Head and neck support for vehicle seats

Abstract

A head and neck rest pod apparatus for vehicular seats, comprising of: a peripheral cushioning (1) configured to be positioned around the periphery of the neck, featuring an extra-deep cushion at the back to accommodate the curvature at the junction between the head and neck; a chin and jaw support (2) including a side cut (3), which facilitates movement of the head to the left and right without obstructing vision and providing cushioning for added support and protection; a side and forehead support (4, 5) adapted to extend cover to the forehead, providing impact protection and a resting surface; and a back support for neck and head (7) configured to provide cushioning at the back of the said pod and is tailored to the different thicknesses required at the neck and head levels.

Description

[0001] HEAD AND NECK SUPPORT FOR VEHICLE SEATS

[0002] FIELD OF INVENTION

[0003] The present invention pertains to a head and neck support pod apparatus designed for vehicle seats. Specifically, the invention addresses improvements in the support, comfort, and safety of the head and neck of an occupant seated in a vehicle.

[0004] BACKGROUND ART

[0005] Conventional vehicular seats are typically designed with a primary focus on comfort, often without accounting for the anatomical needs of the human body. As a result, many seats fail to properly support the head and neck, leading to potential discomfort and abnormal strain on the neck. Modern headrests, while varied in design, often lack comprehensive support features for the head and neck. These headrests generally offer minimal support, resulting in neck strain over extended periods. Current designs vary in terms of height, width, angle, and thickness, but none address the full spectrum of support required for the neck, face, forehead, eyes, jawline, and chin.

[0006] Additionally, traditional seat belts, while effective in preventing the lower body from moving forward during sudden stops or impacts, do not adequately protect the head and neck. The neck, being a flexible and delicate structure without substantial bony protection, is vulnerable to jerks and impacts unless securely supported. The present invention aims to address these deficiencies by providing enhanced support and stability for the head and neck, both while the vehicle is in motion and at rest. The invention features a U-shaped design with internal cushioning that absorbs impact and provides substantial protection in the event of a collision, thereby improving overall safety. Existing solutions do not offer a comprehensive head and neck support system. So, this invention solves the problem of lack of support to human neck in present day head rests and also give stability to head and neck of the subject while in motion and in the state of rest or sleep. And above all it provides great deal of safety to head and neck in the event of collision of the vehicle due to its U shape like design and cushions inside that design which absorbs the shock of impact and protects the subject from the impact of collision and thereby saving the life of the subject. As far as the conventional seating arrangements of prior art, there is no solution available of this sort for any subject vehicle chair / seat. The product available right now only supports head from the back side and subject can rest his head on it, they don’t have any support system on left or right side, and at neck level. So these products do not support neck at all, and do not support head and neck from left and right side while resting or sleeping on the chair / seat, and above all do not protect head and neck from the effects of the collision of the running or still vehicle.

[0007] In the prior art, an European Application EP1340649A2 discloses a neck rest for the seats of automobiles comprising a fixed support member and a fixed cushion member enclosing the fixed support member and two rods connected to the support member, the rods being adapted to be accommodated by sleeve members in the back rest of the seat, a second support member for a movable cushion member which is movably supported by the first support member whereby the movable cushion member can be moved between a position wherein it is accommodated by the fixed cushion member and an extended position and vice versa in the extended position the movable cushion member is moved relative to the fixed cushion member towards the head of the person seating on the seat, and actuating means for the actuation of the movable cushion member into the extended position, characterized by the further features: The second support member is pivotably supported on the first support member about a lower horizontal axis, the actuation means include spring means which bias the second support member, a controllable locking means retains the second support member in the extended position relative to the first support member, a third support member is displaceably supported on the second support member between a lower and an upper position, the third support member is biased towards the upper position by second spring means, a controllable second locking means retains the third support member in the lower position, the second locking means being unlocked when the second support member has attained a predetermined pivot angle and stop means between second and / or third support member and first support member to prevent a pivoting of the second and the third support member towards the first support member when the second and third support member have attained their extended position.

[0008] In another prior art, an European Patent No. EP1275554B1 discloses headrest, connected to the seat back by an inverted U-shaped support, has an inner housing covered by a padding layer. The upper part of the housing has a hollow compartment with grooves in its lower wall for the cross-member of the U-shaped support. The support is pressed against the grooves by flat springs, and the head rest is adjusted by pressing it down against the pressure of the springs so that the cross-member can be moved from one groove to another.

