U.S. patent application number 13/881280 was filed with the patent office on 2013-09-12 for head and/or neck support device and method.
This patent application is currently assigned to TRI-CYCLE PTY LTD.. The applicant listed for this patent is Darren Stuart Ross, Andrew Paul Seymour. Invention is credited to Darren Stuart Ross, Andrew Paul Seymour.
Application Number | 20130232694 13/881280 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 45992957 |
Filed Date | 2013-09-12 |
United States Patent
Application |
20130232694 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Ross; Darren Stuart ; et
al. |
September 12, 2013 |
HEAD AND/OR NECK SUPPORT DEVICE AND METHOD
Abstract
The present invention relates to spinal support and a means for
support and alignment for the neck in the side, supine or semi
prone or prone positions comprising; supporting the user's head
and/or neck in a first user position with a first adjustable
support means adapted to locate the user's head and/or neck at a
first height relative to a supporting surface for the user;
supporting the user's head and/or neck in a second user position
with a second adjustable support means adapted to locate the user's
head and/or neck at a second height relative to a supporting
surface for the user; wherein the first and second heights relative
to the supporting surface for the user are substantially different
such that substantially constant cervical spinal alignment for the
user is maintained in both positions.
Inventors: |
Ross; Darren Stuart; (Park
Orchards, AU) ; Seymour; Andrew Paul; (Glen Iris,
AU) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Ross; Darren Stuart
Seymour; Andrew Paul |
Park Orchards
Glen Iris |
|
AU
AU |
|
|
Assignee: |
TRI-CYCLE PTY LTD.
Park Orchards, Victoria
AU
|
Family ID: |
45992957 |
Appl. No.: |
13/881280 |
Filed: |
October 25, 2011 |
PCT Filed: |
October 25, 2011 |
PCT NO: |
PCT/AU2011/001354 |
371 Date: |
April 24, 2013 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
5/639 ;
5/640 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A47G 9/1009
20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
5/639 ;
5/640 |
International
Class: |
A47G 9/10 20060101
A47G009/10 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Oct 25, 2010 |
AU |
2010904735 |
Sep 30, 2011 |
AU |
2011904017 |
Claims
1-28. (canceled)
29. A head and/or neck support device comprising: a frame member
for supporting the head and/or upper neck of a user, the frame
member adapted to be operatively associated with first and second
adjustable support means; wherein the first adjustable support
means is adapted to provide support for the user's head and/or neck
in the supine or prone position and the second adjustable support
means is adapted to provide support for the user's head and/or neck
in the side lying or semi-prone position such that cervical spinal
alignment is substantially maintained in both supine and side lying
positions.
30. The support device as claimed in claim 29 wherein first and
second adjustable support means, in combination, are adapted to
provide first and second heights, respectively, for the user's head
and/or neck with respect to a supporting surface for the support
device in the supine/prone and semi-prone/side lying positions,
where said first and second heights are different in order to
maintain a substantially constant cervical spinal alignment for the
user.
31. The support device as claimed in claim 29 wherein the first and
second adjustable support means are biased to provide height
adjustment under load of the weight of the user's head and/or neck
so as to maintain a substantially constant cervical spinal
alignment for the user moving from one to another of a combination
of side, supine, semi prone or prone positions.
32. The support device as claimed in claim 29 wherein the first and
second adjustable support means, in combination, are operatively
associated to maintain substantially constant cervical spinal
alignment during movement of the user between supine/prone and
semi-prone/side lying positions.
33. The support device as claimed in claim 29 wherein the first
adjustable support means comprises one of: a single mechanism
located within a base of the frame member; multiple mechanisms
located within a base of the frame member; at least one strap.
34. The support device as claimed in claim 29 wherein the second
adjustable support means comprises at least two mechanisms each
located within respective side wings of the frame member.
35. The support device as claimed in claim 29 wherein the frame
member is further adapted to accommodate cushioning means for
supporting contact with the user's head and/or neck.
36. The support device as claimed in claim 29 claims wherein the
frame member is further adapted for attachment of at least one
therapeutic device.
37. A method of supporting the head and/or neck of a user
comprising the steps of: supporting the user's head and/or neck in
a first user position with a first adjustable support means adapted
to locate the user's head and/or neck at a first height relative to
a supporting surface for the user; supporting the user's head
and/or neck in a second user position with a second adjustable
support means adapted to locate the user's head and/or neck at a
second height relative to a supporting surface for the user;
wherein the first and second heights relative to the supporting
surface for the user are substantially different such that
substantially constant cervical spinal alignment for the user is
maintained in both positions.
38. The method as claimed in claim 37 wherein the first and second
adjustable support means are biased to provide a self adjustment of
height under load of the weight of the user's head and/or neck.
39. The method as claimed in claim 37 wherein the first user
position is one of the supine or prone positions and the second
user position is one of a side lying or semi-prone position.
40. The support device as claimed in claim 29 wherein the frame
comprises a deformable shell.
