Headrest assembly for a treatment device

Abstract

A headrest assembly (214) for supporting a face (13A) or head (13B) of a user (13) of a treatment device (12), including a first resilient subassembly (220) including (i) an assembly frame (236) that supports the face (13A) or head (13B) of the user (13) of the treatment device (12), the assembly frame (236) including a rigid, first frame member (240A) and a spaced apart, rigid, second frame member (240B), and (ii) a first member connector (342A) that flexibly connects the first frame member (240A) to the second frame member (240B).

Description

HEADREST ASSEMBLY FOR A TREATMENT DEVICERELATED APPLICATION

[0001] The present application claims priority on U.S. Provisional Application Serial No. 63 / 748,260, filed on January 22, 2025, and entitled “HEADREST ASSEMBLY FOR A TREATMENT DEVICE”. As far as permitted, the contents of U.S. Provisional Application Serial No. 63 / 728,260 are incorporated in their entirety herein by reference.BACKGROUND

[0002] As the benefits of therapeutic treatments such as therapeutic massage and / or other related treatments are becoming more widely appreciated, more and more people are participating in such therapeutic treatments. A typical treatment device, such as a treatment table or a treatment chair, allows the patient to be in a comfortable resting position while receiving a therapeutic massage and / or other related treatment. Such treatment devices often include a headrest that supports the head of the patient during a therapeutic massage and / or other related treatment. Important features for treatment devices, including the headrests utilized therewith, include high strength, ease of use, adjustability, light weight, and comfort.SUMMARY

[0003] The present invention is directed to a headrest assembly for supporting a face or head of a user of a treatment device. In particular, in various embodiments, the headrest assembly includes a first resilient subassembly including (i) an assembly frame that supports the face or head of the user of the treatment device, the assembly frame including a rigid, first frame member and a spaced apart, rigid, second frame member, and (ii) a first member connector that flexibly connects the first frame member to the second frame member.

[0004] As an overview, in certain embodiments, the headrest assembly provides improved comfort, adjustability, and support to the face or head of the user. Moreover, the headrest assembly can have a relatively low profile and can curve to better "wrap", “envelop” and / or “cradle” the face.

[0005] In some embodiments, the first member connector flexibly connects the first frame member to the second frame member so that the first frame member can pivot relative to the second frame member.

[0006] In certain embodiments, the first member connector flexibly connects the first frame member to the second frame member so that the first frame member can pivot relative to the second frame member such that at least a portion of the first frame member moves upwardly and inwardly relative to the second frame member.

[0007] In some embodiments, the first member connector is formed from a resilient material.

[0008] In certain embodiments, the first member connector is formed from at least one of rubber and plastic.

[0009] In some embodiments, the first frame member is spaced apart from the second frame member by a first spacing.

[0010] In certain embodiments, the first spacing is between approximately 1 / 16 inch and 1 inch.

[0011] In many embodiments, the first member connector is coupled to the first frame member with at least one connector attacher; and the first member connector is coupled to the second frame member with at least one connector attacher.

[0012] In one embodiment, each of the connector attachers is a rivet.

[0013] In some embodiments, the first member connector is a one-piece member connector.

[0014] In other embodiments, the first member connector includes a first element and a spaced apart, second element.

[0015] In certain embodiments, the first element and the second element have a same resilience.

[0016] In other embodiments, the first element and the second element have a different resilience.

[0017] In several embodiments, the first resilient subassembly further includes a plurality of resilient members that are flexibly coupled to the assembly frame.

[0018] In some embodiments, the plurality of resilient members includes one ormore resilient members that are flexibly coupled to the first frame member, and one or more resilient members that are flexibly coupled to the second frame member.

[0019] In certain embodiments, each of the plurality of resilient members includes a first resilient beam that is secured to the assembly frame, and a second resilient beam that is fixedly secured to the first resilient beam.

[0020] In one embodiment, the first resilient beam is formed from spring steel.

[0021] In some embodiments, the first resilient beam includes a first end that cantilevers away from the assembly frame, and a second end that is secured to the assembly frame.

[0022] In certain embodiments, the second resilient beam is curved plate-shaped and includes a first end that is fixedly secured to the first end of the first resilient beam, and a second end that cantilevers away from the first end back toward the assembly frame.

[0023] In one embodiment, the second resilient beam is formed from a plastic material.

[0024] In some embodiments, each of the plurality of resilient members further includes a resilient cover that substantially encircles the second resilient beam.

[0025] In one embodiment, the resilient cover is formed from soft foam rubber.

[0026] In many embodiments, the assembly frame further includes a third frame member that is spaced apart from the second frame member, the second frame member being positioned substantially between the first frame member and the third frame member; and the first resilient subassembly further includes a second member connector that flexibly connects the third frame member to the second frame member.

[0027] In certain embodiments, the second member connector flexibly connects the third frame member to the second frame member so that the third frame member can pivot relative to the second frame member.

[0028] In some embodiments, the first member connector flexibly connects the first frame member to the second frame member so that the first frame member can pivot relative to the second frame member such that at least a portion of the first frame member moves upwardly and inwardly relative to the second frame member.

[0029] In certain embodiments, the second member connector is formed from a resilient material.

[0030] In some embodiments, the second member connector is formed from at least one of rubber and plastic.

[0031] In certain embodiments, the third frame member is spaced apart from the second frame member by a second spacing.

[0032] In some embodiments, the second spacing is between approximately 1 / 16 inch and 1 inch.

[0033] In certain embodiments, the second member connector is coupled to the third frame member with at least one connector attacher; and the second member connector is coupled to the second frame member with at least one connector attacher.

[0034] In one embodiment, each of the connector attachers is a rivet.

[0035] In some embodiments, the second member connector is a one-piece member connector.

[0036] In other embodiments, the second member connector includes a first element and a spaced apart, second element.

[0037] In certain embodiments, the first element and the second element have a same resilience.

[0038] In other embodiments, the first element and the second element have a different resilience.

[0039] In several embodiments, the first resilient subassembly further includes a plurality of resilient members that are flexibly coupled to the assembly frame.

[0040] In some embodiments, the plurality of resilient members includes one or more resilient members that are flexibly coupled to the first frame member, one or more resilient members that are flexibly coupled to the second frame member, and one or more resilient members that are flexibly coupled to the third frame member.

[0041] In certain embodiments, the assembly frame is formed from a rigid plastic material.

[0042] In some embodiments, the assembly frame is substantially horseshoeshaped.

[0043] In many embodiments, the headrest assembly further includes a second resilient subassembly that is positioned on top of the first resilient subassembly.

[0044] In certain embodiments, the second resilient subassembly is positioned to engage the face or head of the user of the treatment device.

[0045] In some embodiments, the second resilient subassembly is a resilient pad.

[0046] In other embodiments, the second resilient subassembly includes a plurality of resilient sections that are coupled to one another.

[0047] In some embodiments, each of the plurality of resilient sections corresponds to one of the frame members.

[0048] In certain embodiments, the second resilient subassembly is substantially horseshoe-shaped.

[0049] In some embodiments, the headrest assembly further includes a support assembly that is coupled between the first resilient subassembly and the treatment device.

[0050] In certain embodiments, the support assembly is configured to adjustably support the first resilient subassembly relative to the treatment device.

[0051] The present invention is also directed toward a treatment device assembly for supporting a user relative to a support surface, the treatment device assembly including a treatment device for supporting a body of the user; and the headrest assembly of any one of the previous embodiments that is selectively coupled to the treatment device.

[0052] The present invention is further directed toward a method for supporting a face or head of a user of a treatment device, including steps of rigidly supporting the face or head of the user of the treatment device with an assembly frame, the assembly frame including a first frame member and a spaced apart second frame member; and flexibly connecting the first frame member to the second frame member with a first member connector.

[0053] This summary is an overview of some of the teachings of the present application and is not intended to be an exclusive or exhaustive treatment of the present subject matter. Further details are found in the detailed description and appended claims. Other aspects will be apparent to persons skilled in the art upon reading and understanding the following detailed description and viewing the drawings that form a part thereof, each of which is not to be taken in a limiting sense. The scope herein is defined by the appended claims and their legal equivalents.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0054] The novel features of this invention, as well as the invention itself, both as to its structure and its operation, will be best understood from the accompanying drawings, taken in conjunction with the accompanying description, in which similar reference characters refer to similar parts, and in which:

[0055] Figure 1 is a simplified schematic side view illustration of a portion of an embodiment of a treatment device assembly having features of the present invention, the treatment device assembly including a treatment device and a headrest assembly that is selectively coupled to the treatment device;

[0056] Figure 2 is a partially exploded perspective view illustration of an embodiment of the headrest assembly of Figure 1 having features of the present invention, the headrest assembly including a resilient assembly having a first resilient subassembly and a second resilient subassembly, and a support assembly that adjustably supports the resilient assembly relative to the treatment device;

[0057] Figure 3A is a simplified schematic top view illustration of a portion of the headrest assembly illustrated in Figure 2;

[0058] Figure 3B is a simplified schematic bottom view illustration of the portion of the headrest assembly illustrated in Figure 3A;

[0059] Figure 4A is a bottom perspective view illustration of a portion of the headrest assembly illustrated in Figure 3A;

[0060] Figure 4B is a top perspective view illustration of another portion of the headrest assembly illustrated in Figure 3A;

[0061] Figure 5 is a partially exploded perspective view illustration of a portion of another embodiment of the headrest assembly;

[0062] Figure 6A is a simplified schematic rear view illustration of another embodiment of the first resilient subassembly, with a load having been applied to the headrest assembly;

[0063] Figure 6B is another simplified schematic rear view illustration of the first resilient subassembly illustrated in Figure 6A, with a twisting force having been applied to the headrest assembly;

[0064] Figure 6C is a simplified schematic front view illustration of the first resilient subassembly illustrated in Figure 6A;

[0065] Figure 7A is a simplified schematic top view illustration of another embodiment of the second resilient subassembly;

[0066] Figure 7B is a simplified schematic bottom view illustration of the second resilient subassembly illustrated in Figure 7A; and

[0067] Figure 7C is a simplified schematic bottom perspective view illustration of the second resilient subassembly illustrated in Figure 7A.

[0068] While embodiments of the present invention are susceptible to variousmodifications and alternative forms, specifics thereof have been shown by way of example and drawings, and are described in detail herein. It is understood, however, that the scope herein is not limited to the particular embodiments described. On the contrary, the intention is to cover modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spirit and scope herein.DESCRIPTION

[0069] Embodiments of the present invention are described herein in the context of a headrest assembly for use with a treatment device, such as a treatment table and / or a treatment chair. More particularly, in various embodiments, the headrest assembly is configured to provide improved comfort, adjustability, and support to a face or head of a user of the treatment device, such as by incorporating a resilient assembly having enhanced flexibility and support to be better able to "wrap", “envelop” and / or “cradle” the face or head of the user.

