Adjustable headrest assembly

Abstract

A headrest assembly for use in conjunction with occupant or passenger seats is provided. The headrest assembly can be removably attached to an occupant seat and comprises a first arm and a second arm that are moveably interconnected for adjustment. The arms form a brace around the headrest portion of the passenger seat. A support assembly is adjustably attached to the second arm and is movable between a secured position for weight-bearing support and an unsecured position, where in the unsecured position a location of the support assembly can be adjusted along the second arm. Other aspects of the disclosure provide stowable head rest assemblies.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/671,082 filed on Apr. 14, 2005, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

FIELD

[0002] The present disclosure relates to head rest devices and more particularly to an adjustable headrest assembly.

BACKGROUND

[0003] The statements in this section merely provide background information related to the present disclosure and may not constitute prior art.

[0004] Passenger seats on vehicles such as airplanes, automobiles, buses, trains, ferries and the like, generally only provide recumbent support for the neck and head. While some passengers may have an adjacent surface or window to lean against, these resting positions can be uncomfortable, as the passenger often must lean their head at angles that can result in neck pain. Further, when a seat does not significantly recline and there are space restrictions between passengers, resting or sleeping often requires turning one's head to the side. In some cases, passengers may inadvertently lean against an adjacent passenger. Such positions are not comfortable for resting and/or sleeping, particularly for long periods of time.

[0005] It would be desirable to have a device that is adjustable to individual seats that provides comfortable lateral support in a resting position to an occupant's head and upper body. Such a device may be adjusted to provide support at an appropriate position on the seat that accommodates an individual's height or preference. Further, the device may be used interchangeably in either a left or right position on the passenger seat. Such a device may be robust, lightweight, and portable. If the device is portable, it may be compact for ease of storage and travel. Further, the device may be used on a variety of different seat sizes and styles.

SUMMARY

[0006] In various aspects, a headrest assembly for a seat back may include a first arm adjustably interconnected to a second arm by a latch. The headrest assembly may further include a support assembly adjustably attached to the second arm that is movable between a secured position for weight-bearing support and an unsecured position for adjustment. In various aspects, the headrest assembly may be compactly folded during storage.

[0007] In various aspects, a headrest assembly for a seat back of an occupant seat includes a brace that includes a first arm adjustable relative to a second arm. The headrest assembly may further include a latch moveably interconnecting the first and second arms. The assembly may include a support assembly including a weight-bearing third arm and a coupling member that adjustably attaches the support assembly to the second arm for movement between a secured position for weight-bearing support and an unsecured position for adjustment. In various aspects, the headrest assembly may be compactly folded during storage.

[0008] In yet other aspects, an occupant seat has a storage compartment for storing a headrest assembly. The headrest assembly includes a vertical support that provides lateral support for an occupant's head during use. The vertical support may be articulated for folding and storage during non-use. The headrest assembly may include a head support assembly including a coupling member for attachment to the vertical support and a weight-bearing support arm. A head support apparatus is disposed on the weight-bearing support arm.

[0009] Further areas of applicability will become apparent from the description provided herein. It should be understood that the description and specific examples are intended for purposes of illustration only and are not intended to limit the scope of the claims.

DRAWINGS

[0010] The drawings described herein are for illustration purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of the teachings in any way.

[0011] FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of an exemplary passenger seat having a removable headrest assembly according to various aspects of the disclosure;

[0012] FIG. 2 shows a perspective view of a headrest assembly in accordance with various aspects of the disclosure;

[0013] FIG. 3 is an exploded view of a headrest assembly in accordance with various aspects of the disclosure;

[0014] FIG. 4 is a side view of a headrest assembly in accordance with various aspects of the disclosure having an adjustable latch in a released and unsecured position;

[0015] FIG. 5 is a side view of a headrest assembly in accordance with various aspects of the disclosure having an adjustable latch in a closed, secured position;

[0016] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a headrest assembly having a head support attached to a support assembly in a secured and weight-bearing position;

[0017] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a stowable headrest assembly for stowing in a storage compartment in an armrest according to certain aspects of the disclosure; and

[0018] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a stowable headrest assembly for stowing in a storage compartment adjacent to a seat according to certain aspects of the disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0019] The following description is merely exemplary in nature and is not intended to limit the present teachings, application, or uses. It should be understood that throughout the drawings, corresponding reference numerals indicate like or corresponding parts and features.

