阅读说明：本技术 头部支撑装置 (Head support device ) 是由 索尔本·纳 克里斯托弗·李·柯林斯 埃弗里·埃里克·霍勒曼 约翰·爱德华·维尔克宁 吉迪恩· 于 2019-02-19 设计创作，主要内容包括：本公开描述了一种头部支撑装置,其包括：两个侧支撑件,其中中央支撑件悬置在这两个侧支撑件之间。在一些实施方式中,中央支撑件可构造为保持用户的下巴并对其提供支撑。诸如条带的连接器可构造为将侧支撑件彼此连接,其中连接器构造为环绕用户的头部或颈部的后部。(The present disclosure describes a head support device comprising: two side supports with a central support suspended therebetween. In some embodiments, the central support may be configured to hold and provide support to the user's chin. A connector, such as a strap, may be configured to connect the side supports to one another, wherein the connector is configured to wrap around the back of the user's head or neck.)

1. A head support device comprising:

a central support having an upper surface configured to receive at least a portion of a user's chin, the central support having a first end and a second end spaced apart, the first end and the second end each terminating in a side support; and

a connector element having a first end configured to attach to the side support at a first end of the central support and a second end configured to attach to the side support at a second end of the central support.

2. The head support of claim 1 wherein the central support comprises a hollow interior.

3. The head support according to claim 2, wherein the side supports include a hollow interior configured to align with a hollow interior of the central support.

4. The head support according to claim 1, wherein each side support comprises a frame portion and a cushion portion.

5. The head support of claim 1, wherein the connector element comprises a strap.

6. The head support of claim 5, wherein the strap comprises at least one of an adjustable operative length and one or more portions that are separable from one another.

7. The head support of claim 1, wherein the central support is air permeable.

8. The head support of claim 7, wherein the central support comprises at least one of a mesh, a breathable fabric, and a screen.

9. A head support according to claim 1, wherein the central support is flexible and/or collapsible.

10. The head support of claim 4, wherein the frame portion comprises a rigid material.

11. The head support of claim 10, wherein the frame portion comprises plastic.

12. The head support of claim 4, wherein the cushion portion comprises at least one of a polyurethane cushion and a memory foam material.

13. The head support according to claim 1, wherein each side support comprises a trapezoidal side cross section.

14. The head support according to claim 1, wherein each side support has a vertical cross-section that is substantially C-shaped outwardly.

15. The head support according to claim 1, wherein each side support comprises a shape that is recessed from an exterior thereof.

16. The head support according to claim 1, wherein each side support includes an inner periphery and an outer periphery, and has an inclined surface between the inner periphery and the outer periphery.

17. The head support of claim 1, wherein at least one of the bottom surface of the central support and the side supports is configured to engage at least a portion of at least one of a chest, a neck, a shoulder, and a clavicle of a user.

18. The head support of claim 1 wherein the first and second ends of the central support each comprise a retaining member configured to secure the central support to the respective side support.

19. The head support according to claim 1, wherein the first and second ends of the central support each comprise a collar for attachment to the side supports.

20. A head support according to claim 1, wherein respective ends of the connector elements are attached to frame portions of respective side supports.

Technical Field

The present disclosure relates generally to head support devices, and more particularly to head support devices for use for user comfort while traveling, and even more particularly to head support devices designed to support a user's head when in a forward position.

Background

Travel pillows are used by air travelers and others to provide support for the neck and head of a user. While conventional prior art travel pillows provide support for a user's head, they typically do not provide support for the user's head in a forward leaning position and are often unsightly. In addition, some prior art devices that provide head support in a forward leaning position typically do not vent well around the user's neck, such as described and illustrated in U.S. patent application publication No. 2013/0232693 to Myers. In addition, conventional prior art travel pillows and the like can be bulky and heavy when used without surrounding the neck of the user.

Disclosure of Invention

The present disclosure relates generally to head support devices for supporting a user's head, such as when traveling on an airplane, train, or automobile.

In some embodiments, a head restraint according to the present disclosure includes a left side support and a right side support, wherein the central support is between the left side support and the right side support. The central support may be configured to support the user's chin, and may be breathable so as to prevent or reduce the accumulation of heat and moisture. The connector between the left and right side supports may be configured to wrap around the back of the user's head or neck.