[0070] Those of ordinary skill in the art will realize that the following detailed description of the present invention is illustrative only and is not intended to be in any way limiting. Other embodiments of the present invention will readily suggest themselves to such skilled persons having the benefit of this disclosure. Reference will now be made in detail to implementations of the present invention as illustrated in the accompanying drawings. The same or similar nomenclature and / or reference indicators will be used throughout the drawings and the following detailed description to refer to the same or like parts.

[0071] In the interest of clarity, not all of the routine features of the implementations described herein are shown and described. It will, of course, be appreciated that in the development of any such actual implementation, numerous implementationspecific decisions must be made in order to achieve the developer's specific goals, such as compliance with application-related and business-related constraints, and that these specific goals will vary from one implementation to another and from one developer to another. Moreover, it will be appreciated that such a development effort might be complex and time-consuming, but would nevertheless be a routine undertaking of engineering for those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure.

[0072] Figure 1 is a simplified schematic side view illustration of a portion of anembodiment of a treatment device assembly 10 having features of the present invention. As illustrated, the treatment device assembly 10 includes a treatment device 12 that supports a body of a user 13 of the treatment device assembly 10, and a headrest assembly 14 that is selectively coupled to the treatment device 12, and that is configured to support a face 13A and / or a head 13B of the user 13 of the treatment device assembly 10. The design of the treatment device assembly 10 can be varied to suit the needs of the user 13.

[0073] In many embodiments, such as shown in Figure 1 , the treatment device 12 can be a treatment table, such as a massage table, that is configured to support the user 13 of the treatment device 12 relative to a support surface 15, such as a floor or the ground, while the user 13 is receiving a therapeutic treatment, such as a massage. Alternatively, in other embodiments, the treatment device 12 can be a treatment chair, such as a massage chair, that is also configured to support the user 13 of the treatment device 12 relative to the support surface 15 while the user 13 is receiving a therapeutic treatment, such as a massage.

[0074] As an overview, in various embodiments, the headrest assembly 14 provides enhanced flexibility in comparison to existing headrest assemblies, and, thus, provides improved comfort and support to the face 13A and / or the head 13B of the user 13 of the treatment device 12. More particularly, as provided herein, in certain embodiments, the headrest assembly 14 includes flexibility and suspension that can better respond to the individual weight and shape of the head 13B of the user 13 and / or can curve to better "wrap", “envelop” and / or “cradle” the face 13A of the user 13. Moreover, the headrest assembly 14 better responds and supports any movement of the face. Additionally, in many embodiments, the headrest assembly 14 can be lighter in weight and / or have a smaller form factor than comparable prior art headrest assemblies (not shown). Further, in certain embodiments, the headrest assembly 14 can have a relatively low profile.

[0075] As illustrated in Figure 1, during use of the treatment device assembly 10, the headrest assembly 14 can be selectively coupled to the treatment device 12 in order to comfortably support the face 13A and / or head 13B of the user 13 as the user 13 is positioned on the treatment device 12. More specifically, as shown, the headrest assembly 14 can be selectively coupled to a device end 12E of the treatment device 12. Alternatively, the headrest assembly 14 can be selectively coupled to the treatment device 12 at a different location. Still alternatively, the headrest assembly14 can be fixedly secured to the treatment device 12 or selectively attached to the treatment device 12 in a different fashion.

[0076] The design of the headrest assembly 14 can be varied to suit the requirements of the treatment device assembly 10 and / or to better provide flexibility, comfort and support for the user 13 of the treatment device 12. In many embodiments, as shown in Figure 1, the headrest assembly 14 can include a resilient head support assembly 16 (also referred to herein as a “resilient assembly”), and a headrest support assembly 18 (also referred to herein as a “support assembly”) that supports the resilient assembly 16 and that selectively couples the resilient assembly 16 to the treatment device 12. In certain embodiments, the resilient assembly 16 can include a first resilient subassembly 20 that is adjustably coupled to and supported by the support assembly 18, and a second resilient subassembly 22, such as a foam pad in certain embodiments, that is positioned on, stacked on, and / or supported by the first resilient subassembly 20. As shown, during use of the treatment device assembly 10, the face 13A and / or the head 13B of the user 13 rests comfortably on the second resilient subassembly 22. Alternatively, the headrest assembly 14 can have a different design, with more components or different components than what is shown in Figure 1. For example, in some non-exclusive alternative embodiments, the headrest assembly 14 can be designed without the second resilient subassembly 22, and the user 13 can rest their face 13A and / or head 13B directly on the first resilient subassembly 20 of the resilient assembly 16.

[0077] The resilient assembly 16, the first resilient subassembly 20, and the second resilient subassembly 22 can have any suitable design for purposes of flexibly and comfortably supporting the face 13A and / or head 13B of the user 13 while the user 13 is receiving a therapeutic treatment. Certain embodiments of the resilient assembly 16, the first resilient subassembly 20, and the second resilient subassembly 22 will be illustrated and described in detail herein below in subsequent Figures.

[0078] The support assembly 18 can have any suitable design for purposes of selectively coupling the resilient assembly 16 to the treatment device 12. In some embodiments, as shown, the support assembly 18 can include (i) a first support arm 24, (ii) a spaced apart second support arm 226 (illustrated in Figure 2), (iii) an arm connector 228 (illustrated in Figure 2) that extends between and connects the support arms 24, 226 to one another, and (iv) an adjuster assembly 30 that is coupled between the support arms 24, 226 and the resilient assembly 16, and that selectively adjuststhe position of the resilient assembly 16 relative to the treatment device 12 when the headrest assembly 14 is coupled to the treatment device 12. Alternatively, the support assembly 18 can have another suitable design. For example, in certain non-exclusive alternative embodiments, the support assembly 18 can include more than two support arms or only a single support arm.

[0079] Certain embodiments of the support assembly 18 will be illustrated and described in greater detail herein below in subsequent Figures.

[0080] In the embodiment illustrated in Figure 1, the treatment device 12 includes a headrest receiver system 32 (illustrated in phantom) that is formed into the device end 12E of the treatment device 12. The headrest receiver system 32 is configured to receive at least a portion of the support assembly 18 for purposes of selectively coupling the headrest assembly 14 to the treatment device 12.

[0081] In particular, in the embodiment shown in Figure 1 , the headrest receiver system 32 includes a pair of spaced apart headrest receiving apertures 34 (illustrated in phantom, only one headrest receiving aperture 34 is visible in Figure 1) that are formed into the device end 12E of the treatment device 12 and that are each configured to selectively receive and retain one of the support arms 24, 226 of the support assembly 18. More specifically, as the headrest assembly 14 is selectively coupled to the device end 12E of the treatment device 12, the first support arm 24 is selectively positioned within (and selectively received and retained within) one of the headrest receiving apertures 34, and the second support arm 226 is selectively positioned within (and selectively received and retained within) the other of the headrest receiving apertures 34. In one embodiment, each of the support arms 24, 226 includes a substantially cylindrical-shaped bar, and each of the headrest receiving apertures 34 is a generally straight, right cylindrical-shaped aperture that is formed into the device end 12E of the treatment device 12 and that is configured to receive the corresponding support arm 24, 226. Alternatively, the headrest receiver system 32 can have another design, with the support arms 24, 226 being selectively coupled to the treatment device 12 in another suitable manner, and / or the headrest receiver system 32 can be positioned at another location on the treatment device 12.

[0082] It is appreciated that the support arms 24, 226 can have any suitable spacing therebetween, and the headrest receiving apertures 34 can have any suitable spacing therebetween, to best facilitate selective attachment and detachment of the headrest assembly 14 from the treatment device 12. For example, in one non-exclusive embodiment, the support arms 24, 226 are spaced apart from one another by approximately eight inches, and the headrest receiving apertures 34 are also spaced apart from one another by approximately eight inches. Alternatively, the spacing between the support arms 24, 226, and the spacing between the headrest receiving apertures 34 can be greater than approximately eight inches or less than approximately eight inches. It is appreciated, however, that the spacing between the support arms 24, 226 and the spacing between the headrest receiving apertures 34 should be equal so that the headrest receiver system 32 can effectively and securely receive and retain the support arms 24, 226 when the headrest assembly 14 is being selectively coupled to the treatment device 12.

[0083] As so described, the headrest assembly 14 is removably coupled to the treatment device 12, and the headrest assembly 14 adjustably extends and cantilevers away from the device end 12E of the treatment device 12 when the headrest assembly 14 is coupled to the treatment device 12. Alternatively, the headrest assembly 14 can be positioned at another location, with the headrest assembly 14 being coupled to a different location on the treatment device 12. It is appreciated that in embodiments in which the treatment device 12 is provided in the form of a massage chair, the headrest assembly 14 would typically extend generally upwardly at an angle from the treatment device 12.

[0084] It is further appreciated that a length of the support arms 24, 226 and a distance of how far the support arms 24, 226 extend into the corresponding headrest receiving apertures 34 can be adjusted so as to further adjust the position of the resilient assembly 16 of the headrest assembly 14 relative to the treatment device 12. It is merely required that the support arms 24, 226 extend far enough into the corresponding headrest receiving apertures 34 so that the support arms 24, 226 are effectively retained within the corresponding headrest receiving apertures 34 during use, without undesired detachment. With such design, the headrest assembly 14 can be moved relative to the treatment device 12 to better suit the needs and comfort of the user 13 of the treatment device assembly 10.

[0085] Figure 2 is a partially exploded perspective view illustration of an embodiment of the headrest assembly 214 having features of the present invention. In many embodiments, such as shown in Figure 2, the headrest assembly 214 includes a resilient assembly 216 having a first resilient subassembly 220 and a second resilient subassembly 222, and a support assembly 218 that adjustably supports the resilientassembly 216 relative to the treatment device 12 (illustrated in Figure 1). Alternatively, the headrest assembly 214 can have a different design, with more components or fewer components than those specifically illustrated in Figure 2. For example, in some non-exclusive alternative embodiments, the headrest assembly 214 and / or the resilient assembly 216 can be designed without the second resilient subassembly 222.

[0086] The size, shape and design of the resilient assembly 216, the first resilient subassembly 220, the second resilient subassembly 222, and the support assembly 218 can be varied to achieve the desired design characteristics of the headrest assembly 214.