41. The support device as claimed in claim 40 further comprising
strap means extending between the sides of the shell, the strap
means being of adjustable length wherein, the arrangement being
such that tension applied to the strap means causes the shell to
deform to define a height of the support surface.
42. The support device as claimed in claim 41 wherein the strap
means comprises a plurality of straps spaced between the edges of
the shell each strap being independently adjustable in length.
43. The support device as claimed in claim 40 wherein apertures are
provided in the sides of the shell for receiving the strap
means.
44. The support device as claimed in claim 43 wherein the rear of
the shell comprises at least one transversely extending slot
therethrough.
45. The support device as claimed in claim 44 wherein the at least
one transverse slot is configured to define at least one transverse
land.
46. The support device as claimed in claim 45 wherein the at least
one transverse land is adapted to be grasped to assist in adjusting
the strap means.
47. The support device as claimed in claim 44 wherein the at least
one transverse land supports means thereon for adjustably securing
a free end portion of the strap means.
48. The support device as claimed in claim 40 further comprising at
least one stabilising bar formed from an integral portion of the
shell and adapted to remain in line with a supporting surface when
the shell is deformed.
Description
RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims priority to Australian Provisional
Patent Application No. 2010904735 in the name of Tri-cycle Pty Ltd,
which was filed on 25 Oct. 2010, entitled "Method, System and
Apparatus for Support" and Australian Provisional Patent
Application No. 2011904017 in the name of Tri-cycle Pty Ltd, which
was filed on 30 Sep. 2011 and also entitled "Method, System and
Apparatus for Support" and the specifications thereof are
incorporated herein by reference in their entirety and for all
purposes.
FIELD OF INVENTION
[0002] The present invention relates to spinal support. In
particular, in one form the present invention relates to a method,
system and apparatus providing support for the head, neck and/or
upper spine in a resting, sleeping or generally horizontal
position. In one particular form, the invention relates to a means
for providing support and alignment for the neck in the side,
supine or semi prone or prone positions. While it will be
convenient to hereinafter describe the invention in relation to its
use as a structure for providing adjustable support to the neck, it
should be appreciated that the present invention is not limited to
that use, only.
BACKGROUND ART
[0003] Throughout this specification the use of the word "inventor"
in singular form may be taken as reference to one (singular)
inventor or more than one (plural) inventor of the present
invention.
[0004] It is to be appreciated that any discussion of documents,
devices, acts or knowledge in this specification is included to
explain the context of the present invention. Further, the
discussion throughout this specification comes about due to the
realisation of the inventor and/or the identification of certain
related art problems by the inventor. Moreover, any discussion of
material such as documents, devices, acts or knowledge in this
specification is included to explain the context of the invention
in terms of the inventor's knowledge and experience and,
accordingly, any such discussion should not be taken as an
admission that any of the material forms part of the prior art base
or the common general knowledge in the relevant art in Australia,
or elsewhere, on or before the priority date of the disclosure and
claims herein.
[0005] In practice as a physiotherapist in the field of spinal
manipulative physiotherapy, the inventor has recognised that a
cause of neck pain may be inappropriate pillows or inadequate
support to the upper spine when resting or sleeping. However, it is
also important to realise that people with not only painful
conditions of the neck but also those with asymptomatic necks may
have difficulty in finding a suitable pillow which will provide for
support and comfort to the neck and upper spine and which can cater
to the natural change in position of a person as they sleep or rest
in the horizontal, including particularly the side and supine (on
back) positions.
[0006] FIG. 1 shows a number of positions of the neck and head when
a subject is laying down. With reference to FIG. 1, FIGS. 1(a) and
1(c) in particular show the axis of head and neck rotation
indicated by line "A". This axis is considered to intersect the mid
point of the apex of the skull and essentially forms a pivot point
or axis for the head and neck. An issue arises in that in the
supine position, for example, shown in the left hand side image of
FIG. 1(c) the distance or height, h1, from the resting surface "S"
to axis "A" is different to that of the corresponding height, h2,
shown in right hand side image of FIG. 1(c) for the subject when
lying in the side position. There are also several variables to
this being head size, shape, shoulder width, curve of the thoracic
spine etc. This discrepancy (h2-h1) means that a single height, h,
cannot accommodate for both of the more common sleeping positions
being side lie and supine. It also follows that the height
discrepancy noted above is also evident where a person moves from
one to another of, or a combination of side, supine, prone or
semi-prone positions.
[0007] FIG. 1a illustrates the height discrepancy between side and
supine positions where due to the shape and configuration of the
human head requiring support for both head and neck regions, there
is a height discrepancy relative to the resting surface S, from
side to supine positions for the neck height, H.sub.neck, and head
or skull height H.sub.skull, respectively.
[0008] It is to be noted that height in this context does not
specifically relate to a vertical component, only, of separation
from the resting surface S but rather the actual distance (or
vectorial sum of vertical and horizontal distances) between the
head and resting surface S. In other words, whereas the horizontal
disposition of the resting surface S in FIG. 1 is a case in which
the height h is one and the same as the vertical component of
separation, if the resting surface S is angled to the horizontal
then this height h will include both vertical and horizontal
components.