The head restraint may include a left side support having a left shell and the right side support having a right shell. The connector may be a strap. The operable length of the strap is adjustable. The strip comprises two parts which are separable from each other. The central support is air permeable and may comprise a mesh material. The central support may comprise a screen material. The central support connects the left side support to the right side support. The central support member may be suspended between an inner surface of the left side support member and an inner surface of the right side support member. Each of the left side support piece and the right side support piece may be shaped to define an aperture therethrough such that each of the left side support piece and the right side support piece has an outer perimeter and an inner perimeter. In some embodiments, the cross-section of the central support substantially matches the inner perimeter of the left and right side supports. The central support may be foldable, flexible and/or open at both ends. The central support may be a sleeve. Each of the left and right side supports includes a frame portion and a cushion portion, each frame portion being made of a first material and each cushion portion being made of a second material, the first material being more rigid than the second material. The first material is plastic. The second material may be a memory foam. Each of the frame portion and the cushion portion may be cup-shaped. Each of the left side supporting piece and the right side supporting piece may have a shape recessed from an outside thereof. Each of the left and right side supporting pieces may have a vertical cross section substantially C-shaped outward. In some embodiments, each of the left and right side supports is cup-shaped. In some embodiments, each of the left and right side supports has a trapezoidal side cross-section. In some embodiments, each of the left and right side supports has a trapezoidal front cross section. In some embodiments, the central support comprises left and right collars for attachment to the left and right side supports, respectively. The head restraint may include left and right retaining members for securing the central support to the left and right side supports, respectively. The head restraint may include left and right retaining members, a central support having left and right collars for attachment to the left and right supports, respectively; and wherein the left retaining member, the left collar and the left side support interact to secure the center support to the left side support and the right retaining member, the right collar and the right side support interact to secure the center support to the right side support.

In some embodiments, the head support device includes a central support having a concave upper surface configured to receive at least a portion of a user's chin, the central support having a first end spaced apart from a second end, the first and second ends each terminating in a side support, and a connector element having a first end configured to attach to the side support at the first end of the central support and a second end configured to attach to the side support at the second end of the central support.

In some embodiments, the central support comprises a hollow interior. The side supports may include a hollow interior configured to align with the hollow interior of the central support. Each side support may include a frame portion and a cushion portion. The connector element comprises a strip. The strap may comprise at least one of an adjustable operable length and one or more portions that are separable from one another. The central support may be air permeable. The central support may comprise at least one of a mesh and a screen. The central support is at least one of flexible and foldable. The frame portion comprises a rigid material. In some embodiments, the frame portion comprises plastic. In some embodiments, the cushion portion comprises a memory foam material. In some embodiments, each side support comprises a trapezoidal side cross-section. In some embodiments, each side support has a vertical cross-section that is substantially C-shaped outwardly. In some embodiments, each side support comprises a shape that is concave from its exterior. In some embodiments, each side support includes an inner perimeter and an outer perimeter with an inclined surface therebetween. In some embodiments, at least one of the bottom surface of the central support and the side supports is configured to engage at least a portion of at least one of the chest, neck, shoulder, and clavicle of the user. In some embodiments, the first and second ends of the central support each include a retaining member configured to secure the central support to the respective side support. In some embodiments, the first and second ends of the central support each comprise a collar for attachment to the side supports. In some embodiments, the respective ends of the connector elements are attached to the frame portions of the respective side supports.

Drawings

The features and advantages of the present disclosure will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

fig. 1 is a top perspective view of a head restraint according to aspects of the present disclosure.

FIG. 2 is a side perspective view of the head restraint shown in FIG. 1.

Fig. 3 is a top view of the head restraint shown in fig. 1.

Fig. 4 is a top view of the head restraint shown in fig. 1.

Fig. 5 is a top view of the head restraint shown in fig. 1.

Fig. 6 is a front view of the head restraint shown in fig. 1.

FIG. 7 is a side perspective view of the head restraint of FIG. 1 in use.

FIG. 8 is a side perspective view of the head restraint of FIG. 1 in use.

FIG. 9 is a side perspective view of the head restraint of FIG. 1 in use.

FIG. 10A is a side view of the head restraint of FIG. 1 in use.

FIG. 10B is a front view of the head restraint of FIG. 1 in use.

FIG. 11 is a first perspective view of the head restraint of FIG. 1 in a folded configuration.

FIG. 12 is a second perspective view of the head restraint of FIG. 1 in a folded configuration.

Fig. 13 is an exploded perspective view of a head restraint according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 14 is a perspective view of the head restraint shown in FIG. 13.

Fig. 15A is a perspective view of another embodiment of a head restraint according to an aspect of the present disclosure.

Fig. 15B is a perspective view of another embodiment of a head restraint according to an aspect of the present disclosure.

Fig. 15C is a perspective view of another embodiment of a head restraint according to an aspect of the present disclosure.

Fig. 15D is a perspective view of another embodiment of a head restraint according to an aspect of the present disclosure.

Fig. 16A is a first perspective view of the head restraint of fig. 15A-15D in a folded configuration.

Fig. 16B is a second perspective view of the head restraint of fig. 15A-15D in a folded configuration.

FIG. 17A is a first perspective view of one embodiment of a head restraint according to one aspect of the present disclosure.

FIG. 17B is a second perspective view of the embodiment of the head restraint shown in FIG. 17A.

Fig. 17C is a side view of the embodiment of the head restraint shown in fig. 17A-17B.

Fig. 17D is a second side view of the embodiment of the head restraint shown in fig. 17A-17C.

Fig. 17E is a top perspective view of the embodiment of the head restraint shown in fig. 17A-17D.

Fig. 17F is a bottom perspective view of the embodiment of the head restraint shown in fig. 17A-17E.

Fig. 17G is a cross-sectional view of the embodiment of the head restraint shown in fig. 17A-17F.

