provides a pivot axis 744 for the bearing base 760. The bearing base 760 includes a lower portion 762, a middle portion 764 and an upper portion 766. The lower portion 762 includes a pivot 768, allowing the bearing base 760 to rotate about the axis 744, and provides mounting for the torsion spring 750. The fixed leg 754 of the torsion spring 750 abuts against the edge 746 of the yoke 740, and the movable leg 756 of the spring 750 abuts against the middle portion 764 of the bearing base 760. 15A, in an undeflected state, the torsion spring 750 exerts a moment between the yoke 740 and the bearing base 760 that can be either zero, a moderate or a strong moment and can be adjusted, for example, by deflecting the torsion spring 750 using commonly known elements. The telescoping shaft 690 is slidably coupled to the upper portion 766 of the bearing base 760 by the guide wheel 680 and is shown substantially retracted relative to the upper portion 766 of the bearing base 760.

[0077] 15B, the counterbalance element 700 is shown in its flexed state, for example consistent with a user bowing their head. The bearing base 760 is shown rotated on pivot 768 about axis 744, generally along path P22. The torsion spring 750 flexes in response, exerting a larger restoring moment about axis 744, thereby providing a counterbalancing force to the user's head, for example, similar to the systems previously described. The telescoping shaft 690 extends generally along path P24 in response to the user bowing their head, thereby accommodating the movement of the user's head and mitigating the restoring force.

[0078] 16A and 16B, yet another example of a counterbalance element 800 is shown that may be included in an exoskeleton, frame and / or harness with or without an arm support mechanism, as well as other systems herein. In the example shown, the counterbalance element 800 includes similar components as the counterbalance elements 610, 700, except that the counterbalance force is provided by a tension spring 890 acting on a lever 870.

[0079] In FIG. 16A, the counterbalance element 800 is shown in a generally undeflected state. The yoke 840 provides a pivot axis 844 for the bearing base 860. In addition, the yoke 840 provides a spring mounting tab 846 to which a proximal end 892 of a tension spring 890 is attached. The bearing base 860 includes a lower portion 862, a middle portion 864, and an upper portion 866. The lower portion 862 includes a pivot 868, allowing the bearing base 860 to rotate about the axis 844, and includes a lever 870. The lever 870 can extend substantially perpendicular to the bearing base 860, or may be at a fixed or adjustable angle relative to the bearing base 860.

[0080] A distal end 894 of the spring 890 is attached to a lever 870 of the bearing base 860 at an attachment point 872. As shown, in an undeflected state, the moment exerted by the spring 890 acting on the lever 870 between the yoke 840 and the bearing base 860 is either zero, a moderate, or a strong moment, and can be adjusted, for example, by replacing the spring, by preloading the spring 890 using commonly known elements, by adjusting the length of the lever 870, and / or by adjusting the angle of the lever 870 relative to the bearing base 860. The telescoping shaft 690 is slidably joined to the upper portion 866 of the bearing base 860 by the guide wheel 680 and is shown substantially retracted relative to the upper portion 866 of the bearing base 860.

[0081] 16B illustrates the counterbalance element 800 in its flexed state, which corresponds, for example, to a user lowering their head. The bearing base 860 is shown rotated on pivot 868 about axis 844, approximately along path P26. The tension spring 890, which stretches in response, exerts a greater force on the lever 870, exerting a greater restoring moment about axis 844, thereby providing a counterbalancing force to the user's head. The telescoping shaft 690 extends approximately along path P28 in response to the user lowering their head, thereby accommodating the movement of the user's head and relieving the restoring force. Optionally, further relieving of the moment exerted by the spring 890 about axis 844 can be achieved by changing the angle of the lever 870 relative to the bearing base 860 to provide maximum leverage to the spring 890 at the desired angle of rotation of the bearing base 860 about axis 844.

[0082] 17A and 17B, yet another example of a counterbalance element 900 is shown that may be included in an exoskeleton, frame and / or harness with or without an arm support mechanism, as well as other systems herein. In the example shown, the counterbalance element 800 includes similar components as the counterbalance elements 610, 700, 800, except that the counterbalance force is provided by a tension spring 990 acting on a pulley 970.

[0083] 17A, the counterbalance element 900 is shown in its generally undeflected state. The yoke 940 provides a pivot axis 944 for the bearing base 960. In addition, the yoke 940 provides a spring mounting tab 946 to which a proximal end 992 of a tension spring 990 is attached. The bearing base 960 includes a lower portion 962, a middle portion 964, and an upper portion 966. The lower portion 962 includes a pivot 968, allowing the bearing base 960 to rotate about the pivot axis 944, and includes a pulley 970.