[0009] Generally, a convex surface of the skull does not rest well
on a flat surface and, accordingly, the pivoting point of the head,
as described above, means that varying heights may be required for
a pillow to make it suitable for supporting the neck and upper
spine in varying positions. Conversely, this might not be an issue
if the head was round with a central pivot point.
[0010] In the past, manufacturers have tried to solve these issues
by using contour pillows to assist with support but this does not
necessarily solve the problems of having differing support needs in
different positions. Contour pillows allow for increased neck
support but do not necessarily vary support with a change in height
of the subject's head. Pillows of the prior art that are contoured
in a particular form or moulded in a certain way often have limited
flexibility and do not allow free movement during sleep. They may
also limit the positions the user may take during rest and sleep,
and this can cause discomfort.
[0011] Other solutions have involved the trialling of air and water
adjusting devices to assist with head position but this does not
solve the problem outlined above. The advent of memory foam has
assisted but not solved the entire issue noted above. For example,
the use of different materials has addressed the ability for a
pillow to conform to a single sleeping position but does not
accommodate more than one sleep or rest position as the properties
of memory foam or other such materials do not adequately address
the height differential issue noted above with respect to multiple
positions. Further, the use of memory foam does not allow for
enough height reduction or gain due to the behaviour or capacity of
the material itself. Also, memory foam does not necessarily deform
to a fixed position. Generally, memory foam only responds to weight
pressure not the position of the resting subject and its properties
may change depending on temperature. Memory foam allows for the
height of a pillow or cushion from such material to adjust to
pressure. The height issue is still not solved in both supine and
sidelye or prone and semi-prone positions.
[0012] Furthermore, there are a number of specific devices and
measures that are used in healthcare and/or for well being that
have not necessarily been successfully integrated with the use of
cushions or pillows in supporting the head, neck and upper spine.
For example, sleep apnea (CPAP) masks, as would be recognised by
the person skilled in the art, are designed for their own specific
purpose and whilst they are also designed for use during sleep,
they may be uncomfortable. As another example, there is also a need
to cater for those who require immobilization for neck fractures,
neck surgery, chronic pain or upper thoracic injuries. In this
instance there are immobilisation devices such as, for example, a
halo thoracic immobilization device as would be recogninsed by the
person skilled in the art, which are cumbersome for the patient
that wants to rest or sleep.
[0013] Apart from therapeutic devices as noted above, there may be
other devices and consumer products that users may wish to have
incorporated into a device for providing support whilst resting or
sleeping, such as for example, devices for listening to music and
or radio. Ordinarily these devices, if they can be worn by a user
or located close to the person's ears, for example, then they only
tend to be a hindrance to the comfort of the person when seeking a
cushioned support for their head, neck, shoulders and upper
spine.
SUMMARY OF INVENTION
[0014] An object of embodiments of the present invention is to
provide for adjustable support for the head, neck, or upper spine
in the side, supine, prone and semi-prone positions.
[0015] It is also an object of the embodiments described herein to
overcome or alleviate at least one of the above noted drawbacks of
related art systems or to at least provide a useful alternative to
related art systems.
[0016] In a first aspect of embodiments described herein there is
provided a head and/or neck support device comprising: [0017] a
frame member for supporting the head and/or upper neck of a user,
the frame member adapted to be operatively associated with first
and second adjustable support means; [0018] wherein the first
adjustable support means is adapted to provide support for the
user's head and/or neck in the supine or prone position and the
second adjustable support means is adapted to provide support for
the user's head and/or neck in the side lying or semi-prone
position such that cervical spinal alignment is substantially
constant in both supine and side lying positions.
[0019] The first and second adjustable support means, in
combination, are preferably adapted to provide first and second
heights, respectively, for the user's head and/or neck with respect
to a supporting surface for the support device in both the supine
and side lying positions, for example, where said first and second
heights are different in order to maintain a substantially constant
cervical spinal alignment for the user.
[0020] The first and second adjustable support means may be biased
to provide self adjustment under load of the weight of the user's
head and/or neck. In other words, the first and second adjustable
support means are biased to provide height adjustment under load of
the weight of the user's head and/or neck so as to maintain a
substantially constant cervical spinal alignment for the user
moving from one to another of a combination of side, supine, semi
prone or prone positions.
[0021] Furthermore in a preferred embodiment, the first and second
adjustable support means, in combination, are operatively
associated to maintain substantially constant cervical spinal
alignment during movement of the user from one position to another
position.
[0022] Preferably, the first adjustable support means comprises a
single mechanism located within a base of the frame member.
[0023] Furthermore, the second adjustable support means may
comprise at least one other and preferably two mechanisms each
located within respective side walls or lateral wings of the frame
member.
[0024] Preferably, the frame member is further adapted to house
cushioning means for supporting contact with the user's head and/or
neck. In preferred embodiments the cushioning means comprises foam
or memory foam or like material.
