VENTILATED PILLOW

BACKGROUND
Field

The present disclosure generally relates to pillows and, in particular, to pillows that may accommodate face down resting and sleeping.

Background

Obstructive sleep apnea (“OSA”) is a major health concern, causing daytime fatigue and is associated with hypertension, metabolic syndrome, pulmonary hypertension, right-sided heart failure, myocardial infraction, dysrhythmias, sudden cardiac death, and dementia (which may be caused by numerous microvascular ischemic strokes). Risk factors include heredity, obesity and advancing age.

Various treatments are used to address OSA including dental appliances to thrust the jaw forward, thereby increasing the space between the tongue and the oropharynx, and reclining sleep chairs to reduce the effect of gravity to pull the tongue backwards. These treatments are associated with variable and limited efficacy. A standardly accepted treatment for OSA is continuous positive airway pressure (“CPAP”), which involves using a pressurized mask while sleeping. This essentially inflates the oropharyngeal space, acting as a strut to keep the passages open. In some cases, it may also improve alveolar ventilation. Some persons will instead use bilevel positive airway pressure (“BiPAP”) if they do not adequately tolerate CPAP, or if CPAP fails to achieve the desired results.

CPAP and BiPAP masks often introduce problems including the need for a tight fit to the face (which can be uncomfortable, claustrophobic, seal poorly with facial hair, cause facial imprints over time, etc.), cumbersome (large, bulky, dependence on a power source, poor travel companion, etc.), noisy (may interfere with sleep of the user and others nearby), the need for calibration, and the possibility that the “strut” pressure exceeds the ideal physiologic pressure, resulting in hyper inflated lungs throughout the night and possible barotrauma, tinnitus of the ear, headaches, sinusitis, bronchitis, and abdominal distention and bloating.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF INVENTION

A need therefore exists for a pillow that eliminates or reduces some or all of the above-described disadvantages or problems.

One aspect is a pillow that may be used in a prone position by a user. Advantageously, sleeping in a face down or prone position may be used to address OSA. For example, prone sleeping may discourage a user's tongue from falling back into the oropharyngeal space. The pillow may also be sized, shaped, configured, and/or arranged to facilitate proper placement of the head, neck, tongue, etc. of the user. Additionally, the pillow may be sized, shaped, configured, and/or arranged to limit or prevent discomfort of the user. Thus, the pillow may facilitate sleeping in a prone position and the pillow may provide a comfortable and restful position for the user.

Another aspect is a pillow that may be ventilated. For instance, the pillow may include one or more ventilation channels, pathways, conduits, etc., which may encourage or provide proper airflow. Additionally, the pillow may facilitate proper airflow to and from the user at desired pressures. In one exemplary embodiment, the pillow may allow airflow at a desired inhalation pressure. In another exemplary embodiment, the pillow may allow airflow at a desired exhalation pressure. In still another exemplary embodiment, the pillow may provide airflow at a desired inhalation pressure and airflow at a desired exhalation pressure. The pillow may include any suitable number, size, shape, configuration, and arrangement of channels, pathways, conduits, and the like, which may help control airflow. For example, the pillow may include a first pathway that provides inhalation air to the user and a second pathway that allows exhaled air to exit. The pillow may also include a third passageway and the third pathway may provide gas at a desired pressure, specific types of gasses (such as oxygen), gas with desired qualities or characteristics such as humidity or temperature, etc. For instance, the third passageway may provide oxygen to a user of the pillow at a desired pressure and flow rate.

Still another aspect is a pillow that may be passively ventilated. For example, the pillow may provide or allow airflow to a user without requiring any active assistance. Thus, for instance, the pillow may allow airflow to the user without requiring a power source or powered devices. The pillow may also provide airflow at one or more desired pressures, without requiring a power source or powered devices. Therefore, the pillow may be passively ventilated and the pillow may be used in the face down position. It will be appreciated that the pillow may use one or more active or powered devices, such as sensors that may measure airflow, pressure, breathing rate, and the like. The pillow could be connected to various devices such as pressurized gas sources, communication systems, power supplies, etc.

Yet another aspect is a pillow that may include a receiving portion. The receiving portion may be sized and configured to receive a portion of the user. For example, the receiving portion may be sized and configured to receive a portion of the face, head, and/or neck of a user. The receiving portion may also be sized and configured to receive a portion of the user in a face down position. The pillow and/or receiving portion may also help support and maintain the user in desired positions, such as a prone position.

Still yet another aspect is a pillow that may include a seal, and the seal may help control airflow. For example, the seal may be sized and shaped such that that a full and/or partial seal may be created between a user and the pillow. For instance, a seal may be at least partially disposed or formed between the face, head, and/or neck of a user and the pillow. In an exemplary embodiment, the seal may be at least partially disposed or formed about the receiving portion. Thus, the seal may act as a barrier to prevent air from entering and/or escaping from the receiving portion. The seal may also help control or facilitate fluid flow into or out of the receiving portion by at least partially creating a seal between the user and the pillow. Advantageously, the seal may be disposed about at least a portion of the receiving portion and the seal may be a part of the receiving portion. For example, an outer surface or edge of the receiving portion may form at least a portion of the seal.

Another aspect is a pillow that may include a support portion, and the support portion may provide support and comfort to the user's face, head, and/or neck. For example, the support portion may be sized and shaped such that the support portion may provide a location where the user's chin can rest. In an exemplary embodiment, the support portion may help relieve pressure on the user's face, head, and/or neck. In addition, the support portion may provide added support to the user's face, head, and/or neck.

A further aspect is a pillow that may include a chamber, such as a cavity, hollow space, or void. The chamber may be formed by a portion of the pillow and the chamber may be disposed at least proximate the head, face, nose, and/or mouth of a user. The chamber, which may be referred to as an air chamber, may be sized and configured to provide air to the user. The chamber may also be sized and configured to receive air from the user. For instance, the chamber may provide inhalation air to the user and the chamber may receive exhalation air from the user. The chamber may also be sized and configured to control airflow to or from the user depending, for example, upon the intended use of the pillow.