[0087] As provided herein, in many embodiments, the resilient assembly 216 includes the first resilient subassembly 220 that is adjustably coupled to and supported by the support assembly 218, and the second resilient subassembly 222 that is positioned on, stacked on, and / or is supported by the first resilient subassembly 220. As shown, the resilient assembly 216 defines a face opening 235 for receiving a portion of the face 13A (illustrated in Figure 1) and / or the head 13B (illustrated in Figure 1) of the user 13 (illustrated in Figure 1). In one, non-exclusive embodiment, the resilient assembly 216 is contoured so that one size fits all faces and / or heads.

[0088] The design of the first resilient subassembly 220 can be varied to suit the requirements of the headrest assembly 214. In certain embodiments, as shown in Figure 2, the first resilient subassembly 220 can include an assembly frame 236, and a plurality of spaced apart resilient members 238 that are flexibly secured to the assembly frame 236 around a perimeter of the assembly frame 236. Alternatively, for example, the first resilient subassembly 220 can be designed without the resilient members 238, because the assembly frame 236 is uniquely designed to provide flexibility as detailed below. In this design, the second resilient subassembly 222 is coupled directly to assembly frame 236.

[0089] In many embodiments, in order to provide enhanced flexibility for the first resilient subassembly 220, the assembly frame 236 can include a plurality of frame members 240 (e.g., three frame members 240, such as a first frame member 240A, a second frame member 240B, and a third frame member 240C, are shown in Figure 2) that are spaced apart from one another, but that are flexibly coupled to one another with one or more member connectors 242. Alternatively, the first resilient subassembly 220 can have another suitable design.

[0090] As illustrated, in certain embodiments, the assembly frame 236 can besubstantially horseshoe-shaped to help define at least a portion of the face opening 235. Alternatively, the assembly fame 236 can have another suitable shape.

[0091] In some embodiments, the frame members 240 of the assembly frame 236 are made of a relatively lightweight, rigid, plastic material for purposes of providing relatively rigid support for the face 13A or head 13B of the user 13 relative to the support surface 15 (illustrated in Figure 1). Alternatively, the frame members 240 can be made of other substantially rigid materials, such as aluminum, wood, or other suitable rigid materials, for purposes of providing relatively rigid support for the face 13A or head 13B of the user 13 relative to the support surface 15. Still alternatively, the frame members 240 can be made of still other suitable materials that allow for some limited measure of flexibility, while still being more rigid than the member connectors 242 that are used to flexibly couple the frame members 240A-240C to one another.

[0092] Moreover, in certain implementations, the member connectors 242 are flexible and are less rigid than the frame members 240.

[0093] The first resilient subassembly 220 can have any suitable number of resilient members 238 that are flexibly secured to the assembly frame 236. For example, in one embodiment, as shown in Figure 2, the first resilient subassembly 220 can include eight spaced apart resilient members 238 that are flexibly secured to the assembly frame 236, and that are positioned in a generally horseshoe-shaped array to match the general shape of the assembly frame 236. Alternatively, the first resilient subassembly 220 can include greater than eight or fewer than eight resilient members 238 that are flexibly mounted to the assembly frame 236, and / or the resilient members 238 can be positioned in another suitably shaped array.

[0094] In the non-exclusive implementation of Figure 2, the first frame member 240A retains three resilient members 238, the second frame member 240B retains two resilient members 238, and the third frame member 240C retains three resilient members 238.

[0095] Various features and aspects of the first resilient subassembly 220, including the assembly frame 236, the frame members 240A-240C, the resilient members 238, and the member connectors 242, will be illustrated and described in greater detail herein below in relation to Figures 3A-3B and Figures 4A-4B.

[0096] The design of the second resilient subassembly 222 can be varied to suit the requirements of the headrest assembly 214. In certain embodiments, the secondresilient subassembly 222 can include a resilient pad 222A, such as a foam pad, that can be positioned and / or stacked on top of the first resilient subassembly 220, and can be supported by the first resilient subassembly 220. In one embodiment, during use of the treatment device assembly 10 (illustrated in Figure 1) and / or the headrest assembly 214, the resilient pad 222A can be removably secured to the first resilient subassembly 220 so that the resilient pad 222A can effectively remain positioned and / or stacked on top of and be supported by the first resilient subassembly 220. In such embodiments, it is appreciated that the resilient pad 222A can be removably secured to the first resilient subassembly 220 in any suitable manner. For example, in one non-exclusive embodiment, the resilient pad 222A can be removably secured to the first resilient subassembly 220 through use of corresponding hook-and-loop material that is secured to each of the resilient pad 222A and the first resilient subassembly 220, such as to the resilient members 238 of the first resilient subassembly 220. As illustrated, in some embodiments, the resilient pad 222A can be substantially horseshoe-shaped to match the general size and shape of the assembly frame 236 of the first resilient subassembly 220, and / or to further help define at least a portion of the face opening 235.

[0097] In certain embodiments, the resilient pad 222A can be formed as a unitary, one-piece component. Alternatively, in other embodiments, the resilient pad 222A can be formed from a plurality of pad members that are secured and / or coupled together to form the resilient pad 222A. For example, in one non-exclusive embodiment, the resilient pad 222A can be formed from three pad members that are secured and / or coupled together, and that generally coincide with the frame members 240A-240C of the assembly frame 236. Still alternatively, the three pad members can be formed as a unitary structure, but with only a small connection between adjacent pads to enable the resilient pad 222A to better conform to the face 13A or head 13B of the user 13 when the head 13B of the user 13 is being supported by the headrest assembly 214.

[0098] Yet alternatively, the second resilient subassembly 222 and / or the resilient pad 222A can have a different design or can have a different size and shape than what is illustrated in Figure 2.

[0099] In various embodiments, such as described herein, the resilient subassemblies 220, 222 cooperate and act in series to provide improved, flexible, comfort and support to the face 13A and / or the head 13B of the user 13 as the user 13 is positioned on the treatment device 12. For example, the resilient subassemblies220, 222 can better respond to the weight and shape of the head 13B of the user 13, and / or the resilient subassemblies 220, 222 can better conform and curve to the face 13A to better "wrap", “envelop” or “cradle” the face 13A of the user 13.

[0100] As noted, the support assembly 218 is configured to adjustably support the resilient assembly 216 relative to the treatment device 12. The support assembly 218 can have any suitable design for purposes of adjustably supporting the resilient assembly relative to the treatment device 12. In certain embodiments, as illustrated in Figure 2, the support assembly 218 can include a first support arm 224, a spaced apart second support arm 226, an arm connector 228, and an adjuster assembly 230 that is coupled between the support arms 224, 226 and the resilient assembly 216, and that selectively adjusts the position of the resilient assembly 216 relative to the treatment device 12 when the headrest assembly 214 is coupled to the treatment device 12. Alternatively, the support assembly 218 can have another suitable design.

[0101] In many embodiments, the support assembly 218 is coupled to the assembly frame 236 in any suitable manner for purposes of enabling the support assembly 218 to adjustably support the resilient assembly 216 relative to the treatment device 12. For example, in certain embodiments, the assembly frame 236 can be movably coupled to the support arms 224, 226 of the support assembly 218. More particularly, in some embodiments, the assembly frame 236 can include the first (side) frame member 240A that is movably coupled to the first support arm 224, and the third (side) frame member 240C that is movably coupled to the second support arm 226. With such design, the first frame member 240A and the third frame member 240C can flex and / or pivot relative to the second (middle) frame member 240B, such that at least a portion of the first frame member 240A and the third frame member 240C, such as an outer edge of the first frame member 240A and the third frame member 240C, moves upwardly and inwardly relative to the second frame member 240B.

[0102] In one non-exclusive embodiment, the assembly frame 236 can be coupled to the support assembly 218 utilizing a hinge assembly 560 (illustrated in Figure 5) that can be configured to enable each of the first frame member 240A and the third frame member 240C to individually flex and / or pivot relative to the support assembly 218, and the second (middle) frame member 240B. As a non-exclusive example, with this design, at least a portion of the first frame member 240A and the third frame member240C moves upwardly and inwardly relative to the support assembly 218 and the second frame member 240B. The pivoting and / or flexing of at least a portion ofthe first frame member 240A and the third frame member 240C relative to the second frame member 240B occurs when a load is added to the assembly frame 236, such as when the headrest assembly 214 is supporting the face 13A or head 13B of the user 13. More particularly, in such embodiment, the hinge assembly 560 can incorporate (i) a first hinge subassembly 562A (illustrated in Figure 5) that couples the first frame member 240A to a portion of the adjuster assembly 230 and enables the first frame member 240A to flex and / or pivot relative to the second (middle) frame member 240B such that at least a portion of the first frame member 240A moves upwardly and inwardly relative to the second frame member 240B, and (ii) a second hinge subassembly 562B (illustrated in Figure 5) that couples the third frame member 240C to a portion of the adjuster assembly 230 and enables the third frame member 240C to flex and / or pivot relative to the second (middle) frame member 240B such that at least a portion of the third frame member 240C moves upwardly and inwardly relative to the second frame member 240B.

[0103] Alternatively, the assembly frame 236 can be coupled to the support assembly 218 in another suitable manner. For example, the first frame member 240A, and / or the third frame member 240C can be fixedly secured to the adjuster assembly 230. Still alternatively, for example, the first frame member 240A, and / or the third frame member 240C can be coupled to the adjuster assembly 230 with one or more ball joints, engine type mounts, and / or sliding mounts.

[0104] The design, shape and length of each support arm 224, 226 can be varied depending upon the design requirements of the treatment device assembly 10. In one embodiment, each support arm 224, 226 is a rigid, generally tubular-shaped beam that includes an arm first end 244 that is configured to be inserted into one of the headrest receiving apertures 34 (illustrated in Figure 1 ) that are formed into the treatment device 12, and an arm second end 246 that extends outwardly away from the treatment device 12. When the support arms 224, 226 are fully inserted into the headrest receiving apertures 34, the support arms 224, 226 are configured to be snugly received and retained by the headrest receiving apertures 34, so that the headrest assembly 214 remains coupled to the treatment device 12 as desired. As described, the purpose of the support arms 224, 226 is to hang the headrest assembly 214 outboard from the treatment device 12.

[0105] The arm connector 228 extends between and couples the first support arm 224 to the second support arm 226. In certain embodiments, the arm connector 228is substantially tubular-shaped and is coupled to each support arm 224, 226 near the arm second end 246. In one embodiment, the arm connector 228 connects the arm second end 246 of the support arms 224, 226 together and inhibits relative rotation between the support arms 224, 226. More particularly, as shown, the arm connector 228 can include a connector latch 248 that, when activated, effectively inhibits any relative rotation between the support arms 224, 226. With this design, the arm first ends 244 of each of the support arms 224, 226 are aligned and can be easily inserted concurrently into the headrest receiving apertures 34 formed into the treatment device 12. Stated in another manner, with the support arms 224, 226 being timed together, and with the arm connector 228 inhibiting relative pivoting or rotating of the support arms 224, 226, the support arms 224, 226 remain parallel to one another when the support arms 224, 226 are not engaging the headrest receiving apertures 34 so that the support arms 224, 226 of the headrest assembly 214 can be inserted into the headrest receiving apertures 34 formed into the treatment device 12 with one hand.