FIG. 18A is a first perspective view of one embodiment of a head restraint according to one aspect of the present disclosure.

FIG. 18B is a second perspective view of the embodiment of the head restraint shown in FIG. 18A.

Fig. 18C is a side view of the embodiment of the head restraint shown in fig. 18A-18B.

Fig. 18D is a second side view of the embodiment of the head restraint shown in fig. 18A-18C.

Fig. 18E is a top perspective view of the embodiment of the head restraint shown in fig. 18A-18D.

Fig. 18F is a bottom perspective view of the embodiment of the head restraint shown in fig. 18A-18E.

Fig. 18G is a cross-sectional view of the embodiment of the head restraint shown in fig. 18A-18F.

Detailed Description

The present disclosure describes a head support device that can be used in place of a conventional travel pillow. The head support device typically includes two side supports with a middle support suspended between the two side supports. In some embodiments, the central support may be configured to hold and provide support to the user's chin. A connector, such as a strap, may be configured to connect the side supports to one another, wherein the connector is configured to wrap around the back of the user's head or neck. The connector may have an adjustable operable length to enable the head restraint to be secured to the chest, neck, shoulder and jaw areas of a user. Each side support may generally include a frame portion for providing each side support with its overall structure, shape and strength and a cushion portion that abuts the user for comfort. The central support may be attached through the apertures of the side supports, but other means of attachment are possible. In some embodiments, the central support may be breathable so as to prevent or reduce the accumulation of heat and moisture in the neck and jaw areas of the user, which is a common problem with prior art travel pillows. The central support may be made of a mesh or screen material to achieve this. In addition, the central support may be foldable to enable the head restraint to be compressed for easy movement or storage when not in use.

The present disclosure is described herein with reference to certain embodiments, but it should be understood that the present disclosure may be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein. The devices and elements herein may have different shapes and sizes than those shown. It will also be understood that when a feature or element such as a layer, region, housing, cover, frame, or other can be referred to as being "on" another element, it can be directly on the other element or intervening elements may also be present. Furthermore, relative terms, such as "inner," "outer," "upper," "above," "below," and "beneath," and similar terms, may be used herein to describe one element's relationship to another element. It will be understood that these terms are intended to encompass different orientations of the device in addition to the orientation depicted in the figures.

Although the terms first, second, etc. may be used herein to describe various elements, components, regions, layers and/or sections, these elements, components, regions, layers and/or sections should not be limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one element, component, region, layer or section from another element, component, region, layer or section. Thus, a first element, component, region, layer or section discussed below could be termed a second element, component, region, layer or section without departing from the teachings of the present disclosure.

Throughout the specification and claims, the words "comprise", "comprising", and the like, are to be construed in an inclusive sense as opposed to an exclusive or exhaustive sense, unless the context clearly requires otherwise; that is, in the sense of "including, but not limited to". Words using the singular or plural number also include the plural or singular number, respectively. When the word "each" is used to refer to an element, it does not necessarily imply a plurality of elements, but may also mean a single element.

Fig. 1-6 illustrate various perspective views of a head restraint 100 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, fig. 7-10B illustrate the head restraint 100 being used by a user, and fig. 11 and 12 illustrate the head restraint in a folded or compacted configuration. In particular, fig. 1 and 2 provide two side perspective views of the head restraint 100, fig. 3 provides a top perspective view of the head restraint 100, fig. 4 and 5 provide a front perspective view of the head restraint 100, and fig. 6 provides another front perspective view of the head restraint 100.

In some embodiments, the head restraint 100 (shown in fig. 1-12) is configured to provide support to a user's head and is designed to replace conventional prior art travel pillows. Head restraint 100 may include a variety of components, and in the particular embodiment shown, includes first and second side supports 102a and 102b, a central support 104, and a connector 106. Both the central support 104 and the connector 106 extend between the first side support 102a and the second side support 102b and connect the side supports 102a, 102b to each other, but it is understood that intermediate elements may also be present. The central support 104 is designed to fit under the chin of the user, while the connector 106 is designed to surround at least a portion and/or the back of the head or neck of the user.

The side supports 102a, 102b may be configured to contact the outside of the user's jaw and/or user's cheek to support the user's head in combination with the central support 104, and in addition, serve as structural supports for the central support 104. The side supports 102a, 102b can have various shapes, with the particular embodiment shown having a generally trapezoidal shape. As shown, the trapezoidal side cross-section of the side supports 102a, 102b includes a shorter posterior side 112 and a longer anterior side 114, with a top side 116 and a bottom side 118 connecting the posterior side 112 and the anterior side 114, as shown, for example, in fig. 7. As can also be seen in fig. 7, this generally trapezoidal shape is particularly suitable for supporting a user's head because the bottom side 118, the rear side 112, and the top side 116 generally follow the contours of the person's chest, neck, shoulders, and chin, respectively, when the person's head is in a supporting position. When in the tensioned position, such as shown in fig. 7, the bottom sides 118 of the side supports 102a, 102b may abut the chest and/or shoulders of the user, thereby generally providing support to the head support apparatus 100, wherein the head support apparatus 100 in turn supports the head of the user.