[0084] Pulley 970 may be at a fixed angle or an adjustable angle relative to bearing base 860. Optionally, pulley 970 may be symmetrical, e.g., circular, e.g., elliptical or other non-circular, asymmetrical, e.g., with multiple radii, varying radii, or other suitable shape. Pulley 970 may be flat-sided, toothed, include sprocket teeth (not shown), and / or include grooves 972, e.g., to provide a receiving track 872 for tension element 980. Tension element 980 may be a cable, belt, chain, cord, or any other suitable tension structure that is flexible but substantially inelastic, e.g., to transmit force from tension spring 990. For example, distal end 984 of tension element 980 is attached to pulley 970 at anchor point 976, and proximal end 982 of tension element 980 is attached to distal end 994 of spring 990.

[0085] 17A, in an undeflected state, the moment exerted between the yoke 940 and the bearing base 960 by the spring 990 acting on the pulley 970 is either zero, a moderate or a strong moment, and can optionally be adjusted, for example, by replacing the spring, by preloading the spring 890 using commonly known elements, or by adjusting the angle of the pulley 970 relative to the bearing base 960. The telescoping shaft 690 is slidably coupled to the upper portion 866 of the bearing base 860, for example, by a guide wheel 680, and is shown substantially retracted relative to the upper portion 866 of the bearing base 860.

[0086] 17B illustrates the counterbalance element 900 in its flexed state, consistent with, for example, a user lowering their head. The bearing base 960 is shown rotating on a pivot 968 about the pivot axis 944, generally along a path P30. A pulley 970, adjustably secured to the bearing base 960, rotates with the bearing base 960. As the pulley 970 rotates, more tension element 980 is wound up on it, causing the tension element 980 to wind further around the pulley 970 and lengthening the tension spring 990. As a result, the tension spring 990 exerts a greater force on the tension element 980, and thus on the pulley 970, thereby exerting a greater restoring moment about the pivot axis 944 to provide a counterbalancing force on the user's head. Optionally, the shape of the pulley 970 can reduce or enhance the restoring moment, and the radius at a given point on the pulley 970 can be used to vary the mechanical advantage that the increasingly tensioned spring 990 has against the bearing base 960.

[0087] The telescoping shaft 690 extends generally along path P32 as the user lowers his head, thereby accommodating the restoring force in response to the user's head movement. Optionally, adjustment of the moment exerted by the spring 990 about the pivot axis 944 can be achieved by varying the angle of the pulley 970 relative to the bearing base 960 to provide a desired leverage for the spring 990 at a desired angle of rotation of the bearing base 960 about the pivot axis 944.

[0088] It will be appreciated that the devices, systems and methods described herein can be used to support a user's head during a variety of tasks, e.g., during surgery, manufacturing, construction and / or other activities. The system generally provides an offset force to the user's head to allow the user to freely move the head while performing a task, e.g., rotate and / or bend the head forward, while preventing or reducing fatigue, for example. As described elsewhere herein, the offset force applied to the user's head when the user leans forward or bends the head forward can be varied, e.g., by modifying the spring or potential force profile generated by the cord, frame and / or other components of the system.

[0089] It will be understood that elements or components illustrated with any example herein are merely exemplary for the particular example and may be used in or in combination with other examples disclosed herein.

[0090] Furthermore, in describing representative examples, the specification may present the method and / or process as a particular order of steps. However, unless the method or process depends on the particular order of steps described herein, the method or process should not be limited to the particular order of steps described. As one skilled in the art would appreciate, other orders of steps are possible. Thus, the particular order of steps described herein should not be construed as a limitation on the scope of the claims.

[0091] While the invention is susceptible to various modifications and alternative forms, specific examples thereof have been shown in the drawings and are herein described in detail, It is to be understood, however, that the invention is not limited to the specific forms or methods disclosed, but rather, the invention is intended to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. 1. A system for supporting a user's head, comprising: a harness configured to be worn on a body of a user, the frame member being positioned adjacent to the user's torso when the harness is worn; a support bracket including a first end attached to the frame member and a second end configured to be positioned adjacent a user's head when the harness is worn; a rest member coupled to a second end of the support bracket, the rest member configured to extend at least partially around a user's head to support the user's head; A rail provided on the rest member; a clevis coupled to a second end of the support bracket for coupling the rest member to the support bracket, the clevis being slidable on the rail, the clevis sliding along the rail by rotating a head between a left position and a right position; the support bracket is configured to accommodate a user tilting the head forward from a rest position while providing a counterbalance force to at least partially support the weight of the head to prevent or reduce fatigue; The system further comprises a second end of the support bracket that is biased toward the rest position to provide a balancing force while being movable to accommodate a user tilting their head forward when the rest member is attached.

