Dual-Pillow Rotatable Joint Support for Forward Upright Head Rest
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Solution Overview
Problem
Travelers face discomfort and difficulty in sleeping or resting while seated upright due to inadequate support, leading to fatigue, pain, and potential health issues, as existing solutions are either cumbersome, unsuitable for confined spaces, or inconvenient to use.
Innovation Solution
A portable support system comprising two pillows with rotatable joints and adjustable extensions, allowing for multiple positions to comfortably rest the head and neck in a forward upright position, with optional harness for secure use and storage, made from materials like memory foam or inflatable options.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If U-shaped pillows or adjustable flaps are used to support the head, then head support is improved, but they only work when the head rests on the seat back and cannot prevent the head from falling forwards
Solution Approach 1:
The support device incorporates a tray table with a movable support surface that can be adjusted to different angles and positions. The support surface is configured to adapt to various head positions, allowing it to effectively support the head whether the user is leaning back or leaning forward, thus resolving the limitation of static support devices
2Ease of operation
If devices rest upon a tray table extending from the back of an airline seat, then forward upright position support is improved, but they are large in volume and cumbersome in confined spaces
Solution Approach 1:
The support device is designed to nest within the tray table structure when not in use. The support surface can be folded or collapsed into a compact configuration that fits within the confined space of an airline seat, eliminating the need for separate storage space while maintaining full functionality when deployed
3Device complexity
If devices require support from the tray table fixed to the seat of a passenger in front, then support structure is simplified, but the device moves if the passenger moves, disturbing the traveler using the support
Solution Approach 1:
The support device incorporates a counterbalancing mechanism or friction-based stabilization system that prevents movement caused by tray table adjustments or passenger motion. The design includes features such as non-slip surfaces, adjustable clamps, or weight distribution mechanisms that anchor the support device in place, ensuring stable head support even when the tray table moves
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Provides improved comfort and support for the head and neck in confined spaces, allowing for better orientation and rest, reducing fatigue and discomfort, while being portable and versatile for various travel and non-travel applications.
Implementation Method 1
made from materials like memory foam or inflatable options
Implementation Method 2
made from materials like memory foam or inflatable options
Data Source
AI summary
A support comprising a first pillow having a first pillow body comprising a first arm and a second arm, a second pillow comprising a third arm and a fourth arm, the first and third arms being attached to a first joint, and the second and forth arms being attached to a second joint wherein the first and second pillows can be rotated about the joints and optionally the joints are extendable to allow the relative angle and separation of the pillows to be varied. The support provides a user with myriad options for positioning the pillows and supporting their upper body, particularly during long periods of sitting upright, such as during travel in an aircraft or bus.