[0025] The frame member may be further adapted for attachment of at
least one therapeutic device. The at least one therapeutic device
may comprise a CPAP device.
[0026] The frame member may be embodied in a number of forms
including but not limited to the form of a flat plate or in a
preferred embodiment as a shell that may be deformed by integral or
attachable adjustable means. The frame member may also be embodied
as an orthotic. In the context of the present description an
orthotic may be taken as an appliance designed to straighten or
support a body part or a device or brace to control, correct, or
compensate for an anatomical deformity, as would be recogninsed by
the person skilled in the art.
[0027] In another aspect of embodiments described herein there is
provided a method of supporting the head and/or neck of a user
comprising the steps of: [0028] supporting the user's head and/or
neck in a first user position with a first adjustable support means
adapted to locate the user's head and/or neck at a first height
relative to a supporting surface for the user; [0029] supporting
the user's head and/or neck in a second user position with a second
adjustable support means adapted to locate the user's head and/or
neck at a second height relative to a supporting surface for the
user; [0030] wherein the first and second heights relative to the
supporting surface for the user differ to the extent that
substantially constant cervical spinal alignment for the user is
maintained in both user positions. Reference to both user positions
may comprise a supine or side lying position for the first and
second user positions, respectively. Alternatively, reference to
both user positions may comprise a prone or semi-prone position for
the first and second user positions, respectively.
[0031] The first and second adjustable support means may be biased
to provide a self adjustment of height under load of the weight of
the user's head and/or neck.
[0032] In a preferred embodiment, as noted above, the first user
position is the supine position and the second user position is a
side lying position. Alternatively, in another embodiment, the
first user position is the prone position and the second position
may also allow for a semi prone sleeping position.
[0033] Furthermore in preferred embodiments, the first and second
adjustable support means, in combination, are operatively
associated to maintain substantially constant cervical spinal
alignment during movement of the user from one position, i.e.
supine or side lying, to the to the other position, i.e. side lying
or supine, respectively.
[0034] In another aspect of the embodiments described herein there
is provided a support device wherein the frame comprises a
deformable shell.
[0035] In this preferred embodiment, the first and second
adjustable support means may be integral to the shell. The support
device, in this aspect of embodiments may further comprise strap
means extending between the sides of the shell, the strap means
being of adjustable length wherein, the arrangement being such that
tension applied to the strap means causes the shell to deform to
define a height of the support surface. The unit may have one or
more areas of height adjustment. The strap means may comprise a
plurality of straps spaced between the edges of the shell each
strap being independently adjustable in length. Further, the strap
means may comprise a plurality of straps spaced between the edges
of the shell where the length of the straps are adjustable in
groups. Furthermore, the strap means may be rigid, semi rigid
and/or elastic.
[0036] In this aspect of embodiments, apertures may be provided in
the sides of the shell for receiving the strap means. The rear of
the shell may comprise at least one transversely extending slot
therethrough. The at least one transverse slot may be configured to
define at least one transverse land, wherein the at least one
transverse land may be adapted to be grasped to assist in adjusting
the strap means. The at least one transverse land preferably
supports means thereon for adjustability securing a free end
portion of the strap means.
[0037] The support may further comprise at least one stabilising
bar formed from an integral portion of the shell and this may be
adapted to remain in line with a supporting surface when the shell
is deformed. Preferably, the support is in the form of an outer
removable support cushion adapted for placement against a resting
surface or device.
[0038] Other aspects and preferred forms are disclosed in the
specification and/or defined in the appended claims, forming a part
of the description of the invention.
[0039] In essence, embodiments of the present invention stem from
the realization that the height required for various positions when
resting or sleeping such as, for example, supine (back sleeping)
and side sleeping is different as a consequence of several
anatomical variables including head size, shape, shoulder width,
curve of the thoracic spine and, as such the use of a device which
acts as a medium between the convex skull or neck and the flat
resting surface should gradually accommodate distance from resting
surface to point of axis along with a self levelling height
adjusting device.
[0040] In preferred embodiments the present invention combines the
use of positioning/levelling devices along with a solid device to
accommodate to the change in positions along with the comfort
factor of memory foam to ensure final comfort and slight
accommodation.
[0041] Advantages provided by embodiments of the present invention
comprise the following: [0042] Correct positioning device ensures
spinal alignment in side lying and supine (on back) this allows the
muscles to relax and allows any irritated, degenerative and
arthritic joints the ability to avoid aggravation; [0043] Ability
to partially immobilize neck or head movements; [0044] Ability to
provide attachment points for auxiliary devices including consumer
products or therapeutic medical devices such as CPAP
masks/tubes/sleep apnea devices; [0045] A cut out on an orthotic
embodiment between the neck and the shoulder assists in correct
positioning of the neck by ensuring maximum support of the neck and
maintaining a neutral supported spine. [0046] The use of self
adjusting stabilising bars allow for an inner frame/shell and
supporting straps to remain horizontal to the support surface.
