Patent Grant
10893762
The present invention relates to support devices and, more specifically, a pillow apparatus that is structured to support a user's limbs or legs.
A pillow is generally useful for the purpose of rendering comfort or support to a user. Conventional pillows are manufactured using “pillow-filler material” such as high resilient (“HR”) urethane foam and are typically structured to support the head of a user. However, these pillows are unable to provide optimal support to a user's limbs, and more specifically, the user's legs. Conventional pillows may cause undue pressure, strain and discomfort along the user's lower body or limbs or legs, e.g., crotch, thighs, knees, or lower legs, if employed to support the legs. Thus, there is a need for a pillow apparatus that is structured to support a user's limbs and, more specifically, a user's lower limbs or legs.
Embodiments of the invention are directed to, in general, a pillow apparatus that is structured to support a user's limbs or legs. In general, the pillow apparatus comprises a pillow body. The pillow body comprises a first concave depression positioned on a first surface of the pillow body. The first concave depression is structured to support at least a portion of a thigh of a user or a portion of crus leg part of the user. In some embodiments, the pillow body also comprises a second concave depression positioned on a second surface of the pillow body, opposite the first surface. Moreover, in some embodiments, the pillow apparatus comprises a coupling member structured for detachably coupling the pillow apparatus with an adjacent pillow apparatus.
Embodiments of the pillow apparatus are described below. In accordance with some embodiments, the pillow apparatus comprises a pillow body having a first end, a second end, a first lateral side, a second lateral side, a first surface extending between the first end and second end and the first lateral side and the second lateral side, a second surface extending between the first end and second end and the first lateral side and the second lateral side, and a first concave depression positioned on the first surface of the pillow body and extending from the first end to the second end.
In some embodiments or in combination with the previous embodiment, the first concave depression defines a first width at the first end and a second width at the second end and wherein the first width is greater than the second width.
In some embodiments or in combination with any of the previous embodiments, the width of the first concave depression tapers continuously from the first end to the second end or tapers discontinuously from the first end to the second end.
In some embodiments or in combination with any of the previous embodiments, the pillow body comprises a second concave depression positioned on the second surface of the pillow body and extending from the first end to the second end, the second concave depression defining a first width at the first end and a second width at the second end and wherein the first width is greater than the second width.
In some embodiments or in combination with any of the previous embodiments, the width of the second concave depression tapers gradually from the first end to the second end or tapers discontinuously from the first end to the second end.
In some embodiments or in combination with any of the previous embodiments, the pillow body defines a first minimum thickness at the first end between the first surface and the second surface of the pillow body and a second minimum thickness at the second end between the first surface and the second surface of the pillow body, and wherein the first minimum thickness is less than the second minimum thickness.
In some embodiments or in combination with any of the previous embodiments, the first end of the pillow body defines a concaved surface, which provides spacing to accommodate a user's groin area.
In some embodiments or in combination with any of the previous embodiments, the first and second lateral sides define a first height at the first end of the pillow body and a second height at the second end of the pillow body and wherein the first height is greater than the second height.
In some embodiments or in combination with any of the previous embodiments, the first and second lateral sides define a first height at the first end of the pillow body and a second height at the second end of the pillow body and wherein the first height is greater than the second height.
In some embodiments or in combination with any of the previous embodiments, the height of the first lateral side and the second lateral side tapers gradually from the first end to the second end or tapers discontinuously from the first end to the second end.
In some embodiments or in combination with any of the previous embodiments, the first concave depression and the second concave depression are symmetric.
In accordance with yet other embodiments of the invention, a pillow apparatus comprises a first pillow body having a first end, a second end, a first lateral side, a second lateral side, a first surface extending between the first end and second end and the first lateral side and the second lateral side, and a second surface extending between the first end and second end and the first lateral side and the second lateral side. The pillow apparatus further comprises a second pillow body having a first end, a second end, a first lateral side, a second lateral side, a first surface extending between the first end and second end and the first lateral side and the second lateral side, a second surface extending between the first end and second end and the first lateral side and the second lateral side. Moreover, the pillow apparatus comprises (i) a first cover enclosing the first pillow body, the first cover comprising a first coupling member extending therefrom; and (ii) a second cover enclosing the second pillow body, the second cover comprising a second coupling member extending therefrom, and wherein the first coupling member and the second coupling member are releasably connected.