[0020] A headrest assembly for use in conjunction with occupant or passenger seats may be used on any seat where an occupant wishes to rest their head. In certain aspects, the headrest assembly may be removable from the passenger seat. In such aspects, the headrest assembly is transportable. The several components of the headrest assembly may be compactly disassembled and/or folded for easy transport and/or storage. In other aspects, the headrest assembly may be permanently attached to the seating equipment. In certain aspects, the permanently attached headrest assembly may be compact and foldable for stowing in a storage compartment when not in use. Thus, headrest assemblies can be used by consumers (e.g., passengers or travelers) or by the original equipment manufacturers of seats and/or seating equipment. The headrest assembly may be robust but lightweight, which makes it particularly well-suited for portability during travel.

[0021] In FIG. 1, a headrest assembly 20 is shown with an exemplary seat 10 for a passenger or occupant. The seat 10 includes a seat back 12 that supports an occupant recumbently resting in the seat 10, but generally not laterally (i.e., on the sides). The seat back 12 has a major plane extending there through, designated as "x" in FIG. 1. A passenger typically rests against the seat back 12 substantially parallel to the plane "x". As shown, a headrest assembly 20 is removably attached to the seat back 12. The seat back 12 has a first side 22, a second side 24, and a headrest portion 26. The headrest portion 26 can be integral with the seat back 12 or can be a separate component that is adjustable relative to the seat back 12, and in some cases is detachable. The headrest portion 26 provides support for an occupant as they lean back, but usually lacks significant lateral head support. In this regard, the headrest assembly 20 provides lateral head support.

[0022] In FIG. 2, a more detailed view of the headrest assembly 20 includes a first arm 30 and a second arm 32 that form a brace around the seat back 12. The first arm 30 is adapted to contact the first side 22 (FIG. 1) of the seat back 12 in that the first arm 30 has a curvature or a shape that substantially conforms to the shape of a headrest portion 26 of seat back 12 (FIG. 1) and the second arm 32 is adapted to contact the second side 24 of the seat back 12 or has a shape that substantially conforms to the headrest portion 26 (FIG. 1) of the seat back 12. The shape or contour of each of the first arm 30 and the second arm 32 substantially conforms to the headrest portion 26 of the seat back 12. By "substantially conform" it is meant that the shape of the each portion of the arm (e.g., 30, 32) may be contrapositive to the shape of the region of the headrest portion 26 of seat back 12 that it contacts, particularly in that the angle of the curve of each respective arm (e.g., 30, 32) is similar to the shape of the occupant seat back 12. However, gaps or differences in the angles or shapes are acceptable, providing a portion of each arm (e.g., 30, 32) remains in contact with the seat back 12 to attach the headrest assembly 20 thereto.

[0023] The headrest assembly 20 may further include a support assembly 40 for providing lateral support for an occupant's head. The support assembly 40 may be adjustably attached to the second arm 32 so that it may move between a secured position for weight-bearing support and an unsecured position for permitting adjustment of the support assembly 40 along the second arm 32. As shown in FIG. 2, the support assembly 40 may include a coupling member 42 for adjustable attachment to the second arm 32. A third weight-bearing arm 44 is rotatably connected to the coupling member 42 to physically support the occupant's head or face.

[0024] In FIG. 3, an exploded view of the several components of the headrest assembly 20 is provided. The coupling member 42 of the support assembly 40 has an aperture 48 adapted to receive the second arm 32. Thus, the dimensions of the aperture 48 are such that the coupling member 42 receives the second arm 32. The position of the support assembly 40 can be adjusted by sliding the coupling member 42 along the second arm 32. The coupling member 42 snugly fits on the second arm 32 to maintain a fixed position when the support assembly 40 is locked, for example, by friction forces or interference fit between the coupling member 42 and the second arm 32. As appreciated by those of skill in the art, in alternate aspects, the coupling member 42 can include any adjustable coupling means, such as hook and loop fasteners, slide or bearing mechanisms, snaps, and the like. Alternately, while not shown, the coupling member 42 can be coupled to the second arm 32 by a fixed hinge or plurality of hinges that permit rotation of the third arm 44 (not shown).

[0025] The selected position of the support assembly 40 on the second arm 32 can be adjusted based on an individual's size and preference, thus the support assembly 40 can accommodate different occupant heights by adjusting the relative position of the support assembly 40 on the second arm 32.