[0047] Further scope of applicability of embodiments of the present
invention will become apparent from the detailed description given
hereinafter. However, it should be understood that the detailed
description and specific examples, while indicating preferred
embodiments of the invention, are given by way of illustration
only, since various changes and modifications within the spirit and
scope of the disclosure herein will become apparent to those
skilled in the art from this detailed description.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0048] Further disclosure, objects, advantages and aspects of
preferred and other embodiments of the present invention may be
better understood by those skilled in the relevant art by reference
to the following description of embodiments taken in conjunction
with the accompanying drawings, which are given by way of
illustration only, and thus are not limitative of the disclosure
herein, and in which:
[0049] FIGS. 1 and 1A illustrates a number of positions of the neck
and head when a subject is laying down;
[0050] FIG. 2 is a side view of an adjustable support means
suitable for use with a preferred embodiment of the support device
showing the adjustable support means under load in (a) and in an
unloaded position (b);
[0051] FIG. 3 is a graphical representation of the anatomical
positions of a user in supine and side lie positions illustrating
the arc of head radius from axis to side lying and supine position,
respectively;
[0052] FIG. 4 is a perspective view showing a head and/or neck
support device in accordance with one embodiment of the present
invention illustrating an orthotic form;
[0053] FIG. 4a shows perspective side views of an alternate
arrangement of the device of FIG. 4;
[0054] FIG. 4b shows plan views of the device of FIG. 4a;
[0055] FIG. 5 is a side view showing the head and/or neck support
device of FIG. 4 in use by a user in the side lying position;
[0056] FIG. 6 is an axial end on view showing the head and/or neck
support device of FIG. 4 in use by a user in the supine
position;
[0057] FIG. 7 is a top perspective view of a head and/or neck
support device in accordance with another preferred embodiment of
the present invention in the form of a shell with integral
adjustable support means;
[0058] FIG. 8 is a bottom perspective view of the embodiment of
FIG. 7;
[0059] FIG. 9 is a side view of the device of FIG. 7 in an
undeformed state with outer foam indicated;
[0060] FIG. 10 is a side view of the support device of FIG. 7
showing the disposition of the integral adjustable support means in
an unloaded position (a) and under load from tensioning means in
(b);
[0061] FIG. 11 shows an end on rear elevation view of the support
device of FIG. 7 indicating angular adjustment in a transverse
direction;
[0062] FIG. 12 is a top perspective view of the shell device of
FIG. 7 without adjustment straps;
[0063] FIG. 13 is a bottom perspective view of the shell device
shown in FIG. 12;
[0064] FIG. 14 is an end on perspective view of the shell device
shown in FIG. 12.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0065] In one preferred embodiment of the present invention there
is provided an orthotic pillow device 100, the internal structure
of which is shown in FIG. 4 for example, which is designed to allow
for a smooth transition between side and supine postures of a user
where the user's head is depicted by 600 in FIGS. 1, 5 and 6. The
arch of the orthotic matches anthropometric analysis to ensure an
anatomically positioned spine is maintained during this transition.
Exemplary anthropometric measurements are included in the annexed
appendix to this description.
[0066] Inbuilt adjusting mechanisms then ensure correct resting
position when the side, supine position or other position(s) is
matched. Advantageously, adjustments are provided to ensure optimum
neck support for back and side sleepers. The unique shape, inbuilt
mechanism and contour of the orthotic device provides an optimal
solution for people with sleep difficulties as well as being a
single solution for all necks of all ages.
[0067] With reference to FIGS. 2 to 6 of the accompanying drawings,
an exemplary device in accordance with an orthotic variation of the
present invention uses three solutions to solve the position issue
for people who change postures during sleep and who will have a
significant distance variation between supine thoracic contact
pressure and neutral cervical spine position and that of side lie
body contact pressure to neutral spine position.
[0068] Firstly the use of an orthotic like structure 100 enables
the accommodation of the different arcs of rotation about the
central access of rotation, "A", to maintain a neutral spine
position allowing for shoulder or back position. This device
enables the smooth transition from supine to side, for example.
Generally, the orthotic structure 100 comprises a base B and at
least two side walls, SW, best shown in FIGS. 4, 4a, 4b, 5 and
6.
[0069] Secondly manual or automated (for example biased) adjusting
devices 200, as shown in FIG. 2, incorporated into the orthotic
enables a rise and fall of the support so as to act as self
levelling device to maintain a maximum and minimum range to allow
for variables such as surface sag at contact points between the
user's head and/or neck and any outer cushioning for pillow
support. As shown schematically in FIG. 2, the adjusting devices
comprise a flat plate 202, a maneuverable means 203 for varying the
height of a solid base 204 for attachment of foam cover 300 to
support the user's head and/or neck. Alternatives for components of
the adjusting devices would be understood by the person skilled in
the art yet remain within the scope of embodiments of the present
invention. For example, the maneuverable means 203 may comprise
wind out adjustable means or alternatively a sliding element.