In some embodiments or in combination with any of the previous embodiments, each of the first pillow body and second pillow body define a first concave depression positioned on the first surface of the pillow body extending from the first end to the second end, the first concave depression defining a first width at the first end and a second width at the second end and wherein the first width is greater than the second width.
In some embodiments or in combination with any of the previous embodiments, the width of the first concave depression of at least one selected from the group of the first pillow body and second pillow body tapers continuously from the first end to the second end or tapers discontinuously from the first end to the second end.
In some embodiments or in combination with any of the previous embodiments, each of the first pillow body and second pillow body comprises a second concave depression positioned on the second surface of the pillow body and extending from the first end to the second end, the second concave depression defining a first width at the first end and a second width at the second end and wherein the first width is greater than the second width.
In some embodiments or in combination with any of the previous embodiments, the width of the second concave depression of at least one selected from the group of the first pillow body and second pillow tapers gradually from the first end to the second end or tapers discontinuously from the first end to the second end.
In some embodiments or in combination with any of the previous embodiments, each of the first pillow body and second pillow body defines a first minimum thickness at the first end between the first side and the second side of the pillow body and a second minimum thickness at the second end between the first side and the second side of the pillow body, and wherein the first minimum thickness is less than the second minimum thickness.
In yet other embodiments of the invention, alone or in combination with any of the previous embodiments, the first end of each of the first pillow body and second pillow body defines a concaved surface.
In yet other embodiments of the invention, alone or in combination with any of the previous embodiments, the first and second lateral sides of each of the first pillow body and second pillow body define a first height at the first end of the pillow body and a second height at the second end of the pillow body and wherein the first height is greater than the second height.
In yet other embodiments of the invention, alone or in combination with any of the previous embodiments, the height of the first lateral side and the second lateral side tapers gradually from the first end to the second end or tapers discontinuously from the first end to the second end.
Some embodiments of the invention are directed to a method for assembling/constructing a pillow apparatus assembly, alone or in combination with any of the previous embodiments. The method typically comprises one or more steps of: positioning the first pillow apparatus adjacent to the second pillow apparatus such that the first coupling member and the second coupling member are proximate; detachably coupling the first coupling member and the second coupling member, thereby coupling the first pillow apparatus to the second pillow apparatus, wherein the detachably coupled first coupling member and the second coupling member form a coupling pair; and/or varying a distance between the first pillow apparatus and the second pillow apparatus using the coupling pair.
To the accomplishment of the foregoing and related ends, the one or more embodiments comprise the features hereinafter fully described and particularly pointed out in the claims. The following description and the annexed drawings set forth in detail certain illustrative features of the one or more embodiments. These features are indicative, however, of but a few of the various ways in which the principles of various embodiments may be employed, and this description is intended to include all such embodiments and their equivalents.
The structure of the pillow apparatus of the present invention is advantageous as the pillow apparatus is contoured so that the pillow apparatus naturally fits the shape of the user's thighs. In the embodiment of two pillows coupled together, the first pillow apparatus is contoured so that the pillow apparatus naturally fits the shape of the user's thighs while the second pillow apparatus is contoured to naturally fit the top of the user's calf and cradle the user's ankle.
The features, functions, and advantages that have been discussed may be achieved independently in various embodiments of the present invention or may be combined with yet other embodiments, further details of which can be seen with reference to the following description and drawings.
The pillow apparatus of the present invention alleviates the forgoing deficiencies of conventional pillows and also provides additional advantages. The advantages and features of the invention, and the manner in which the same are accomplished, will become more readily apparent upon consideration of the following detail description of the invention taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, which illustrate preferred and exemplary embodiments and which are not necessarily drawn to scale, wherein:
The present invention now will be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which some, but not all embodiments of the invention are shown. This invention may be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein; rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will fully convey the scope of the invention to those skilled in the art. Like numbers refer to like elements throughout.
Conventional pillows are unable to provide optimal support to a user's legs, when placed between the user's legs, e.g., when the user is in a side sleeping position. Conventional pillows are typically either too thick and/or comprise vertical side supports which restrict the hinge movement of the knee, or have no means for optimally supporting the knee at all. Positioning the conventional pillows (when placed between the user's thighs) lower along the user's thighs to somehow separate the knees restricts the hinge movement of the knee, and in the converse, positioning the conventional pillow higher along the user's thighs to allow the movement of the knees causes discomfort/pressure at the bottom of the pelvis (e.g., crotch region of the user) and fails to create any spacing between the knees. Also, conventional pillows are typically too thick or otherwise inadequate for optimally supporting the user's thighs, and may cause pressure points and discomfort in the upper thighs of the user, in particular.
