Side Head Support Structure to Prevent Neck Inversion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional neck pillows fail to adequately support the head and neck, allowing inversion and wobbling under gravity, leading to discomfort and fatigue, especially during travel or tasks that require looking downward.
Innovation Solution
A head and neck support device featuring first and second head support members affixed to a headband or hat, which distribute the weight of the head to bypass the neck and translate gravitational forces equally to the sides, providing comprehensive support and comfort.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional U-shaped neck pillows are used, then the device provides basic neck support, but the head and neck still experience inversion and wobbling under gravity
Solution Approach 1:
The support device is divided into multiple segments: a headband component and two separate support members positioned at opposite sides of the head. This segmentation allows each support member to independently counteract gravitational forces on different portions of the head, providing more effective stabilization against inversion and wobbling compared to a single U-shaped pillow.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from the traditional U-shaped profile that only supports the back of the neck to a three-dimensional configuration with support members extending to the sides of the head. This dimensional expansion creates a stabilizing framework that addresses head movement in multiple directions, not just vertical neck support.
2Device complexity
If U-shaped neck pillows are used, then the device is simple in structure, but it fails to cradle the mental protuberance as the head rolls sideways
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of a single continuous U-shaped pillow, the support function is segmented into a headband and two separate support members. This allows the support members to be positioned precisely at the locations where head rolling occurs, providing targeted cradling of the mental protuberance while maintaining structural simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The support members are specifically positioned to provide localized support at the sides of the head where the mental protuberance contacts during sideways rolling. This local quality enhancement addresses the specific problem of head rolling without requiring complex structural changes throughout the entire device.
3Ease of operation
If neck pillows provide minimal support, then the device is comfortable and easy to wear, but the neck still experiences fatigue and pain
Solution Approach 1:
The support members function as counterweights positioned on either side of the head, creating opposing forces that balance the gravitational pull on the head. This anti-weight configuration provides robust head and neck support while distributing forces evenly, preventing neck fatigue and pain without compromising wearer comfort.
Solution Approach 2:
The symmetric positioning of support members on opposite sides of the head creates equipotential support conditions, where gravitational forces are balanced evenly across the head structure. This equipotential configuration stabilizes the head and neck in a neutral position, reducing strain while maintaining comfort during extended wear.
Data Source
AI summary
A head and neck support device includes first and second head support members that may be positioned in complimentary opposing locations to a rear area of the head. Each head support member comprises a substantially rectangular shaped pillow that may be affixed to headwear (e.g., hat) or a headband. The first and second head support members are configured to complimentarily support and distribute a weight of the head to substantially bypass a neck or the wearer and effectuate translation of the forces of gravity (somewhat equally) to the sides of the head of the wearer.