Apparatus for head and neck support
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional travel pillows fail to provide adequate support for the head, neck, and upper spine of travelers sitting upright in confined spaces, leading to discomfort and potential health issues during extended periods of travel.
Innovation Solution
A self-securing and stabilizing headrest pillow with a support element, such as a cushion, and a securing element like a strap that can be anchored to the user or a seat, providing counterbalance to maintain proper alignment and comfort.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of moving object
If conventional travel pillows are used, then portability is improved, but head, neck, and upper spine support is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The pillow is divided into multiple functional zones: a head support portion with contoured shaping, a neck support portion with elevated positioning, and an upper spine support portion. Each segment is designed to address specific anatomical needs while maintaining overall portability through the segmented structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The pillow incorporates multi-dimensional support structures including vertical elevation of the neck support portion, horizontal extension of the upper spine support area, and three-dimensional contoured shaping of the head support portion. This dimensional approach enables comprehensive support while keeping the pillow compact for travel.
2Reliability
If upright sitting position is maintained during travel, then safety and alertness are improved, but head, neck, and upper spine comfort deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The pillow's support elements are strategically positioned and shaped to counterbalance the natural forward pull of the head weight. The elevated neck support portion and contoured head support area create a counterbalancing effect that maintains proper alignment and reduces strain on neck muscles during upright sitting.
Solution Approach 2:
The pillow utilizes variations in support parameters including firmness distribution across different zones, elevation height of the neck support portion, and contoured depth of the head support area. These parameter changes enable effective support while maintaining comfort during extended upright travel periods.
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus may include a support element and a securing element. The securing element may be coupled to the support element. Furthermore, the securing element may be configured to maintain the support element in a position that enables the supporting element to provide support for a head, a neck, and/or an upper spine of a user.