The pillow of the embodiments of the present invention, as will be described in detail below, overcomes the foregoing disadvantages of conventional pillows and not only (i) optimally supports and stabilizes the legs (e.g., thigh portions) of the user, but also provides (ii) optimal separation and (iii) cushioning of the knees. Moreover, the design and structure of the pillow apparatus, with its specific contour and predetermined thickness profiles, allows unrestricted bending of knees of the user (e.g., when the user places the pillow apparatus between the user's legs during a side sleeping position) and allows the user to easily and comfortably adopt a fetal position, without causing any strain or pressure points. In addition, the pillow apparatus of the present invention is contoured, shaped and dimensioned to optimally separate, cushion and support the thighs of a user, without causing any strain or pressure points and without causing discomfort or pressure at the bottom of the pelvis (e.g., crotch region of the user). In addition, embodiments of the invention are directed to a flexible, customizable pillow apparatus assembly that is configured to support (i) at least a portion of a thigh of a user and (ii) at least a portion of a crus leg part of the user. This unique assembly is structured to individually tailor/adapt based on the desired comfort for the user. The pillow apparatuses in the assembly can be detachably coupled and moved, rotated, turned, or otherwise distanced, even when coupled together. The functions and features of various embodiments of the pillow apparatus are described below. It should be appreciated that these features can be provided separately in pillow apparatus or the pillow apparatus may have combinations of individual features or may have all of the features.
Referring to
Specifically, the body portion 110 comprises a first surface 111 and an opposite second surface 112. In some embodiments, the first surface 111 is a three-dimensional contoured surface, e.g., a curved or curvilinear surface. As such, the first surface 111 may comprise one or more of a complex curvilinear surface, at least a section of a paraboloid surface, at least a section of an ellipsoid surface, at least a section of a quadratic surface, a three-dimensional curved surface, a linear or planar surface, and/or a suitable combination of the foregoing. The first surface 111 typically comprises a first concave portion 111a at the first body portion 110a which is shaped, dimensioned and otherwise structured to receive and at least partially surround a thigh of a user (e.g., thigh of a first leg when the pillow apparatus is placed between the two legs of the user). The first surface 111 typically also comprises a second concave portion 111b at the second body portion 110b, adjacent to and extending from the first concave portion 111a, which is shaped, dimensioned and otherwise structured to receive and at least partially surround a knee of a user and allow unrestricted hinge movement of the knee (e.g., knee of a first leg when placed between the two legs of the user). The perimeter of the first surface 111 may be shaped like a rectangle, a polygon, rounded parabolic or any other rectilinear or curvilinear shape. In some embodiments, the perimeter of the first surface 111 comprises a combination of straight and curved surfaces (best illustrated by
As such, the first surface 111 may be dimensioned by a width function W and a length function L. In some embodiments, the value of the width function W of the pillow apparatus is defined as the distance between a first pair of opposing ends of the first surface 111 (e.g., perpendicular distance between opposing lateral sides or surfaces 113 and 115 which terminate the first surface, as will be described below, measured on a plane perpendicular to both the lateral sides or surfaces 113 and 115). In some embodiments, the value of the length function L of the pillow apparatus is defined as the distance between a second pair of opposing ends of the first surface 111 (e.g., perpendicular distance between opposing ends 114 and 116 which terminate the first surface, as will be described below, measured on a plane perpendicular to both the ends 114 and 116). In some embodiments, the width function typically varies as a function of the length L, e.g., the value of the width function may be substantially constant along the length La of the first body portion 110a and may progressively decrease or taper along the length Lb of the second body portion 110b, as best illustrated by
In some embodiments, the first surface 111 is symmetric about a plane Y-Y (best understood in light of
In some embodiments, the second surface 112 is substantially similar (i.e. symmetrical) to the first surface 111 and comprises first and second concave portions (not illustrated) structured to support the corresponding thigh and knee of a second leg of the user (e.g., when the pillow apparatus placed between the two legs of the user), respectively, and comprises a suitable contour/shape. In some embodiments, the second surface 112 is symmetric with the first surface 111 about the horizontal plane X-X (best understood in light of
Moreover, the body portion 110 of the pillow apparatus 100 comprises a first end 114, a second end 116, a first lateral side 113, and a second lateral side 115, each of which extends between and separates the first surface 111 and the second surface 112, by a thickness function T. The value of the thickness function T of the pillow apparatus is defined as the distance (e.g., perpendicular distance) between the first surface 111 and the second surface 112, measured on a plane perpendicular to both the first surface 111 and the second surface 112. Each of the first lateral side 113, first end 114, second lateral side 115 and second end 116 has an edge at the first surface 111 and an opposing edge at the second surface 112 each of which may be defined by a sharp corner, a bevel, a chamfer, a fillet or any other suitable contour between the surface (111, 112) and the respective first lateral side 113, first end 114, second lateral side 115 and second end 116.