[0026] In certain aspects, the second arm 32 may be tapered along its length to have an increased dimension to secure the coupling member 42 at a predetermined position on the second arm 32, thus facilitating an interference fit between the second arm 32 and the coupling member 42. Optionally, the second arm 32 may have a texturized or friction force enhancing material at a predetermined position, one or more grooves, or an offset edge to receive and secure the coupling member 42 at a predetermined position.

[0027] As shown in FIG. 3, the coupling member 42 is rotatably connected to the third support arm 44. In the configuration shown, the coupling member 42 includes a first tab 50 and a second tab 52. The first and second tabs 50, 52 are adapted to receive a pivot pin 54. The pivot pin 54 is attached to the tabs 50, 52 and permits rotation of the third support arm 44. Thus, the pivot pin 54 is secured within the tabs 50, 52 by a nut 56, although any other means known to those of skill in the art may be used to fasten the pivot pin 54 to the coupling member 42 while permitting rotation.

[0028] The third support arm 44 has a first end 58 and a second end 60. The first end 58 may have a length and thickness such that it fits between the tabs 50, 52 of the coupling member 42. In certain aspects, the shape of the first end 58 permits locking within the tabs 50, 52 of the coupling mechanism when the third support arm 44 is extended to a substantially transverse position to the plane "x" of the seat back. (As shown in FIG. 1). In this position, a first contact surface 62 of the third support arm 44 contacts a second contact surface 64 on the coupling member 42 and is secured therein, as shown in FIG. 6, for example. In this secured position, the third support arm 44 is fixed and capable of bearing weight (i.e., a head or face of an occupant) without slippage.

[0029] Further, in some aspects, the coupling member 42 is made of a lightweight and strong material that has flexibility, as will be described in more detail below. In such aspects, when the first contact surface 62 of the third support arm 44 contacts the second contact surface 64 of the coupling member 42, the coupling member 42 is tightened against the second arm 32 and assists in securely fixing the coupling member 42 at a desired position on the second arm 32. When the first contact surface 62 is separated from the second contact surface 64, as shown in FIGS. 2, 4, and 5, for example, the third arm 44 is swung outward to an unsecured adjustment position and the aperture 48 of the coupling member 42 is slackened permitting movement (e.g., sliding) of the coupling member 42 along the second arm 32 to a different position on the second arm 32, as desired. In this unsecured position, the coupling member 42 (and the entire support assembly 40) may be removed from the second arm 32.

[0030] The headrest assembly 20 may also be used on a different side of the seat back 12 of the seat 10 (i.e., the occupant may wish to rest on their respective left side or right side, respective sides 27 and 28 of seat 10 of FIG. 1). The support assembly 40 has an elongated axis, designated by "A" in FIG. 3. As shown, the support assembly 40 can be rotated 180 degrees with respect to the elongated axis "A" on the second arm 32 (for example, when it is removed and flipped to a different orientation), and hence can be used in an opposite direction. Thus, the adjustable headrest assembly 20 can be used on either side of a seat (e.g., sides 27 and 28 of seat 10 FIG. 1), depending on the desired position of the occupant.

[0031] When the third arm 44 is in a secured position as shown in FIGS. 1 and 6, the first contact surface 62 is in contact with the second contact surface 64, and an angle is formed between the third arm 44 and the major plane "x" of the seat back 12. Depending on the curvature of the third arm 44 and the locking position, the angle can be transverse to the major plane "x" of the seat back 12 of the seat (i.e., the angle is 90 degrees). In various aspects, the angle can be adjusted to range from 75 degrees to 115 degrees with respect to the major plane "x" of the seat back 12, although other angles are possible. Optionally, in certain aspects, the angle is about 90 degrees to 110 degrees. These angles provide a comfortable resting position for an occupant's head. While not shown, in certain aspects the third arm 44 can also be capable of rotating about an axis of the third arm to tilt upwards to receive an occupant's head.

[0032] The third arm 44 may have a removable head support apparatus 70, as shown in FIGS. 1, 3 and 6, for example. The removable head support 70 is removably attached to the third arm 44 and provides additional comfort when the occupant's head and face contacts the support assembly 40. For example, the removable head support 70 can be a pillow-like or foam member that is removably attached to the third arm 44. As shown in FIG. 3, the removable head support 70 has fasteners 72 (e.g., strips of hook and loop fasteners) that removably mate with opposing fasteners 74 (e.g., strips of hook and loop fasteners) on the third arm 44. Other removable fastening means are also contemplated, such as a channel 76 disposed within the removable head support 70 that received the third arm 44 as shown in FIG. 6. Other removable fastening means include sleeves that receives the third arm 44 (constructed of fabric or plastic) or alternately, snaps, hooks and eyes, quick connects or any other fastening means known to those of skill in the art. As shown in FIG. 6, where a channel 76 receives the third arm 44, the removable head support 70 can likewise be used at either a 0 degree position or a 180 degree position of the support assembly 40 relative to the elongated axis "A" if the channel 76 extends through the body of the head support 70 to an opposite side 77. In alternate aspects not shown, the removable head support is permanently affixed to the support assembly 40 and is slid on and off the second arm 32 with the support assembly 40. In yet other aspects, the support assembly 40 and the head support 70 can be permanently affixed to the second arm 32 and are generally used in a single orientation.

