Modular Neck Pillow Insert for Multi-Function Reconfigurability

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing head and neck pillows lack versatility and cannot be easily reconfigured for different use scenarios, such as transitioning from a travel pillow to a memory foam pillow topper.

Innovation Solution

A modular, configurable pillow case insert that can be rolled up for insertion into a head and neck support pillow casing, and unrolled to function as a memory foam pillow topper, with additional features like noise cancellation, music playback, and lighting, enhancing the pillow's properties and functionality.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a traditional head and neck pillow is designed for a specific function (e.g., travel pillow), then it provides good support for that specific use, but it cannot be easily reconfigured for other uses (e.g., memory foam pillow topper)

Engineering Contradiction:

ImproveconfigurabilityVSAvoidstructure

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The pillow is divided into separate modular components: a removable insert with specific support properties and a pillowcase housing. This segmentation allows the insert to be extracted and reused in different pillow configurations, enabling versatility without requiring complex integrated structures.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The pillow insert is designed to serve multiple functions: it can be used within the travel pillow casing for neck support, or removed and placed within a memory foam pillowcase to create a pillow topper. This universal design allows one component to fulfill multiple roles across different pillow types.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If a pillow is designed to be configurable and removable, then it becomes versatile for different uses, but the ease of operation and insertion may be compromised

Engineering Contradiction:

ImprovereconfigurabilityVSAvoidinsertion

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The pillow insert is designed to nest within the pillowcase housing, with the insert fitting snugly into the designated compartment. This nesting design ensures that while the insert is removable for reconfiguration, it also guides proper insertion and maintains secure positioning during use.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

Solution Approach 2:

The pillowcase housing is pre-configured with openings and structural features that facilitate the insertion of the insert. The design anticipates the reconfiguration need by providing easy-access openings that allow users to quickly insert or remove the insert without complex assembly steps.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentUS11432652B2Neck pillow with removable and configurable insert

Publication Date: 2022.09.06 TANDEM GOODS LLC

AI summary

A pillow that includes a substantially u-shaped pillow body having a medial region and a pair of legs that extend from the medial region to define an opening therebetween. The pillow body includes a casing defining an exterior surface and interior surface of the pillow body. The interior surface defines a lumen of the pillow body, and the lumen is a single continuous interior compartment. The pillow body includes an interior core disposed within the lumen. The interior core may include a flexible insert in a rolled up configuration that substantially fills the interior core. The casing may include a top fabric member, a bottom fabric member, and a middle fabric section that runs along the curved outer periphery and curved inner periphery of the casing, and is attached to the top fabric member and bottom fabric member.