[0106] Referring briefly back to Figure 1, when the support arms 224, 226 are inserted in the headrest receiving apertures 34 so that the headrest assembly 214 is coupled to the treatment device 12, the arm connector 228 can be positioned low and away from a chin of the user 13 so as to increase the comfort of the user 13 of the treatment device assembly 10.

[0107] Returning again to Figure 2, as noted, the adjuster assembly 230 is coupled between the support arms 224, 226 and the resilient assembly 216, and is configured to selectively adjust the position of the resilient assembly 216 relative to the treatment device 12 when the headrest assembly 214 is coupled to the treatment device 12. More particularly, the adjuster assembly 230 can be used to adjust the position of the resilient assembly 216 up and down relative to the treatment device 12, and / or to tilt the resilient assembly 216 relative to the treatment device 12 to better suit the comfort requirements of the user 13.

[0108] The design of the adjuster assembly 230 can be varied. In the non-exclusive embodiment shown in Figure 2, the adjuster assembly 230 cooperates with the assembly frame 236 to form a pair of spaced apart, four-bar type linkages (shown more clearly in Figure 5) that can be used to selectively move the resilient assembly 216 up and down relative to the treatment device 12, and / or to tilt the resilient assembly 216 relative to the treatment device 12. In one embodiment, the adjuster assembly 230 can include an engagement link 582C (illustrated in Figure 5) withineach four-bar type linkage that is movably coupled to the corresponding frame member 240A, 240C to enable each of the first frame member 240A and the third frame member to pivot relative to the second frame member 240B. Alternatively, the adjuster assembly 230 can have another suitable design.

[0109] Figure 3A is a simplified schematic top view illustration of a portion of the headrest assembly 214 illustrated in Figure 2. More particularly, Figure 3A is a simplified schematic top view illustration of the first resilient subassembly 220 that can form a part of the resilient assembly 216 (illustrated in Figure 2) of the headrest assembly 214.

[0110] As illustrated in the embodiment shown in Figure 3A, the first resilient subassembly 220 includes (i) the assembly frame 236, which includes a plurality of frame members 240 (three frame members 240 are included in the embodiment shown in Figure 3A), (ii) one or more member connectors 242 (two member connectors 242 are included in the embodiment shown in Figure 3A) that are configured to flexibly connect adjacent frame members 240 to one another, and (iii) a plurality of resilient members 238 (eight resilient members 238 are included in the embodiment shown in Figure 3A) that are flexibly mounted onto the assembly frame 236. Alternatively, the first resilient subassembly 220 can have another suitable design, such as with more or fewer frame members 240, more or fewer member connectors 242, and / or more or fewer resilient members 238. Still alternatively, the individual frame members 240 can be connected together in another suitable manner.

[0111] As noted, in this embodiment, the assembly frame 236 includes three spaced apart frame members 240, labeled as the first frame member 240A, the second frame member 240B, and the third frame member 240C, that cooperate to form the generally horseshoe-shaped assembly frame 236. The frame members 240A-240C are flexibly coupled to one another via the pair of member connectors 242 that are included in this embodiment. More specifically, as shown, the first frame member 240A and the second frame member 240B are flexibly connected to one another with a first member connector 342A so that the first frame member 240A can pivot relative to the second frame member 240B; and the second frame member 240B and the third frame member 240C are flexibly connected to one another with a second member connector 342B so that the third frame member 240C can pivot relative to the second frame member 240B. Moreover, with this design, the second frame member 240B can pivot and / or move relative to the first frame member 240A and the third framemember 240A. Alternatively, the assembly frame 236 can include greater than three or fewer than three frame members 240, and / or the first resilient subassembly 220 can include greater than two or fewer than two member connectors 242.

[0112] The assembly frame 236 is configured to provide flexible, yet rigid support for the resilient members 238 that are mounted thereon, and, thus, to help provide enhanced comfort for the user 13 (illustrated in Figure 1) of the treatment device 12 (illustrated in Figure 1). During use of the headrest assembly 214 as part of the treatment device 12, as the user 13 positions their face 13A (illustrated in Figure 1) and / or head 13B (illustrated in Figure 1) onto the headrest assembly 214, the frame members 240A-240C are configured to move, pivot and / or flex relative to one another. In particular, as a non-exclusive example, when the user 13 positions their face 13A and / or head 13B onto the headrest assembly 214, the second frame member 240B will flex downward from the weight of the face 13A and / or head 13B of the user 13, and at least a portion of the first frame member 240A and the third frame member 240C, such as an outer edge of the first frame member 240A and the third frame member 240C, will flex or pivot upwardly and / or inwardly toward one another to better "wrap", “envelop” or “cradle” the face 13A and / or the head 13B of the user 13.

[0113] It is appreciated that the member connectors 342A-342B that are used to flexibly connect the first frame member 240A to the second frame member 240B, and the second frame member 240B to the third frame member 240C, respectively, are specifically configured to better enable the relative flexing and pivoting between the frame members 240A-240C as so described. More specifically, the resilient, first member connector 342A is specifically configured to enable the first frame member 240A to flex and / or pivot relative to the second frame member 240B such that at least a portion of the first frame member 240A moves upwardly and inwardly relative to the second frame member 240B, as the weight of the face 13A and / or head 13B of the user 13 causes the second frame member 240B to flex downwardly; and the resilient, second member connector 342B is specifically configured to enable the third frame member 240C to flex and / or pivot relative to the second frame member 240B such that at least a portion of the third frame member 240C moves upwardly and inwardly relative to the second frame member 240B, as the weight of the face 13A and / or head 13B of the user 13 causes the second frame member 240B to flex downwardly. It is further appreciated that the frame members 240A-240C being positioned spaced apart from one another, and being flexibly connected to one another via the memberconnectors 342A-342B, better enables the desired relative movement of the frame members 240A-240C to better "wrap", “envelop” or “cradle” the face 13A and / or the head 13B of the user 13.

[0114] The assembly frame 236, and each of the frame members 240A-240C, can be formed from any suitable rigid material. For example, in one non-exclusive embodiment, the assembly frame 236, and each of the frame members 240A-240C, can be formed from any suitable lightweight, rigid, plastic material. Alternatively, the assembly frame 236, and each of the frame members 240A-240C, can be made of other substantially rigid materials, such as aluminum, wood, or other suitable rigid materials. Still alternatively, the assembly frame 236, and each of the frame members 240A-240C can be made of still other suitable materials that allow for some limited measure of flexibility, while still being more rigid than the member connectors 342A-342B that are used to flexibly connect the frame members 240A-240C to one another.

[0115] The member connectors 342A-342B can be formed from any suitable flexible or resilient material for purposes of enabling the desired relative flexing or pivoting between the frame members 240A-240C. More particularly, the member connectors 342A-342B can be formed from materials suitable to enable the desired flexing or pivoting of the first frame member 240A and the third frame member 240C relative to the second frame member 240B. The member connectors 342A-342B can be the same or different to achieve the desired flexing. Non-exclusive examples of suitable materials forthe member connectors 342A-342B include rubbers and plastics.

[0116] As further noted above, the plurality of resilient members 238 are flexibly mounted onto the assembly frame 236. As shown, the plurality of resilient members 238 are flexibly mounted about a perimeter of the assembly frame 236, such that the resilient members cantilever inwardly from the assembly frame 236 into a frame opening 336A.

[0117] The first resilient subassembly 220 can include any suitable number of resilient members 238 that are flexibly mounted onto the assembly frame 236. In this particular embodiment, the first resilient subassembly 220 includes eight resilient members 238 that are flexibly mounted onto the assembly frame 236. More specifically, as shown, three resilient members 238 are flexibly mounted onto the first frame member 240A of the assembly frame 236, two resilient members 238 are flexibly mounted onto the second frame member 240B of the assembly frame 236, and three resilient members 238 are flexibly mounted onto the third frame member 240C of theassembly frame 236. Alternatively, the first resilient subassembly 220 can include greater than eight or fewer than eight resilient members 238, and / or the resilient members 238 can be flexibly mounted onto the frame members 240A-240C of the assembly frame 236 in a different manner than what is shown in Figure 3A.

[0118] It should be noted that in Figure 3A, all of the resilient members 238 are similar in size, shape and design to reduce manufacturing costs. Alternatively, one or more of the resilient members 238 could have a different size, shape, bending characteristics, or design to suit the area of the face 13A and / or head 13B of the user 13 supported by that particular resilient member 238.

[0119] Details of certain embodiments of the resilient members 238 will be illustrated and described in greater detail herein below.

[0120] Figure 3B is a simplified schematic bottom view illustration of the portion of the headrest assembly 214 illustrated in Figure 3A. More particularly, Figure 3B is a simplified schematic bottom view illustration of the first resilient subassembly 220 illustrated in Figure 3A. Figure 3B again illustrates that the first resilient subassembly 220 includes (i) the assembly frame 236, which includes three frame members 240A-240C, (ii) two member connectors 342A-342B that are configured to flexibly connect adjacent frame members 240A-240C to one another, and (iii) eight resilient members 238 that are flexibly mounted onto the assembly frame 236.

[0121] It is appreciated that the bottom view illustration of Figure 3B also provides a clearer view of the design and functionality of the member connectors 342A-342B than what is provided in the top view illustration of Figure 3A. As shown, the first member connector 342A spans across a first spacing 349A between the first frame member 240A and the second frame member 240B, and the first member connector 342A is coupled to each of the first frame member 240A and the second frame member 240B with a plurality of connector attachers 350. More particularly, in this embodiment, the first member connector 342A is coupled to the first frame member 240A with two connector attachers 350, one near an inner edge of the first frame member 240A and one near an outer edge of the first frame member 240A; and the first member connector 342A is coupled to the second frame member 240B with two connector attachers 350, one near an inner edge of the second frame member 240B and one near an outer edge of the second frame member 240B. Alternatively, the first member connector 342A can be coupled to each of the first frame member 240A and the second frame member 240B with more than two or less than two connector attachers350, and / or the connector attachers 350 can be at another suitable location. Still alternatively, the first member connector 342A can be coupled to each of the first fra me member240A and the second frame member240B in another suitable manner, which does not include the noted connector attachers 350.

