Apparatus and method for determining an individuals pillow type

The preferred embodiments of the present invention provide the proper pillow for a person based on the person's sleeping position and the characteristics of the person. The preferred embodiments of the present invention provide a custom designed pillow based on preferred sleeping position, such as back, side or stomach, and certain characteristics, such as height and weight. These characteristics influence the appropriate pillow for a person. The sleeping position of the person determines the proper pillow structure for that person. The characteristics of the person determine the proper fill weight of the pillow. Determining a proper pillow based on these characteristics will allow the person to get pleasant, restful, and undisturbed sleep.

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Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 60/594,363 filed on Mar. 31, 2005, entitled, “Apparatus and Method for Determining an Individual's Pillow Type,” which is hereby incorporated by reference herein.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The invention is directed towards a pillow, and in particular to a custom designed pillow based on the characteristics of the user.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

People customarily rest their heads on a pillow when they sleep. Most persons desire relaxing, enjoyable, refreshing, and undisturbed sleep. Pillows help accomplish this by providing proper support to people's necks and heads while they sleep. Pillows can also provide a pleasant soft and cool sensation on the skin of people's necks and face.

An average person spends over 2,500 hours a year with his or her head on a pillow. The quality of a person's sleep is a very important factor in the person's health, appearance, and happiness. The pillow used by the person plays a significant role in determining how well the person sleeps. Pillows can be too firm or not firm enough. If a pillow has the wrong fill weight and/or fill material it will cause the head of the person to be positioned uncomfortably and unnaturally. This leads to a sore neck, a loss of sleep, and an unpleasant sleeping experience that can include pain and stiffness. A person who does not get enough restful sleep will be unable to fully enjoy life and function optimally

People have very different body types and sleeping habits. There are significant differences in height, weight, body type, age and other physical characteristics among different people. People also have different preferred sleeping positions. Some people prefer to sleep on their backs, while others prefers sleeping on their stomachs or sides. Pillows also vary greatly. Pillows have different sizes, shapes, firmnesses, constructions, and materials. Different pillows best suit the sleeping needs of different people.

Significant problems arise when people do not use an appropriate pillow. Unfortunately most persons cannot determine what pillow is appropriate for them. People are not generally aware of the different types of pillows or of how certain factors should influence their choice. Despite having a similar appearance one pillow may differ significantly from another. A person using the wrong pillow will have an unpleasant sleeping experience and may be harmed from lack of sleep and the unnatural or unhealthy positioning of the head and neck relative to the body for extended periods of time. Therefore, there is a need to supply people with the proper pillow to aid in their sleeping experience.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The preferred embodiments of the present invention provide the proper pillow for a person based on the person's sleeping position, mattress firmness and the characteristics of the person. The preferred embodiments of the present invention provide a custom designed pillow based on preferred sleeping position, such as back, side or stomach, and certain characteristics, such as height and weight. These characteristics influence the appropriate pillow for a person. The sleeping position of the person determines the proper pillow structure for that person. The characteristics of the person determine the proper fill weight of the pillow. Determining a proper pillow based on these characteristics will allow the person to get pleasant, restful, and undisturbed sleep.

In one aspect, the present invention is directed to a custom designed pillow for a person, the person having characteristics of a height, weight, age, sex, posture, body type, chest size, neck size, head size, and the person preferring a pillow firmness and a bed firmness, the pillow comprising:

    • one or more chambers;
    • filler material deposited in each of the one or more chambers;
    • wherein a fill weight of the filler material is based on one or more of the person's characteristics and preferences.

In yet another aspect, the present invention is directed to a custom designed pillow for a person, the person having characteristics of a height, weight, age, sex, posture, body type, chest size, neck size, head size, and the person preferring a pillow firmness and a bed firmness, the pillow comprising:

    • two short sides, each having a first, second, top and bottom edges;
    • a first and second long side, each having a first, second, top and bottom edges, the first long side attached to each of the two short sides at the first edges and the second long side attached to each of the two short sides at the second edges;
    • a top side attached to the two long sides and two short sides at the top edges;
    • a bottom side attached to the two long sides and short sides at the bottom edges;
    • a first chamber bounded by the top side, bottom side, the two short sides, the first long side, and a first interior wall;
    • a second chamber bounded by the topside, bottom side, the two short sides, the first interior wall, and a second interior wall;
    • a third chamber bounded by the top side, bottom side, the two short sides, the second interior wall, and the second long side; and
    • filler material deposited in the first chamber, second chamber, and third chamber;
    • wherein a fill weight of the filler material in the first chamber, the second chamber, and the third chamber is based on one or more of the person's characteristics and preferences.

In another aspect of the present invention, the fill weight of the filler material in the first chamber and the third chamber is substantially the same, and the fill weight of the second chamber is less that the fill weight of the first and third chambers.

In yet another aspect of the present invention, the fill weight in the second chamber is substantially 8 ounces, and the fill weight in the first and third chambers ranges from substantially 11 ounces to substantially 17 ounces each.

In another aspect of the present invention, the filler material is one or more of PrimaLoft®, Sensuelle™, or Lyocell™.

In another aspect of the present invention, the two short sides, the first and second long sides, the top side, and the bottom side are made of cotton Sateen™, have a thread count greater than 300, the two short sides are of substantially equal length and the first and second long sides are of substantially equal length.