In some embodiments, the thickness function T typically varies as a function of the length L (T(L)), e.g., the value of the thickness function may comprise a higher value along the length La of the first body portion 110a and may comprise a comparatively lower value along the length Lb of the second body portion 110b, as best illustrated by
In some embodiments, thickness function T of the pillow body 110 typically varies as a function of the length L and/or the width W, i.e., as T(L, W). For example, the value of the thickness function T may comprise a higher value proximate the lateral sides 113 and 115, and may progressively decrease to a lower values proximate the central portion (e.g., at the plane Y-Y) along the width, as best illustrated by
The thickness function T, the length function L, and the width function W are typically structured to provide the first concave portion 111a and the second concave portion 111b, configured to (i) provide optimal support and stabilize the legs (e.g., thigh portions) of the user, (ii) provide optimal separation of the knees, (iii) provide cushioning of the knees and (iv) provide unrestricted and comfortable hinge movement of the knees (e.g., rotation/pivoting of the lower legs with respect to the thighs).
The pillow body 110 can be constructed using a variety of materials, including synthetic and natural fabrics, foams and other materials and natural/synthetic blends. The pillow body 110 may be made from allergy barrier materials comprising, but not limited to, tightly woven barriers, coated barriers to prevent mold spores, pollen, dust mites, and other contaminants from entering through the pillow body 110. The gauge measurement of the pillow body 110 (i.e., the number of needles per inch or per 1½ inches in a knitting machine) may be large enough to ensure a finer knit.
The filler material of the pillow body 110 provides resiliency and support to the pillow apparatus 100. In other words, the filler material allows the pillow apparatus 100 to conform to the user's shape and is resilient enough to regain its original shape. The filler material can have a shape similar to or different from that of the pillow body 110 and can have similar or different dimensions. The filler material can be fabricated as a single part or multiple parts. In some embodiments the filter material comprises two or more parts. The filler material can be made from one or more materials, including in some embodiments a loose material such as fiber or poly beads. The filler material can comprise polyfiber, reticulated foam, memory foam, hollow petrochemical beads, expanded polystyrene beads or any other natural or synthetic materials that collectively allow the filler material to have the resilient, conforming and supporting properties even after repeated/extended use.
For embodiments utilizing memory foam, the pillow apparats can be formed of a single continuous piece of foam or multiple pieces of foam that are affixed to one another using adhesive or that retained together by a cover, e.g., shredded foam in a cover. If multiple pieces of foam, the pieces may have two or more different durometers. Similarly, if a single piece, such single piece can be formed by co-molding foam of two or more different durometers. The durometer or durometers of the foam may vary from resilient to compressible.
In some embodiments the filler material and the filter barrier (optionally enclosing the filler material) are made of materials that have a high permeability and high wickability. As used herein, wickability means the ability of a fiber or a fabric to disperse moisture and allow it to pass through to the surface of the fabric, so that evaporation can take place. In some embodiments the filler material and the filter barrier comprise performance fabrics to provide functional qualities like moisture management, UV protection, anti-microbial, thermoregulation and wind and water resistance. In some embodiments the filter barrier comprises a mesh. As used herein, a mesh is a type of fabric characterized by its net-like open appearance, and the spaces between the yarns. In some embodiments the filler material and the filter barrier comprise a bacteriostat, fungal stat or antimicrobial material. As used herein, a bacteriostat means a material that kills the bacteria, slows growth or holding the death to growth rates of bacteria more or less in equilibrium, and/or inhibits bacteria growth. As used herein, a fungal stat means a material that kills the fungus, slows growth or holding the death to growth rates of fungus more or less in equilibrium, and/or inhibits fungus growth.
