U.S. patent application number 11/059067 was filed with the patent office on 2005-07-07 for multi-use support pillow.
Invention is credited to Guarino, Joseph F..
Application Number | 20050144725 11/059067 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 46303904 |
Filed Date | 2005-07-07 |
United States Patent
Application |
20050144725 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Guarino, Joseph F. |
July 7, 2005 |
Multi-use support pillow
Abstract
The present invention provides a single piece, multi-use support
pillow with ends of varying heights (28 and 34) and dual inclined
support surfaces (22) designed to contour and support differing
parts of a human body, which helps to maintain proper body
alignment with even distribution of weight throughout
muscular/skeletal system of an individual. The support pillow
provides support with a contour fit for potentially all of the
following areas: head, neck, shoulders, torso, back, thighs, knees,
shins, ankles, feet, and toes.
Inventors: |
Guarino, Joseph F.;
(Houston, TX) |
Correspondence
Address: |
Benjamin Aaron Adler
ADLER & ASSOCIATES
8011 Candle Lane
Houston
TX
77071
US
|
Family ID: |
46303904 |
Appl. No.: |
11/059067 |
Filed: |
February 15, 2005 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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11059067 |
Feb 15, 2005 |
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10403586 |
Mar 31, 2003 |
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60371082 |
Apr 9, 2002 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
5/636 ; 5/632;
5/648 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A61G 7/065 20130101;
A61G 7/0755 20130101; A47C 20/026 20130101; A47G 9/10 20130101;
A47C 20/021 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
005/636 ;
005/648; 005/632 |
International
Class: |
A47G 009/00 |
Claims
What is claimed is:
1. A support pillow for one or more areas of a human body
comprising: a single-piece pillow body of uniform density having a
flat lower surface; an upper surface disposed at an incline to the
lower surface, wherein said lower surface and said upper surface
form oppositely disposed ends therebetween; and side edges disposed
along the upper surface between said oppositely disposed ends.
2. The support pillow of claim 1, wherein said upper surface is
planar or curved.
3. The support pillow of claim 1, wherein said side edges are
linear or curved.
4. The support pillow of claim 3, wherein side edges are curved
proximate to one of said oppositely disposed ends.
5. The support pillow of claim 1, wherein one or both of said
oppositely disposed ends curves outwardly.
6. The support pillow of claim 1, wherein one or both of said
oppositely disposed ends have an upper outwardly curved component
and a lower planar component.
7. The support pillow of claim 1, wherein the end at a lower edge
of said inclined surface is planar.
8. The support pillow of claim 1, wherein said upper inclined
surface in combination with one or both of said ends of the pillow
body comprises a support means for the support pillow.
9. The support pillow of claim 1, wherein said upper inclined
surface in combination with one of said ends of the pillow body and
one of said side edges comprises a support means for the support
pillow.
10. The support pillow of claim 1, wherein said upper inclined
surface in combination with one or both of said ends of the pillow
body and one or both of said side edges comprises a support means
for the support pillow.
11. The support pillow of claim 1, wherein said pillow body has a
width of about 13 in.
12. The support pillow of claim 1, wherein said pillow body has a
length of about 25 in.
13. The support pillow of claim 1, wherein one of said oppositely
disposed ends has a height up to about 1.0 inches and the other of
said oppositely disposed ends has a height of about 3 inches to
about 4 inches.
14. A support pillow for one or more areas of a human body,
comprising: a single-piece pillow body of uniform density a flat
lower surface; a planar upper surface disposed at an incline to the
lower surface, wherein said lower surface and said upper surface
form oppositely disposed curved ends therebetween; and side edges
disposed along the upper surface between said oppositely disposed
ends.
15. The support pillow of claim 14, wherein said oppositely
disposed ends curve outwardly.
16. The support pillow of claim 14, wherein said inclined planar
upper surface in combination with one or both of said ends of the
pillow body comprises a support means for the support pillow.
17. The support pillow of claim 14, wherein said inclined planar
upper surface in combination with one of said ends of the pillow
body and one of said side edges comprises a support means for the
support pillow.
18. The support pillow of claim 14, wherein said inclined planar
upper surface in combination with one or both of said ends of the
pillow body and one or both of said side edges comprises a support
means for the support pillow.
19. The support pillow of claim 14, wherein said pillow body has a
width of about 13 inches.
20. The support pillow of claim 14, wherein said pillow body has a
length of about 25 inches.
21. The support pillow of claim 14, wherein one of said curved ends
has a height up to about 1.0 inches and the other of said curved
ends has a height of about 3 inches to about 4 inches.
22. A method of maintaining body alignment and weight distribution
of an individual in a substantially prone position to prevent or
alleviate stress on the body during a period of rest, comprising:
positioning the pillow body of the support pillow of claim 1 in
supportive juxtaposition to an area of the body encompassing shins,
ankles and feet of the individual; or positioning said pillow body
in supportive juxtaposition to an area of the body encompassing the
head, the head and neck or the head, neck and shoulder of the
individual; or positioning said pillow body in supportive
juxtaposition to an area of the body encompassing the torso of the
individual; or positioning two or three pillow bodies in supportive
juxtaposition to two or three of said supported areas; wherein the
juxtaposition of the inclined upper surface in combination with one
or both of the ends or with one or both of the side edges or with
one or both of said ends and one or both of said side edges of said
pillow body to one or more of said areas of the body maintains body
alignment and body support in the substantially prone position
thereby preventing or alleviating stress thereon.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a continuation-in-part of
non-provisional U.S. Ser. No. 10/403,586, filed Mar. 31, 2003,
which claims benefit of provisional U.S. Ser. No. 60/371,082, filed
Apr. 9, 2002, now abandoned.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] 1. Field of the Invention
[0003] The invention relates to body support pillows. Specifically
the invention relates to a multi-use support pillow having an
additional, novel utility for lower leg support and body alignment
while resting in a substantially horizontal bodily position.