2. 2. The system of claim 1, 13. The system of claim 12, further comprising a slide mount on a second end of the support bracket, the slide mount coupled to the clevis and configured to move on the second end of the support bracket.

3. 3. The system of claim 2, the support bracket defining a first axis between the first end and the second end, and the sliding mount comprising an elongated shaft slidable along the first axis relative to a base attached to the second end of the support bracket, thereby accommodating a user's tilting of the head forward from a rest position.

4. 4. The system of claim 3, the base having a passage therethrough, the slide mount being slidably received through the passage.

5. 2. The system of claim 1, The system wherein the support bracket includes one or more resilient elongated members extending between the first and second ends.

6. 6. The system of claim 5, The system characterized in that the one or more resilient elongated members include a plurality of elongated rods having a first end coupled to a yoke on a first end of the support bracket and a second end coupled to a base on a second end of the support bracket.

7. 7. The system of claim 6, the yoke being rotatably coupled to the frame member to adjust the angle of the first axis relative to the frame member.

8. 2. The system of claim 1, The support bracket is an elongate member extending between the first end and the second end, the first end pivotally coupled to the frame member, the second end of the elongate member pivoting from a first position when the user's head is tilted forward; a resilient member coupled to the elongated member and biasing the elongated member toward the first position to provide a counterbalancing force.

9. 9. The system of claim 8, The system, wherein the resilient member comprises one of a torsion spring and a tension spring.

10. 9. The system of claim 8, A system comprising: a first end of the elongated member pivotally coupled to a yoke attached to the frame member.

11. 11. The system of claim 10, a first end of the resilient member coupled to the yoke and a second end of the resilient member coupled to the elongated member to exert a spring force, thereby providing a counterbalance force.

12. 2. The system of claim 1, The system further comprising an arm support mechanism coupled to the harness and configured to support an arm of a user.

13. 2. The system of claim 1, The system further comprising headgear attached to the rest member.

14. 14. The system of claim 13, The system, wherein the headgear comprises a welding helmet, a mask, a head-mounted lamp, or a head-mounted magnifier.

15. 2. The system of claim 1, The system, wherein the rail is removably coupled to the rest member.

16. 1. A system for supporting a user's head, comprising: a harness configured to be worn on a body of a user, the frame member being positioned adjacent to the user's torso when the harness is worn; a support bracket including a first end attached to the frame member and a second end configured to be positioned adjacent a user's head when the harness is worn, the support bracket defining a first axis between the first end and the second end; a rest member configured to extend at least partially around the user's head to support the user's head; a shaft including an upper end coupled to the rest member and a lower end slidably coupled to the support bracket, the shaft being movable along the first axis to accommodate a user tilting their head forward from a rest position; The support bracket is configured to accommodate a user tilting the head forward from the rest position while providing a counterbalancing force to at least partially support the weight of the head.

17. 17. The system of claim 16, The system further comprises a second end of the support bracket that is movable away from the rest position and configured to accommodate a user tilting the user's head forward when the rest member is attached, yet biased toward the rest position to provide a counterbalancing force.

18. 20. The system of claim 17, The system wherein the support bracket includes one or more resilient elongated members extending between the first and second ends.

19. 20. The system of claim 18, The system characterized in that the one or more resilient elongated members include a plurality of elongated rods having a first end coupled to a yoke on a first end of the support bracket and a second end coupled to a base on a second end of the support bracket.

20. 20. The system of claim 19, the yoke being rotatably coupled to the frame member to adjust the angle of the first axis relative to the frame member.

21. 20. The system of claim 19, The system according to claim 1, wherein the base has a passage therethrough, the lower end of the shaft being slidably received through the passage.

22. 17. The system of claim 16, The support bracket is an elongate member extending between the first end and the second end, the first end pivotally coupled to the frame member, such that when the user's head is tilted forward, the second end of the elongate member pivots from the rest position; a resilient member coupled to the elongated member to bias the elongated member toward the first position to provide a counterbalancing force.

23. 23. The system of claim 22, The system, wherein the resilient member comprises one of a torsion spring and a tension spring.

24. 23. The system of claim 22, A system comprising: a first end of the elongated member pivotally coupled to a yoke attached to the frame member.

25. 23. The system of claim 22, a first end of the resilient member coupled to the yoke and a second end of the resilient member coupled to the elongated member to exert a spring force, thereby providing a counterbalance force.

