Contoured Face Cradle Insert for Smaller User Neck Support
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Solution Overview
Problem
Standard face cradles on massage tables are not adjustable and often uncomfortable for smaller framed individuals, providing inadequate support for the neck and head area during massages.
Innovation Solution
A face cradle insert device with a removably attached pad and receiver opening, featuring a contoured design with a passageway for breathing, which can be adapted to different sizes and materials, including inflatable structures, to enhance comfort and support.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single-size face cradle is used, then the structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but it provides inadequate support and comfort for smaller framed individuals
Solution Approach 1:
The face cradle is divided into multiple insertable pads of different sizes that can be placed within the main cradle structure. This segmentation allows the system to adapt to different user sizes by selecting appropriate pad combinations without redesigning the entire cradle.
Solution Approach 2:
Smaller framed individuals can nest multiple pads within the larger cradle structure, with pads positioned to provide appropriate support for their smaller head and neck dimensions while utilizing the existing cradle framework.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a towel or sheet is placed in the face cradle to accommodate smaller patients, then some adaptability is achieved, but comfort is reduced and breathing is restricted
Solution Approach 1:
The face cradle pads incorporate porous foam material that allows air permeation throughout the structure. This enables patients to breathe comfortably while their faces are positioned in the cradle, eliminating the breathing restriction problem associated with solid towel or sheet placements.
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the pad are designed with specific densities and contours to provide localized support for the head, neck, and face areas. This ensures proper anatomical support while maintaining breathability through the porous structure.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the face cradle is made larger to accommodate all users, then universal fit is achieved, but smaller framed individuals experience discomfort and inadequate support
Solution Approach 1:
The system allows dynamic configuration by enabling users to select and arrange different pad sizes according to their specific needs. Smaller framed individuals can use smaller pads or fewer pads to create a configuration that provides appropriate support, while larger individuals can use the full cradle structure.
Data Source
AI summary
A face cradle insert device for providing extra support to the neck and head area of a person during a massage and/or when lying down. The face cradle insert device includes a pad and a receiver opening, wherein the pad is removably attached to a face cradle of a massage table. The receiver opening vertically extends through the pad and includes a first portion and a second portion extending from the first portion. The first portion and the second portion are comprised of a configuration to comfortably fit the face of a user. The pad also includes at least one passageway horizontally extending through the pad, wherein the passageway fluidly connects with the receiver opening.