[0009] In yet another prior art, an US Patent application US3655241 discloses an angularly and vertically adjustable head rest which is secured to a back rest of a motor vehicle seat. The heat rest may be immobilized in a desired height position by locking mechanism disposed entirely within and surrounded by the foam plastic cushion of the head rest. For height adjustment a first locking mechanism may be released by lateral pressure applied against one edge portion of the head rest and for tilting adjustment a second locking mechanism may be released by pressure applied to the opposite side edge of the head rest.

[0010] SUMMARY OF INVENTION The primary objective of the present invention is to provide a head and neck rest pod for vehicular seats, designed to enhance the support, comfort, and safety of the occupant. The device is configured to conform to the natural contours of the head and neck, offering continuous support on the back, front, left, and right sides while driving, resting, or sleeping in a moving or stationary vehicle. In the event of jerks, impacts, or collisions, the U-shaped design with internal cushioning absorbs shock and protects the head and neck, significantly enhancing occupant safety and potentially saving lives.

[0011] In another embodiment, the head and neck rest is designed to fully support the head and neck of the occupant by adapting to the contours at the pivot point between the head and neck. This design ensures comprehensive support from the back, left, and right sides, allowing the occupant to rest comfortably in the seat without experiencing discomfort.

[0012] In yet another embodiment, the invention is configured for added comfort by preventing the head and neck from rolling forward, backward, or to the sides during rest. This prevents inconvenience to the occupant as well as to those seated nearby. In addition to comfort, the invention provides a crucial safety feature by cushioning the occupant's head and neck in the event of sudden jerks, impacts, or collisions. For optimal protection, the occupant must be properly seated in the vehicle with the head and neck correctly positioned within the device and secured with the seatbelt at the time of the incident.

[0013] Therefore such as herein described there is provided a head and neck rest pod apparatus for vehicular seats, comprising of: a peripheral cushioning (1) configured to be positioned around the periphery of the neck, featuring an extra-deep cushion at the back to accommodate the curvature at the junction between the head and neck; a chin and jaw support (2) including a side cut (3), which facilitates movement of the head to the left and right without obstructing vision and providing cushioning for added support and protection; a side and forehead support (4, 5) adapted to extend cover to the forehead, providing impact protection and a resting surface; and a back support for neck and head (7) configured to provide cushioning at the back of the said pod and is tailored to the different thicknesses required at the neck and head levels; wherein the said back support (7) fills the gap between the neck and head contours; and wherein said forehead support (5) is adapted to be pivoted upward at a 90 -degree angle in order to allow easy placement of the head inside the pod and once positioned, the protector is configured to be lowered to 180 degrees to secure the forehead, offering safety and stability during sudden movements or collisions.

[0014] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE ACCOMPANYING DRAWINGS

[0015] Figure No. 1 is a perspective view showing the essential parts comprising the invention from front side at angle in accordance with the present invention;

[0016] Figure No.2 is a perspective view of invention from top in accordance with the present invention;

[0017] Figure No.3 is a perspective view of invention from front side at angle in accordance with the present invention;

[0018] Figure No.4 is a perspective model of a male human head in accordance with the present invention;

[0019] Figure No.5 is a perspective view of invention with model of human head fitted inside it, in accordance with the present invention;

[0020] Figure No. 6 is a perspective view of ‘L’ shape rod with slots for locking in accordance with the present invention;

[0021] Figure No.7 is a perspective view of upper part of vehicular seat with locking system for ‘L’ shape rod to fit in to it in accordance with the present invention;

[0022] Figure No. 8 is a perspective view of complete assembly of invention along with model of human head fitted inside it, dully installed on vehicular seat with the help of ‘L’ shape rod in fully extended position on its Y axis in accordance with the present invention;

[0023] Figure No. 9 is a perspective view of complete assembly of invention along with model of human head fitted inside it, dully installed on vehicular seat with the help of ‘L’ shape rod in retracted backward position on its Y axis in accordance with the present invention; Figure No. 10 is a perspective view of complete assembly form right side in accordance with the present invention;

[0024] Figure No. 11 is a cross section view of complete assembly from right side at an angle from back side in accordance with the present invention.

[0025] DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0026] The present invention pertains to a head and neck rest designed for vehicular seats, specifically offering enhanced support and comfort for the occupant. Beyond providing support for the head and neck, this invention also functions as a safety cushion, protecting the occupant in the event of a vehicle collision, regardless of the impact type, provided that the occupant is properly seated and their head and neck are correctly positioned within the device. Additionally, the invention ensures comfort by supporting the head and neck from the left and right sides, preventing them from rolling to the sides and causing discomfort or inconvenience.