[0122] In one embodiment, the first member connector 342A can be a one-piece member connector that extends from near the inner edge of the first and second frame members 240A-240B to near the outer edge of the first and second frame members 240A-240B. Alternatively, in another, non-exclusive embodiment, as shown in Figure 3B, the first member connector 342A can include a first (outer) element 342Aa and a spaced apart, second (inner) element 342Ab. In this design, the first element 342Aa is positioned near the outer edge of the first and second frame members 240A-240B, and the second element 342Ab is positioned near the inner edge of the first and second frame members 240A-240B. In this design, each element 342Aa, 342Ab can have the same resilience or a different resilience. With this design, the resiliency of each element 342Aa, 342Ab can be selected to achieve the desired flexing of the assembly frame 236. Still alternatively, the first member connector 342A can be designed to include more than two elements.

[0123] The first spacing 349A can be any suitable desired spacing between the first frame member 240A and the second frame member 240B. It is merely appreciated that the first spacing 349A be sufficient to enable the desired flexing between the first frame member 240A and the second frame member 240B. In certain embodiments, the first spacing 349A can be between approximately 1 / 16 inch and 14 inch. More particularly, in different embodiments, the first spacing 349A can be approximately 1 / 16 inch, 1 / 8 inch, 3 / 16 inch, 14 inch, 5 / 16 inch, 3 / 8 inch, 7 / 16 inch, or 14 inch. Alternatively, the first spacing 349A can be greater than 14 inch or less than 1 / 16 inch. Additionally, it is appreciated that the first spacing 349A can change as the first frame member 240A flexes and / or pivots relative to the second frame member 240B. Thus, it is further appreciated that the noted values for the first spacing 349A are intended to denote the first spacing 349A when the first resilient subassembly 220 is in its natural, undeflected / unflexed state.

[0124] The connector attachers 350 can have any suitable design for purposes of coupling the first member connector 342A to each of the first frame member 240A and the second frame member 240B. For example, in certain embodiments, each of the connector attachers 350 can be a rivet or a screw. Alternatively, the connectorattachers 350 can have another suitable design.

[0125] Similarly, as shown, the second member connector 342B spans across a second spacing 349B between the third frame member 240C and the second frame member 240B, and the second member connector 342B is coupled to each of the third frame member 240C and the second frame member 240B with a plurality of connector attachers 350. More particularly, in this embodiment, the second member connector 342B is coupled to the third frame member 240C with two connector attachers 350, one near an inner edge of the third frame member 240C and one near an outer edge of the third frame member 240C; and the second member connector 342B is coupled to the second frame member 240B with two connector attachers 350, one near the inner edge of the second frame member 240B and one near the outer edge of the second frame member 240B. Alternatively, the second member connector 342B can be coupled to each of the third frame member 240C and the second frame member 240B with more than two or less than two connector attachers 350, and / or the connector attachers 350 can be at another suitable location. Still alternatively, the second member connector 342B can be coupled to each of the third frame member 240C and the second frame member 240B in another suitable manner, which does not include the noted connector attachers 350.

[0126] In one embodiment, the second member connector 342B can be a one-piece member connector that extends from near the inner edge of the second and third frame members 240B-240C to near the outer edge of the second and third frame members 240B-240C. Alternatively, in another, non-exclusive embodiment, as shown in Figure 3B, the second member connector 342B can include a first (outer) element 342Ba and a spaced apart, second (inner) element 342Bb. In this design, the first element 342Ba is positioned near the outer edge of the second and third frame members 240B-240C, and the second element 342Bb is positioned near the inner edge of the second and third frame members 240B-240C. In this design, each element 342Ba, 342Bb can have the same resilience or a different resilience. With this design, the resiliency of each element 342Ba, 342Bb can be selected to achieve the desired flexing of the assembly frame 236. Still alternatively, the second member connector 342B can be designed to include more than two elements.

[0127] The second spacing 349B can be any suitable desired spacing between the third frame member 240C and the second frame member 240B. It is merely appreciated that the second spacing 349B be sufficient to enable the desired flexingbetween the third frame member 240C and the second frame member 240B. In certain embodiments, the second spacing 349B can be between approximately 1 / 16 inch and 14 inch. More particularly, in different embodiments, the second spacing 349B can be approximately 1 / 16 inch, 1 / 8 inch, 3 / 16 inch, ! inch, 5 / 16 inch, 3 / 8 inch, 7 / 16 inch, or >2 inch. Alternatively, the second spacing 349B can be greater than 1 inch or less than 1 / 16 inch. Additionally, it is appreciated that the second spacing 349B can change as the third frame member 240C flexes and / or pivots relative to the second frame member 240B. Thus, it is further appreciated that the noted values for the second spacing 349B are intended to denote the second spacing 349B when the first resilient subassembly 220 is in its natural, undeflected / unflexed state.

[0128] The connector attachers 350 can have any suitable design for purposes of coupling the second member connector 342B to each of the third frame member 240C and the second frame member 240B. For example, in certain embodiments, each of the connector attachers 350 can again be a rivet or a screw. Alternatively, the connector attachers 350 can have another suitable design.

[0129] Figure 4A is a bottom perspective view illustration of a portion of the headrest assembly 214 illustrated in Figure 3A. More particularly, Figure 4A is a bottom perspective view illustration of an embodiment of a resilient member 438 that can be incorporated within the first resilient subassembly 220 (illustrated in Figure 2) of the headrest assembly 214. In certain embodiments, all of the resilient members 438 are similar in size, shape and design to reduce manufacturing costs. Alternatively, one or more of the resilient members 438 could have a different size, shape, bending characteristics, or design to suit the area of the face 13A (illustrated in Figure 1) and / or head 13B (illustrated in Figure 1) of the user 13 (illustrated in Figure 1) that is supported by that particular resilient member 438.

[0130] The design of the resilient member 438 can be varied to suit the requirements of the first resilient subassembly 220 and / or the headrest assembly 214. In many embodiments, such as shown in Figure 4A, the resilient member 438 includes a first resilient beam 452, and a second resilient beam 454 that is flexibly coupled to the first resilient beam 452. In some embodiments, the resilient member 438 can further include a resilient (flexible) cover 456 that substantially encircles the second resilient beam 454. Alternatively, the resilient member 438 can have another suitable design.

[0131] In this embodiment, the first resilient beam 452 is generally flat, rectangularplate-shaped and is made of resilient material, such as spring steel. The first resilient beam 362 includes a first end 452A that cantilevers away from the assembly frame 236 (illustrated in Figure 2), and a second end 452B that includes a beam aperture 452C for securing the resilient member 438 to the assembly frame 236, such as with a frame attacher (e.g., a rivet or a screw) that extends through the beam aperture 452C in some non-exclusive embodiments.

[0132] The second resilient beam 454 is generally curved plate-shaped and is made of any suitable resilient material. The second resilient beam 454 includes a first end 454A that is fixedly secured to the first end 452A of the first resilient beam 452, and a second end 454B that cantilevers away from the first end 454A back toward the assembly frame 236 and upward.

[0133] The second resilient beam 454 provides a relatively hard cover that provides a large surface area. In one embodiment, the second resilient beam 454 can be formed from a relatively hard plastic material.

[0134] The resilient cover 456 provides a relatively soft covering over the second resilient beam 454. In one embodiment, the resilient cover 456 is a soft foam rubber that is molded over the second resilient beam 454. Suitable materials for the resilient cover 456 include natural rubber, foam rubber, urethane rubber, and thermal plastic elastomer. In many embodiments, the resilient cover 456 can define a member engagement surface 456S that engages the second resilient subassembly 222 (illustrated in Figure 2) in a non-skid fashion. For example, the member engagement surface 456S can have a relatively high coefficient of friction and / or can be a rough surface.

[0135] It should be noted that the characteristics of the first resilient beam 452 and / or the characteristics of the second resilient beam 454 can be adjusted to suit the support requirements of the resilient member 438. For example, the thickness and / or the materials used in one or both of the resilient beams 452, 454 can be altered to suit the support requirements. In one embodiment, if it is desired to have more support at the forehead instead of the cheeks, the first resilient beams 452 used at the forehead can be thicker than the first resilient beams 452 used near the cheek. Thus, with certain versions, the resilient members 438 can be designed to achieve the desired support characteristics.

[0136] Figure 4B is a top perspective view illustration of another portion of the headrest assembly 214 illustrated in Figure 3A. More particularly, Figure 4B is a topperspective view illustration of the assembly frame 236 and the first resilient beam 452 of the resilient members 438 that are flexibly coupled to the assembly frame 236 that can be incorporated within the first resilient subassembly 220 (illustrated in Figure 2) of the headrest assembly 214. Figure 4B illustrates that the first resilient beams 452 can be flexibly coupled to the support frame 226 with one or more beam fasteners 458 that can extend through the beam aperture 452C (illustrated in Figure 4A) included at or near the second end 452B (illustrated in Figure 4A) of the first resilient beam 452. As non-exclusive examples, the beam fasteners 458 can be rivets or screws. Alternatively, the resilient members 438 can be fastened to the assembly frame 236 in another fashion.

[0137] Figure 4B further illustrates that the first resilient beam 452 for each resilient member 438 can further include a second beam aperture 452D that is formed at or near the first end 452A of the first resilient beam 452. The second beam aperture 452D can be utilized for purposes of fixedly securing the first end 454A (illustrated in Figure 4A) of the second resilient beam 454 (illustrated in Figure 4A) to the first end 452A of the first resilient beam 452, such as with a rivet or screw that can extend through the second beam aperture 452D of the first resilient beam 452 as well as a corresponding aperture (not shown) at or near the first end 454A of the second resilient beam 454.

[0138] Figure 5 is a partially exploded perspective view illustration of a portion of another embodiment of the headrest assembly 514. The embodiment of the headrest assembly 514 illustrated in Figure 5 is somewhat similar to the embodiment of the headrest assembly 214 illustrated and described in detail above in relation to Figure 2. However, in Figure 5, the member connectors 542A, 542B are slightly different, and the second resilient subassembly 222 (illustrated in Figure 2) is not shown.

[0139] More specifically, in the non-exclusive implementation of Figure 5, (i) the first member connector 542A is a flexible, one-piece member connector that extends between and flexibly couples the first frame member 540A and the second frame member 540B; and (ii) the second member connector 542B is a flexible, one-piece member connector that extends between and flexibly couples the third frame member 540C and the second frame member 540B. In this design, (i) the first member connector 542A flexibly fills the space between the first frame member 540A and the second frame member 540B while allowing for relative movement; and (ii) the second member connector 542B flexibly fills the space between the third frame member 540Cand the second frame member 540B while allowing for relative movement. It should be noted that the flexibility of the member connectors 542A, 542B can be selected to achieve the desire movement range of the frame members 540A, 540B, 540C.