In other embodiments, the pillow apparatus can include one or more cavities internally that are structured to contain a compressible material, such as a compressible gas (e.g., air or other inert gas) or a compressible liquid. For example, the internal cavity may be lined with polyvinyl chloride and filled with compressible material.
Referring to
The pillow body 210 of the pillow apparatus 200 comprises a first lateral depression 214a (also referred to as a lateral concave portion 214a) at the first end 214. The first lateral depression 214a is shaped, dimensioned and otherwise structured to comfortably support, cushion or otherwise accommodate the pelvis (e.g., crotch region or genital region of the user), when the user places the pillow apparatus 200 between the user's legs, for example, during a side sleeping position. The first lateral depression 214a may be a suitable three-dimensional concave or curvilinear shape (e.g., a parabolic shape, a semi-circular shape, etc.). In some embodiments, the first lateral depression 214a comprises a depth C at a central location proximate the plane Y-Y, which may progressively decrease towards the sides 215 and 213 of the pillow body 210. In some embodiments, at the first lateral depression 214a, the pillow body 210 may comprise a thickness Ta perpendicular to the depth C, a central location proximate the plane X-X, which may progressively increase towards the sides 213 and 215 of the pillow body 210 as illustrated, or may remain constant.
In some embodiments, the pillow body 210 is symmetric about a plane Y-Y (best understood in light of
As described previously, the first surface 211 may be dimensioned by a width function W and a length function L. In some embodiments, the width function W is typically constant along the length of the apparatus 200 (as best illustrated in
Referring to
The pillow body 310 of the pillow apparatus 300 comprises a concave taper portion 311a (also referred to as a concave depression portion 311a) at the first surface 311 and another at the second surface 312 (not illustrated). The concave taper portion 311a is shaped, dimensioned and otherwise structured to receive and at least partially surround a thigh of a user (e.g., thigh of a first leg when the pillow apparatus is placed between the two legs of the user). The concave taper portion 311a comprises a width function W′. The width W′ of the concave taper portion 311a may be different from the width W of the pillow body 310 itself. Specifically, the concave taper portion 311a comprises a taper with a decreasing width from Wa′ at the second end 316 (structured to be positioned proximate the user's knee) to width Wb′ at the first end 314 (structured to be positioned proximate the user's thighs/lower pelvis). The taper is structured to comfortably support the thigh of the user and the increased width Wa′ at the portion proximate the user's knee is structured to allow for unhindered hinge movement of the user's knee. The taper of the concave taper portion 311a may define an angle A, as best illustrated by
In some embodiments, the pillow body 310 is symmetric about a plane Y-Y (best understood in light of
As described previously, the first surface 311 may be dimensioned by a width function W and a length function L. In some embodiments, the width function W and the length function L are typically constant for the apparatus 300 (as best illustrated in
That said, in some embodiments, the concave taper portion 311a may be shaped, dimensioned and otherwise structured such that the width Wa at the second end 316 is lesser than or equal to width Wb at the first end 314 (structured to be positioned proximate the user's thighs/lower pelvis).
Referring to
The pillow body 410 of the pillow apparatus 400 comprises a concave taper portion 411a (also referred to as a concave depression portion 411a) at the first surface 411 and another at the second surface 412 (not illustrated). The concave taper portion 411a is shaped, dimensioned and otherwise structured to receive and at least partially surround a thigh of a user (e.g., thigh of a first leg when the pillow apparatus is placed between the two legs of the user). The concave taper portion 411a comprises a width function W′. The width W′ of the concave taper portion 411a may be different from the width W of the pillow body 410 itself. Specifically, the concave taper portion 411a comprises a taper with a decreasing width from Wa′ at first end 414 (structured to be positioned proximate the user's thighs/lower pelvis) to the second end 416 (structured to be positioned proximate the user's knee). The taper is structured to comfortably support the thigh of the user and the decreased width and taper of the vertical wall (thickness Ta proximate the thighs is higher than the thickness Tb proximate the knee) at the portion proximate the user's knee (the second end 416, e.g., having a parabolic contour such as a circular or semi-circular contour, a parabolic/conic section contour etc.) is structured to allow for unhindered hinge movement of the user's knee and allows the user to comfortably assume a fetal position without the interference of the calves. In some embodiments, the concave portion is symmetric about the plane Y-Y. In some embodiments, the width W of the concave taper portion 411a is the highest proximate the corresponding top edge of the first surface 410 or second surface 412, which progressively decrease towards the inner portion of the pillow body 410, forming a curved (e.g., parabolic or semi-circular, etc.) cross section (best illustrated by