[0033] The first and second arms 30, 32 may be movably, adjustably interconnected to one another, thus the first arm 30 moves relative to the second arm 32. This provides flexibility in using the headrest assembly 20 for a variety of different vertical passenger seat 10 sizes while still enabling the desired support and bracing against the seat 10. Further, the adjustability of the arms 30, 32 permits movement from a first side of the seat (27 of seat 10 FIG. 1) to a second side of a seat (28 of seat 10 FIG. 1) to allow the passenger to select the respective side on which to rest their head.

[0034] The first arm 30 and second arm 32 may be interconnected via a latch 80 having a first position that restrains movement of the first arm 30 relative to the second arm 32 and a second position that permits movement of the first arm 30 relative to the second arm 32. Any number or type of connecting means or mechanisms can be used, including a plurality of connecting mechanisms. Suitable non-limiting examples include, various quick connect couplings, nuts and bolts, hook and loop fasteners, and the like. However, as shown, a single connection point is provided via a user-friendly cam-type latch 80. The latch 80 may have a cam clamp 82 and an elongated pin 84. The elongated pin 84 can have a bottom flange 86 that anchors the elongated pin 84 against an underside, i.e., a first side 90 of the first arm 30 when in a secured or locked position. The cam clamp 82 and the elongated pin 84 each have an aperture 96, 98, respectively, for receiving a fastening pin 100 that interconnects them together. The fastening pin 100 comprises an elongated axial portion 102 and a bolt 104 for securing it in the apertures 96, 98.

[0035] The first arm 30 comprises a first channel 110 therethrough, and the second arm 32 comprises a second channel 112 therethrough. The length of each respective channel 110, 112 determines the extent of distance that each arm 30, 32 can be moved relative to one another. Such a distance between the first arm 30 and the second arm 32, designated as "B" in FIG. 4, may be tailored to the standard variations of various manufacturers' specifications for the seat thickness (at the headrest portion 26 of the seat back 12). In this manner, the first and second arms 30, 32 are adjustable relative to one another and can be employed on a variety of different passenger seats 10 having different dimensions.

[0036] The first arm 30 includes the first side 90 and a second side 120. The second arm 32 likewise includes a first side 122 and a second side 124. The second side 120 of the first arm 30 contacts the first side 122 of the second arm 32. At least a portion of the first channel 110 on the first arm 30 overlaps with a portion of the second channel 112 of the second arm 32. The first and second channels 110, 112 permit movement of the first arm 30 relative to the second arm 32, where a desired distance "B" between the first and second arm 30, 32 is manipulated to conform to the dimensions of the headrest portion 26 of the seat back 12, such that the first and second arms 30, 32 securely attach to the headrest portion 26 of the seat back 12.

[0037] As the cam clamp 82 of the latch 80 is moved from the first locking position as shown in FIG. 5 (where the fastening pin 100 sits at a relatively greater distance "C" to a top surface 124 of the second arm 32) to a second unlocked position shown in FIG. 4 (where the fastening pin 100 rotates to a closer position and relatively smaller distance "C" to the top surface 124 of the second arm 32) the latch 80 loosens the restriction or tightness between the first and second arms 30, 32, thus permitting movement of the first arm 30 relative to the second arm 32. As shown in FIG. 4, in the unlocked position, the flange 86 and the body of the elongated pin 84 likewise extend below the first arm 30, thereby loosening the connection between the first arm 30 and the second arm 32. However, any number of fasteners or latches may be used to secure and release the first arm 30 relative to the second arm 32. For example, the latch 80 may include a tooth or a series of teeth that fit into grooves along the channel(s) (not shown). In such an aspect, the latch tooth/teeth hooks into the desired groove within the first and/or second channels, thus enabling a change in the distance between the first arm 30 and second arm 32. Optionally, the first arm 30 and the second arm 32 may be permanently affixed to one another or may be a single piece that forms a single brace device having a uniform dimension that is adapted for use with a single type of passenger seat 10.