Although the particular head support 100 is shown as including generally trapezoidal side supports 102a, 102b, it should be understood that side supports having a variety of different shapes are also possible. For example, devices according to the present disclosure may include side supports that are generally square, rectangular, trapezoidal, diamond-shaped, other quadrilateral, circular, elliptical, triangular, pentagonal, hexagonal, octagonal, or other regular or irregular polygonal shapes. Other shapes are possible, including circular side supports or side supports with circular, oval or other curved cross-sections.

As can be seen in the front view of fig. 4, the side supports 102a, 102b are vertically oriented because they have a height greater than their width, but embodiments that are not oriented in this manner are also possible. The side supports 102a, 102b may include an inner surface 120 having a height that is less than a height of its respective outer surface 122. The top surfaces 116 of the side supports 102a, 102b may be sloped upward from their respective inner surfaces 120 to their respective outer surfaces 122. This inclination is advantageous in that it is generally shaped to follow the curve of the user's chin. Similarly, the bottom sides 118 of the side supports 102a, 102b may slope downward from their respective inner surfaces 120 to their respective outer surfaces 122, which may generally follow the shape of the user's chest in the area where the bottom surfaces 118 will abut. Thus, in the illustrated embodiment, the front cross-section is shown as a trapezoid. It should be understood that other front cross-sections of the side supports 102a, 102b are possible, such as generally square, rectangular, trapezoidal, diamond-shaped, other quadrilateral, circular, elliptical, triangular, pentagonal, hexagonal, octagonal, or other regular or irregular polygonal shapes. Many different embodiments and shapes are possible.

Side supports according to the present disclosure, such as side supports 102a, 102b, may have various sizes. For example, the side support depth (i.e., in the horizontal direction in fig. 3 and the vertical direction in fig. 4) may be between 2 "(inches) and 15" from front to back, between 3 "and 12" from front to back, between 4 "and 10" from front to back, between 5 "and 7.5" from front to back, or about 6 "from front to back. The side support height (i.e., in the vertical direction in fig. 6) may be between 2 "and 15" from top to bottom, between 3 "and 12" from top to bottom, between 4 "and 10" from top to bottom, between 5 "and 7" from top to bottom, or about 5.5 "from top to bottom. The side support width (i.e., in the vertical direction in fig. 3 and the horizontal direction in fig. 4) may be between 0.5 "and 6" from outside to inside, between 0.75 "and 4" from outside to inside, between 1 "and 3" from outside to inside, or about 1.75 "from outside to inside. It is understood that measurements outside of these ranges are possible.

The side supports 102a, 102b can be made of many different materials, including combinations of materials. For example, in some embodiments, the side supports 102a, 102b include a harder inner shell and a softer pad thereon, wherein the inner shell provides more structural support and the pad provides comfort to the user. The side supports 102a, 102b may also include covers on their outer sides. The composition of side supports that may be used for the side supports 102a, 102b according to the present disclosure will be discussed in more detail below with reference to fig. 13 and 14.

The central support 104 is designed to support the user's chin and extends between the side supports 102a, 102 b. In many prior art travel pillows, the legs of the pillow are brought together to provide support to the user's chin. However, this can result in heat and moisture being collected in the neck and chin areas of the user, which can cause discomfort. The central support 104 is configured to improve ventilation in this area while also providing adequate support for the user's chin. Further, in some embodiments, the central support 104 may be foldable and configured to allow the head restraint 100 to be foldable and easily portable.

The central support 104 may be made primarily of mesh, screen, and/or breathable material. The central support 104 may be composed primarily of plastic, nylon (e.g., and may be selected from Diono)^TMNylon screen material similar to that used in window blinds obtained), composite materials (e.g. with Herman Miller)^TMProduced Aeron^TMComposite mesh material similar to that used in type of chair), rubber, cotton, polyester, metalWire, metal, or other material, or any combination of these materials. The central support is elastic in some embodiments, and non-elastic in other embodiments. Many different types of materials are possible, and the list of such possible materials does not limit the types of materials that can be used.

When in use, the central support 104 is held in tension between the side supports 102a, 102b to provide support for the user's chin and head. For example, as shown in fig. 2 and 9, the central support 104 has a generally hollow shape with a closed cross-section, such as a tube or sleeve shape with a polygonal or non-polygonal cross-section. The cross-section may be, for example, quadrilateral, square, rectangular, trapezoidal, triangular, circular, elliptical, or other shape. The central support 104 may include an open end or a closed end, with the particular embodiment shown having an open end. In contrast to a central support with an open cross-section (e.g., a typical sling or sling device or substantially two-dimensional fabric) between the side supports 102a, 102b, a central support 104 with a closed cross-section (e.g., the cross-section shown) may be beneficial because it is structurally more securely used to support the head of the user, and it may be more securely connected to the side supports 102a, 102 b. It should be understood that sling or sling-type central support is also possible in embodiments of the present disclosure.