[0027] Current headrests fail to adequately support the contours of the human neck, often neglecting lateral support, which can lead to discomfort, potential injury, or muscle strain while resting or sleeping.

[0028] A key feature of this invention is its design, resembling a helmet but open at the front and on the sides. This design allows for an unobstructed front view and facilitates communication with others, while still providing substantial support and comfort. The unique shape and curvature of the design, along with the internal cushioning, accommodate the natural shape of the human neck and offer protection in the event of a collision. The cushioning absorbs impact shock, safeguarding the occupant and enhancing overall safety.

[0029] This invention is required for the comfort and safety of the subject as the design of the head-rests that are used until now do not support the contour of the human neck. It does not support the head and neck on the left and right side and due to which, while resting or sleeping, the head and neck of the subject gets rolled on either side and causes discomfort and sometimes injury or leads to stretching of the muscles.

[0030] The crucial feature of this invention is its design which is more like a helmet but is open from front side and more open on left and right side. This design allows subject the freedom of clear unobstructed front view allows easy communication with co-subjects but at the same time gives comfort. The design also supports the unique shape and curvature of human neck and inside cushion facing head and neck of the subject gives it safety in case of collision of the vehicle. The cushion inside that design absorbs the shock of impact and protects the subject from the jerks, impact and or collision and thereby saving the life of the subject.

[0031] The present invention, as illustrated in Figure 1, provides a head and neck rest designed for vehicular seats. This innovative system utilizes high- density PU foam, soft yet durable rubber, or any shock-absorbing material to ensure both comfort and safety, particularly during impacts or collisions. The key components and their functions are as follows:

[0032] Peripheral Cushioning for Neck (1): This cushioning is positioned around the periphery of the neck, featuring an extra-deep cushion at the back to accommodate the curvature at the junction between the head and neck. This design ensures a snug fit that aligns with the natural contour of the neck.

[0033] Chin and Jaw Support (2): The chin and jaw area is cushioned for added support and protection. The design also includes a side cut (3), which facilitates movement of the head to the left and right without obstructing vision, even when wearing spectacles.

[0034] Side and Forehead Support (4, 5): The side cushions extend to cover the forehead, providing impact protection and a resting surface. A forehead protector (5) can be pivoted upward at a 90 -degree angle (as shown in Figure 3) to allow easy placement of the head inside the pod. Once positioned, the protector can be lowered to 180 degrees to secure the forehead, offering safety and stability during sudden movements or collisions. This design prevents forward motion of the head, which in turn protects the neck.

[0035] Back Support for Neck and Head (7): The cushioning at the back of the pod is tailored to the different thicknesses required at the neck and head levels. This configuration fills the gap between the neck and head contours, as illustrated in Figures 2 & 3.

[0036] U-Shaped Design (8a, 8b, 7): The pod forms a "U" shape, with parts 8a and 8b representing the straight arms of the "U" on the right and left sides, respectively, and part 7 forming the base of the "U." This shape provides comprehensive lateral and posterior support to the head and neck.

[0037] Adjustability Mechanism

[0038] The pod is mounted on an L-shaped rod (11) that allows front-to-back movement along the Y-axis, as depicted in Figure 6. Slots (12) are incorporated into the rod to facilitate locking at various positions based on the occupant’s preference. Locks (9a and 9b) are located at the entry points of slots 10a and 10b on the pod's right and left sides, respectively, to secure it in the desired position.

[0039] Ergonomics and Fit

[0040] As shown in Figure 4, a model of an average-sized male head (15) was used for designing the pod, as male heads are typically larger than female heads. This ensures that the pod fits the maximum head size, making the design adaptable to all users. Figure 5 offers a perspective view from the front, showing how the head (16) rests securely within the pod, providing both comfort and safety.

[0041] Movement Along Z-Axis The pod can be adjusted vertically along the Z-axis using an L-shaped rod (11) that fits into slots (14a & 14b) on the vehicular chair (15). Locks (13a & 13b) are provided to secure the rod in the desired vertical position, as shown in Figure 7. This allows the pod to move up or down, accommodating users of different heights.

[0042] Complete Assembly

[0043] Figures 8 and 9 illustrate the complete assembly of the pod (17) attached to the upper part of the vehicular seat (15). Figure 8 shows the pod extended forward on the Y-axis, while Figure 9 shows it retracted backward. Figure 10 presents a right-side view of the entire assembly, and Figure 11 provides a cross-sectional view from the right side at an angle from the back.

