Sling headrest
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing headrest systems are not adjustable to accommodate different sized individuals and do not allow for proper cervical spine alignment while sleeping on their side or stomach, leading to discomfort and potential health issues.
Innovation Solution
A sling headrest system with a frame that suspends a fabric platform, allowing for adjustable height and support to align the cervical spine, made from non-toxic, breathable, and washable organic cotton fabric, with a collapsible metal frame for easy storage and sanitation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed headrest structure is used, then the structure is simple and stable, but it cannot accommodate different sized individuals and sleeping positions
Solution Approach 1:
The headrest frame incorporates movable joints and adjustable members that allow the structure to change configuration. The frame members can be repositioned to accommodate different head sizes and sleeping positions, transforming a static structure into a dynamic one that adapts to user needs.
Solution Approach 2:
The frame is divided into multiple independent members connected by joints, allowing each segment to be adjusted independently. This segmentation enables versatile positioning while maintaining structural integrity, resolving the contradiction between adaptability and complexity.
2Ease of operation
If traditional pillows are used to support head and neck, then they provide basic cushioning, but they restrict proper cervical spine alignment and prevent comfortable side or stomach sleeping
Solution Approach 1:
The headrest provides dynamic support that adapts to different sleeping positions through its adjustable frame structure, maintaining reliable cervical spine alignment whether the user sleeps on their back, side, or stomach, unlike fixed traditional pillows.
Solution Approach 2:
The headrest allows adjustment of support parameters such as height, angle, and firmness to optimize cervical spine alignment for different sleeping positions, ensuring both comfort and proper anatomical support.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If synthetic materials are used in headrests, then they provide durable support, but they emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that are harmful to health
Solution Approach 1:
The headrest combines natural latex foam with organic cotton cover and wooden frame components, creating a composite material system that eliminates harmful VOC emissions while maintaining structural strength and support capability through the synergistic properties of different natural materials.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the material composition parameters from synthetic to natural materials, fundamentally altering the chemical properties to eliminate VOC emissions while preserving mechanical properties through careful selection of durable natural materials.
4Ease of repair
If non-removable headrest covers are used, then the structure is simpler, but they cannot be easily cleaned or sanitized
Solution Approach 1:
The headrest is segmented into removable cover and frame components, allowing the cover to be detached for cleaning while the frame remains in place. This segmentation enables easy maintenance without requiring disassembly of the entire structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The cover attachment mechanism allows the cover to transition between attached and detached states, providing dynamic accessibility for cleaning purposes while maintaining structural integrity during use.
Data Source
AI summary
A recumbent head support system, designed as an alternative to conventional sleep pillows, comprising a frame which suspends a fabric platform that is adjustable for height, weight-bearing distribution and shifting of pressure point. It is a headrest that enables the user to personalize a desired level of support without having to lift their head off the support. The headrest suspension system includes base cross support members, a panel or base framework secured to base cross support member, vertical members secured to base cross support members, and a pair of horizontal members cantilevered and rotatably secured to vertical members (or upper cross support member), and a fabric sling that attaches to the rotatable horizontal members. Optionally, user-actuated control elements are provided to fine-tune height, concavity/droop, tilt and pitch of fabric platform.