The central support (e.g., central support 104) can have various dimensions. For example, a central support according to the present disclosure may have a non-stretched length from side to side of between 2 "and 18", between 3 "and 12", between 4 "and 8", or about 6 ". The central support 104 may have equal or unequal depth and height measurements, and the depth and height may be, for example, between 0.5 "and 6", between 1 "and 4", between 1.5 "and 3", or about 2 ". It is understood that measurements outside of these ranges are possible.

In the particular embodiment shown, the side supports 102a, 102b include apertures 110a, 110b therein such that the side support 102a has an outer perimeter and an inner perimeter. The apertures 110a, 110b (and thus the inner perimeters of the side supports 102a, 102 b) may have a cross-section that substantially matches the cross-section of the central support 104, although other embodiments are possible. The central support 104 may be connected to the side supports 102a, 102b at the apertures 110a, 110b, such as within the apertures 110a, 110b, or in some embodiments partially or completely through the apertures 110a, 110 b. This connection between the central support 104 and the side supports 102a, 102b is stronger than, for example, a simple sling-like structure attached to the inner surfaces of the side supports 102a, 102b, which is prone to tearing or separation from the side supports. In some embodiments, the central support 104 is connected to the outer surface of the side supports 102a, 102 b. In some embodiments, the central support 104 is connected to the outer periphery of the side supports 102a, 102b, whether or not it first passes through the holes 110a, 110 b. Some attachment configurations and components that may be used as part of head restraint 100 are described in more detail below with reference to fig. 13 and 14.

Additionally, it is understood that no apertures may be present in certain embodiments of the present disclosure. For example, instead of a hole through each side portion, each side portion may include one or more recessed areas on its inner surface, and the central support may be connected to the side supports within these recessed areas. Other embodiments are possible that do not include holes or recessed regions.

The central support 104 may be collapsible. For example, fig. 11 and 12 are perspective views illustrating the head restraint 100 in a folded configuration 100 "". This configuration is possible because the central support 104 may be folded or compacted (as opposed to, for example, being tensioned as shown in fig. 10A and 10B). When in the folded configuration 100 "", the side supports 102a, 102b are proximate or in contact with each other and the overall volume of the head restraint 100 is less than the volume in use, making storage and packaging of the head restraint 100 easier.

The head restraint 100 includes a connector 106 for surrounding the back of the user's head and/or neck. The connector is resilient in some embodiments and non-resilient in some other embodiments. The connector 106 may be a strap or similar device and may have an adjustable operable length. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the head restraint 100 includes a length adjustment member 108, such as a ladder lock type member. Adjustment members 108 may connect connector 106 to the body of head support 100, such as to side supports 102a, 102 b. The connector 106 may have various maximum operable lengths (i.e., the length when the connector 106 is at its most relaxed), such as a maximum operable length of between 6 "and 36", between 8 "and 24", between 12 "and 22", or about 18 ". The maximum operable length may be long enough so that a user may comfortably pull the head restraint 100 over the user's head or remove the head restraint 100 over the user's head. It should be understood that measurements outside of these ranges are possible, including embodiments in which the user is unable to remove the head restraint 100 or place the head restraint on the user's head as described.

The connector 106 may be adjusted to achieve different positions of the head restraint as a whole. For example, in fig. 8, the connector 106 is slack such that the head restraint 100 is in a first position 100' that is slack and not used by the user, and in this embodiment, the central support 104 may be slack. In fig. 9, the connector 106 has been tensioned so as to have a shorter operable length such that the head restraint 100 is in the second position 100 "in which it is pulled closer to the neck and chin of the user. A user who prefers a very loose connection may use the head restraint 100 in the second position 100 "or the like. In fig. 10A and 10B, the connector 106 has been further tensioned to a third position 100 "that fits snugly to the neck and chin area of the user, which may be preferred by users who prefer a more stable head support. The connector 106 may be tensioned from only one side, or in some embodiments, may be tensioned from both sides, as shown in fig. 10B. In position 100' ″, the central support 106 is held in tension between the side supports 102a, 102B, as can be seen in fig. 10B.

Fig. 13 and 14 illustrate another embodiment of a head restraint 200. In particular, fig. 13 provides a partially exploded view of the head restraint 200, and fig. 14 provides a perspective view of the head restraint 200. The head restraint devices 100 and 200 may include many of the same or similar elements, and it should be understood that features and elements of one may be used in the other. Head support apparatus 200 includes two side supports 202, a central support 204, a connector 206, and one or more adjustment members 208. The connector 206 may include a body 206a, such as a strap. Optionally, the connector 206 may also include a cover 206b and/or a cushion 206c for user comfort. The cover 206b and/or the gasket 206C may be configured to surround at least a portion of the body 206 a. In addition to being used to adjust the operable length of the connector 206, the adjustment member 208 may also include a release function on one or both sides as shown in FIG. 13. This is particularly useful for users who do not like to put the head restraint 200 on the head restraint or remove the head restraint 200 via over-the-head motion, as the release function means that the head restraint 200 can be easily placed or removed from the side.