Another further aspect is a pillow that may include at least one valve, regulator, or controller. The values may be used to help control airflow, pressure, or the like within the pillow. For example, the valves may be used to create a pressure differential, such as a pressure differential between the chamber and a pathway. In addition, the valves may control airflow and pressure in such a way that improves or optimizes the breathing of the user. Additionally, the valves may be configured to only allow airflow in one direction. For example, a valve may be disposed between the chamber and the pathway, and the valve may only allow airflow from the chamber into the pathway. In another example, a valve may be disposed between the chamber and the pathway, and the valve may only allow airflow from the pathway into the chamber. Thus, in an exemplary embodiment, one or more valves may control pressure and/or airflow to the user, and one or more valves may control pressure and/or airflow from the user. After reviewing this disclosure, one of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that other devices may be used to control airflow and pressure.

Still another further aspect is a pillow that may include one or more pathways such as passages, conduits, tubes, pipes, and the like. The pathways may be used to control airflow, such as providing inhalation air to the user and/or providing a pathway for exhalation air. The pathways, for example, may be connected to the chamber, receiving portion, and/or valve. In an exemplary embodiment, a pathway may allow ambient air to enter the pillow and flow into the chamber. One or more valves may control airflow through the pathway. In another exemplary embodiment, a pathway may be configured to allow gas to be removed from or exit the chamber. The pillow, for example, may include different pathways, such as an inhalation pathway that allows air to flow into the chamber and an exhalation pathway that allows air to exit the chamber. It will be appreciated that the same pathway could be used if desired. In addition, a pathway may diverge into one or more pathways. For example, the pathway may diverge into two or more pathways in such a way that two or more pathways exit the pillow in one or more locations, which may reduce the likelihood of pathway obstruction caused by other pillows, bedsheets, blankets, the user, or the like. The pathways may also be configured to provide airflow to the pillow or the user's face, head, and/or neck which may provide therapeutic cooling of the pillow and/or the user's face, head, and/or neck. The pathways may also act as a damper, which may decrease noise. For example, the pathways may include curvilinear walls or inner surfaces, which may help dampen sounds such as snoring by the user, the openings and closing of the valves, or flow across the valves. Additionally, the length and/or geometry of the pathway may dampen noise created by the valve and/or snoring of the user. The pathways may include one or more supports and the supports may help support the top pillow. In addition, the supports may help prevent objects from entering the pathways.

Still yet another aspect is a pillow that may include one or more dampers and the dampers may be disposed within a pathway. The dampers may reduce noise, such as noise traveling within the pathway. For example, the dampers may decrease noise created by the valve and/or snoring of the user.

A further aspect is a pillow that may include a tray to catch saliva, mucus, and other matter discharged from the mouth and/or nose of the user during use of the pillow. The tray may be sized and configured to rest or be disposed within the chamber of the pillow. The tray may be configured to be easily removed from the pillow for cleaning or replacement. The tray may also be configured to enclose saliva, mucus, and other matter in a manner such that when the pillow is rotated and/or tilted, the saliva, mucus, and other matter stays within the tray.

Another aspect is a pillow that may include a base and the base may provide structure and/or support for the pillow. For example, the base may be constructed of material that is denser and/or stiffer than the material used for the other portions of the pillow. The base may be used to accommodate one or more components within the pillow. For instance, the base may accommodate a portion of the chamber, pathway, valve, damper, and/or tray. The base may include one or more voids or openings that are sized and configured to accommodate one or more components within the pillow. In addition, the base may form part of the pillow or may be a separate component that may be coupled with the pillow. For example, the base may be detached from the pillow in order to clean, replace, and/or adjust various components within the base.

Another aspect is a pillow that may be sized and configured to support a user in a face down or prone position. The pillow may include a receiving portion sized and configured to receive a face of a user; an air chamber in fluid communication with the receiving portion; an inhalation pathway in fluid communication with the air chamber, the inhalation pathway allowing air to be inhaled by the user to enter the air chamber; and an exhalation pathway in fluid communication with the air chamber, the exhalation pathway allowing air exhaled by the user to exit the air chamber. The pillow may also include an inhalation valve that controls air flow in the inhalation pathway and the inhalation valve may allow inhalation air to flow into the air chamber. In addition, the pillow may include an exhalation valve that controls air flow in the exhalation pathway and the exhalation valve may allow air exhaled by the user to exit the air chamber. The inhalation valve and the exhalation valve may provide a positive end exhalation pressure to an exhalation flow. The pillow may further include a top pillow and a base that may be selectively connected. The air chamber, the inhalation pathway, and the exhalation pathway may be at least partially disposed in the base. If desired, the pillow may include one or more dampeners disposed in the inhalation pathway, one or more dampeners disposed in the exhalation pathway, and/or a pressurized gas pathway in fluid communication with the air chamber. The pressurized gas pathway may allow pressured gas to enter the air chamber during use of the pillow.

When the pillow is in use, the inhalation valve may open during inhalation of the user to allow air to flow into the air chamber and inhalation valve may be closed during exhalation of the user. Additionally, when the pillow is in use, the exhalation valve may be closed during inhalation of the user and may open during exhalation of the user to allow air to exit the air chamber. Further, a pressure in the air chamber may be lower during inhalation of the user and a pressure in the air chamber is higher during exhalation of the user.