[0004] 2. Description of the Related Art
[0005] For many years inventors and laypersons have attempted to
find improved ways to achieve a more peaceful and pain-free lateral
resting position. They have done so with the hopes of lessening
issues of tossing and turning, discomfort, unease, or resultant
bodily pain. These issues are associated with each of the three
different, main resting positions, that is, either on one's side,
stomach, or back. Furthermore, within each of these three main
resting positions, there are varying degrees of positioning that
also lead to the same or similar problems.
[0006] For each of these main resting positions, there arise
different issues with which to contend, all of which have been
associated primarily and more specifically with back, hip, or neck
discomfort. In part, these discomforts are caused by the
incongruencies between the flat resting surface and the natural
curvatures of the body, combined with the effects of gravity.
Resolving these discomforts has and still remains one of the major
objectives for those who work in the current field. It is clear
there is still a great need for additional resolution to these
incongruencies. This is demonstrated easily by the continuing
actions of the many persons in the world who are still searching
for ways to achieve a better night's sleep, as well as the millions
who are still waking every day with bodily pain and discomfort.
[0007] For example, while resting on one's side, the leg that is
non-adjacent to the resting surface, the "top" leg, will drop to
the resting surface resulting in a downward pull on the top of the
hip or lower-back, whereby potential discomfort is caused in both
areas. Also, it will always be the case with this resting position
that there is an uneven or asymmetrical distribution of weight on
the body from the affects of gravity, which can lead to discomfort,
unease, or poor muscular and skeletal alignment. There is no way to
totally resolve this situation, unless the affects of gravity on
the body are stopped altogether. However, assistance is found in
the current art for persons who choose to rest on his or her
side.
[0008] A support designed to fit between the legs for elevation
helps achieve a more even lateral upper leg, hip, and back
alignment. Some of the current support means accomplishes this, but
many do not provide support for the lower part of the leg. Thus,
the lower leg will still pull down on the area above the knee
region, which potentially causes a problem similar to the original
one, albeit it possibly with less intensity of resultant
discomfort. There still remains a great potential for resultant
discomfort on the knee, thigh and hip region instead of the lower
back under such circumstances. The original issue might be resolved
to some extent, but new ones arise because of these
`half-solutions`. It is also clear that much of the prior art does
not allow for versatility in use for other areas of the body, inter
alia, head, neck, back, hips, thighs, ankles, feet, and limits
maneuverability of the user, while being offered as a single unit
design.
[0009] While resting on one's back, the primary discomfort is found
in the lower back region, with potential discomfort all the way up
into the neck. The primary cause for the lower back discomfort is
the shape of the lower spinal curvature juxtaposed with the flat
resting surface. This natural body curvature prevents an even
distribution of body weight on the resting, support surface, which
subsequently leads to muscular or skeletal discomfort. Attempts to
solve this problem have been made by placing a support for
elevation underneath the back of the thighs. This means of support
helps rotate the buttocks and hips upward and pulls the lower spine
curvature downward, which allows the lower back region to rest more
evenly on the resting surface area, thus lessening the strain on
the lower-back muscles and spine. Many means of support in the
current art provide such support, but lack versatility of use or
are very bulky in size, which takes away from the maneuverability
of the user. Furthermore, when not in use, storage of such items is
aesthetically unpleasing or inconvenient for the user.
[0010] Resting on one's stomach has been linked primarily to back
and hip discomfort, yet this resting position, if the body is
aligned symmetrically, allows for an even distribution of weight
throughout the entire body. Symmetrical body positioning and even
weight distribution are desirable, as the muscular and skeletal
pressures are the same on both sides or halves of the body,
allowing for even stress from the affects of gravity on the body as
a system, which simultaneously grows or repairs itself during the
resting period. Also, in this resting position, most, but not all,
of the body is capable of resting evenly on the resting surface,
and this is where the identification of original discomfort begins.
The eventual tossing and turning or lower back or hip discomfort,
stress, or pain associated with this resting position can be
identified and understood through a process-oriented
perspective.
[0011] In the stomach resting position, most of the trunk and lower
body will lie evenly on the resting surface, but the top of the
delicate toes and feet will carry the burden of the weight of the
lower leg. The shin, foot, and ankle areas are incapable of resting
flat or evenly along the resting surface. This happens due to the
inability of most persons to fully straighten the ankle in respect
to the shin. This leads to eventual discomfort in the top of the
delicate toes, feet, or ankles.
[0012] The body then compensates by pivoting one or both of the
ankles to the side and, because everything in the body is
connected, the rest of the leg and hip pivot to the side as well.
The discomfort is alleviated in the foot area, but new discomforts
arise in the hips or lower-back due to asymmetry in body
positioning and weight distribution or to the unnatural position
when both legs pivot out at close to a 90 degree angle starting at
the ankles. With this new set of circumstantial discomforts, the
body does not return to the original point of discomfort, but
generally compensates again with an upward movement of one of the
legs, thereby temporarily relieving the static position associated
with the discomfort in the hip or lower-back regions.