The side support 202 in the illustrated embodiment includes multiple portions that may be used for different primary purposes. First, each side support 202 includes a frame portion 203 a. The frame portions 203a may provide structure, shape, and stability to their respective side supports 202. The frame portion 203a may be a shell, may be cup-shaped, may have a substantially outwardly C-shaped vertical cross-section, and/or may be concave or have a concave outer surface ("outer", opposite the user-facing side of the side support 202 and the opposite side support 202, or "inner") relative to the side of its respective side support 202 facing away from the user. These shapes allow the frame portion 203a to securely support the head and jaw of the user while also allowing a certain amount of flexure for user comfort in some embodiments.

The frame portion 203a may be made of many different materials, including but not limited to plastics, such as injection molded plastics, composites, fiberglass, polymers, metals, foams (e.g., memory foam), rubber, other rigid materials, and combinations thereof. Many different embodiments are possible, and this list of possible materials does not limit the types of materials that may be used in the framework portion according to the present disclosure.

Next, each side support 202 includes a pad portion 203 b. The pad portion 203b is designed to be the portion of the side support 202 that abuts the user's head, such as his jaw and cheek. The cushion portions 203b may be shaped similarly to the frame portions 203a and may be shaped to receive the frame portions in cavities therein, as shown in fig. 13, in the illustrated embodiment each cushion portion 203b only covers the inner surface of its respective frame portion 203a, but other embodiments are possible in which the outer surface is also covered and/or the frame portion is surrounded by cushion portions.

While the pad portion 203b may help give the side portion 202 structure, shape, and strength, it may be less rigid than the underlying frame portion 203a in some embodiments. Such less rigid material may provide cushioning between the user and the more rigid frame portion, thereby providing greater comfort. The padded portion 203b can be made of many different materials, including but not limited to foam, memory foam, cotton, polyester, wadding, cloth, linen, and combinations thereof, and in some embodiments can also include padding, such as wadding, microbeads, feathers, conventional bed pillow padding, other padding materials, and combinations thereof. Many different embodiments are possible, and this list of possible materials does not limit the types of materials that may be used in the framework portion according to the present disclosure.

Similar to sides 102a, 102b from head support 100, side supports 202 of head support 200 include apertures 210 therethrough. In this case, holes 210a and 210b pass through the frame portion 203a and the pad portion 203b, respectively. The central support 204 may be attached to the side portions 202 by passing at least partially through each aperture 210. In the illustrated embodiment, the central support 204 includes a main body 204a and two collars 204b, which in some embodiments are end collars on the ends of the main body 204a as shown. In other embodiments, the collar 204b may not be an end collar. The collar 204b may be thicker than the body 204a and/or may be stronger than the body of the center support 204 in order to give the center support 204 structure and shape and to prevent wear or tear of the body 204 a. In addition to or instead of this material, the collar 204b may comprise a material different from the material of the body 204 a. For example, in one embodiment, the collar 204b comprises an inner wire; in another embodiment, the collar 204b includes a resilient member.

Also shown in fig. 13 are two retaining members 205 that are separate from the central support 204. The retaining member 205 may be made of a similar or the same material as the side support 202. Additionally, the retaining member 205 may be mated or otherwise attached with the side support 202 and may, in combination with the side support 202, secure the central support 204 by fixing the position of the collar 204 b. For example, in some embodiments, the body 204a includes a solid structure configured to be stitched to layered textile leather or a mesh insert molded with a solid plastic structure. Further, in some embodiments, the solid plastic structure may be captured by or sewn to one of the frame portions 203a, which may comprise a plastic housing.

In one embodiment, the cross-section of the collar 204b may be larger than the cross-section of the aperture 210, although the cross-section of the body 204a of the center support is smaller than the cross-section of the aperture 210 of the side support 202. As such, once the collar 204b is passed through the hole 210 (e.g., by temporary compression), the side supports 202 (in combination with the retaining member 205, in some embodiments) may prevent the central support 204 from re-passing through the hole 210, thereby suspending the central support 204 between the side supports 202.

The central support 204 may be attached to the side supports 202 in other ways in addition to or instead of using retaining members and/or collars as described above. For example, the central support 204 may be attached to the side supports 202 using co-injection molding, adhesives such as glue or epoxy, fasteners such as staples, screws, nails, brackets, threads, male/female connections, other attachment devices known in the art, or combinations thereof. In addition, these attachment means may be used in combination with attachment via the holding member 205.

Fig. 15A-15D illustrate another embodiment of a head support apparatus 300 including side supports 302. In particular, fig. 15A shows a first perspective view of the head support device 300. Fig. 15B shows a front perspective view of the head restraint 300 engaged around the collar (proximate the neck of the user). Fig. 15C shows a top perspective view of the head restraint 300. Fig. 15D shows a side perspective view of the head restraint 300. The side support 302 has a more rounded front side 314 and a rear side 312 that is approximately the same height as the front side 314 but is substantially straight. The side supports 302 may be connected by a central support 304. Many different embodiments are possible, and it will be appreciated that different shaped side supports may be interchanged with one another between embodiments while maintaining the same characteristics of the other components of the head support device.