[0038] The components of the headrest assembly 20 may be formed of a plastic (e.g., comprising a polymer) or a composite material (e.g., comprising a resin matrix and filler particles). The first and second arms 30, 32, and the support assembly 40 may include a polymer. A non-limiting list of suitable polymers comprise those formed of polyvinyls, polyamide imides, nylons, polyesters, polyacrylates, and carbonate polymers and copolymers thereof. Where the polymer is a composite, it may include filler particles and/or fibers, such as carbon particles, graphite, glass or metal fibers, metal oxides, and the like, as are well known to those of skill in the art. When most or all of the components are formed from non-metallic polymer-containing materials, the components are light-weight, flexible, and capable of passing through x-ray detection equipment at security checkpoints. In certain aspects, the pins, bolts, and other high stress, high load, or high torque points may be formed of more durable or stronger materials, such as metals. Non-limiting suitable examples of metals include stainless steel, titanium, and the like. Further, in certain aspects, the first side 90 of the first arm 30 and the first side 122 of the second arm 32 may include additional contact pads (not shown) in regions where contact is established with the seat back 12 to enhance friction forces and/or to reduce damage to the passenger seat 10. Non-limiting examples of the materials of construction for the contact pads include foam, elastomeric, or fabric materials, as are well known to those of skill in the art.

[0039] FIG. 7 illustrates another headrest assembly 200 for an occupant seat 10' which is similar to that shown in FIG. 1; however, it further comprises a storage compartment 202 that receives and stores a foldable/stowable headrest assembly 200 when it is not in use.

[0040] The headrest assembly 200 may include a vertical support 206 that is articulated to permit folding and storage during non-use and extension and support during use. The vertical support may have hinges 208 that permit such articulation and folding for storage. The hinges 208 may have a releasable locking mechanism to ensure steadfast support during use, but permitting release to fold when not in use.

[0041] The headrest assembly 200 may also include a head support assembly 201 having a coupling member 210 for adjustable attachment to the vertical support 206 and a weight-bearing support arm 212. Such adjustment may include tilting of the support arm 212 or sliding adjustment along the vertical support 206. Alternately, the head support assembly 201 may be permanently affixed to the vertical support 206.

[0042] A head support apparatus 70', for example a pillow-like apparatus, may be attached to the weight-bearing support arm 212. In other aspects, the head support assembly 201 may be adjustably attached to the vertical support 206 and operate in a manner similar to the other aspects of the disclosure described previously above.

[0043] FIG. 8 shows another headrest assembly 300 for an occupant seat 10'' which is similar to that shown in FIG. 7; however, the occupant seat has an adjacent storage compartment 302 that receives and stores a foldable/stowable headrest assembly 300 when it is not in use. The adjacent storage compartment may include a gap between adjacent seats or may be a separate storage compartment designed to receive the headrest assembly 300 during storage.

[0044] The headrest assembly 300 can include any of the aspects or features described above, and can include a vertical support 306. As shown, the vertical support 306 is articulated to permit folding and storage of the headrest assembly 300, so that the headrest assembly 300 is stowed in the storage compartment 302 adjacent to the seat 10''. The vertical support 306 can be extended and provides support during use. However, while not shown, the vertical support 306 may also include a lever that swings out to a locked position or other means of attaching the headrest support to the seat 10'', as appreciated by a skilled artisan. As such, the headrest assembly 300 is capable of being stored adjacent to the seat when not in use. The vertical support 306 may have one or more hinges 308 that permit such articulation and folding for storage. The hinges 308 may have a releasable locking mechanism to ensure steadfast support during use, but permitting release to fold when not in use.

[0045] The headrest assembly 300 may also include a head support assembly 301 having a coupling member 310 for adjustable attachment to the vertical support 306 and a weight-bearing support arm 312. Such adjustment may include tilting of the support arm 312 or sliding adjustment along the vertical support 306. Alternately, the head support assembly 301 may be permanently affixed to the vertical support 306. The coupling member 310 may also permit the head support assembly 301 to pivot or rotate to a different position for more compact storage in the storage compartment 302.

[0046] As described above, a head support apparatus 70'' may be permanently attached to the weight-bearing support arm 312. In other aspects, the head support apparatus 70'' may be adjustably attached to the vertical support 306 and operate in a manner similar to the other aspects of the disclosure described previously above.

