Side Pillow Support Device

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing pillows fail to provide optimal comfort and support for plumbers working in confined spaces, lacking durability, anti-slip properties, and washability, leading to discomfort and strain.

Innovation Solution

A side pillow support device with a U-shaped foam core, a robust nylon-like outer case, and adjustable firmness via an air bladder, featuring built-in tool pockets and anti-slip materials for enhanced stability and hygiene.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If conventional pillows are used for plumbing work, then basic cushioning is provided, but they lack durability and cannot withstand harsh plumbing environments

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovedurabilityVSAvoidmanufacturing complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The pillow combines multiple materials with complementary properties: high-density foam for structural support and durability, nylon fabric for water resistance and strength, and rubberized coating for slip resistance. This composite approach resolves the contradiction by creating a single product that withstands harsh plumbing environments while maintaining comfort.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #40Composite materials

2Duration of action of stationary object

If standard pillows are used, then temporary comfort is provided, but they degrade quickly when exposed to water and dirt

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovelifespanVSAvoidwater and dirt exposure
Core Design Contradiction:
Duration of action of stationary objectVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The nylon fabric outer layer acts as a protective shell that shields the foam core from water and dirt. This flexible protective layer allows the pillow to be used in wet plumbing environments while preventing the absorption of harmful substances, thereby extending lifespan.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #30Flexible shells and thin films

Solution Approach 2:

The foam density is increased to high-density specifications, changing the material parameter to resist degradation from water exposure and mechanical stress. This parameter change enables the pillow to maintain its structural integrity and comfort properties throughout its extended service life.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Stability of the object's composition

If conventional pillows are used, then basic support is provided, but they lack anti-slip properties causing instability

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveposition stabilityVSAvoidsetup simplicity
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The rubberized coating is applied specifically to the surface of the pillow that contacts the work surface, providing anti-slip properties only where needed. This localized application maintains position stability without adding complexity to the overall pillow structure or setup process.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

4Ease of operation

If traditional pillow materials are used, then initial comfort is provided, but they cannot be easily cleaned in plumbing environments

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovecleanabilityVSAvoidhygiene maintenance
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSObject-generated harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The nylon fabric outer layer serves as a removable, washable shell that protects the foam core from contact with dirt and grime. This shell can be easily removed and washed, allowing hygiene maintenance without damaging the internal foam structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #30Flexible shells and thin films

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

The device reduces strain and fatigue, provides secure support, and maintains hygiene and durability, improving the comfort and efficiency of plumbers working in challenging environments.

Implementation Method 1

The U-shaped body of the inner pillow, constructed from foam-like material, offers optimal comfort and support to the user's torso

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElastic deformation: Elasticity

Implementation Method 2

One side of the outer case cover incorporates a high-friction rubber-like material, preventing the pillow from sliding when in use

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFriction: Friction

Data Source

PatentUS20240225297A1Side Pillow Support Device
Publication Date: 2024.07.11 LAUZAU MAX
  • US20240225297A1 patent drawing
  • US20240225297A1 patent drawing
  • US20240225297A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A side pillow support device is provided which utilizes a bottom surface having a front planar bottom surface and a rear planar bottom surface. The front planar bottom surface is separated from the rear planar bottom surface by a beveled bottom surface. The rear planar bottom surface is entirely disposed above the front planar bottom surface and the front planar bottom surface terminates into a front lip. The device further utilizes an inner support surface disposed between left and right side cushions. The inner support surface utilizes a concave shape and a front portion of the inner support surface terminates into the front lip.