Fig. 16A and 16B show two top perspective views of the head restraint of fig. 15A-15D. In particular, as shown in fig. 16A and 16B, the head restraint 300 of fig. 15A-15D may also be foldable, with fig. 16A and 16B showing the head restraint 300 in a folded configuration 300'.

FIG. 17A is a first perspective view of one embodiment of a head restraint according to one aspect of the present disclosure. FIG. 17B is a second perspective view of the embodiment of the head restraint shown in FIG. 17A. Fig. 17C is a side view of the embodiment of the head restraint shown in fig. 17A-17B. Fig. 17D is a second side view of the embodiment of the head restraint shown in fig. 17A-17C. Fig. 17E is a top perspective view of the embodiment of the head restraint shown in fig. 17A-17D. Fig. 17F is a bottom perspective view of the embodiment of the head restraint shown in fig. 17A-17E. Fig. 17G is a cross-sectional view of the embodiment of the head restraint shown in fig. 17A-17F.

In particular, fig. 17A-17G illustrate a head restraint 1700 having a central support 1701. In some embodiments, the central support 1701 may include an upper surface 1703 configured to receive at least a portion of a user's chin. In some embodiments, the upper surface 1703 may be concave. In some embodiments, the upper surface 1703 may be shaped as an elongated "U". The central support 1701 may have a first end spaced from a second end. Each of the first and second ends may terminate at a side support 1705. The central support 1701 may also include a lower surface 1709 that is also concave. Lower surface 1709 may be configured to face toward the chest of the user when head support apparatus 1700 is in use. The central support 1701 may include fabric and/or padding with ventilation holes to provide additional support and cushioning to the user's chin, chest, shoulders and related areas. In some embodiments, the central support 1701 includes a hollow interior. In some embodiments, the central support 1701 is gas permeable. In some embodiments, the central support comprises at least one of a mesh and a screen. In some embodiments, the central support is at least one of flexible and foldable.

In some embodiments, head support apparatus 1700 may include a connector element 1707 having a first end configured to attach to a side support at a first end of a central support and a second end configured to attach to a side support at a second end of the central support. In some embodiments, the connector element 1707 may be configured to encircle a portion of the head and/or neck of a user. For example, the connector element 1707 may include straps, buckles, and the like. In some embodiments, the strap comprises at least one of an adjustable operable length and one or more portions that are separable from one another. In some embodiments, the connector element 1707 may compriseAnd the like. In some embodiments, a portion of the connector element 1707 is configured to be adjustably attached to a second portion of the connector element 1707. In some embodiments, the connector element 1707 may be configured to encircle and connect to the central support 1701 near a lower surface of the central support 1701. In some embodiments, the connector element 1707 may comprise neoprene, plastic, or other interwoven components.

In some embodiments, the side support 1705 can have a substantially trapezoidal cross-section. The side support 1705 includes a frame portion 1711 and a cushion portion 1713. In the embodiment shown in fig. 17A-17F, the frame portion 171 is configured to have a first trapezoidal outer perimeter 1711A and a second trapezoidal inner perimeter 1711B connected by an inwardly sloping surface 1715. The interior of the frame portion 1717 is hollow and is configured to align with the hollow portion of the central support 1701. The frame portion 1711 of the side support may include an aperture 1719 configured to be connected to the connector element 1707. In some embodiments, each side support 1705 may comprise a shape that is concave from its exterior.

The frame portion 1711 may be constructed of plastic or the like. The frame portion 1711 may include a rigid material configured to maintain its shape. The frame portion 1711 may be attached to the pad portion 1713. The cushion portion 1713 may include a rear surface 1721 that is shaped to be ergonomic for a user. Indeed, the rear surface of the pad portion 1713 may be angled outward and shaped to conform to the neck region of a person. In some embodiments, the padded portion 1713 can be formed of memory foam, mesh, and/or similar materials. In some embodiments, the connector element 1707 plus the side supports 1705 may hold the central support 1701 (which may be formed from a mesh) under tension. Additionally, in some embodiments, the cushion portion 1713 may be formed from a memory foam material and/or a mesh material, or the like.

Side support 1705 may include a top surface 1723 configured to extend substantially horizontally along a plane at and/or below the chin of the user. The side support may also include a vertical surface 1727 configured to extend substantially vertically away from the user. The side support may also include a lower surface 1725 configured to engage the neck and clavicular region and support and position the head support 1700.

Fig. 17G shows a cross-sectional view of head support 1700. As shown, the cross-sectional view cuts a portion of the central support 1701 and the corresponding side support 1705. As shown in fig. 17G, a cross-section of the first side support 1705 is shown, wherein the cover 1716 is configured to mechanically or adhesively fit within the side support 1705. In some embodiments, cover 1716 may provide additional structure to head support apparatus 1700. Alternatively, in some embodiments, the cover 1716 may be substantially decorative. A cross-section of the second side support 1705 is shown without the corresponding cover 1716. In the illustrated embodiment, the elements of head restraint 1700 including rear surface 1721, cushion portion 1713, and central support 1701 may include foam covered with a mesh. In the illustrated embodiment, the elements of head restraint 1700 including frame portion 1711, connector element 1707, and cover 1716 may comprise a plastic such as neoprene.