[0140] Moreover, Figure 5 illustrates the first resilient subassembly 520 of the resilient assembly 516 being spaced apart from the support assembly 518 so that the hinge assembly 560 is more clearly visible. Figure 5 also illustrates the resilient members 538 being spaced apart from the assembly frame 536.

[0141] As noted above, in one, non-exclusive example, when a load is applied to the headrest assembly 514, the hinge assembly 560 allows (i) an outer edge of each of the first frame member 540A and the third frame member 540C to pivot and / or flex upwardly and inwardly relative to the second frame member 540B and toward each other; and (ii) the second frame member 540B to pivot or tilt relative to the first frame member 540A and the third frame member 540C.

[0142] Stated another way, as the weight of the face 13A (illustrated in Figure 1 ) or head 13B (illustrated in Figure 1) of the user 13 (illustrated in Figure 1) is applied to the assembly frame 536, it primarily presses down on the second frame member 540B. At this time, the member connectors 542A, 542B, and the hinge assembly 560 allows the assembly frame 536 to respond to the individual weight and shape of the head 13B by "wrapping", “enveloping” and / or “cradling” the face 13A and / or the head 13B of the user 13. More specifically, as further noted above, the first member connector 542A and the first hinge subassembly 562A of the hinge assembly 560 allows the first frame member 540A to flex and / or pivot relative to the second frame member 540B such that at least a portion of the first frame member 540A moves upwardly and inwardly relative to the second frame member 540B; and the second member connector 542B and the second hinge subassembly 562B of the hinge assembly 560 allows the third frame member 540C to flex and / or pivot relative to the second frame member 540B such that at least a portion of the third frame member 540C moves upwardly and inwardly relative to the second frame member 540B.

[0143] It is appreciated that the member connectors 542A, 542B and the hinge subassemblies 562A, 562B are able to operate independently of one another to allow for greater variability in independent flexing and / or pivoting of the frame members 540A, 540B, 540C. It is further appreciated that such independent operation of the member connectors 542A, 542B and the hinge subassemblies 562A, 562B enable greater ability to truly conform to the individual requirements of the user 13 during anyuses of the headrest assembly 514.

[0144] The design of the first hinge subassembly 562A and the second hinge subassembly 562B can be varied to suit the requirements of the headrest assembly 514. As illustrated in Figure 5, the first hinge subassembly 562A includes a first end pivot 564A that is positioned near the end of the first frame member 540A away from the second frame member 540B, and a first side pivot 566A that is positioned along the first frame member 540A near the second frame member 540B. Similarly, the second hinge subassembly 562B includes a second end pivot 564B that is positioned near the end of the third frame member 540C away from the second frame member 540B, and a second side pivot 566B that is positioned along the third frame member 540C near the second frame member 540B. Alternatively, the first hinge subassembly 562A and / or the second hinge subassembly 562B can have another suitable design.

[0145] The design of the end pivots 564A, 564B can be varied. Typically, the design of end pivots 564A, 564B will be substantially identical to one another. In one embodiment, as shown, the end pivots 564A, 564B, each include an elongated end pivot hole 568 that is secured to the respective frame member 540A, 540C, and a vertical pin 570 that is secured to the support assembly 518. With this design, the vertical pin 570 extends into the respective pivot hole 568 and allows the end pivot hole 568 and the respective frame member 540A, 540C to rotate about and / or move laterally relative to the vertical pin 570. This allows the frame members 540A, 540C to pivot and move inwardly relative to the second frame member 540B. For example, in one embodiment, the end pivot hole 568 can have a slot shape. Alternatively, the end pivots 564A, 564B can have another suitable design. For example, in one nonexclusive alternative embodiment, the end pivots 564A, 564B can include a ball jointtype pivoting attachment for the frame members 540A, 540C relative to the support assembly 518, or an engine mount type of joint.

[0146] The design of the side pivots 566A, 566B can also be varied. Typically, the design of side pivots 566A, 566B will be substantially identical to one another. In one embodiment, as shown, the side pivots 566A, 566B are essentially loose fitting screw / bolt joints that couple the assembly frame 536 to the support assembly 518, while still allowing the frame members 540A, 540C to pivot and move relative to the second frame member 540B and relative to each other as load is applied to the assembly frame 536. More particularly, as illustrated in Figure 5, each side pivot 566A, 566B can include (i) a threaded screw 572 that extends through a tubular shapedaperture 574 in the corresponding frame member 540A, 540C, and a slot-shaped opening 576 in the support assembly 518, (ii) one or more washers 578 that fits over the screw 572 near the support assembly 518, and (iii) a nut 580 that is threaded onto the screw 572 to loosely secure the assembly frame 536 to the support assembly 518. It should be noted that the slot-shaped opening 576 allows the second frame member 540B to move downward and the frame members 540A, 540C to pivot relative to the second frame member 540B and / or to each other. Further, a resilient grommet (not shown) can be positioned near each side pivot 566A, 566B (or elsewhere) to provide some resilience to rotation, and / or to return the frame members 540A, 540C to the original position when the weight has been removed. Alternatively, the side pivots 566A, 566B can have another suitable design. For example, in one non-exclusive alternative embodiment, the side pivots 566A, 566B can include a ball joint-type pivoting attachment for the frame members 540A, 540C relative to the support assembly 518.

[0147] Figure 5 also shows more details of the support assembly, such as the pair of spaced apart, four-bar type linkages that form the adjuster assembly 530 of the support assembly 518. More specifically, each four-bar type linkage of the adjuster assembly 530 can include a first link 582A, a second link 582B, a third link 582C and a fourth link 582D. As shown, the third link 582C of each four-bar type linkage of the adjuster assembly 530 encompasses an engagement link that is movably coupled to the corresponding frame member 540A, 540C to enable each of the first frame member 540A and the third frame member to pivot relative to the second frame member 540B.

[0148] Figure 6A is a simplified schematic rear view illustration of another embodiment of the first resilient subassembly 620, with a load having been applied to the headrest assembly 514 (illustrated in Figure 5). In particular, as shown in Figure 6A, when a force or load (as illustrated by arrow 683), such as the face 13A (illustrated in Figure 1) and / or the head 13B (illustrated in Figure 1) of the user 13 (illustrated in Figure 1), is applied to the headrest assembly 514, the member connectors 642A, 642B can flex, thereby allowing (i) the second frame member 640B to move downward and potentially rotate and / or twist relative to the first frame member 640A and the third frame member 640C, and (ii) the first frame member 640A and the third frame member 640C to pivot and / or twist relative to the second frame member 640B (as illustrated by arrows 684 and 685, respectively) such that at least a portion, such as an outer edge,of the first frame member 640A and the third frame member 640C can pivot upwardly and inwardly relative to the second frame member 640B and relative to one another.

[0149] In the embodiments provided herein, (i) the first member connector 642A flexibly couples, secures, and connects the first frame member 640A to the second frame member 640B; and (ii) the second member connector 642B flexibly couples, secures, and connects the second frame member 640B to the third frame member 640C. The design of each of the member connectors 642A, 642B can be varied to achieve the desired flexing of the first resilient subassembly 620. As provided herein, one or both member connectors 642A, 642B has an elastic modulus that is less an elastic modulus of each of the frame members 640A, 640B, 640C. As non-exclusive examples, one or both member connectors 642A, 642B have an elastic modulus which is at least 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, 100, or 200 percent less than an elastic modulus of each of the frame members 640A, 640B, 640C.

[0150] Figure 6B is another simplified schematic rear view illustration of the first resilient subassembly 620 illustrated in Figure 6A, with a twisting force having been applied to the headrest assembly 514 (illustrated in Figure 5). As illustrated, depending on the force that is applied to the headrest assembly 514, such as a twisting force that can occur when the face 13A (illustrated in Figure 1) and / or the head 13B (illustrated in Figure 1) of the user 13 (illustrated in Figure 1) is not resting symmetrically on the headrest assembly 514, the member connectors 642A, 642B can flex, thereby allowing (i) the second frame member 640B to move and rotate and / or twist relative to the first frame member 640A and the third frame member 640C; and (ii) the first frame member 640A and the third frame member 640C to pivot and / or twist relative to the second frame member 640B. It is appreciated that such twisting-type movement of the first frame member 640A and the third frame member 640C relative to the second frame member 640B is made possible by the use of the member connectors 642A, 642B, and separate hinge subassemblies 562A-562B (illustrated in Figure 5) for each of the first frame member 640A and the third frame member 640C, and with each hinge subassembly 562A-562B being able to react independently of the other.

[0151] Figure 6C is a simplified schematic front view illustration of the first resilient subassembly 620 illustrated in Figure 6A. As shown, a similar twisting force has again been applied to the headrest assembly 514 (illustrated in Figure 5), such that the member connectors 642A, 642B can flex, thereby allowing the first frame member640A and the third frame member 6400 to pivot and / or move to a different extent than one another relative to the second frame member 640B. Moreover, such twisting-type force being applied to the headrest assembly 514 can again result in a twisting-type movement of the first frame member 640A and the third frame member 640C relative to the second frame member 640B.

[0152] As provided above, the design of each member connector 642A, 642B and how each member connector 642A, 642B is attached to the respective frame members 640A, 640B, 640C can be varied. In the non-exclusive implementation of Figure 6C, (i) the first frame member 640A can include one or more tabs 640Aa (one illustrated in phantom because it is embedded in the first member connector 642A) that extends into the first spacing between first frame member 640A and the second frame member 640B; (ii) the second frame member 640B can include one or more tabs 640Ba (one illustrated in phantom because it is embedded in the first member connector 642A) that extends into the first spacing between first frame member 640A and the second frame member 640B; (iii) the first member connector 642A can be a resilient material that is molded in the first spacing over the respective tabs 650Aa, 640Ba; (iv) the second frame member 640B can include one or more tabs 640Bb (one illustrated in phantom because it is embedded in the second member connector 642B) that extends into the second spacing between second frame member 640B and the third frame member 640C; (v) the third frame member 640C can include one or more tabs 640Ca (one illustrated in phantom because it is embedded in the second member connector 642B) that extends into the second spacing between second frame member 640B and the third frame member 640C; (vi) the second member connector 642B can be a resilient material that is molded in the second spacing over the respective tabs 640Bb, 640Ca.

[0153] The design of each tab 640Aa, 640Ba, 640Bb, 640Ca can be varied to achieve the desired bonding with the molded resilient material. Additionally, or alternatively, one or more other surface features (not shown) can be used to secure (i) the first member connector 642A to the first frame member 640A and the second frame member 640B; and (ii) the second member connector 642A to the second frame member 640B and the third frame member 640C.