Still another aspect is a pillow that may be sized and configured to support a user in a face down or prone position. The pillow may include a top pillow with an upper surface, a lower surface, and an exterior. The top pillow may also include a receiving portion that may be disposed in an upper surface of the top pillow and sized and configured to receive a face of a user. The pillow may include a base that may be connected to the top pillow. The base may include a chamber in fluid communication with the receiving portion; one or more first openings in a first exterior portion of the base; a first pathway connecting the first openings and the chamber; one or more second openings in a second exterior portion of the base; a second pathway connecting the second openings and the chamber; a first valve controlling airflow in the first pathway; and a second valve controlling airflow in the second pathway.

Yet another further aspect is a pillow that may include a recessed portion disposed in the upper surface of the top pillow, the recessed portion sized and configured to receive a neck of the user; and a support portion extending inwardly into the receiving portion, the support portion sized and configured to support a chin of the user. If desired, an inner portion of the receiving portion may be at least partially aligned with and disposed parallel to an inner surface of the chamber. The first pathway may allow inhalation air to flow to the user; the first valve may be at least partially disposed in the first pathway and disposed proximate the chamber; the second pathway may allow exhalation air to be vented from the chamber; and the second valve may be at least partially disposed in the second pathway and disposed proximate the chamber. The pillow may also include a first sensor monitoring airflow through the first valve; a second sensor monitoring airflow through the second valve; and a communication system connected to the first sensor and the second sensor. In addition, the pillow may include one or more sensors connected to the pillow and the sensors may be configured to detect attributes about the user during use of the pillow. Additionally, the pillow may include a third pathway that is sized and configured to provide pressurized gas to the user during use of the pillow. The third pathway may be at least partially disposed in the first pathway, may include a first end disposed at least proximate the first valve, and may include a second end disposed at least proximate an exterior of the base. The pillow may further include one or more dampeners disposed in the first pathway and one or more dampeners disposed in the second pathway. The pillow could, for example, include an alarm and the alarm may be sized and configured to issue an alert and/or a third pathway that may be sized and configured to provide gas to the user during use of the pillow.

These and other aspects, features and advantages of the present invention will become more fully apparent from the following detailed description of preferred embodiments.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The appended drawings contain figures of exemplary embodiments to further illustrate and clarify the above and other aspects, advantages and features of the invention. It will be appreciated that these drawings depict only exemplary embodiments of the invention and are not intended to limits its scope. Additionally, it will be appreciated that while the drawings may illustrate preferred sizes, scales, relationships and configurations of the invention, the drawings, which may be to scale, are not intended to limit the scope of the claimed invention. The invention will be described and explained with additional specificity and detail through the use of the accompanying drawings in which:

FIG. 1a is an upper, front perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a pillow;

FIG. 1b is an upper, rear perspective view of the pillow shown in FIG. 1a;

FIG. 2a is an upper, front perspective view of a portion of the pillow;

FIG. 2b is an upper, rear perspective view of the portion of the pillow shown in FIG. 2a;

FIG. 2c is a lower, front perspective view of the portion of the pillow shown in FIG. 2a;

FIG. 3a is an exploded view of the pillow;

FIG. 3b is an enlarged perspective view of a portion of the pillow shown in FIG. 3a;

FIG. 3c is another enlarged perspective view of a portion of the pillow shown in FIG. 3a;

FIG. 3d is a lower perspective view of a portion of the pillow shown in FIG. 3a;

FIG. 4a is an enlarged, exploded view of a portion of the pillow shown in FIG. 3a, illustrating an exemplary valve;

FIG. 4b is another exploded view of the exemplary valve shown in FIG. 4a;

FIG. 4c is an upper, front perspective view of the exemplary valve shown in FIG. 4a;

FIG. 4d is an upper, rear perspective view of the exemplary valve shown in FIG. 4a;

FIG. 4e is a cross-section side view of the exemplary valve shown in FIG. 4d;

FIG. 5 is an enlarged perspective view of an exemplary tray; and

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of an exemplary base for a pillow.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS

The present disclosure is generally directed towards a pillow, such as a pillow for sleeping in the prone position, and the pillow may be configured for accommodating a person suffering from sleep apnea. Further, the pillow may accommodate persons with certain types of neck strain. The principles of the present disclosure, however, are not limited to pillows, nor to pillows for persons suffering from sleep apnea. It will be understood that, in light of the present disclosure, the pillows disclosed herein may have a variety of shapes, sizes, configurations, and arrangements. It will also be understood that pillows may include any suitable number and combination of features, components, aspects, and the like. In addition, while the pillows shown in the accompanying figures are illustrated as having particular styles and configurations, it will be appreciated that the pillows may have any suitable styles or configurations. Further, the pillows disclosed herein may be used by persons not suffering from sleep apnea or any other condition. Alternatively, the pillows disclosed herein may be used by persons suffering from another condition, which may or may not be related to breathing or sleeping.

It will be further appreciated that the disclosed example embodiments of the pillows may be disposed in a variety of positions or orientations, and used in numerous locations, environments, and arrangements.

Example embodiments of the pillows are disclosed and described in detail below. It will be understood that different embodiments may have one or more different parts, components, features and aspects; and the different parts, components, features and aspects may not be required. Further, it will be understood that different embodiments may include various combinations of these parts, components, features and aspects depending, for example, upon the intended use of the pillows.

FIGS. 1a and 1b illustrate an exemplary embodiment of a ventilated pillow 100. In general, the ventilated pillow 100 may facilitate the breathing of a user laying in a face down position by providing a pillow with a recessed cavity configured to receive the face of the user. The pillow may also support other portions of the user such as the neck and head. The pillow may provide airflow to the user via one or more pathways. For example, the pillow may include a chamber that is in communication with the recessed cavity. The pillow may also include one or more valves and one or more pathways that are sized and configured to deliver air to and remove air from the chamber.