Preferably, there will be a minimum of 3 separate of these devices
(comprising, respectively, one first 200a and two second 200b
adjustable support means) to allow for one on the surface which
comes in contact in supine position as well as two side supports to
be set and levelled. FIG. 6 illustrates these best.
[0070] Thirdly the use of memory foam 300 allows for contact
comfort of the head to the solid adjustable devices 200. By way of
example, FIG. 11 has an indication of the thickness 301 of memory
foam within a covering of a frame member of an embodiment of the
support device described herein
[0071] It is noted that when the person is weight bearing with the
head on a surface the adjusting device 200 takes 100% of the
pressure and the orthotic structure 100 moves relative to the
device. This enables the accurate position to be attained whilst
ensuring that the head is not too encapsulated within the orthotic
100.
[0072] FIG. 3 illustrates the anatomical position of a user. In
particular, a longitudinally cross section view showing: [0073]
Arc1--the arc of head radius from axis to side position due to
wider shoulder than trunk width; [0074] Arc2--the arc of head
radius to supine position and; [0075] HS--cross sectional head
shape.
[0076] Also in FIG. 3, there is shown the supine and side (or side
lye) positions schematically illustrating the difference in height
requirements from side to supine for head position.
[0077] The solid orthotic structure 100 enables attachment of CPAP
masks, sleep apnea devices and the insertion of speakers is also
envisaged. This will be attached by a standard fixation method to
enable universal application. FIG. 4b shows side apertures 201 for
fitment of adjustable devices 200, for example, and may also
accommodate fitment of other accessories mentioned below.
[0078] Details of suggested adjusting device 200:--This will be
built into the orthotic and mounted on side apertures 201 for
instance and form an enclosed contact area. A minimum of three
adjustable support devices 200 are included, namely one base device
200a and two side devices 200b. The orthotic 100 will move relative
to the central or base adjusting device 200a and it will return to
an "open" position when the surface of the orthotic is unloaded.
FIG. 2 shows an example of an adjustable support device 200 in the
loaded and unloaded positions designated as FIG. 2(a) and FIG.
2(b). In an unloaded position it will return to an open position to
ensure that the head is not restricted from unsupported sides.
However in the case of the requirement for complete immobilisation
(such as spinal fracture) these will be able to be locked into full
head contact to enable maximum support. This is so that when a
thoracic harness is added the trunk and head can be held as a
single unit. Thus enabling comfort for sleeping whilst providing
maximal support. The pillow orthotic of the preferred embodiment is
a 3 dimensional device providing for 2 degrees of freedom or
adjustment namely an adjustable height support pillow for side and
back sleepers to achieve correct biomechanical support. It may
comprise the following features and/or advantages: [0079] Correct
spinal alignment; [0080] Maintenance alignment all night; [0081]
Add on functionality; [0082] Sleep apnea splint attachment; [0083]
Orthotic Audio speakers; [0084] Thoracic section to immobilize for
cervical fractures/unstable cervical spines; [0085] Self adjusting
height mechanism; [0086] Orthotic like structure; [0087] Attachment
for CPAP, oral sleep apnea devices; [0088] Attachment for thoracic
braces; [0089] Ability to be self adjusting or fully immobilize the
cervical spine (such as when required for fractures or post
surgery); and [0090] In built speakers.
[0091] The pillow orthotic is an answer to not only prescribing a
desirable multi-positional pillow but will also assist with pain
control and relief.
[0092] It is considered that a 3D and or multi axis device and a
match of an oval head with a flat bed surface can address the above
noted related art problems. The pillow orthotic of preferred
embodiments does just this. It is an adjustable support device that
may also allow for attachment of thoracic and facial devices such
as CPAP, sleep apnea devices and thoracic immobilization
braces.
[0093] Embodiments will use a small layer of memory foam 300 and a
manual adjustment device 200.
[0094] It solves the issue of two planes by adjusting against a
more rigid surface.
[0095] Due to the design of this product it also gives the option
for some other additions which are unique. These being the ability
to add on an attachment for complete immobilization, to allow for a
pillow for those with neck fractures or post surgery for the neck;
or for those using oral sleep apnea devices and CPAP machines.
[0096] The concept of a preferred embodiment is a pillow in the
form of a orthotic like structure as described above which is a
combination of solid and deformable products with a self adjusting
height altering device. It is also innovative in its ability to
have attachments to allow solutions to medical conditions and will
also have entertainment features with the option for inbuilt
speakers for auxiliary jack devices.
[0097] A person lies in the orthotic like device. The self
adjusting heights will work with the head weight to self adjust to
the persons required height in both the side and back sleeping
position. When a person rolls and changes their position, the
orthotic will roll with the person. The shoulder side of the pillow
is cut out, as shown at 400 in FIG. 4, to allow for the pillow to
be closely situated to the neck in use which provides increased
neck support. When required the adjustable sides can be locked in
place to provide "complete" immobilization. The firm surface has
screw in regions, shown clearly at 201 in FIGS. 4, 4a and 4b ,
which allow for attachment of support devices 200, or more
specifically 200b, as shown and other devices. Accordingly, the
orthotic pillow can also accommodate a module(s) for speakers. The
adjustable surface supports a small profile contour insert. The
adjustable sections will allow for replacement as well as the
provision of customized linen to ensure hygiene. The positioning
and form of any fixation attachments for the CPAP, and medical
devices would be recognised by the person skilled in the art and
are not shown in the accompanying drawings.