Unfortunately, this only increases the asymmetry of body
positioning with greater likelihood of discomfort and potential
bodily pains with every inch of leg movement upward, because the
amount of asymmetry is increased as the leg moves up and away from
the body, along with an increased lack of support with upward torso
elevation away from the support surface. The cycle is set in motion
until the person turns completely over onto the side, which brings
into play an entirely new set of circumstantial discomforts.
[0013] While resting on one's side, as stated previously, because
of the totally asymmetrical position of the body and the apparent
irresolvable affects of gravity, discomfort will arise for most
persons, at which point the person will either turn over onto the
back (again with a new set of circumstantial discomforts as
described above), onto the opposite side with only temporary
relief, or return to resting on the stomach. The vicious cycle
continues with tossing and turning all night, which takes away from
the quality of rest the body needs, all with discomfort and
potentially resultant bodily pains within and upon rising from the
resting context.
[0014] Hence, from a process-oriented perspective, the originating
point(s) for discomfort are identified and how the subsequent
byproduct of tossing and turning, unease, or bodily pains is caused
is understood. From this point a proper solution can be devised and
offered to help persons achieve a healthier period of rest.
[0015] However, attempts at resolution have been aimed at fighting
the byproduct, instead of attacking the root causal factor. This is
one of the greatest unmet needs of today's current art of pillow
support. In fact, the prior art teaches away from resting on the
stomach. U.S. Pat. No. 5,199,124 is designed for the purpose of
preventing a person from resting on his or her stomach.
Additionally, U.S. Pat. No. 6,182,314 states that one of the
objectives of the invention is to inhibit an individual from lying
on his or her stomach.
[0016] Head or neck discomforts are associated with all of these
aforementioned resting positions. The current field has found
numerous ways of supporting the head and neck in differing
positions to resolve potential discomfort, but there are drawbacks
that pertain to versatility of the head support overall, which
essentially locks the user into one or two resting positions alone.
An example of this is U.S. Pat. No. 6,345,401 that discloses a
support pillow having two curved sides for a person to rest either
on his or her side or back, but lacks the versatility to be used
while resting on the stomach. This support pillow also lacks
`flippability` for equal use on either lateral side of the support
surface and can only be used on one side.
[0017] Generally, most prior support articles until now have
addressed only part of the problem. These prior support articles
have limited areas of body coverage and lack the proper
intervention point(s) whereby a more peaceful period of rest can be
accomplished, while allowing for versatility of use and
maneuverability of the user and while simultaneously maintaining
desired comfort levels. Further drawbacks include bulkiness of the
support articles, expense of manufacturing, which equals end-user
expense, inadequate support, or lack of ease in storing the support
object when not in use. This field is crowded with many pillows,
mattresses, cushions, and wedges made of gelatin, liquid, or air
filled for the head, neck, torso, back, hips, thighs, knees, feet,
and ankles. Not one of these is, by design, used potentially for
all these different areas of the body, while in any lateral resting
position, and offered as a single-piece unit.
[0018] In considering prior art mattresses, U.S. Pat. Nos.
4,665,573 and 3,808,615 disclose attempts by the inventors to help
support either the ankles and foot area, lower-back, or head and
neck areas. Both inventions provide a limited amount of
maneuverability by the users, i.e., a user cannot rest in a
diagonal position in respect to the mattress itself. Other obvious
drawbacks to both of these examples of mattresses are the expense,
bulkiness of the unit and lack of versatility in use.
[0019] With respect to the torso area body of coverage, U.S. Pat.
Nos. 5,245,719 and 5,497,519 each disclose very bulky units that
restrict the ways in which the body may be positioned and that lack
versatility in use. With respect to back of the thigh elevation for
lower-back support, U.S. Pat. No. 4,432,108 is limited in that the
support continues down toward the ankle area thereby losing the
leg's potential for side-to-side pivoting, as well as locking the
user into one resting position alone. See also U.S. Pat. Nos.
5,173,979 and 5,497,520. The size of both units is very large and
bulky, and essentially restricts the range of movements of the
user. This limits the user to one body position alone, negating the
possibility of lying on the side or stomach. U.S. Pat. Nos.
5,797,153 and 5,878,453 both exemplify attempts to solve the
lower-back issue through thigh elevation support means, but both
are bulky units that limit the user's maneuverability on the
resting surface and lack versatility of use, in particular, fully
resting on one's stomach.
[0020] U.S. Pat. No. 6,182,314 instantiates a support means for
elevation of the upper thighs for lower-back support and alignment
while resting on one's back, as well as a different use of placing
the support between the knees and legs for lateral body alignment
while resting on one's side. It comprises versatile elevation
through removable/attachable layers for varying sizes and comfort
of the user, which in itself is an agreeable way to help more
people, however the user must change the elevation of the unit
outside the resting context. This adds to complexity of use and
makes it more probable that the user will be aroused from an
otherwise potentially more restful state. In respect to resting on
the side, this item only supports the thighs and does not allow the
user to support the entire leg, which leads to potential
discomfort, as described above, in the knee and hip areas. This
support means also lacks the versatility of use while resting on
the stomach, and as also mentioned above, teaches away from resting
on the stomach.
