Foldable Three-Segment Pillow for Custom Head Support
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pillows lack flexibility in accommodating individual head support needs due to limited customization options regarding cushion segments, making it difficult for users to find a suitable configuration for their specific requirements.
Innovation Solution
A pillow comprising at least three cushion segments that can be stacked and arranged using a star-shaped connecting element with foldable points and various attaching mechanisms like zippers or Velcro, allowing users to choose the order and combination of segments for optimal support.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a pillow uses a fixed structure with limited cushion configurations, then the manufacturing is simple, but the adaptability to different head support needs is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The pillow is divided into multiple detachable cushion segments (first cushion segment, second cushion segment, third cushion segment) that can be independently attached or removed from the pillow body. This segmentation allows users to customize the pillow configuration by selecting different combinations and arrangements of cushion segments, thereby improving adaptability to different head support needs without significantly complicating the overall structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The pillow transitions from a static fixed structure to a dynamic reconfigurable structure. The cushion segments can be attached, detached, and rearranged according to user preferences and specific head support requirements. This dynamic capability enables the pillow to adapt to various sleeping positions and individual needs while maintaining a relatively simple base structure.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a pillow allows multiple cushion configurations and arrangements, then the adaptability improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The pillow body is designed with multiple identical attachment locations (first attachment location, second attachment location, third attachment location) that can all accommodate the same types of cushion segments using the same attachment mechanism. This universal design allows any cushion segment to be attached to any location, providing maximum arrangement flexibility without requiring different mechanisms for different positions, thus limiting the increase in device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The attachment mechanisms at different locations on the pillow body are designed to be homogeneous - using the same type of attachment means (such as zippers, buttons, or Velcro) at each location. This homogeneity simplifies the overall device complexity while still allowing versatile cushion arrangements, as users can attach and detach cushions using the same method at any position.
3Ease of operation
If cushion segments are detachable for customization and washing, then the ease of operation improves, but the reliability of the connection may worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment mechanism is designed to be easily operable by the user without requiring special tools or skills. Users can independently attach and detach cushion segments according to their needs, and the cushion segments can be removed for washing and reattached later. This self-service capability greatly improves ease of operation while maintaining adequate connection stability through the designed attachment mechanism.
Data Source
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AI summary
A pillow (1) comprises three cushion segments (4, 6, 8) and a connecting element (2), which is shaped as a bar having, in an unfolded state, a cross-section having the shape of a star comprising at least three points (10, 12, 14) being foldable about the longitudinal axis (LA) of the connecting element (2). Each point (10, 12, 14) has a connecting end (28, 30, 32). The connecting element (2) is adapted for holding one of the cushion segments (4, 6, 8) at each of its connecting ends (28, 30, 32).