In some embodiments, the pillow body 410 is symmetric about a plane Y-Y (best understood in light of
As described previously, the first surface 411 may be dimensioned by a width function W and a length function L. In some embodiments, the width function W and the length function L are typically vary to form a curved shape (e.g., paraboloid shape) with lower volume of material proximate the second end 416 (as best illustrated in
Referring to
Moreover, the body portion 510 of the pillow apparatus 500 comprises a first end 514, a second end 516, a first lateral side 513, and a second lateral side 515, each of which extends between and separates the first surface 511 and the second surface 512. In other words,
In some embodiments, the pillow body 510 of the pillow apparatus 500 comprises a first raised portion or sidewall 510a at the first surface 511 substantially along the second lateral side 515 and another second raised portion or sidewall 510b at the first surface 511 substantially along the first lateral side 513. The first raised portion 510a and the second raised portion 510b are typically separated by a transition portion 510c. Corresponding raised portions and transition portion 510c may also be provided on the second surface 512. The first raised portion 510a and the second raised portion 510b together with the transition portion 510c are shaped, dimensioned and otherwise structured to receive and at least partially surround a thigh or calf of a user (e.g., thigh of a first leg when the pillow apparatus is placed between the two legs of the user or calf when placed around the ankle region). The transition portion 510c may comprise a suitable straight or curved cross-section (e.g., at the first surface 511 and/or the second surface 512). Moreover, a width of the transition portion 510c (e.g., measured along a direction perpendicular to the sides 513 and 515) may be constant or may vary along the length from the ends 514 and 516. For instance, in some embodiments, the width of the transition portion 510c is greater approximate the first end 514 than proximate the second end 516, while in other embodiments the width of the transition portion 510c is constant from the first end 514 to the second end 516. Moreover, in some embodiments the transition portion 510c may have different material properties (e.g., stiffness, compressibility, elasticity, resilience and the like) in comparison with the first raised portion 510a and/or the second raised portion 510b, while in other embodiments the first and second raised portions (510a, 510b) and the transition portion 510c comprise the same material properties. The thickness of the first raised portion 510a and the second raised portion 510b may taper symmetrically or non-symmetrically by decreasing in thickness from the transition portion 510c towards the distal edge of the corresponding first raised portion 510a and second raised portion 510b.
As illustrated by
As such, similar to the embodiments described previously, the first surface 511 (and/or the second surface 512) may be dimensioned by a width function W and a length function L. In some embodiments, the value of the width function W of the pillow apparatus is defined as the distance between a first pair of opposing ends of the first surface 511 (e.g., perpendicular distance between opposing lateral sides or surfaces 513 and 515 which terminate the first surface, as will be described below, measured on a plane perpendicular to both the lateral sides or surfaces 513 and 515). In some embodiments, the value of the length function L of the pillow apparatus is defined as the distance between a second pair of opposing ends of the first surface 511 (e.g., perpendicular distance between opposing ends 514 and 516 which terminate the first surface, as will be described below, measured on a plane perpendicular to both the ends 514 and 516). In some embodiments, the width function typically varies as a function of the length L, as best illustrated by
The pillow body 510 of the pillow apparatus 500 comprises a first concave depression 511a (also referred to as a concave taper portion 511a) at the first surface 511 and another second concave depression 512a at the second surface 512. The first concave depression 511a comprises a width function W′. The width W′ of the first concave depression 511a may be different from the width W of the pillow body 510 itself. Specifically, the first concave depression 511a is tapered with a decreasing width from Wa′ at the first end 514 (e.g., structured to be positioned proximate the user's thighs/lower pelvis) to width Wb′ at the second end 516 (e.g., structured to be positioned proximate the user's knee). In other words, the first concave depression 511a defines a first width Wa′ at the first end 514 and a second width Wb′ at the second end 516, such that the first width Wa′ is greater than the second width Wb′. Here, in some embodiments, the width W′ of the first concave depression 511a tapers continuously from the first end 514 to the second end 516, and/or in other embodiments, the width W′ of the first concave depression 511a tapers discontinuously from the first end 514 to the second end 516. As used herein, “discontinuously” means that the taper is not a linear, gradual or continuous taper, but rather is stepped, abrupt, non-linear or otherwise non-congruous.