[0047] The description and any specific examples, while indicating various aspects of the disclosure, are intended for purposes of illustration only and are not intended to limit the scope of the teachings. Moreover, recitation of multiple embodiments or aspects having stated features is not intended to exclude other embodiments having additional features, or other embodiments incorporating different combinations of the stated features.

Claims

1. A headrest assembly for a seat back comprising a first arm adjustably interconnected to a second arm by a latch, and a support assembly adjustably attached to the second arm that is movable between a secured position for weight-bearing support and an unsecured position for adjustment.

2. The headrest assembly according to claim 1, wherein the first arm and the second arm each has a respective shape that substantially conforms to a headrest portion of the seat back.

3. The headrest assembly according to claim 2, wherein the respective first and second arms are fixed against the headrest portion of the seat back, thereby forming a brace.

4. The headrest assembly according to claim 1, wherein the latch has a first position that that restrains movement of the first arm relative to the second arm and a second position that permits movement of the first arm relative to the second arm.

5. The headrest assembly according to claim 1, wherein the first arm comprises a first channel and the second arm comprises a second channel, wherein at least a portion of the first and second channels overlap and wherein the latch is disposed within the portion of the overlapping first and second channels.

6. The headrest assembly according to claim 5, wherein each of the first and second channels comprise a plurality of grooves for fixedly securing the latch when in a closed position.

7. The headrest assembly according to claim 5, wherein the latch comprises a cam clamp and an elongated pin extending through the portion of the overlapping first and second channels of the first and second arms, wherein the cam clamp is in contact with the elongated pin.

8. The headrest assembly according to claim 1, wherein each of the first arm, the second arm, and the support assembly comprise a polymer material.

9. The headrest assembly according to claim 1, wherein the support assembly comprises a coupling member for adjustable attachment to the second arm and a weight-bearing third arm that is in an unsecured position when it is substantially aligned with a plane of the seat back and in a secured and weight-bearing position when the third arm is substantially transverse to the plane of the seat back.

10. The headrest assembly according to claim 9, wherein the support assembly further comprises a pin, the coupling member comprises an aperture adapted to receive the second arm and two tabs to rotatably hold the pin, and the third arm comprises an aperture for receiving the pin, wherein the third arm rotates about the pin relative to the coupling member.

11. The headrest assembly according to claim 9, wherein an angle between the third arm and a plane of the seat back is between about 75 degrees and about 115 degrees.

12. The headrest assembly according to claim 9, wherein the support assembly has a longitudinal axis and is capable of rotation on the second arm by 180 degrees with respect to the longitudinal axis.

13. The headrest assembly according to claim 9, wherein the support assembly comprises a head support apparatus that is removably attached to the weight-bearing third arm.

14. A headrest assembly for a seat back of an occupant seat, the assembly comprising: a brace including a first arm adjustable relative to a second arm; a latch moveably interconnecting the first and second arms; and a support assembly including a weight-bearing third arm and a coupling member that adjustably attaches the support assembly to the second arm for movement between a secured position for weight-bearing support and an unsecured position for adjustment.

15. The headrest assembly according to claim 14, wherein in the unsecured position, the support assembly can be adjusted along the second arm.

16. The headrest assembly according to claim 14, wherein the latch has a first position for restraining movement of the first arm relative to the second arm and a second position that permits movement of the first arm relative to the second arm.

17. The headrest assembly according to claim 14, wherein the first arm comprises a first channel and the second arm comprises a second channel, wherein at least a portion of the first and second channels overlap and wherein the latch is disposed within the portion of overlapping first and second channels.

18. The headrest assembly according to claim 14, wherein the latch comprises a cam clamp and an elongated pin extending through the portion of overlapping first and second channels of the first and second arms, wherein the cam clamp is in contact with the elongated pin.

19. A headrest assembly for an occupant seat having a storage compartment for storing the headrest assembly, where the assembly comprises: a vertical support that provides lateral support for an occupant's head during use and is articulated for folding and storage during non-use; and a head support assembly including a coupling member for attachment to the vertical support and a weight-bearing support arm, wherein a head support apparatus is disposed on the weight-bearing support arm.

20. The headrest assembly according to claim 19, wherein the head support assembly is adjustably attached to the vertical support and the weight-bearing support arm has a secured position for weight-bearing support and an unsecured position, where in the unsecured position a location of the support assembly can be adjusted along the vertical support.