[0154] Figure 7A is a simplified schematic top view illustration of another embodiment of the second resilient subassembly 722 that can be used in any of the designs of the headrest assemblies provided herein. As illustrated in this embodiment,the second resilient subassembly 722 is formed from three resilient sections 722A that generally correspond with the individual frame members 240A-240C (illustrated in Figure 2) of the assembly frame 236 (illustrated in Figure 2). More specifically, the second resilient subassembly 722 can include a first resilient section 722Aa that generally corresponds with the first frame member 240A, a second resilient section 722Ab that generally corresponds with the second frame member 240B, and a third resilient section 722Ac that generally corresponds with the third frame member 240C. With such design, the second resilient subassembly 722 is better able to conform to the face 13A (illustrated in Figure 1) and / or the head 13B (illustrated in Figure 1) of the user 13 (illustrated in Figure 1) when the user 13 is resting their head 13B on the headrest assembly 214 (illustrated in Figure 2). Stated differently, with this design, the second resilient subassembly 722 is better able to deform and not restrict movement of the individual resilient members 238 (illustrated in Figure 2) and / or the assembly frame 236 (illustrated in Figure 2). As a result thereof, the individual resilient members 238 and the assembly frame 236 are able to bend, move and conform to the user 13.

[0155] In this design, (i) the first resilient section 722Aa rests on the resilient members 238 that are coupled to the first frame member 240A, (ii) the second resilient section 722Ab rests on the resilient members 238 that are coupled to the second frame member 240B, and (iii) the third resilient section 722Ac rests on the resilient members 238 that are coupled to the third frame member 240C.

[0156] In certain embodiments, the individual resilient sections 722Aa-722Ac can be coupled and / or secured to one another in any suitable manner so that the second resilient subassembly 722 can be mounted on top of the first resilient subassembly 220 (illustrated in Figure 2) as a single component. For example, in one embodiment, each resilient section 722Aa-722Ac can include a resilient pad, such as a foam or jell pad, that is enclosed with a cover formed from vinyl, leather, or another suitable material. The covers for each resilient section 722Aa-722Ac can then be coupled together in any suitable manner, at least at or near an upper surface of the resilient sections 722Aa-722Ac.

[0157] Additionally, or in the alternative, the individual resilient sections 722Aa-722Ac can be formed generally as a unitary component by allowing a small, thin connector piece to remain between the first resilient section 722Aa and the second resilient section 722Ab, and between the second resilient section 722Ab and the thirdresilient section 722Ac. Stated in another manner, in such embodiments, certain portions of the overall substantially horseshoe-shaped second resilient subassembly 722 can be removed or omitted to allow the individual resilient sections 722Aa-722Ac to conform to the face 13A and / or the head 13B of the user 13 independently of one another.

[0158] Each resilient section 722Aa-722Ac can be formed from any suitable materials. For example, in certain embodiments, as noted above, each resilient section 722Aa-722Ac can include a foam pad that is enclosed by a vinyl or leather cover. However, it is appreciated that each individual resilient section 722Aa-722Ac can have a different stiffness or resilience for purposes of supporting the different portions of the face 13A and / or the head 13B of the user 13.

[0159] Figure 7B is a simplified schematic bottom view illustration of the second resilient subassembly 722 illustrated in Figure 7A. In particular, Figure 7B is a bottom view of the first resilient section 722Aa, the second resilient section 722Ab, and the third resilient section 722Acthat cooperate to form the second resilient subassembly 722.

[0160] Figure 7B further illustrates reliefs 790 that are provided between adjacent resilient sections 722Aa-722Ac to allow for better flexing of the resilient sections 722Aa-722Ac relative to one another. More specifically, as shown, (i) a first relief 790A can be provided between the first resilient section 722Aa and the second resilient section 722Ab to enable better flexing of the first resilient section 722Aa relative to the second resilient section 722Ab, and (ii) a second relief 790B can be provided between the third resilient section 722Ac and the second resilient section 722Ab to enable better flexing of the third resilient section 722Ac relative to the second resilient section 722Ab.

[0161] As also shown in Figure 7B, each resilient section 722Aa-722Ac can further include an engagement surface 792, or material, formed and / or provided along a bottom surface 794 of the resilient section 722Aa-722Ac that is configured to frictionally engage the first resilient subassembly 220 (illustrated in Figure 2) to inhibit relative movement between the second resilient subassembly 722 and the first resilient subassembly 220. Furthermore, in one implementation, the engagement surface 792 can also stretch to allow for relative movement of the resilient members 238.

[0162] Figure 70 is a simplified schematic bottom perspective view illustration ofthe second resilient subassembly 722 illustrated in Figure 7A. In particular, Figure 70 is a bottom perspective view of the first resilient section 722Aa, the second resilient section 722Ab, and the third resilient section 722Ac that cooperate to form the second resilient subassembly 722.

[0163] It is understood that although a number of different embodiments of the treatment device assembly 10 and the headrest assembly 14 have been illustrated and described herein, one or more features of any one embodiment can be combined with one or more features of one or more of the other embodiments, provided that such combination satisfies the intent of the present invention.

[0164] While a number of exemplary aspects and embodiments of the treatment device assembly 10 and the headrest assembly 14 have been discussed above, those of skill in the art will recognize certain modifications, permutations, additions and subcombinations thereof. It is therefore intended that the following appended claims and claims hereafter introduced are interpreted to include all such modifications, permutations, additions and sub-combinations as are within their true spirit and scope.

Claims

What is claimed is:

1. A headrest assembly for supporting a face or head of a user of a treatment device, the headrest assembly comprising:a first resilient subassembly including (i) an assembly frame that supports the face or head of the user of the treatment device, the assembly frame including a rigid, first frame member and a spaced apart, rigid, second frame member, and (ii) a first member connector that flexibly connects the first frame member to the second frame member.

2. The headrest assembly of claim 1 wherein the first member connector flexibly connects the first frame member to the second frame member so that the first frame member can pivot relative to the second frame member.

3. The headrest assembly of claim 2 wherein the first member connector flexibly connects the first frame member to the second frame member so that the first frame member can pivot relative to the second frame member such that at least a portion of the first frame member moves upwardly and inwardly relative to the second frame member.

4. The headrest assembly of any one of claims 1-3 wherein the first member connector is formed from a resilient material.

5. The headrest assembly of claim 4 wherein the first member connector is formed from at least one of rubber and plastic.

6. The headrest assembly of any one of claims 1-5 wherein the first frame member is spaced apart from the second frame member by a first spacing.

7. The headrest assembly of claim 6 wherein the first spacing is between approximately 1 / 16 inch and 14 inch.

8. The headrest assembly of any one of claims 1-7 wherein the first member connector is coupled to the first frame member with at least one connector attacher; and wherein the first member connector is coupled to the second frame member with at least one connector attacher.

9. The headrest assembly of claim 8 wherein each of the connector attachers is a rivet.

10. The headrest assembly of any one of claims 1-9 wherein the first member connector is a one-piece member connector.

11. The headrest assembly of any one of claims 1-9 wherein the first member connector includes a first element and a spaced apart, second element.

12. The headrest assembly of claim 11 wherein the first element and the second element have a same resilience.

13. The headrest assembly of claim 11 wherein the first element and the second element have a different resilience.

14. The headrest assembly of any one of claims 1-13 wherein the first resilient subassembly further includes a plurality of resilient members that are flexibly coupled to the assembly frame.

15. The headrest assembly of claim 14 wherein the plurality of resilient members includes one or more resilient members that are flexibly coupled to the first frame member, and one or more resilient members that are flexibly coupled to the second frame member.

16. The headrest assembly of any one of claims 14-15 wherein each of the plurality of resilient members includes a first resilient beam that is secured to the assembly frame, and a second resilient beam that is fixedly secured to the first resilient beam.

17. The headrest assembly of claim 16 wherein the first resilient beam is formed from spring steel.

18. The headrest assembly of any one of claims 16-17 wherein the first resilient beam includes a first end that cantilevers away from the assembly frame, and a second end that is secured to the assembly frame.

19. The headrest assembly of claim 18 wherein the second resilient beam is curved plate-shaped and includes a first end that is fixedly secured to the first end of the first resilient beam, and a second end that cantilevers away from the first end back toward the assembly frame.

20. The headrest assembly of any one of claims 16-19 wherein the second resilient beam is formed from a plastic material.21 . The headrest assembly of any one of claims 16-20 wherein each of the plurality of resilient members further includes a resilient cover that substantially encircles the second resilient beam.

22. The headrest assembly of claim 21 wherein the resilient cover is formed from soft foam rubber.

23. The headrest assembly of any one of claims 1-13 wherein the assembly frame further includes a third frame member that is spaced apart from the second frame member, the second frame member being positioned substantially between the first frame member and the third frame member; and wherein the first resilient subassembly further includes a second member connector that flexibly connects the third frame member to the second frame member.

24. The headrest assembly of claim 23 wherein the second member connector flexibly connects the third frame member to the second frame member so that the third frame member can pivot relative to the second frame member.

25. The headrest assembly of claim 24 wherein the first member connector flexibly connects the first frame member to the second frame member so that the first frame member can pivot relative to the second frame member such that at least a portion of the first frame member moves upwardly and inwardly relative to the second frame member.

26. The headrest assembly of any one of claims 23-25 wherein the second member connector is formed from a resilient material.

27. The headrest assembly of claim 26 wherein the second member connector is formed from at least one of rubber and plastic.

28. The headrest assembly of any one of claims 23-27 wherein the third frame member is spaced apart from the second frame member by a second spacing.

29. The headrest assembly of claim 28 wherein the second spacing is between approximately 1 / 16 inch and 14 inch.

30. The headrest assembly of any one of claims 23-29 wherein the second member connector is coupled to the third frame member with at least one connector attacher; and wherein the second member connector is coupled to the second frame member with at least one connector attacher.

31. The headrest assembly of claim 30 wherein each of the connector attachers is a rivet.

32. The headrest assembly of any one of claims 23-31 wherein the second member connector is a one-piece member connector.

33. The headrest assembly of any one of claims 23-31 wherein the second member connector includes a first element and a spaced apart, second element.

34. The headrest assembly of claim 33 wherein the first element and the second element have a same resilience.

35. The headrest assembly of claim 33 wherein the first element and the second element have a different resilience.

36. The headrest assembly of any one of claims 23-35 wherein the first resilient subassembly further includes a plurality of resilient members that are flexibly coupled to the assembly frame.

37. The headrest assembly of claim 36 wherein the plurality of resilient members includes one or more resilient members that are flexibly coupled to the first frame member, one or more resilient members that are flexibly coupled to the second frame member, and one or more resilient members that are flexibly coupled to the third frame member.

38. The headrest assembly of any one of claims 36-37 wherein each of the plurality of resilient members includes a first resilient beam that is secured to the assembly frame, and a second resilient beam that is fixedly secured to the first resilient beam.