[0044] This design ensures optimal head and neck support, providing both comfort and protection during vehicle use, whether in motion or stationary. The adjustable features allow customization based on user preferences, enhancing both the ergonomic fit and safety of the device.

[0045] The head and neck rest pod disclosed in this invention is designed to provide comprehensive support for the head and neck of a person seated in a vehicular seat. The design contours to the human body, particularly at the pivot point between the head and neck, offering full coverage and support from the back, left, and right sides. This design allows the occupant’s head and neck to rest comfortably without discomfort, even during extended periods of sitting.

[0046] The invention is particularly effective in preventing the head and neck from rolling in any direction — front, back, left, or right — while the occupant is resting in a moving or stationary vehicle. This prevents discomfort or inconvenience to both the occupant and any other passengers seated beside them.

[0047] In addition to its support and comfort features, this invention serves as a safety cushion in the event of sudden jerks, impacts, or collisions. Provided that the occupant is properly seated with their head and neck positioned within the pod and they are wearing the vehicle's safety belt, the pod offers significant protection during such events.

[0048] The headrest is anchored to the vehicle seat through a supporting rod, as shown in the figures. The supporting rod is inserted into a slot at the top of the seat, and all other components of the invention are attached either directly or indirectly to this rod. The adjustable channel is inserted into the supporting rod, allowing vertical adjustment to suit the occupant's height and preferences.

[0049] The adjustable channel's role is to remain securely attached to the supporting rod while providing the flexibility to move the pod up or down as needed. This channel also holds the pod in place, enabling forward and backward movement or tilting of the pod for additional comfort and customization.

[0050] As depicted in Figures 8 and 9, the head rest pod itself is the key feature of this invention. Its U-shaped design provides lateral and rear support to the head and neck, ensuring comfort and protection whether the vehicle is in motion or stationary. The pod prevents the head and neck from moving uncontrollably in any direction, offering both comfort and safety to the occupant and minimizing disturbance to other passengers.

[0051] The forehead support is integrated into the upper section of the head rest pod and is designed to move up to 90 degrees on its axis. When the subject is seated in a vehicle equipped with this invention, they can lift the forehead support upwards, allowing them to position their head comfortably inside the pod. Once their head is inside, they can lower the forehead support back into place. In this lowered position, the forehead support prevents the subject's head from leaning forward, particularly during sleep, sudden braking, or in the event of a heavy impact or collision.

[0052] In the assembly, the head rest supporting rod is directly connected to the adjustable channel, which, in turn, is attached to the head rest pod. This adjustable channel allows the pod to move forward and backward, as well as move up and down, depending on the subject's preferences and comfort. The forehead support is mounted on the upper portion of the head rest pod and can pivot at a 90 -degree angle to provide support to the subject's forehead.

[0053] A key feature of this invention is its helmet-like design, which is open at the top and front, as well as more open on the left and right sides. This configuration allows the subject to maintain a clear, unobstructed view of their surroundings and enables easy communication with other passengers. At the same time, it provides critical support and comfort to the head and neck, particularly while traveling. The design accommodates the natural shape and curvature of the head, neck, and the pivot joint between them. The pod is cushioned with shock-absorbing material on the inside, providing protection against impacts, sudden braking, and collisions, ensuring the safety of the occupant’s head and neck.

[0054] It has lining of sponge or rubber or any other type of material, which is shock absorbing type of material, all over inside part of it and so it protects head and neck from normal jerks of the moving vehicle and one extra lining of the same shock absorbing material at the neck area gives support to contour of human neck and protects it from heavy jerks in case of collision of vehicle.

[0055] Example

[0056] In an exemplary embodiment, the head and neck support is designed to cover the subject's head and neck from the back, left, and right sides when seated in a vehicle chair. This design is specifically crafted to conform to the natural contour of the human body, particularly at the pivot joint between the head and neck, providing full and proper support without discomfort on either or both sides. Beyond comfort, this invention also serves as a safety cushion for the subject in case of sudden jerks, impacts, or collisions, provided the person is correctly seated, their head and neck are properly positioned within the device, and they are wearing the vehicle’s seatbelt at the time of the incident. The average size of a male human head across different races is as follows:

[0057] Length (front to back): 9 inches (228 mm)

[0058] Width (right to left, front side): 8 inches (204 mm)

[0059] Height (top of head to chin): 8 inches (204 mm)