[0098] In another preferred embodiment, the present invention takes
the form of a head and/or neck support comprising a shell that may
be deformed by integral adjustable support means. The support in
its most preferred form may be inserted into a pillow or
cushion.
[0099] Referring to FIGS. 7 to 14, the head and neck support,
generally indicated by the numeral 100, comprises a semi rigid
shell 200 which may be formed of a plastics material, for example
high density polypropylene, ABS (acrylonitrile butadiene styrene)
or the like, which in turn may be formed by injection moulding or
other forming methods that would be understood and recognised by
the person skilled in the art. The central portion 800 of the shell
200 may form an angle with the side portions 900 that is generally
an obtuse angle, i.e. between 90.degree. and 180.degree. and may
also include a straight angle of 180.degree. and also a right angle
of 90.degree. per se to side portions 900, as shown in the cross
sectional transverse view of FIG. 11 and the end perspective view
of FIG. 14, for example. This angle subtended by the central
portion of the shell may be more clearly seen as the angle
subtended by the central portion and the side portions, which is
denoted by arrow Q in FIGS. 7 and 14 but best shown in side view by
FIG. 11.
[0100] Firstly the use of a frame comprising a shell like structure
100 set at an angle of 90.degree. or greater than 90.degree. and up
to 180.degree. between the middle portion 800 and the two outer
wings 900 enables the accommodation of the different arcs of
rotation about the central access to maintain a neutral spine
position allowing for shoulder or back position. This device
enables the smooth transition from supine to side.
[0101] Secondly manual prescription based adjusting straps 700 for
adjustable support devices 200 enables the exact heights required
for a sleep position to be set and calibrated to the user. There
will be a minimum of 3 separate straps 700 (preferably comprising
one first adjustable strap 700a located for the central portion 800
and two second 700b adjustable straps located at the wing portions
900 for deforming the adjustable integral support means 200. In
this way, the unit has one or more areas or regions of height
adjustment along the shell.
[0102] The sides/edges 500 (shown in FIG. 8) are joined at opposed
outer peripheral edge portions by transverse support straps 700b
which are length adjustable such that when the support straps 700
are in their fully slackened condition, the inner shell will be
near flat as shown in FIG. 9 and FIG. 10(a). FIG. 10(a) shows the
support with untensioned straps, and FIG. 10(b) shows the support
with tensioned straps. However, when the support straps 700 are
shortened or under tension, the support straps 700 each provide a
respective increase in support surface height h1 and h2 (FIG. 1).
Thus, by selectively adjusting the length of each of the individual
support straps 700, the desired amount of height support can be
achieved by an increased or decreased support surface 750 to allow
for the differing heights required for side, back sleeping. The
support straps 700 may be formed of nylon webbing, silk ribbon,
hook and loop material i.e. Velcro.TM., leather or a like material.
It is preferred but not essential that the material of the straps
700 does not yield. Any yielding of the straps 700 would see
alteration in the shell height and would make customisation and
prescription difficult and inaccurate.
[0103] In the preferred embodiment each support strap 700 extends
through respective opposed apertures or slots 850 which are formed
in the outer peripheral edge portions of the sides 500. FIGS. 12
and 13 show the apertures 850.
[0104] With reference to FIG. 10(b) in particular, one end 720 of a
support strap 700 is fixed to the rear surface 250 of the shell 200
and a free end portion 710 of the support strap 700 is adjustably
secured relative to the rear surface of the shell 200. The free end
portion 710 may be adjustably secured, for example, by a two part
fastening comprising a multiplicity of loops engageable with a
multiplicity of hooks such as is sold under the registered trade
mark "Velcro.TM." noted above. In this example, a strip of one part
of the fastening is fixed to the rear surface 250 of the shell 200
and a cooperating strip of material is attached to the free end
portion 710 of the support strap whereby the free end portion 710
may be selectively positioned following adjustment of the length of
the support strap 700. Rather than using Velcro.TM., as previously
described, the free ends 710 of each support strap 700 may be
adjusted for length and then joined by way of a conventional buckle
arrangement, D-rings or clamps (not shown). Alternatively, other
means of securing the free end portion 700 of the support strap to
the rear surface 250 of the shell 200 may be employed, for example
the free end portion 710 may have a number of holes along its
length and a post or prong may be mounted on the rear surface 250
of the shell 200 for receiving and securing the free end portion
710 of the support strap 700. It is envisaged that calibration
marks may be included on the rear surface 250 of the shell and/or
on the free end portion 710 of the support strap whereby the length
of the support strap 700 may be adjusted by predetermined discrete
amounts.