Advantageously, the ventilated pillow 100 may allow a person to sleep or rest in a prone position with the person's face oriented downward. The ventilated pillow 100 may improve and/or ease breathing by allowing a person to sleep with their face oriented downward, which may effectively clear the airway by keeping the person's tongue from falling back into the oropharyngeal space while relaxing and/or sleeping. In some embodiments, the ventilated pillow 100 may allow a person to rest and/or sleep face down in the prone position rather than turning their head to one side in order to breathe, thus reducing and/or eliminating the head, neck, and/or back strain caused by laying with one's head to one side.

The ventilated pillow 100 may include a top pillow 110 and a base 120. The top pillow 110 may include an upper surface, a lower surface, and a perimeter. The base 120 may be sized and configured to be coupled or attached to the top pillow 110 and the base may have generally the same width and length as the top pillow. As shown in the accompanying drawings, the ventilated pillow 100 may have a generally rectangular or square shape. It will be appreciated, after reviewing this disclosure, that the ventilated pillow 100 may have other suitable shapes, sizes, configurations, and/or arrangements depending, for example, upon the intended use of the pillow. Further, while the top pillow 110 and the base 120 are shown in the accompanying figures as being separate components, it will be appreciated that the top pillow and base could be an integral, one-piece structure.

As shown in FIGS. 2a, 2b, and 2c, the top pillow 110 may include a receiving portion 112, a recessed portion 114, and one or more support portions 116. The receiving portion 112 and the recessed portion 114 may be sized and configured to accommodate and/or support a person's head, neck, and/or face in the face down position. In some embodiments, the ventilated pillow 100 may be sized and configured to allow the person's face to be disposed in a slightly upward or angled position. In other embodiments, the ventilated pillow 100 may be sized and configured to allow the person's face to be disposed in a generally horizontal or downward position. Thus, the top pillow 110 may have different thicknesses and/or configurations to allow a person's head to be angled upwardly, downwardly, or be disposed generally parallel to the person's body. The top pillow 110 may also provide support for the person's face, head, and/or neck, such as the forehead, cheeks, and/or jaw of the person. The top pillow 110 may provide support for other portions of the body such as the person's shoulders, back, and/or arms.

The top pillow 110 may be constructed from one or more parts or components. For example, the top pillow 110 may include an inner portion that may be constructed from foam, plastic, or the like. The inner portion of the top pillow 110 may help provide and maintain the desired shape of the pillow. The top pillow 110 may include an outer portion and the outer portion may increase the comfort of the user. For instance, the outer portion may include a soft and flexible outer surface. The top pillow 110 may also include one or more layers and the layers may have varying densities, which may improve comfort and support. In addition, airflow may occur along or between the layers of the top pillow 110 for purposes of temperature regulation.

The receiving portion 112 and recessed portion 114 may receive the face, head, and neck of a user in a manner designed to reduce pressure on the back, neck, and/or shoulders of the user and/or minimize back, neck, and/or shoulder strain. For example, the receiving portion 120 may reduce pressure on the neck for comfort or user preference. The receiving and recessed portions 112, 114 may also facilitate positioning of the jaw. For example, the receiving and recessed portions 112, 114 may minimize or prevent posterior displacement of the jaw. If a person's jaw is properly placed, that may encourage desired positioning of the tongue. In addition, the top pillow 110 may provide different amounts of support to different portions of the person, such as the head, face, shoulders, back, and/or neck. For example, different portions of the receiving portion 112 may have different densities. Thus, the portion of the top pillow 110 sized and configured to receive the forehead and/or chin of the person may be more firm and supportive than other portions of the top pillow.

The receiving portion 112 may be contoured to help position the person in a desired orientation or location. In particular, the receiving portion 112 may have a shape or profile to support a person's head in an applicable position. As shown in the accompanying figures, the receiving portion 112 may include curved or beveled surfaces, which may increase the comfort of the user. The receiving portion 112 may also include an opening or lower surface to receive the neck of the user. Thus, the receiving portion 112 may be configured to receive and/or support the face, head, and neck of the user of the top pillow 110.

In some embodiments, the receiving portion 112 may be configured to receive the mouth and/or nose of the person resting their head on the top pillow 110. The receiving portion 112 may be sized and configured to allow the person to breathe through his or her nose and mouth. Alternatively, the receiving portion 112 may be sized and configured to allow the person to breathe through his or her nose or mouth. As shown in the accompanying figures, the receiving portion 112 may be an opening or aperture and at least a portion of the receiving portion may extend through the top pillow 110.

A partial or complete seal may be disposed between the user and the receiving portion 112. For example, a seal may be created between the face, head, and/or neck of the user of the ventilated pillow 100 and the receiving portion 112. In some embodiments, the receiving portion 112 may be sized and configured to create the seal between the face, head, and/or neck of the user of the ventilated pillow 100 and the receiving portion. The seal may be air-tight or partially air-tight depending, for example, upon the intended use of the ventilated pillow 100.

The seal may act as a barrier to prevent gases from entering or escaping from the receiving portion 112. Thus, for instance, the seal may help ensure the user primarily or substantially breathes into the receiving portion 112, and the seal may at least substantially prevent or allow some exchange of gases between the receiving portion 112 and the surrounding environment. The receiving portion 112 may be constructed from materials such as memory foam, foam rubber, and/or other materials with suitable properties, which may allow a seal to be formed with the face, head, and/or neck of the person.

The receiving portion 112 of the pillow may be sized and configured to receive the eyes of the user. The receiving portion 112 may provide support near the eyes and this portion of the receiving portion may be less dense and less supportive than other portions of the top pillow 110. The top pillow 110 may also include contoured cutouts located proximate the eyes of the user. The top pillow 110 may be sized and configured to at least partially block light from the eyes of the user, which may increase the usefulness of the pillow 110.

The recessed portion 114 may be contoured to receive the neck of the user. The recessed portion 114 may provide support and/or help position the user's neck.