In some embodiments, the illustrated components comprising the cross-sections of the cushion portion 1713, the central support 1701, the frame portion 1711, the connector element 1707, and the flap 1716 may be connected via mechanical fit (e.g., snap fit, raised surfaces that engage holes on corresponding surfaces), adhesive, and/or stitching.

In some embodiments, at least one of the bottom surface 1709 of the central support 1701 and the side supports 1705 are configured to engage at least a portion of at least one of the chest, neck, shoulder, and clavicle of the user. In some embodiments, each of the first and second ends of the central support 1701 each include a retaining member configured to secure the central support 1701 to the respective side support 1705. In some embodiments, each of the first and second ends of the central support each comprise a collar for attachment to a side support. In some embodiments, the respective ends of the connector elements are attached to the frame portions of the respective side supports.

FIG. 18A is a first perspective view of one embodiment of a head restraint according to one aspect of the present disclosure. FIG. 18B is a second perspective view of the embodiment of the head restraint shown in FIG. 18A. Fig. 18C is a side view of the embodiment of the head restraint shown in fig. 18A-18B. Fig. 18D is a second side view of the embodiment of the head restraint shown in fig. 18A-18C. Fig. 18E is a top perspective view of the embodiment of the head restraint shown in fig. 18A-18D. Fig. 18F is a bottom perspective view of the embodiment of the head restraint shown in fig. 18A-18E. Fig. 18G is a cross-sectional view of the embodiment of the head restraint shown in fig. 18A-18F.

In the embodiment shown in fig. 18A-18G, head restraint 1800 includes a central support 1801 configured to receive at least a portion of a user's chin. The central support 1801 may terminate in side supports 1805, each having a substantially trapezoidal cross-section. The two side supports 1805 may be connected by a connector element 1800. Each side support 1805 may have an outer perimeter 1811 and an inner perimeter 1813. The inner periphery 1813 may be smaller in size than the outer periphery 1811. Side support 1805 may include a surface 1815 that is substantially inwardly sloped and spans from outer periphery 1811 to inner periphery 1813. As shown at least in fig. 18C and 18D, the side support 1805 having a trapezoidal cross-section may include a top side 1823 configured to extend substantially horizontally around the chin of the person, a vertical side 1827, and an angled side 1825 configured to engage with at least one of the neck and the clavicle region of the user.

In the embodiment shown in fig. 18A to 18G, memory foam portions such as the padded areas of the side supports 1805 and the central support 1801 may be covered in a mesh. Fig. 18G provides a cross-sectional view of the head support 1800. As shown in fig. 18G, in some embodiments, a mesh material may be positioned over the foam material. Further, a portion of the connector element may be secured to the side support by being placed under the mesh material and/or plastic shell. As shown in some embodiments, the portion 1808 of the connector element 1807 may be configured to overlap a portion of the side support 1805 and be covered and secured in place by a plate 1806 configured to be positioned in the side support 1805. The connector element 1807, side supports 1805, and/or central support 1801 may be mechanically fitted (e.g., protruding elements, snap fit) or fitted via an adhesive. The plate 1806 may be adhesively or mechanically assembled to the side support 1805. In some embodiments, the mesh material of the central support 1801 may be configured to be non-flexible so as to provide sufficient support for the user's chin.

In the illustrated embodiment, the elements of the portion of the head support 1800 that includes the side supports 1805 may comprise a mesh-covered foam. In the illustrated embodiment, the elements of the head restraint 1800 including the frame portion 1811, the connector element 1807, and the cover plate 1816 may comprise a plastic such as neoprene or the like.

The embodiments shown in fig. 17A-18F may be modified to include various heights of the central support, as well as various shapes, sizes, and materials.

In an alternative embodiment, the head support may comprise two spaced apart side supports, and each side support is configured to engage with a side of a user's chin. The two side supports may be connected by a connector element, however it may not comprise a central support. In such embodiments, the head restraint may be shaped as a lateral U-shape.

It is to be understood that various attributes and elements from any one embodiment may also be included in other embodiments. Although the present disclosure has been described in detail with reference to certain preferred configurations thereof, other versions are possible. The actual scope of the disclosure encompasses not only the disclosed embodiments, but also all equivalent ways of practicing or implementing the disclosure. The above detailed description of embodiments of the disclosure is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the disclosure to the precise form disclosed above or to the particular field of use mentioned in the disclosure. While specific embodiments of, and examples for, the disclosure are described above for illustrative purposes, various equivalent modifications are possible within the scope of the disclosure, as those skilled in the relevant art will recognize. The elements and acts of the various embodiments described above can be combined to provide further embodiments. Further, the teachings of the present disclosure provided herein are applicable to products and systems other than head support devices.