[0060] Neck height: 3 inches (76 mm) with a diameter of approximately 5.5 inches (140 mm)

[0061] Gap between the head and neck on the back: 2 inches (51 mm)

[0062] The headrest pod's dimensions are 275 mm in length (left to right), 275 mm in height, and 250 mm in depth (front to back). The internal periphery of the pod is lined with a shock-absorbing padding made of high-density foam, measuring 50 mm by 50 mm in thickness. This padding covers the neck area, and an additional layer of the same material is applied to the back portion, creating a vertical gap of about 50 mm between the pod and the head. This design ensures both protection and a comfortable fit. The rest of the pod’s interior is padded with a 25 mm thick cushion, providing shockabsorbing protection throughout the internal periphery for enhanced comfort and safety.

[0063] The external size of the pod and the thickness of the cushion may be adjusted to accommodate different age groups, races, or specific design requirements of the chair. However, any changes in size will be made in such a way that they do not alter the original purpose of the invention, which remains focused on ensuring both comfort and safety for the user

[0064] Although the field of the invention has been described herein with limited reference to specific embodiments, this description is not meant to be construed in a limiting sense. Various modifications of the disclosed embodiments, as well as alternate embodiments of the invention, will become apparent to persons skilled in the art upon reference to the description of the invention. It is intended that all such modifications and alterations be included insofar as they come within the scope of the invention as claimed or the equivalents thereof.

Claims

CLAIMS:

1. A head and neck rest pod apparatus for vehicular seats, comprising of: a peripheral cushioning (1) configured to be positioned around the periphery of the neck, featuring an extra-deep cushion at the back to accommodate the curvature at the junction between the head and neck; a chin and jaw support (2) including a side cut (3), which facilitates movement of the head to the left and right without obstructing vision and providing cushioning for added support and protection; a side and forehead support (4, 5) adapted to extend cover to the forehead, providing impact protection and a resting surface; and a back support for neck and head (7) configured to provide cushioning at the back of the said pod and is tailored to the different thicknesses required at the neck and head levels; wherein the said back support (7) fills the gap between the neck and head contours; and wherein said forehead support (5) is adapted to be pivoted upward at a 90-degree angle in order to allow easy placement of the head inside the pod and once positioned, the protector is configured to be lowered to 180 degrees to secure the forehead, offering safety and stability during sudden movements or collisions.

2. The head and neck rest pod apparatus for vehicular seats as claimed in claim 1, wherein said pod forms after complete assembly forms an "U" shape, with parts 8a and 8b representing the straight arms of the "U" on the right and left sides, respectively, and part 7 forming the base of the "U", thereby providing comprehensive lateral and posterior support to the head and neck.

3. The head and neck rest pod apparatus for vehicular seats as claimed in claim 1, wherein said chin and jaw support (2) includes cushioning that extends to the chin and jaw areas maintaining head stability and comfort, even when the user is resting or sleeping.

4. The head and neck rest pod apparatus for vehicular seats as claimed in claim 1, wherein said pod is constructed with cushioning made from high-density polyurethane (PU) or any suitable shock-absorbing material, configured to surround and support the human neck and head (1).

5. The head and neck rest pod apparatus for vehicular seats as claimed in claim 4, wherein said cushioning at the rear of the neck is made thicker in order to accommodate the natural curvature at the junction between the head and neck.

6. The head and neck rest pod apparatus for vehicular seats as claimed in claim 1, wherein said pod assembly is adjustable along the Y-axis for forward and backward movement vide an L- shaped rod (11) which allows the pod to move along the Y-axis, with slots (12) provided on the rod for locking the pod into specified position.

7. The head and neck rest pod apparatus for vehicular seats as claimed in claim 6, wherein said Locks (9a and 9b) secure the pod into the entry slots ( 10a and 10b) on both sides, enabling the subject to customize the position based on their comfort preferences.

8. The head and neck rest pod apparatus for vehicular seats as claimed in claim 6, wherein said pod is adapted to be adjusted vertically along the Z-axis in order to move it up or down depending on the subject height.

9. The head and neck rest pod apparatus for vehicular seats as claimed in claim 1, wherein said L- shaped rod (11) is fitted with locks (13a and13b) at the slots (14a and 14b) in order to secure the pod in the desired vertical position.

10. The head and neck rest pod apparatus for vehicular seats as claimed in claim 1, wherein said pod ensures a snug fit that aligns with the natural contour of the neck and head; and wherein said pod is adapted to prevent forward motion of the subject head.

Images