The one or more support portions 116 may be disposed within the receiving portion 112 may extend inwardly into a central portion of the receiving portion. The one or more support portions 116 may be sized and configured to support the user's mouth or jaw. For example, the support portions 116 may be used as location where the person can rest their chin. The support portion 116 may also facilitate proper positioning of the mouth, which may help prevent sleep apnea. The one or more support portions 116 may also be sized and configured to support other portions of the user's head and/or face including the forehead and cheeks. The one or more support portions 116 may be constructed from materials such as memory foam, foam rubber, polyester fill, and the like, and the support portion may allow the user to sleep or rest comfortably.

FIGS. 3a, 3b, 3c, and 3d illustrate various views of the base 120 of the ventilated pillow 100. The base 120 may be coupled to and interface with the top pillow 110. The base 120 may also facilitate airflow to and from the top pillow 110. In addition, the base 120 may provide structure and support for the top pillow 110. Additionally or alternatively, the base 120 may act as a housing for one or more components of the ventilated pillow 110.

The base 120 may be constructed of a stiffer and/or denser material than the material for the top pillow 110, which may provide support for the top pillow 110. Additionally, the base 120 may include an outer portion and the outer portion may increase the comfort of the user. For instance, the outer portion of the base 120 may include a soft and flexible outer surface. In some embodiments, the base 120 may be constructed of plastic or other material that facilitates cleaning and/or promotes hygiene. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the base 120 may be enclosed within top pillow 110. Additionally or alternatively, the base 120 may be separate from the top pillow 110. In some embodiments, the base 120 may be selectively coupled or fastened to the top pillow 110. Additionally or alternatively, the base 120 may be removed from the top pillow 110 to replace, add, remove, adjust and/or clean one or more components.

As shown in the accompanying figures, the base 120 may include a chamber 130, one or more pathways 140, one or more valves 150, a tray 160, one or more sensors 180, a processor 182, and a tube 190. The chamber 130, one or more pathways 140, one or more valves 150, the tray 160, one or more sensors 180, the processor 182, and/or the tube 190 may be part of the base 120 or may be connected permanently or selectively connected to the base 120. After reviewing this disclosure, one skilled in the art will appreciate that the base 120 may include any suitable number of parts or components, and the parts or components may have various sizes, shapes, configurations and arrangements depending, for example, upon the intended use of the ventilated pillow 100.

As shown in FIGS. 3a-3d, for example, the chamber 130 may be in fluid communication with the receiving portion 112 of the top pillow 110. For example, the chamber 130 may be generally aligned with the receiving portion 112 and the chamber may have an inner surface that is flush with an inner surface of the receiving portion 112. In greater detail, an inner diameter of the chamber 130 and lower portion of the receiving portion 112 may be the same or generally the same. Depending upon the thickness of the top pillow 110, a portion of the user may be disposed in the chamber 130 during use of the ventilated pillow 100, such as the user's nose or mouth.

Because the chamber 130 may be disposed directly adjacent to and/or in fluid communication with the receiving portion 112, the chamber may constitute a cavity or void adjacent to the nose and/or mouth of a person resting their head on the ventilated pillow 100. Thus, the user may inhale air from the chamber 130 and exhale air into the chamber. Therefore, the chamber 130 may provide air to the user, and the chamber may also receive air exhaled from the user.

The pathways 140 may facilitate gas flow within the ventilated pillow 100. In particular, the pathways 140, which may include passages, conduits, tubes, pipes, or other structures that allow gas flow, may allow air to flow to and from the chamber 130. For example, the pathways 140 may allow air exterior to the ventilated pillow 100, such as ambient air or air from the environment surrounding the pillow, to flow to the chamber 130. Thus, the user may inhale air that has traveled through the inhalation pathway 140a to the chamber 130. The exhalation pathway 140b may allow air exhaled from the user to flow from the chamber 130 into the surrounding environment. Therefore, the ventilated pillow 100 may provide inhalation air to the user via the inhalation pathway 140a and may remove exhaled air via the exhalation pathway 140b.

As shown in the figures, the pathways 140 may have a generally square or rectangular configuration. The size and shape of the inhalation pathway 140a and the exhalation pathway 140b may also vary or change. For example, the size, shape, cross-section, and/or profile may change from a first end of the inhalation pathway 140a to a second end of the inhalation pathway, which may be used to help control airflow through the inhalation pathway. In addition, the size, shape, cross-section, and/or profile may change from a first end of the exhalation pathway 140b to a second end of the exhalation pathway 140b, which may be used to help control airflow through the pathway. It will be appreciated that the pathways 140 may have other appropriate configurations such as circular, oval, and the like. After reviewing this disclosure, one skilled in the art will also appreciate that the pathways 140 may be disposed in any suitable portions of the ventilated pillow 100 such as the top pillow 110 and/or the base 120.

In some embodiments, the pathways 140 may be coupled to a source of gas. For example, the inhalation pathway 140a may be connected to a supply of air, oxygen, or another gas mixed for a specific purpose. Thus, the ventilated pillow 100 may be used to supply oxygen or other gases to the user. The pathways 140 may also allow ambient air or air form the surrounding environment to enter the receiving portion 112.