[0021] Other prior art support pillows do not have a unit body
structure. U.S. Pat. No. 4,803,743 discloses a therapeutic pillow
for supporting the head and neck. Support is provided by a pair of
pillow members which when bonded together combine to form a pillow
of variable densities. Thus, in addition to a more complex
structure, the degree of support varies throughout the pillow and
is dependent upon placement of the head and neck on a particular
location on the pillow surface. The support pillow is not designed
to support and align parts of the body other than the head and
neck.
[0022] A need in the art still exists to provide a single multi-use
support pillow capable of supporting almost any body part or
combination of body parts in any substantially horizontal resting
position with the added ease of adjustment for size and comfort
levels inside the resting position. Specifically, the prior art is
deficient in a multi-use support pillow combining an inclined
support surface with supportive ends and side edges to provide the
proper support and body alignment for those who choose to rest on
the side, stomach, back, or throughout the range of different
possible resting positions therebetween. The present invention
fulfills this long-standing need and desire in the art.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0023] The multi-use support pillow described herein is constructed
to provide satisfaction and resolution for an existing unmet need
in providing more comfortable resting support and posture for an
individual in any substantially horizontal position. The multi-use
support pillow is lightweight, non-bulky, easy to use and
inexpensive. An inclined support surface in combination with curved
and/or partially curved and/or uncurved or planar ends and
supportive side edges provides improved support for the toes,
ankles, feet, shins, thighs, back, torso, shoulders, neck, and head
or combinations thereof for individuals who choose to rest on the
side, stomach, back, or throughout the range of different possible
resting positions therebetween. Size and comfort versatility is
accommodated by having the user simply and easily adjust for
different size and comfort levels inside the resting position with
a mere shift of the support structure in respect to the body.
[0024] The present invention is directed to a support pillow for
one or more areas of a human body. The pillow comprises a
single-piece pillow body. of a uniformly dense pillow material that
has a flat lower surface and an upper surface disposed at an
incline to the lower surface, where the lower surface and the upper
surface form oppositely disposed ends therebetween, and side edges
disposed along the upper surface between the oppositely disposed
ends.
[0025] The present invention also is directed to a related support
pillow for one or more areas of a human body also comprising a
single piece pillow body of a uniformly dense pillow material. The
related support pillow comprises a planar upper surface disposed at
an incline to a flat lower surface, where the lower surface and the
planar upper surface form oppositely disposed curved ends
therebetween, and side edges disposed along the upper surface
between the oppositely disposed ends.
[0026] The present invention also is directed to a method of
maintaining body alignment and weight distribution within an
individual in a substantially prone position to prevent or
alleviate stress on the body during a period of rest. The pillow
body comprising the support pillow described herein is positioned
in supportive juxtaposition to an area of the body of the
individual. The area of the body may encompass the shins, ankles
and feet or may encompass the head, the head and neck or the head,
neck and shoulder or encompass the torso. Alternatively two or
three pillow bodies may be positioned in supportive juxtaposition
to two or three of the supported areas. The juxtaposition of the
inclined upper surface in combination with one or both of the ends
or with one or both of the side edges or with one or both of the
ends and one or both of the side edges of the pillow body to one or
more of the areas of the body maintains body alignment and weight
distribution in the substantially prone position thereby preventing
or alleviating stress thereon.
[0027] Other and further aspects, features, and advantages of the
present invention will be apparent from the following description
of the presently preferred embodiments of the invention. These
embodiments are given for the purpose of disclosure.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0028] FIG. 1 exemplifies a perspective view of the support
pillow.
[0029] FIG. 2A exemplifies a side view of a person resting on the
stomach with an inability to completely straighten the foot in
respect to the shin. FIG. 2B exemplifies a side view of the toe,
foot, and ankle support use while resting on one's stomach.
[0030] FIG. 3 exemplifies a side/over view of the torso support use
for a person resting on an inclined stomach-to-side resting
position.
[0031] FIG. 4 exemplifies a side view of the face-angled down, head
and neck support use while resting on one's stomach.
[0032] FIG. 5 exemplifies a side view of a lower curved-end head
support use while resting on one's stomach.
[0033] FIG. 6 exemplifies a side view of the higher curved-end neck
and head support use while resting on one's side.
[0034] FIG. 7 exemplifies a side view of the between the thighs,
knees, and ankles support use while resting on one's side.
[0035] FIG. 8A exemplifies a side view of a person resting on his
or her back with the lower spinal curvature's inability to lie
evenly on the resting surface.
[0036] FIG. 8B exemplifies a side view of the under-the-thigh,
lower-back support use while resting on one's back.
[0037] FIG. 9 exemplifies a side view of the higher curved end neck
and head support use while resting on one's back.
[0038] FIG. 10 exemplifies a side view of the inclined head, neck,
or shoulder support use while resting on one's back.
[0039] FIG. 11 exemplifies a perspective view of one possible
alternative embodiment.
[0040] FIG. 12 exemplifies a perspective view of another possible
alternative embodiment.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0041] In one embodiment of the present invention there is provided
a support pillow for one or more areas of a human body, comprising
a single-piece pillow body of a uniformly dense material having a
flat lower surface; an upper surface disposed at an incline to the
lower surface, where the lower surface and the upper surface form
oppositely disposed ends therebetween; and side edges disposed
along the upper surface between the oppositely disposed ends.
[0042] In all aspects of this embodiment the pillow body may have a
width of about 13 inches. Also, the pillow body may have a length
of about 25 inches. Additionally, one of the oppositely disposed
ends may have a height up to about 1.0 inches and the other of the
oppositely disposed ends may have a height of about 3 inches to
about 4 inches.