26. 17. The system of claim 16, a rail on the rest member; a clevis coupled to an upper end of the shaft for coupling the rest member to the support bracket, the clevis being slidable on the rail, the clevis sliding along the rail to accommodate rotation of the head as the head rotates between a left position and a right position.

27. 27. The system of claim 26, The system, wherein the rail is removably coupled to the rest member.

28. 27. The system of claim 26, the clevis is coupled to the second end of the support bracket by a cord having a first end coupled to the second end of the support bracket and a second end coupled to the clevis.

29. 17. The system of claim 16, The system further comprising headgear attached to the rest member.

30. 30. The system of claim 29, The system, wherein the headgear comprises a welding helmet, a mask, a head-mounted lamp, or a head-mounted magnifier.

31. 17. The system of claim 16, The system further comprising an arm support mechanism coupled to the harness and configured to support an arm of a user.

32. 1. A system for supporting a user's head, comprising: a harness configured to be worn on a body of a user, the frame member being positioned adjacent to the user's torso when the harness is worn; a support bracket including a first end attached to the frame member and a second end configured to be positioned behind a user's head when the harness is worn; a rest member coupled to a second end of the support bracket, the rest member configured to extend at least partially around a user's head to support the user's head; A rail provided on the rest member; a clevis coupled to a second end of the support bracket for coupling the rest member to the support bracket, the clevis being slidable on the rail, the clevis sliding along the rail by rotating a head between a left position and a right position; The support bracket is an elongate member extending between the first end and the second end, the first end pivotally coupled to the frame member, the second end of the elongate member pivoted from a first position to accommodate a user tilting their head forward from a rest position; and a resilient member coupled to the elongated member and biasing the elongated member toward the first position to provide a balancing force, thereby accommodating a user's tilting of the head forward when the rest member is worn while being biased toward the rest position to provide a balancing force.

33. 33. The system of claim 32, The system, wherein the resilient member comprises one of a torsion spring and a tension spring.

34. 34. The system of claim 33, A system comprising: a first end of the elongated member pivotally coupled to a yoke attached to the frame member.

35. 35. The system of claim 34, a first end of the resilient member coupled to the yoke and a second end of the resilient member coupled to the elongated member to exert a spring force, thereby providing a counterbalance force.

36. In the system according to any one of claims 32 to 35, 13. The system of claim 12, further comprising a slide mount on a second end of the resilient member, the slide mount coupled to the clevis and configured to move on the second end of the resilient member.

37. 37. The system of claim 36, the elongated member defining a first axis between the first end and the second end, and the sliding mount comprising an elongated shaft slidable along the first axis relative to a base attached to the second end of the elongated member, thereby accommodating a user's tilting of the head forward from the rest position.

38. 38. The system of claim 37, the base having a passage therethrough, the slide mount being slidably received through the passage.

39. 1. A system for supporting a user's head, comprising: a harness configured to be worn on a body of a user, the frame member being positioned adjacent to the user's torso when the harness is worn; a support bracket including a first end attached to the frame member and a second end configured to be positioned behind a user's head when the harness is worn, the support bracket defining a first axis between the first end and the second end; a rest member coupled to a second end of the support bracket, the rest member configured to extend at least partially around a user's head to support the user's head; A rail provided on the rest member; a clevis coupled to a second end of the support bracket for coupling the rest member to the support bracket, the clevis being slidable on the rail, the clevis sliding along the rail by rotating a head between a left position and a right position; The support bracket is a base attached to a second end of the support bracket; one or more elastic members extending between the first end and the second end; a slide mount including an elongated shaft slidable along the first axis relative to the base to accommodate a user tilting the head forward from the rest position; the one or more resilient members are configured to allow the base to move from the first position to accommodate a user tilting the head forward from a rest position while being biased to return toward the first position to provide a counterbalancing force to at least partially support the weight of the head to prevent or reduce fatigue.

40. 40. The system of claim 39, the base having a passage therethrough, the elongated shaft of the slide mount being slidably received through the passage.

41. 41. The system of claim 39 or 40, The system characterized in that the one or more resilient elongated members include a plurality of elongated rods having a first end coupled to a yoke on a first end of the support bracket and a second end coupled to a base on a second end of the support bracket.

42. 42. The system of claim 41, the yoke being rotatably coupled to the frame member to adjust the angle of the first axis relative to the frame member.

43. 41. The system of claim 39 or 40, The system, wherein the base comprises one or more guide elements that allow the elongated shaft to slide along the first axis.

44. 44. The system of claim 43, The system, wherein the one or more guide elements include a plurality of guide wheels that rotate as the elongated shaft slides along the first axis.

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