The valves 150 may help control airflow within the ventilated pillow 100. The inhalation valve 150a may be similar or identical to the exhalation valve 150b, however, when disposed within one or more pathways 140 and/or ventilated pillow 100, the inhalation valve 150a may be oriented in an opposite direction from the exhalation valve 150b. The valves 150 may also help control pressure within the ventilated pillow 100. For example, the inhalation valve 150a may control airflow within the inhalation pathway 140a and the exhalation valve 150b may control airflow within the exhalation pathway 140b. The valves 150 may be disposed in any suitable portion of the pathways 140, such as the first end or the second end of the pathways 140. In some embodiments, the valves 150 may be disposed in one or more slots 146. For example, the inhalation valve 150a may be disposed inside of slots 146a within the inhalation pathway 140a, and the exhalation valve 150b may be disposed inside of slots 146b within the exhalation pathway 140b. Additionally or alternatively, the inhalation valve 150a and the exhalation valve 150b may interface with the chamber 130 and may provide a barrier between the chamber 130 and the inhalation and exhalation pathways 140a, 140b. In some embodiments, the inhalation valve 150a and/or exhalation valve 150b may control airflow through the inhalation pathway 140a and/or exhalation pathway 140b. Advantageously, the pathways 140 may act as a dampener to a noise created by a movement of the valves 150. For example, the inhalation pathway 140a and/or the exhalation pathway 140b. 140 may be curved, wind through the top pillow 110, and/or include one or more structures to decrease any noise created by a movement of the inhalation valve 150a and/or exhalation valve 150b.

The pathways 140 and the valves 150 may allow gas, whether supplied from a tank or from the surrounding ambient environment, to flow into the chamber 130 and be breathed by the user. Thus, the pathways 140 and the valves 150 may supply air or gas to be inhaled by the user. The pathways 140 and the valves 150 may also allow gases exhaled by the user to be discharged from the chamber 130. As discussed in greater detail below, one or more inhalation pathways 140a and inhalation valves 150a may supply inhalation air to the user, and one or more exhalation pathways 140b and exhalation valves 150b may be used to expel exhaled air. If desired, the pathways 140 and/or the valves 150 may be used to control air pressure, which may facilitate inhalation and exhalation by the user.

As shown in the accompanying figures, the receiving portion 112 may receive a gas for inhalation through the inhalation pathway 140a. The receiving portion 112 may include the exhalation pathway 140b that is sized and configured to discharge gas exhaled by the user. In some embodiments, the inhalation pathway 140a may be configured to allow gas to both enter and exit the receiving portion 112. Additionally or alternatively, in some embodiments, the exhalation pathway 140b may be configured to allow gas to both enter and exit the receiving portion 112. In these or other embodiments, the inhalation pathway 140a may be configured to alternate between allowing gas into and out of the receiving portion 112. Additionally or alternatively, the exhalation pathway 140b may be configured to alternate between allowing gas into and out of the receiving portion 112.

The valves 150 may control airflow by allowing air to flow in one direction. The valves 150 may also create a pressure gradient or differential. Additionally, the valves 150 may allow airflow when a pressure exceeds a predetermined amount. For example, the inhalation valve 150a may allow gas to flow into the chamber 130 but not out of the chamber 130. As another example, the exhalation valve 150b may allow gas to flow out of the chamber 130 but not into the chamber 130. Thus, the inhalation and exhalation valves 150a, 150b may control airflow into and out of the chamber 130.

As shown in the figures, the inhalation and exhalation valves 150a, 150b may be disposed in the inhalation and exhalations pathways 140a, 140b. For example, the inhalation and exhalation valves 150a, 150b may be disposed at least proximate the intersection of the inhalation and exhalations pathways 140a, 140b and the chamber 130. The inhalation and exhalation valves 150a, 150b, however, may be disposed in any suitable portions of the ventilated pillow 100 such as the entrances or exits to the inhalation and exhalations pathways 140a, 140b. The inhalation and exhalation valves 150a, 150b may also be disposed between the chamber 130 and the pathways 140. The valves 150 may be selectively disposed in the inhalation and exhalations pathways 140a, 140b, which may facilitate repair or replacement of the valves. The inhalation and exhalation valves 150a, 150b may also be permanently fixed within or integrally formed with the inhalation and exhalations pathways 140a, 140b. In some embodiments, more than one inhalation valve 150a and/or exhalation valve 150b may be disposed within the inhalation and exhalations pathways 140a, 140b. For instance, a first inhalation valve 150a may be disposed within a first portion of the inhalation pathway 140a and a second inhalation valve 150a may be disposed within a second portion of the inhalation pathway 140a.

The valves 150 may have generally the same size and shape as the pathways 140. In particular, the inhalation and exhalation valves 150a, 150b may have generally the same cross-section, size, and/or shape as the inhalation and exhalation pathways 140a, 140b. Thus, if the inhalation and exhalation pathways 140a, 140b have generally rectangular or square cross-sectional configuration, the inhalation and exhalation valves 150a, 150b may have a similar rectangular or square cross-sectional configuration.

In some embodiments, the valves 150 may have a first pressure on a first side of the inhalation valve 150a and/or exhalation valve 150b and a second pressure on a second side of the inhalation valve 150a and/or exhalation valve 150b. The inhalation valve 150a and/or exhalation valve 150b may also be pressure sensitive, pressure selective, or directional. For example, the inhalation valve 150a and/or exhalation valve 150b may allow gas to flow only in a single direction. Additionally or alternatively, the inhalation valve 150a and/or exhalation valve 150b may only allow gas to pass from a first side of the inhalation valve 150a and/or exhalation valve 150b to a second side of the inhalation valve 150a and/or exhalation valve 150b when a pressure differential is sufficient. In addition, the inhalation and exhalation valves 150a, 150b may have a relatively low cracking pressure and may open to allow airflow in a desired direction where there is a positive pressure differential, even if the magnitude of the positive pressure differential is small. The inhalation and exhalation valves 150a, 150b may further prevent back flow, which may be undesirable.

The valves 150 may include a membrane 157 or diaphragm that is sized and configured to provide little or no resistance or interference to the flow of air through the valve in the desired direction. The valves 150 may also provide a small intentional resistance to the flow of air through the valve in the desire direction. For example, the valves 150 may provide a small intentional resistance to the flow of air through the valve to improve breathing and/or promote efficient breathing. The valves 150 may also include membranes 157 with different flexibility and/or stiffness. For example, the inhalation and exhalation valves 150a, 150b may include a membrane 157 with a substantially flexible portion and a substantially stiff portion. The membranes 157 with different portions of flexibility may help control flow through the inhalation and exhalation valves 150a, 150b. The membranes 157 with different thicknesses may help control flow through the inhalation and exhalation valves 150a, 150b. For example, the membrane 157 may be thicker in the exhalation valve 150b while the membrane 157 may be thinner in the inhalation valve 150a.