[0043] In aspects of this embodiment, the upper surface of the
support pillow may be planar or curved. Also, in other aspects one
or both of the oppositely disposed ends curve outwardly.
Alternatively, one or both of the oppositely disposed ends may have
an upper outwardly curved component and a lower planar component.
In another aspect, the end at a lower edge of the inclined surface
may be planar. In additional aspects, the side edges may be linear
or curved. In a particular aspect the side edges may be curved
proximate to one of said oppositely disposed ends.
[0044] In one aspect of this embodiment, the upper inclined surface
in combination with one or both of said ends of the pillow body
comprises a support means for the support pillow. In another
related aspect, the upper inclined surface in combination with one
of the ends of the pillow body and one of the side edges comprises
a support means for the support pillow. In yet another related
aspect, the upper inclined surface in combination with one or both
of the ends of the pillow body and one or both of the side edges
comprises a support means for the support pillow.
[0045] In a related embodiment of the present invention there is
provided a support pillow for one or more areas of a human body,
comprising a single-piece pillow body of a uniformly dense material
having a flat lower surface; a planar upper surface disposed at an
incline to the lower surface, where the lower surface and the upper
surface form oppositely disposed curved ends therebetween; and side
edges disposed along the upper surface between the oppositely
disposed ends. In an aspect of this embodiment the oppositely
disposed ends may curve outwardly. Furthermore, in all aspects the
dimensions of the pillow body and the support means comprising the
combinations of the inclined planar upper surface, one or both of
the curved ends and one or both of the side edges is as described
supra.
[0046] In another embodiment of the present invention there is
provided a method of maintaining body alignment and weight
distribution of an individual in a substantially prone position to
prevent or alleviate stress on the body during a period of rest
comprising positioning the pillow body of the support pillow
described supra in supportive juxtaposition to an area of the body
encompassing shins, ankles and feet of the individual; or
positioning said pillow body in supportive juxtaposition to an area
of the body encompassing the head, the head and neck or the head,
neck and shoulder of the individual; or positioning said pillow
body in supportive juxtaposition to an area of the body
encompassing the torso of the individual; or positioning two or
three pillow bodies in supportive juxtaposition to two or three of
said supported areas; where the juxtaposition of the inclined
planar upper surface in combination with one or both of the ends or
with one or both of the side edges or with one or both of said ends
and one or both of said side edges of said pillow body to one or
more of said areas of the body maintains body alignment and weight
distribution in the substantially prone position thereby preventing
or alleviating stress thereon.
[0047] The present invention provides a multi-use support pillow
having numerous advantages over prior art support pillows that
translate into higher quality in terms of functional versatility
for certain uses in all main regions of the body. The multi-use
support pillow provides greater overall user maneuverability along
the resting surface. Thus, the support pillow provided herein is
constructed to support the body at the head, neck, shoulders, back,
torso, thighs, shins, ankles, feet, or toes, or appropriate
anatomical combinations thereof, while resting on the side, back,
stomach or varying degrees between these positions. Additionally,
the multi-use support pillow comprises relatively inexpensive
materials thereby potentially allowing a greater number of people
to gain from the benefits the support pillow provides.
[0048] The multi-use support pillow is constructed as a single unit
with a lower planar surface and an upper inclined support surface.
The inclined support surface may be planar or curved. These
surfaces comprise an upper end and a lower end therebetween. The
ends each may be uniformly curved, partially curved or a
combination thereof. The planar and incline support surfaces
further have side edges therebetween. The side-edges may be linear
or curved.
[0049] The configuration of the inclined support surface, one or
both of the upper and lower ends of the support pillow, a side edge
or a combination thereof provides the requisite support for the one
or more body parts supported thereon. The dimensions of the
multi-use support pillow results in ease of maneuverability while
in a resting or substantially horizontal position. Additionally,
the dimensions of the support pillow are defined so that one or
more support pillows may be positioned to support different
individual body parts or a combination of body parts such that
proper symmetrical alignment of the entire body is maintained in
the chosen position. The multi-use support pillow has dimensions,
for example as described herein, although not limited to said, such
that the use of one support pillow will not interfere with
placement and proper support of additional support pillows used
simultaneously.
[0050] Without being limited to values for length, width and
height, it is contemplated that the support pillow may have
increased or decreased dimensions, from those described herein.
These may be determined, for example, by below average, average or
above-average height ranges for humans, to provide proper support
in a comfortable manner. Additionally, the use of a support pillow
having an increase or decrease, or a combination thereof, in
dimension(s) will not interfere with the simultaneous placement and
proper support of the support pillow described herein.
[0051] The multi-use support pillow is a single piece construction
of a light weight, uniformly dense and compressible, but
supportive, material suitable for use in a pillow. For example, the
support pillow may be a single-piece of foam shaped to have the
support features described herein. Although not limited to such, an
example of a foam material is a visco-elastic foam. The
visco-elastic foam may comprise characteristics such as heat
sensitivity and slow rebound from compression. This allows the
pillow to "mold" to the areas of the body in contact with the
support pillow. This in combination with the support provided by
the configuration of the inclined surface, side edges and ends of
the pillow prevents the pillow from being simply crushed or
flattened by the body part supported thereon.
[0052] The multi-use support pillow may comprise a covering means.