[0105] The opening provided by the volume defined by the shell 200
is covered with any sheet of foam, preferably memory foam with a
contour to allow for comfort and support of all resting surfaces,
to provide a layer 300 which is attached to itself on the rear
surface 250. A cover 320, indicated in FIG. 9 may encompass the
layer 300. This cover 320 will also allow for the insertion of a
conventional pillow so that the inner shell can be used
independently with other pillows such as when travelling or when
situations limit the transport of the entire device. The outer foam
300 provides a smooth, continuous support surface for the neck and
head of the person to be supported.
[0106] The layer 300 also acts as a cushion between the person's
neck and the support straps 700 thereby increasing the person's
level of comfort. The layer 300 may be formed of suitable
cushioning material. A protective cover 320 may also be provided
for fitting over the shell to attach the outer foam layer and or
other pillows to completely cover it. A conventional pillow cover
can also be used over the top of the units cover. This cover may be
resealed in any known manner, for example by way of Velcro.TM. or a
zipper such that if another person wishes to use the head and neck
support 100, it is a simple matter of opening the protective cover
320 to adjust the length of the support straps 700 to suit the new
user and then reseal the protective cover 320. It is also envisaged
that the layer 300 may be part of the protective cover 320 and may
be removable with the protective cover 320 for cleaning. The rear
surface 250 of the shell 200 may have a number of cut-out openings
240 (shown in FIG. 8) therein, for example holes or transverse
slots, to facilitate ventilation and to provide additional flexure
of the semi-rigid shell 200, if required. The openings 240 are
preferably in the form of transverse slots whereby transverse lands
260 (shown in FIG. 13) are provided between spaced openings 240,
the lands 260 providing a surface; on which the means of securing
the other end 700 to the rear surface 250 may be situated, for
example in the preferred embodiment each land 260 has one part of a
strip of Velcro.TM., as previously described, mounted thereon which
cooperates with a second strip of Velcro.TM. which is attached to
the free end portion 710 of the support strap 700 whereby,
following selective adjustment of the length of each of the
individual support straps to provide the desired amount of lateral
and back support, the free end portion 710 of the support strap may
be secured relative to the land 260.
[0107] The lands 260 also provide a convenient means by which the
shell 200 may be grasped, thereby providing a point of purchase
which is of assistance when one is required to pull on a support
strap 700 to shorten its length.
[0108] The land formed by a partial cut in the rear surface 250
creates a stabilising device 270. This device 270 ensures that
despite the convexity of the rear surface 250 as shown in FIG. 11,
for example, creates a support to prevent rotation of the convex
rear surface 250 when the straps 700 are tensioned against the
supporting resting surface. These support bars 270 will be
reinforced to ensure that the bars do not flex as the straps 700
are tensioned against the shell 200.
[0109] The use of self adjusting stabilising bars allow for an
inner frame/shell and supporting straps to remain horizontal to the
support surface. These reinforced members work by remaining rigid
whilst the frame/shell is tensioned. This creates an supporting
wing. The stabilisation of this could also be achieved by a wedge
unit which was trialled or a cut out depression on the outer foam
to support or support from the foam itself.
[0110] The head and neck support 200 may be used as a removable
support cushion to be placed against the flat surface of a resting
device to provide better, or more appropriate, neck support in all
planes.
[0111] While this invention has been described in connection with
specific embodiments thereof, it will be understood that it is
capable of further modification(s). This application is intended to
cover any variations uses or adaptations of the invention following
in general, the principles of the invention and including such
departures from the present disclosure as come within known or
customary practice within the art to which the invention pertains
and as may be applied to the essential features hereinbefore set
forth.
[0112] As the present invention may be embodied in several forms
without departing from the spirit of the essential characteristics
of the invention, it should be understood that the above described
embodiments are not to limit the present invention unless otherwise
specified, but rather should be construed broadly within the spirit
and scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims. The
described embodiments are to be considered in all respects as
illustrative only and not restrictive.
[0113] Various modifications and equivalent arrangements are
intended to be included within the spirit and scope of the
invention and appended claims. Therefore, the specific embodiments
are to be understood to be illustrative of the many ways in which
the principles of the present invention may be practiced. In the
following claims, means-plus-function clauses are intended to cover
structures as performing the defined function and not only
structural equivalents, but also equivalent structures. For
example, although a nail and a screw may not be structural
equivalents in that a nail employs a cylindrical surface to secure
wooden parts together, whereas a screw employs a helical surface to
secure wooden parts together, in the environment of fastening
wooden parts, a nail and a screw are equivalent structures.
[0114] "Comprises/comprising" and "includes/including" when used in
this specification is taken to specify the presence of stated
features, integers, steps or components but does not preclude the
presence or addition of one or more other features, integers,
steps, components or groups thereof. Thus, unless the context
clearly requires otherwise, throughout the description and the
claims, the words `comprise`, `comprising`, `includes`, `including`
and the like are to be construed in an inclusive sense as opposed
to an exclusive or exhaustive sense; that is to say, in the sense
of "including, but not limited to".
* * * * *