Exemplary embodiments of valves, or components of valves, that may be used in connection with the ventilated pillow 100 are shown in U.S. Pat. Nos. 7,793,656; 8,011,363; 8,011,364; and 8,297,318, which are incorporated by reference in their entireties.

The one or more sensors 180 may include sensors and/or circuits to monitor the user. In some embodiments, the one or more sensors 180 may measure, monitor, and record data of the user. The one or more sensors 180 may be coupled with the inhalation valve 150a and/or the exhalation valve 150b. Additionally or alternatively, the sensors 180 may be placed inside of the receiving portion 112, the chamber 130, the inhalation pathway 140a, and/or the exhalation pathway 140b. The ventilated pillow 100 through the use of one or more sensors 180 may also be configured to track trends or recognize patterns in the data of the user. For example, the sensors 180 may be configured to measure: respiratory rates, respiratory flow rates, flow patterns, breath sounds, oxygen or CO₂levels in the exhalations and/or inhalations, air pressure in the empty space near the nose and mouth, temperature, and any other statistic or attributes that may be of interest. The ventilated pillow 100 may be used to assess whether there is evidence of persistent sleep apnea, hypoxemia, hypercapnia, or other conditions that may be of interest. For example, the ventilated pillow 100 may be used to monitor and report the Apnea-Hypopnea Index (AHI). The one or more sensors 180 may be communicatively coupled with the processor 182.

The processor 182 may include means for recording and/or storing data, measurements, communications, and the like taken by the one or more sensors 180. The processor 182 may communicate raw data regarding the breathing, alternatively, the pillow may communicate conclusions regarding the sleeping data, such as conclusions regarding sleep apnea. The ventilated pillow 100 via the processor 182 may also be configured to communicate with any suitable computing device, including, but not limited to a smartphone, tablet, laptop, desktop computer, or server. In some embodiments, the ventilated pillow 100 may communicate using a wired connection. Additionally or alternatively, the ventilated pillow 100 may use any suitable wireless communication protocol or standard, such as, but not limited to Bluetooth or 802.11. In some embodiments, the ventilated pillow 100 may include another means of data transfer, such as a USB port.

In some embodiments, there may be a central server connected to many ventilated pillows 100 and capable of aggregating data. The central server may be connected to the ventilated pillow 100 through a computer network such as the internet. Additionally or alternatively, the central server may be connected to the ventilated pillow 100 through one or more sensors 180 and/or the processor 182. The central server may look for trends in sleeping data of a single person and/or the central server may look for broader sleep trends across many ventilated pillows 100.

A tube 190 may provide means for supplying supplemental gas from a gas source to the ventilated pillow 100. The tube 190 may be coupled with a supplemental gas source. For example, the tube 190 may be coupled with a supplemental gas source and/or other source via connector a 192. The tube 190 may be placed near the chamber 130 to supply supplemental gas to the receiving portion 112 and/or chamber 130. The supplemental gas may mix with air from the exterior of the ventilated pillow 110 within the chamber 130. For example, the tube 190 may be fed through one of the three inhalation inlets 144a and may run through the inhalation pathway 140a towards the inhalation valve 142a and/or chamber 130. This may be beneficial in the event that the user is hypoxic and has O₂needs. Because the O₂being fed to such a system may occupy the volume of the inhalation pathway 140a, this may allow nearly all of the O₂to be available to the person. This may be particularly effective if the inhalation inlets 144a are valved and/or closed off to prevent the O₂from escaping. This may compare very favorably to O₂being bled in from an ordinary nasal cannula which cannot keep up with the demand of a single inhalation and wastes O₂during exhalation. If desired, the gas source may be humidified and the gas could contain added gasified substances, such as water or medication. If further desired, the inhalation gas may be pressurized within the inhalation pathway 140a in order to assist with the user's inhalation needs.

Advantageously, the ventilated pillow 100 may lessen or minimize the extent to which a person rebreathes the same air, which may minimize dead space in the person's respiratory tree. In addition, because a gas may be supplied to an inlet pathway, oxygen or other gases may be supplied to the user. Further, because the inhalation gas may be supplied at a desired pressure and/or the user exhale into a chamber at a desired pressure, the inhalation and/or exhalation pressure may facilitate breathing by the user. Significantly, the pressures may be controlled or optimized to improve the lung's alveolar function. For example, the exhalation pressure may be 0-5 cm water pressure. In these or other embodiments the pressure may be as much as 0-25 cm water pressure.

FIGS. 4a, 4b, 4c, 4d, and 4e illustrate various views of the valve 150 of the ventilated pillow 100. The valves 150 may include a housing 151, a support 153, and a membrane 157. The housing 151 may be constructed from a relatively strong and rigid material such as plastics, composites, metals, and the like. The housing 151 may be sized and configured to be disposed within the inhalation and/or exhalation pathways 140a, 140b. For example, the exterior surface of the housing 151 may have the same general size and shape as the interior of the inhalation valve 150a and/or the exhalation valve 150b. The inner surface of the housing 151 may include one or more attachment portions such grooves, projections, and the like.