Pillow covers are well known and standard in the art and may
comprise a light-weight cloth or fabric, such as, but not limited
to, terry cloth. The support pillow itself may be spot cleaned. The
cloth or fabric is washable, but, optionally, may be at least
water-resistant or comprise a water-resistant or water-proof
surface that is disposed adjacent the outer surface of the pillow
body. The cloth or fabric may be treated to be at least
water-resistant or comprise such properties in and of itself.
Furthermore, the cloth or fabric may comprise a
flame-retardant.
[0053] The multi-use support pillow may be inserted into an opening
on the pillow cover that is designed so that the pillow cover
completely covers and retains the support pillow therein.
Alternatively, the pillow cover further may comprise means to
fasten the pillow cover. Fastening means may be, but are not
limited to, a zipper, snaps, buttons, or Velcro. The pillow cover
is designed so that any opening therein or fastening means thereof
do not interfere with the supportive features of the multi-use
support pillow nor the comfort of the user.
[0054] It is an object of the present invention to provide a
non-bulky, easy-to-use support pillow for all identified resting
positions. During use, the multi-use support pillow provides
support for almost every area of the body thereby helping the user
rest more evenly on the support surface, help align or maintain
proper body alignment while resting on the side, stomach, or back,
and help distribute weight more evenly throughout the body. During
use an individual may rest comfortably while maintaining a correct
symmetrical bodily alignment position in the chosen resting
position using one or more support pillows to support one or more
individual body parts or combinations of body parts. Furthermore,
the multi-use support pillow provides ease in adjustability within
the resting context and in body positioning.
[0055] Particularly, for an individual resting on his or her
stomach the head may be supported by one of the side edges allowing
for a clear, unobstructed nasal passageway. The lower leg may be
supported so that less tossing and turning, discomfort, or pain
resulting from the initial point of discomfort on the top of the
delicate toes and foot while resting on the stomach. Specifically,
positioning the support pillow under the shin, ankle, and foot
redistributes the main pressure on the top of the delicate toes and
feet more evenly across the lower leg, while resting on the stomach
to maintain symmetrical alignment of the trunk and lower-body.
[0056] Also, for an individual resting on his or her side,
between-the-legs placement achieves full lower leg support for
lateral bodily alignment. Furthermore, for an individual resting on
his or her back under-the-thigh elevation will cause the hips to
pivot upward and to drop the lower-back downward for more even
weight distribution and support on the flat resting surface, thus
reducing stress on the lower-back area.
[0057] More particularly, it is contemplated that the multi-use
support pillow may have, although not limited to, the following
uses. First, it can be used while resting on one's stomach under
the shin, ankle, and foot to support and distribute the weight on
the delicate toes and top of the foot more evenly across the lower
leg to eliminate discomfort in the hips and back areas. Secondly,
it can be used as a head, neck, or shoulder support pillow for
straightening or supporting the cervical alignment while resting on
the side, back, or stomach. Thirdly, it can be used in conjunction
with a conventional pillow to raise the head in a more comfortable
position for reading, watching TV, or any other activity whereby
the person would like the head to be elevated and tilted forward
for viewing. Fourthly, it can be used as a torso pillow while lying
on the side or stomach to help support and distribute the weight on
this area of the body more evenly, thereby reducing stress on
certain areas of the torso, lower-back, or hips. Fifthly, it can be
used as a "hug pillow" by persons who like to have something up
against the front part of the body while lying down. Sixthly, it
can be used to elevate the thigh region while lying on one's back
to allow the hip area near the lumbar region to pivot downwardly
while the hip area near the the thigh region pivots upwardly with
respect to the body, which allows the lower lumbar area to shift
down toward the resting surface for more even distribution of body
weight, thus helping alleviate potential stress in the lower-back.
Seventhly, it can be used while a person is resting on the side by
positioning the support pillow between the legs to shift the hips
into a more evenly aligned body position, all the way from the hips
down to the ankles, which alleviates potential strain on the knees,
hips, and lower-back, and allows users of various sizes to select
level of comfort through the support pillow's positioning.
[0058] As described herein, the invention provides a number of
therapeutic advantages and uses. Embodiments of the present
invention are better described below with reference to the Figures,
however, such description or reference is not meant to limit the
present invention in any fashion. The embodiments and variations
described in detail herein are to be interpreted by the appended
claims and equivalents thereof.
Reference Numerals Used in the Figures
[0059] 20--Lower curved end
[0060] 22--Inclined support surface
[0061] 24--Side edge
[0062] 25--Support pillow
[0063] 26--Higher curved end
[0064] 28--Higher curved end height
[0065] 30--Support width
[0066] 32--Support length
[0067] 34--Lower curved end height
[0068] As shown in the drawings for purposes of illustration, in
FIGS. 1-10, the invention is generally embodied in a support pillow
25 made of foam.
[0069] FIG. 1 shows the support pillow 25 as a single piece unit
with an inclined support surface 22, spanning a support width 30
between two surface ends having an inner concave shape, a higher
curved end 26 and a lower curved end 20 of differing heights, a
higher curved end height 28 and a lower curved end height 34,
respectively. At each end of the support pillow 25 along a support
length 32, there is a side edge 24. In this embodiment the support
length 32 is about 25 inches, the support width 30 is about 13.5
inches, the higher curved end height 28 is about 3.5 inches, the
lower curved end height 34 is about 0.5 inch, and side edge 24 is
angled 90 degrees.