39. The headrest assembly of claim 38 wherein the first resilient beam is formed from spring steel.

40. The headrest assembly of any one of claims 38-39 wherein the first resilient beam includes a first end that cantilevers away from the assembly frame, and a second end that is secured to the assembly frame.41 . The headrest assembly of claim 40 wherein the second resilient beam is curved plate-shaped and includes a first end that is fixedly secured to the first end of the first resilient beam, and a second end that cantilevers away from the first end back toward the assembly frame.

42. The headrest assembly of any one of claims 38-41 wherein the second resilient beam is formed from a plastic material.

43. The headrest assembly of any one of claims 38-42 wherein each of the plurality of resilient members further includes a resilient cover that substantially encircles the second resilient beam.

44. The headrest assembly of claim 43 wherein the resilient cover is formed from soft foam rubber.

45. The headrest assembly of any one of claims 1-44 wherein the assembly frame is formed from a rigid plastic material.

46. The headrest assembly of any one of claims 1-45 wherein the assembly frame is substantially horseshoe-shaped.

47. The headrest assembly of any one of claims 1-46 further comprising a second resilient subassembly that is positioned on top of the first resilient subassembly.

48. The headrest assembly of claim 47 wherein the second resilient subassembly is positioned to engage the face or head of the user of the treatment device.

49. The headrest assembly of any one of claims 47-48 wherein the second resilient subassembly is a resilient pad.

50. The headrest assembly of any one of claims 47-48 wherein the second resilient subassembly includes a plurality of resilient sections that are coupled to one another.51 . The headrest assembly of claim 50 wherein each of the plurality of resilient sections corresponds to one of the frame members.

52. The headrest assembly of any one of claims 47-51 wherein the second resilient subassembly is substantially horseshoe-shaped.

53. The headrest assembly of any one of claims 1-52 further comprising a support assembly that is coupled between the first resilient subassembly and the treatment device.

54. The headrest assembly of claim 53 wherein the support assembly is configured to adjustably support the first resilient subassembly relative to the treatment device.

55. A treatment device assembly for supporting a user relative to a support surface, the treatment device assembly including a treatment device for supporting a body of the user; and the headrest assembly of any one of claims 1-54 that is selectively coupled to the treatment device.

56. A method for supporting a face or head of a user of a treatment device, the method comprising steps of:rigidly supporting the face or head of the user of the treatment device with an assembly frame, the assembly frame including a first frame member and a spaced apart second frame member; andflexibly connecting the first frame member to the second frame member with a first member connector.

57. The method of claim 56 wherein the step of flexibly connecting includes flexibly connecting the first frame member to the second frame member with the first member connector so that the first frame member can pivot relative to the second frame member.

58. The method of claim 57 wherein the step of flexibly connecting includes flexibly connecting the first frame member to the second frame member with the first member connector so that the first frame member can pivot relative to the second frame member such that at least a portion of the first frame member moves upwardly and inwardly relative to the second frame member.

59. The method of any one of claims 56-58 wherein the step of flexibly connecting includes the first member connector being formed from a resilient material.

60. The method of claim 59 wherein the step of flexibly connecting includes the first member connector being formed from at least one of rubber and plastic.

61. The method of any one of claims 56-60 wherein the step of rigidly supporting includes the first frame member being spaced apart from the second frame member by a first spacing.

62. The method of claim 61 wherein the step of rigidly supporting includes the first spacing being between approximately 1 / 16 inch and z inch.

63. The method of any one of claims 56-62 wherein the step of flexibly connecting includes coupling the first member connector to the first frame member with at least one connector attacher, and coupling the first member connector to the second frame member with at least one connector attacher.

64. The method of claim 63 wherein the step of flexibly connecting includes each of the connector attachers being a rivet.

65. The method of any one of claims 56-64 wherein the step of flexibly connecting includes the first member connector being a one-piece member connector.

66. The method of any one of claims 56-64 wherein the step of flexibly connecting includes the first member connector including a first element and a spaced apart, second element.

67. The method of claim 66 wherein the step of flexibly connecting includes the first element and the second element having a same resilience.

68. The method of claim 66 wherein the step of flexibly connecting includes the first element and the second element having a different resilience.

69. The method of any one of claims 56-68 further comprising a step of flexibly coupling a plurality of resilient members to the assembly frame.

70. The method of claim 69 wherein the step of flexibly coupling includes flexibly coupling one or more resilient members to the first frame member, and flexibly coupling one or more resilient members to the second frame member.

71. The method of any one of claims 69-70 wherein the step of flexibly coupling includes securing a first resilient beam of each of the plurality of resilient members to the assembly frame, and fixedly securing a second resilient beam of each of the plurality of resilient members to the first resilient beam.

72. The method of claim 71 wherein the step of securing the first resilient beam includes the first resilient beam being formed from spring steel.

73. The method of any one of claims 71-72 wherein the step of securing the first resilient beam includes the first resilient beam including a first end that cantilevers away from the assembly frame, and a second end that is secured to the assembly frame.

74. The method of claim 73 wherein the step of fixedly securing the second resilient beam includes the second resilient beam being curved plate-shaped and including a first end that is fixedly secured to the first end of the first resilient beam, and a second end that cantilevers away from the first end back toward the assembly frame.

75. The method of any one of claims 71-74 wherein the step of fixedly securing the second resilient beam includes the second resilient beam being formed from a plastic material.

76. The method of any one of claims 71-75 wherein the step of flexibly coupling includes substantially encircling the second resilient beam of each of the plurality of resilient members with a resilient cover.

77. The method of claim 76 wherein the step of substantially encircling includes the resilient cover being formed from soft foam rubber.

78. The method of any one of claims 56-68 wherein the step of rigidly supporting includes the assembly frame further including a third frame member that is spaced apart from the second frame member, the second frame member being positioned substantially between the first frame member and the third frame member; and further comprising a step of flexibly connecting the third frame member to the second frame member with a second member connector.

79. The method of claim 78 wherein the step of flexibly connecting the third frame member includes flexibly connecting the third frame member to the second frame member with the second member connector so that the third frame member can pivot relative to the second frame member.

80. The method of claim 79 wherein the step of flexibly connecting the third frame member includes flexibly connecting the third frame member to the second frame member with the second member connector so that the third frame member can pivot relative to the second frame member such that at least a portion of the first frame member moves upwardly and inwardly relative to the second frame member.81 . The method of any one of claims 78-80 wherein the step of flexibly connecting the third frame member includes the second member connector being formed from a resilient material.

82. The method of claim 81 wherein the step of flexibly connecting the third frame member includes the second member connector being formed from at least one of rubber and plastic.

83. The method of any one of claims 78-82 wherein the step of rigidly supporting includes the third frame member being spaced apart from the second frame member by a second spacing.

84. The method of claim 83 wherein the step of rigidly supporting includes the second spacing being between approximately 1 / 16 inch and 1 inch.

85. The method of any one of claims 78-84 wherein the step of flexibly connecting the third frame member includes coupling the second member connector to the third frame member with at least one connector attacher, and coupling the second member connector to the second frame member with at least one connector attacher.

86. The method of claim 85 wherein the step of flexibly connecting the third frame member includes each of the connector attachers being a rivet.

87. The method of any one of claims 78-86 wherein the step of flexibly connecting the third frame member includes the second member connector being a one-piece member connector.

88. The method of any one of claims 78-86 wherein the step of flexibly connecting the third frame member includes the second member connector including a first element and a spaced apart, second element.

89. The method of claim 88 wherein the step of flexibly connecting the third frame member includes the first element and the second element having a same resilience.

90. The method of claim 88 wherein the step of flexibly connecting the third frame member includes the first element and the second element having a different resilience.

91. The method of any one of claims 78-90 further comprising a step of flexibly coupling a plurality of resilient members to the assembly frame.

92. The method of claim 91 wherein the step of flexibly coupling includes flexibly coupling one or more resilient members to the first frame member, flexibly coupling one or more resilient members to the second frame member, and flexibly coupling one or more resilient members to the third frame member.

93. The method of any one of claims 91-92 wherein the step of flexibly coupling includes securing a first resilient beam of each of the plurality of resilient members to the assembly frame, and fixedly securing a second resilient beam of each of the plurality of resilient members to the first resilient beam.

94. The method of claim 93 wherein the step of securing the first resilient beam includes the first resilient beam being formed from spring steel.

95. The method of any one of claims 93-94 wherein the step of securing the first resilient beam includes the first resilient beam including a first end that cantilevers away from the assembly frame, and a second end that is secured to the assembly frame.

96. The method of claim 95 wherein the step of fixedly securing the second resilient beam includes the second resilient beam being curved plate-shaped and including a first end that is fixedly secured to the first end of the first resilient beam, and a second end that cantilevers away from the first end back toward the assembly frame.

97. The method of any one of claims 93-96 wherein the step of fixedly securing the second resilient beam includes the second resilient beam being formed from a plastic material.

98. The method of any one of claims 93-97 wherein the step of flexibly coupling includes substantially encircling the second resilient beam of each of the plurality of resilient members with a resilient cover.

99. The method of claim 98 wherein the step of substantially encircling includes the resilient cover being formed from soft foam rubber.

100. The method of any one of claims 56-99 wherein the step of rigidly supporting includes the assembly frame being formed from a rigid plastic material.

101. The method of any one of claims 56-100 wherein the step of rigidly supporting includes the assembly frame being substantially horseshoe-shaped.

102. The method of any one of claims 56-101 further comprising a step of positioning a second resilient subassembly on top of the assembly frame.

103. The method of claim 102 wherein the step of positioning the second resilient subassembly includes the second resilient subassembly being positioned to engage the face or head of the user of the treatment device.

104. The method of any one of claims 102-103 wherein the step of positioning the second resilient subassembly includes the second resilient subassembly being a resilient pad.

105. The method of any one of claims 102-103 wherein the step of positioning the second resilient subassembly includes the second resilient subassembly including a plurality of resilient sections that are coupled to one another.

106. The method of claim 105 wherein the step of positioning the second resilient subassembly includes each of the plurality of resilient sections corresponding to one of the frame members.

107. The method of any one of claims 102-106 wherein the step of positioning the second resilient subassembly includes the second resilient subassembly being substantially horseshoe-shaped.

108. The method of any one of claims 56-107 further comprising a step of coupling a support assembly between the assembly frame and the treatment device.

109. The method of claim 108 wherein the step of coupling the support assembly includes adjustable supporting the assembly frame relative to the treatment device with the support assembly.

110. A method for supporting a user relative to a support surface, the method including steps of supporting a body of the user with a treatment device; and selectively coupling the assembly frame of any one of claims 56-109 to the treatment device.

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