The support 153 may be connected to the housing 151. For example, the support 153 may be connected to the attachment portions on the inner surface of the housing 151. Additionally or alternatively, the support 153 may rest upon a ledge 152 of the housing 151. The support 153 may include one or more openings or apertures, such as opening 154. The opening 154 may have a generally hour-glass or bowtie shaped configuration with a narrowed or tapered center section and wider ends. The opening 154 may have other suitable shapes, sizes, configurations, and/or arrangements depending, for example, upon the intended use of the opening 154, valve 150 and/or ventilated pillow 100. One or more connecting portions 155 may be disposed proximate the center section of the opening 154.

The membrane 157 may at least partially, substantially, or entirely cover the opening 154 when the valve 150 is in a closed position. For example, the membrane 157 may include two connecting members 158 that are sized and configured to be connected to the connecting portions 155 of the support 153. When the membrane 157 is connected to the support 153 and the valve 150 is in the closed position, air may not flow through the valve 150. When air is flowing through the valve 150, at least a portion of the membrane 157 may be spaced apart from the opening 154 in the support 153. Advantageously, the properties of the membrane 157 may change and that may facilitate airflow through the valve 150. For example, one or both ends of the membrane 157 may be more flexible than a center portion of the membrane 157. In some embodiments, the support 153 and the membrane 157 may rest completely inside of the housing 151

FIG. 5 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of the tray 160 of the ventilated pillow 100. The tray 160 may be disposed in the base 120 and generally aligned with the nose or mouth of the user. The tray 160 may be sized and configured to receive fluids discharged from the user. Additionally, the tray 160 may include a slot 162. Additionally or alternatively, the tray 160 be configured receive fluids discharged from the user. Because the tray 160 may be selectively coupled to the base 120, the tray may be easily removed for cleaning and/or replacement. It will be appreciated that the tray 160 may have other suitable shapes, sizes, configurations, and arrangements depending, for example, upon the size and shape of the ventilated pillow 100. It will also be appreciated that the tray 160 is not required.

FIG. 6 illustrates another exemplary embodiment of the base 220 of the ventilated pillow 100. As shown in FIG. 6, the base 220 may include two pathways 140, such as an inhalation pathway 140a and an exhalation pathway 140b. The inhalation pathway 140a and exhalation pathway 140b may include multiple inlets 144 or openings disposed about a perimeter of the base. The multiple openings may help ensure airflow within the ventilated pillow 100. For example, the inhalation pathway 140a may include three inhalation inlets 144a to allow air to enter the pathway and the exhalation pathway 140b may include three exhalation outlets 144b to allow air to exit the pathway.

In addition, a groove 170, indent, channel, depression or the like may be disposed about the inhalation inlets 144a and/or exhalation outlets 144b. For instance, a groove 170 may be disposed about a perimeter of the top pillow 110 and/or base 120, and the groove 170 may be in fluid communication with the inlets and/or outlets 144. The groove 170 may help ensure that air flows through the inhalation inlets 144a and/or exhalation outlets 144b. In some embodiments, the groove 170 may ensure that air flows through the inlets and/or outlets 144 even when one or more of the outlets 144 may be inadvertently covered or obstructed by the arms and hands of the user and/or a pillow, blanket, bedding, and/or the like.

Additionally, one or more grates, vents, filters, screens, and/or covers may be placed inside of or over the inhalation inlets 144a and/or exhalation outlets 144b. The grates may be configured to prevent objects from entering and/or obstructing the pathways 140 and valves 150 of the ventilated pillow 100.

The pathways 140 may include one or more dampeners 148 which may decrease noise. For example, the dampeners 148 may help dampen sounds such as snoring by the user, the openings and closing of the valves, or flow across the valves. Additionally, the dampeners 148 may act as supports and may support the top pillow 110. The dampeners 148 may also help prevent objects from entering the pathways 140.

A channel 194 may run from the outside of the ventilated pillow 100 into the chamber 130. A tube 190 may feed directly into the chamber 130 via the channel 194 to supply pressurized gas from a gas source to the ventilated pillow 100.

The ventilated pillow 100 may be sized and configured to cause the person to sleep with their face oriented in a downward direction, which may cause the person's tongue to not block the user's air passages while sleeping. This may minimize or eliminate the need for a higher pressure to strut the oropharyngeal space open. In addition, a positive end expiratory pressure (PEEP) of 3-5 cm water pressure may be more physiologically conducive to respiratory function. Additionally, by placing the face into the ventilated pillow 100, light may not interfere with the sleep of the person using the pillow.

The ventilated pillow 100 may be configured to provide airflow to cool the surface of the pillow 100 or the user's face, head, and/or neck. For example, the pathways 140 and/or chamber 130 may be configured to provide airflow to cool the surface of the ventilated pillow 100 or the user's face, head, and/or neck. The pathways 140 may also provide airflow through the top surface of the ventilated pillow 100 which may provide therapeutic cooling of the pillow and/or the user's face, head, and/or neck.

The ventilated pillow 100 may include other components such as speakers or audio output devices. The speakers may be embedded into the pillow near where the person's ears would be received by the pillow. The speakers may provide music or other audio (for example audio for sleep hypnosis) to the ears of the person. The ventilated pillow 100 may also include an alarm system. The alarm system may be configured to awake or alert the person of certain conditions. The alarm system may be used in connection with the audio system, such as the speakers. The ventilated pillow 100 may also include a small motor or other device which can cause the pillow to vibrate or shake. Additionally, the ventilated pillow 100 may include lights, such as LEDs and these lights may be part of the alarm system. For example, the alarm could be a time-based alarm and the alarm could be set by the user. Thus, the alarm system could be used to wake the person at a particular time of day, or after a duration of sleep. The alarm system could also be configured based on attributes of the person and these attributes may be measured by the sensors. For instance, the alarm system may be triggered by signs of physiologic distress, such as prolonged apnea.

Although this invention has been described in terms of certain exemplary embodiments, other embodiments apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art are also within the scope of this invention. Accordingly, the scope of the invention is intended to be defined only by the claims which follow.

VENTILATED PILLOW

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