[0070] With continued reference to FIG. 1, FIGS. 2A-2B and 7-10
depict uses of the support pillow 25 for each different resting
position. In general, as shown in FIGS. 1-10 for all uses, the
higher curved end 26 and the lower curved end 20 are each
symmetrical, which allows for the support pillow 25 to be used on
either lateral side. Thus, the support pillow 25 can be rotated or
"flipped" over laterally and used on either side with equal
functionality on both sides.
[0071] Specifically, FIGS. 2A-2B and FIGS. 7-10 illustrate a user
of support pillow 25 as either resting on the user's side, back,
stomach or differing degrees of resting positions between them for
the corresponding areas of body coverage. More specifically, when
opting to rest on one's stomach, there are numerous potential uses
for the support pillow 25, as illustrated herein.
[0072] FIG. 2A illustrates the normal inability of most persons to
fully straighten the foot in respect to the shin, which would allow
him or her to rest the lower leg more evenly across the resting
surface. This inability leads to potential discomfort in the toes,
feet, or ankles.
[0073] In contrast to FIG. 2A, FIG. 2B provides a novel approach in
creating a more comfortable and appropriate bodily position for
those who wish to rest on the stomach is illustrated. Even though
many persons have described this resting position as irreconcilably
troublesome, identifying the main point of initial discomfort,
which sets in motion the process of tossing and turning leading to
potential bodily aches and pains, is the key first step to
understanding this unmet need.
[0074] FIG. 2B illustrates the proper positioning for the support
pillow 25 to eliminate initial discomfort and thereby the resulting
unwanted effects. The lower curved end 20 curvature and the lower
curved end height 34 allow for a non-intrusive, comfortable contact
point providing a transition of weight of the lower leg onto the
inclined support surface 22. The weight from the lower legs is
distributed more evenly across the inclined support surface 22
throughout the support width 30 with an inclination in respect to
the resting surface due to the difference in the lower curved end
height 34, the higher curved end height 28, and the support width
30. The higher curved end height 28 and the higher curved end 26
provide an elevated curvature that contours to the ankles without
restricting the ankles' range of motion, thus providing support and
maneuverability for the user's lower leg. This resolves the
discomfort on the delicate foot and toes, thereby allowing the
individual to maintain a symmetrical trunk-to-lower body alignment
with an even distribution of weight on the body.
[0075] FIG. 3 illustrates another use of the support pillow 25 for
the torso region while opting to rest on the stomach-to-side. The
lower curved end 20 curvature and lower curved height 34 meet the
user's body in a non-intrusive, comfortable manner allowing the
torso area to rest on the inclined support surface 22 to whatever
degree of coverage chosen, e.g., between slight use to full torso
support. As the leg moves out and away from the body, the hip on
the same side as the projecting leg is elevated, creating a
stressful pull on the back or hip areas, which then are not
properly supported. Inserting the support pillow under the torso,
especially the lower torso, area helps reduce the stress in these
areas. Due to the difference in the higher curved end height 28 and
the lower curved end height 34 along the support width 30, there
exists an inclination of the inclined support surface 22 of the
support pillow 25, which can be used for a variety of elevations,
whereby the user chooses how much support height he or she would
like. The support width 30 and support length 32 provide the user
with versatility and maneuverability with part or whole torso,
back, and hip support and comfort. Moving the support pillow down
or the body upward can provide support for the extending leg in
part or in toto depending on the user's desire.
[0076] FIG. 4 illustrates another use of the support pillow 25
while resting on one's stomach. The curvature of lower curved end
20 and lower curved height 34 meet the user's body in a
non-intrusive, comfortable manner allowing the head to rest on the
inclined support surface 22 and side edge 24. The user can move
along the support width 30 on the inclined support surface 22 and
the side edge 24 for varied chosen elevated support of the head or
chest due to the inclination derived from the difference in the
lower curved end height 34, the higher curved end height 28, and
the support width 30. This allows the user great versatility and
maneuverability while using the support pillow 25 in this manner.
This particular use allows the user to maintain greater symmetrical
upper body head, neck, and upper back alignment, thus reducing
strain on the upper shoulder and neck regions. The user can also
maintain a variety of differing angles for supporting the head on
the side edge 24. The 90-degree angle of the side edge 24 allows
the user to overhang the nose, which supports the head and
stimulates the nasal passage, which helps open the nasal passage
airway for clearer and more open breathing.
[0077] FIG. 5 illustrates another use of the support pillow 25
while resting on one's stomach. The lower curved end 20 and lower
curved height 34 meet the user's body in a non-intrusive,
comfortable manner allowing the head to rest on the inclined
support surface 22. The user can move along the support width 30
and inclined support surface 22 for varied chosen elevated support
for the chest, neck, or head, due to the inclination derived from
the difference in the lower curved end height 34, the higher curved
end height 28, and the support width 30. This allows the user great
versatility and maneuverability while using the support pillow 25
in this manner. More specifically, when opting to rest on one's
side, there are numerous uses for the support pillow 25, as
illustrated in FIGS. 6 and 7.
[0078] FIG. 6 illustrates one use of the support pillow 25 that
provides a contoured support surface for the head and neck while
resting on one's side. The higher curved end height 28 and the
higher curved end 26 provide an elevated support surface and
contour, respectively, to comfortably support the neck while the
head rests on the inclined support surface 22, which has an actual
declination in respect to the higher curved end height 28 down
toward the lower curved end height 34. The support pillow 25
provides a contoured support that allows an even distribution of
weight of the head and neck, as well as helping maintain head,
neck, and spinal alignment.