Similarly, the second concave depression 512a positioned on the second surface 512 of the pillow body 510 may define a first width Wa′ at the first end 514 and a second width Wb′ at the second end 516 such that the first width Wa′ is greater than the second width Wb′. Moreover, in some embodiments, the width W′ of the second concave depression 512a may taper continuously from the first end 514 to the second end 516, and/or in other embodiments, the width W′ of the second concave depression 512a may taper discontinuously from the first end 514 to the second end 516.
In some embodiments, the concave depressions (511a, 512a) are symmetric about the plane Y-Y. In some embodiments, the widths Wa′ and/or Wb′ the first concave depression 511a are the highest proximate the corresponding first surface 111 or second surface 112, which progressively decrease towards the inner portion of the pillow body 510, forming a curved (e.g., parabolic, elliptical, semi-circular, or a another depression contour etc.) cross section (best illustrated by
As such, in some embodiments, for a given width location, a comparatively smaller thickness T (e.g., measured perpendicular to the depths Wa′ and/or Wb′) may be present at a central location proximate the plane X-X, which may progressively increase towards the lateral sides 513 and 515 of the pillow body 510 to define corresponding heights H, as described below.
The value of the thickness function T of the pillow apparatus is defined as the distance (e.g., perpendicular distance) between the first surface 511 and the second surface 512, measured on a plane perpendicular to both the first surface 511 and the second surface 512. In some embodiments, thickness function T of the pillow body 510 typically varies as a function of the length L and/or the width W, i.e., as T(L, W). For example, the value of the thickness function T may comprise a higher value proximate the lateral sides 513 and 515, and may progressively decrease to a lower values proximate the central portion (e.g., at the plane Y-Y) along the width, as best illustrated by
Referring to
The pillow body 610 (and specifically the concave depressions (611a, 612a)) is structured to support the thighs of the user when the user places the pillow apparatus 600 between the user's legs, for example, during a side sleeping position, and the decreased thickens and decreased volume (e.g., parabolic vertex portion, or parabolic portion) at the second end 616, allows the user to bend the knee and assume a fetal position comfortably, without interference of the user's calves. In other embodiments, when used between crus leg parts (i.e., between the knee and foot portion of the user's leg, or calf portion), the pillow body 610 is structured to support at least a portion of a crus leg part of the user when the user places the pillow apparatus 600 between the user's legs at a position between the knee and foot (e.g., between the user's calves), for example, during a side sleeping position, with the second end 616 facing the user's knees.
In some embodiments, the second end 616 comprises a parabolic contour. The parabolic contour may comprise at least a portion of a circular or semi-circular contour, at least a portion of a parabolic contour, at least a portion of a conic section contour, at least a portion of a curvilinear contour, and/or a suitable combination. The pillow body 610 of the pillow apparatus 600 comprises a concave portion 611a (also referred to as a concave depression portion 611a) at the first surface 611 and another at the second surface 612 (not illustrated). The concave taper portion 611a is shaped, dimensioned and otherwise structured to receive and at least partially surround a thigh of a user (e.g., thigh of a first leg when the pillow apparatus is placed between the two legs of the user) and/or a crus portion/calve portion of the user's leg, based on the positioning of the pillow apparatus 600. As illustrated by
In some embodiments, the pillow body 610 is symmetric about a plane Y-Y, wherein the plane Y-Y is centrally positioned vertical plane between the lateral sides 613 and 615. That said, in other embodiments, it is contemplated that pillow body 610 may not be symmetric about the plane Y-Y.
As described previously, the first surface 611 may be dimensioned by a width function W and a length function L. In some embodiments, the width function W and the length function L are typically vary to form a curved shape (e.g., paraboloid shape) with lower volume of material proximate the second end 616 (as best illustrated in
The pillow apparatus 600 comprises a coupling member 650. The coupling member 650 is provided at the second end 616, e.g., at the plane Y-Y. That said, in other embodiments, the coupling member 650 may be provided at any suitable location of the pillow apparatus 600. The coupling member 650 is structured to detachably couple the pillow apparatus 600 to another adjacent pillow apparatus (as illustrated by
The coupling member 650 may comprise a suitable coupling mechanism such as snap mechanisms (as illustrated by
Moreover, the coupling member 650 may comprise one or more connection elements 652, through which the coupling is performed. In some embodiments, the one or more connection elements 652 form a coupling pair with the connection elements of the other pillow being coupled (e.g., pillow apparatus 700 of
In some embodiments, the cover 640 comprises the coupling member 650, while in other embodiments, the coupling member 650 is provided on the pillow body 610.
