Adjustable Chin Support Structure for Neck Strain Relief
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing head support devices fail to provide effective and adjustable support for the head and neck, leading to strain on muscles during prolonged sitting periods, as they lack a mechanism for customizable length adjustment and comfortable chin support.
Innovation Solution
A head support apparatus comprising a tube and rod system with a locking compression device, allowing adjustable length and featuring a cup and disk-shaped pad for comfortable chin support, enabling the apparatus to be locked in place for optimal support.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed-length head support device is used, then the structure is simple, but it cannot provide customizable support for different users and positions
Solution Approach 1:
The head support device incorporates a telescopic rod mechanism that allows the support length to be dynamically adjusted between extended and retracted positions. The rod can slide within the tube to change the overall length, providing adaptability for different users and positions while maintaining a relatively simple structural design through the use of basic mechanical components like the locking compression device.
2Adaptability or versatility
If an adjustable-length mechanism is added to provide customizable support, then adaptability improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The head support device is divided into separable components including a tube, a telescopic rod, a locking compression device, and a support portion. The rod can be independently adjusted within the tube, allowing for modular adjustment of length without requiring complex integrated mechanisms. This segmentation enables simple, independent adjustment of the support length.
Solution Approach 2:
The telescopic rod mechanism provides dynamic length adjustment capability, allowing the support device to change its configuration from a fixed state to an adjustable state. The rod slides within the tube and can be locked at various positions using the compression device, providing adaptability while keeping the adjustment mechanism relatively simple.
3Reliability
If a locking mechanism is implemented to maintain adjusted position, then support stability improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking compression device is designed to be operated manually by the user without requiring additional tools or complex mechanisms. The user can compress the device to lock the rod in place or release it to allow adjustment, providing a simple self-service locking mechanism that ensures support stability while minimizing added complexity.
4Ease of operation
If the support device is made adjustable and comfortable for extended use, then user comfort improves, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The support portion of the device is specifically designed with comfort-oriented features such as contouring and padding at the contact points (head and chin areas). These local quality improvements enhance user comfort during extended use without requiring complex adjustments or mechanisms throughout the entire device. The tube and rod provide the adjustable structure while the support portion provides the comfort through localized design features.
Data Source
AI summary
A head support apparatus for supporting a head of a person. The head support apparatus includes a tube and a rod configured to slidably and lockably couple to the tube. A cup and pad are coupled to an upper end of the rod. In use, a lower end of the tube bears on a support. A person's chin is rested on the pad whereby the weight of the person's head is supported by the head support apparatus.