[0079] FIG. 7 illustrates the support pillow 25 used for body
alignment for the side resting position. Placed between the legs
along the support length 32, the support pillow 25 helps maintain a
lateral alignment of the legs, hips, and lower back of the body,
thereby reducing potential stress on these areas. The varying
height of the flat-raised support surface 22 throughout the support
width 30, due to the differences of the lower curved end height 34
and the higher curved end height 28, allows users of varying sizes
to choose the elevation of the entire leg region by simply sliding
the support pillow 25 toward the body, i.e., increasing the
elevation, or away from the body, i.e., decreasing the elevation,
with respect to the front of the legs or body. The lower curved end
20 allows the user a non-intrusive, comfortable contact or
insertion point between the legs. More specifically, when opting to
rest on one's back, there are additional uses for the support
pillow, as illustrated in FIGS. 8B-10.
[0080] FIG. 8A is a side view of a person resting on the back with
the lower spinal curvature's inability to lay evenly on the resting
surface; thereby resulting in potential lower-back discomfort due
to lack of support of said area. FIG. 8B illustrates the
behind-the-thigh use of the support pillow 25, which allows the
body, in particular the lower-back region, to align more evenly on
the resting surface, thereby alleviating some of the stress caused
by the weight of the body suspended above the resting surface,
which lacks support. The support pillow 25 comfortably meets the
buttocks or back of the upper thigh because of the design of the
lower-curved end 20 and the lower curved end height 34. The support
pillow provides the inclination of the inclined support surface 22
between the lower curved end 20 and higher curved end 26 through
the difference between the higher curved end height 28 and the
lower curved end height 34, along with the support width 30. The
backs of the thighs rest on the inclined support surface 22 up to
the higher curved end 26. The higher curved end 26 and the higher
curved end height 28 provide a curvature to help contour and
support, respectively, the back of the knee, which will be allowed
to fall back comfortably and naturally to the resting surface. The
resultant elevation of the thighs on the support pillow 25 pivots
the buttock and hips downward in respect to the body, which causes
the lower-back region to move down and align more evenly with the
resting surface; thus helping to alleviate potential lower-back
discomfort due to the natural curvature of the lower spine for more
even weight distribution on the resting surface.
[0081] FIG. 9 illustrates another use of the support pillow 25 for
neck and head support while resting on the back. The higher curved
end height 28 provides support to the neck's natural elevation and
the higher curved end 26 provides a curvature appropriate for
contoured support of the neck and head. The differences between the
higher curved end height 28 and the lower curved end height 34
along the support width 30 creates a declination, in respect to the
head and neck regions, appropriate for the contour of the back of
the head and neck along and on top of the inclined support surface
22.
[0082] FIG. 10 illustrates another use of the support pillow 25 for
the head, neck, or shoulders while resting on the back. The support
pillow 25 meets the shoulders or neck at the lower-curved end 20,
which allows a non-intrusive, comfortable meeting point because of
the curvature shape of the lower-curved end 20 and the lower curved
end height 34. Due to the differences of the lower curved end
height 34 and the higher curved end height 28, the user is now
allowed to rest more evenly on the support pillow 25, creating an
even distribution of weight of the head, neck or shoulders on the
inclined surface 22.
[0083] FIG. 11 is an alternative embodiment of the support pillow
25 having a modification of the embodiment depicted in FIG. 1. The
curvature of the higher curved end 26 and the lower curved end 20
have a semi-arched curvature over an upper portion of the higher
curved end height 28 and have a semi-arched curvature over an upper
portion of the lower curved end height 28. This embodiment can be
varied in support width 30, support length 32, higher curved end
height 28, and lower curved end height 34, thus creating different
angles of the inclined support surface 22. The side edge 24 remains
the same for all intended purposes. This alternative embodiment is
the same in terms of the overall functional intent as the
embodiment depicted in FIGS. 1-10, except the support pillow has
only one inclined support surface 22, effectively removing the
ability to rotate or to flip the support pillow 25. This
potentially allows the invention to be manufactured at a lower
cost, which will equal lower end-user cost.
[0084] FIG. 12 is another alternative embodiment of the support
pillow 25 having a different modification of the embodiment
depicted in FIG. 1. The side edge now has a curved edge instead of
a 90-degree angle. The inclined support surface 22, spanning a
support width 30 between two concave shaped surface ends, a higher
curved end 26 and a lower curved end 20 of differing heights, a
higher curved end height 28 and a lower curved end height 34,
respectively, and the location of a side edge 24 at each end of the
support pillow 25 along a support length 32 remain the same for all
intended purposes. Functionality of this alternative embodiment is
the same as the preferred embodiment (FIGS. 1-10), except the
support pillow 25 has a side edge 24 with a slight curvature used
for the facedown position, as seen in FIG. 9. This allows the user
to turn the head to differing degrees more easily and
comfortably.
[0085] While the present invention has been described in connection
with what are presently considered to be the most practical and
preferred embodiments, it is not limited to the disclosed
embodiments alone, but to the contrary, is intended to cover
various modifications and equivalent arrangements included within
the spirit of the invention, which is set forth in the appended
claims and which scope is to be accorded the broadest
interpretation so as to encompass all such modifications and
equivalent structures.
* * * * *