The pillow apparatus 700 is substantially similar to the pillow apparatus 600. The pillow apparatus 700 comprises a first surface 711 and an opposite second surface 712, a first lateral side 713, a first end 714, a second lateral side 715 and a second end 716. The pillow body 710 (and specifically the concave taper portion/concave depression 711a) is structured to support at least a portion of a crus leg part of the user when the user places the pillow apparatus 700 between the user's legs at a position between the knee and foot (e.g., between the user's calves), for example, during a side sleeping position, with the second end 716 facing the user's knees. In some embodiments, the concave depression 711a may be sized shaped and dimensioned for supporting at least a portion of a crus leg part of the user. In this regard, the concave depression 711a may be different from the concave depression 611a of the pillow apparatus 600 (which may be shaped, dimensioned and otherwise structured to receive and at least partially surround a thigh of a user). This allows for the user to customize, or mix and match the pillows in the assembly to suit the user's support and comfort requirements. That said, the concave depressions (611a, 711a) may be identical. Each of the first pillow body 610 and second pillow body 710 comprises a second concave depression (612a, 712a) positioned on the second surface (612, 712) of the pillow body (610, 710).
The pillow apparatus 700 also comprises a coupling member 750. The coupling member 750 is provided at the second end 716, e.g., at the side facing the user's knees when in use (while the first end 714 faces the user's feet). That said, in other embodiments, the coupling member 750 may be provided at any suitable location of the pillow apparatus 700. The coupling member 750 is structured to releasably connect or detachably couple the pillow apparatus 700 to the pillow apparatus 600.
Moreover, the coupling member 750 may comprise one or more connection elements 752, through which the coupling is performed. In some embodiments, the one or more connection elements 752 form a coupling pair with the connection elements 652 of the coupling member 650 of the pillow apparatus 600. Here, the connection elements 752 are complementary to the connection elements 652 to facilitate coupling. For instance, the connection element(s) 652 of the pillow apparatus 600 may be in the form of a recess/aperture, which is sized/dimensioned and/or otherwise structured to receive a projection from the corresponding connection elements 752 of the pillow apparatus 700, as illustrated by
The assembly/coupling process will now be described. Typically, the pillow apparatus 600 is positioned adjacent to the pillow apparatus 700 such that the coupling member 650 and the coupling member 750 are proximate. Next, the coupling member 650 and the coupling member 750 are detachably coupled/releasable connected (thereby coupling the pillow apparatus 600 to the pillow apparatus 700) via the coupling pair formed by the connection elements (652, 752), as illustrated by
For use, the user may place the assembly (700A or 700B) in between the user's legs such that, the pillow apparatus 600 is positioned between the user's thighs (e.g., proximate the user's knees) such that the second end 616 receives, is adjacent to, or is facing the user's knees. Moreover, the user may place the assembly (700A or 700B) in between the user's legs such that the pillow apparatus 700 is positioned between the user's crus leg portions (e.g., between the sides of the user's calves or between the portions of the user legs between the knees and the feet). Moreover, the coupling members (650, 750) are structured to be flexible such that the pillow apparatus 600 and the pillow apparatus 700 may be positioned at any relative angle (e.g., acute angles, obtuse angles, angles in the range of 0° to 90°, 0° to 180°, 0° to 360°, 0° to 135°, 10° to 135°, etc.), e.g., when the user bends the crus portion with respect to the thighs at the knees, without decoupling the assembly.
Many modifications and other embodiments of the inventions set forth herein will come to mind to one skilled in the art to which these inventions pertain having the benefit of the teachings presented in the foregoing descriptions and the associated drawings. Therefore, it is to be understood that the inventions are not to be limited to the specific embodiments disclosed and that modifications and other embodiments are intended to be included within the scope of the appended claims. Although specific terms are employed herein, they are used in a generic and descriptive sense only and not for purposes of limitation. In addition, where possible, any terms expressed in the singular form herein are meant to also include the plural form and/or vice versa. As used herein, “at least one” shall mean “one or more” and these phrases are intended to be interchangeable. Accordingly, the terms “a” and/or “an” shall mean “at least one” or “one or more,” even though the phrase “one or more” or “at least one” is also used herein.
This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 62/622,207 entitled “Pillow Apparatus,” filed on Jan. 26, 2018, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.
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