In yet another aspect, the present invention is directed to a custom designed pillow for a person, the person having characteristics of a height, weight, age, sex, posture, body type, chest size, neck size, head size, and the person preferring a pillow firmness and a bed firmness, the pillow comprising:

    • two short sides, each having a first, second, top and bottom edges;
    • a first and second long side, each having a first, second, top and bottom edges, the first long side attached to each of the two short sides at the first edges and the second long side attached to each of the two short sides at the second edges;
    • a top side attached to the two long sides and two short sides at the top edges;
    • a bottom side attached to the two long sides and short sides at the bottom edges;
    • an interior portion bounded by the top side, the bottom side, the two short sides and the two long sides; and
    • filler material deposited in the interior portion;

wherein a fill weight of the filler material is based on one or more of the person's characteristics and preferences.

In another aspect of the present invention, the fill weight ranges from substantially 20 ounces to substantially 31 ounces.

In another aspect of the present invention, the filler material is one or more of PrimaLoft®, Sensuelle™, or Lyocell™.

In another aspect of the present invention, the two short sides, the first and second long sides, the top side, and the bottom side are made of cotton Sateen™, have a thread count greater than 300, the two short sides are of substantially equal length and the first and second long sides are of substantially equal length.

In yet another aspect, the present invention is directed to a custom designed pillow for a person, the person having characteristics of a height, weight, age, sex, posture, body type, chest size, neck size, head size, and the person preferring a pillow firmness and a bed firmness, the pillow comprising:

    • a first side and a second side, each having a center height, a top edge, a bottom edge, a first endpoint where the top edge and the bottom edge meet, and a second endpoint where the top edge and the bottom edge meet;
    • a first edge and a second edge, the first edge running from the first endpoint of the first side to the first endpoint of the second side, and the second edge running from the second endpoint of the first side to the second endpoint of the second side;
    • a top side attached to the first edge, the second edge, and the first side and second side at the top edges;
    • a bottom side attached to the first edge, the second edge, and the first side and second side at the bottom edges;
    • an interior portion bounded by the first side, the second side, the top side, the bottom side, the first edge and the second edge; and
    • a filler material deposited in the interior portion;

wherein a fill weight of the filler material is based on one or more of the person's characteristics and preferences.

In another aspect of the present invention, the fill weight ranges from substantially 17 ounces to substantially 21 ounces.

In another aspect of the present invention, the filler material is one or more of PrimaLoft®, Sensuelle™, or Lyocell™.

In another aspect of the present invention, the first side, second side, top side and bottom side are made of cotton Sateen™, have a thread count greater than 300, the first and second sides are substantially the same length and the first and second edges are substantially the same length.

In yet another aspect, the present invention is directed to a method of determining a pillow for a person, the person having characteristics of a height, weight, age, sex, posture, body type, chest size, neck size, head size, and the person preferring a pillow firmness and a bed firmness, the method comprising:

    • determining a pillow type based on the person's sleeping position;
    • determining a pillow code based on one or more of the characteristics and preferences of the person; and
    • selecting a fill weight and material for the pillow based on the pillow code.

In another aspect of the present invention, the pillow type is one of a Back Sleeper, Stomach Sleeper or Side Sleeper.

In another aspect of the present invention, the pillow code is determined as a function of height.

In another aspect of the present invention, the pillow code is determined as a function of weight.

In another aspect of the present invention, the pillow code is determined as a function of chest size.

In another aspect of the present invention, the pillow code is determined as a function of preferred pillow firmness.

In another aspect of the present invention, the step of determining a pillow code further comprises:

    • locating the pillow code on a first series of charts, each chart in the first series comprising values for at least one of the characteristics and preferences of the person, and each chart representing pillows of a particular pillow type based on sleeping position.

These and other features of the present invention are further described below with the help of the following illustrative FIGS. 1-4.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1A is a perspective view of a first custom designed pillow;

FIG. 1B is a perspective view of a first custom designed pillow with the components unattached;

FIG. 1C is a cross-sectional view of a first custom designed pillow;

FIG. 2A is a perspective view of a second custom designed pillow;

FIG. 2B is a perspective view of a second custom designed pillow with the components unattached

FIG. 2C is a cross-sectional view of a second custom designed pillow;

FIG. 3A is a perspective view of a third custom designed pillow;

FIG. 3C is a cross-sectional view of a third custom designed pillow; and

FIG. 4 illustrates a method of determining a pillow for a person.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to custom designed pillows and a method for determining an appropriate pillow for a person based on the characteristics of the person. The custom designed pillows are designed based on the specific characteristics of the person that will be using the pillow, such as sleeping position, height, weight, age, sex, posture, body type, chest size, neck size, head size, and a preferred pillow firmness. Similarly, the method for determining an appropriate pillow takes these characteristics into consideration to determine a pillow that will suit the specific needs of the person. This invention solves the problem of sleep that is disturbed and not restful or enjoyable because of pillows that do not properly suit the body and sleeping preferences of the person using them.

FIG. 1A is a perspective view of a first custom designed pillow 100. The pillow 100 includes two short sides 110, first long side 120, a second long side, top side 130, a bottom side, first interior wall 140, second interior wall 150, first chamber 160, second chamber 170, third chamber 180, and filler material.

FIG. 1B is a perspective view of custom designed pillow 100 with short side 110, first long side 120, and top side 130 unattached. Short side 110 includes first edge 112, second edge 114, top edge 116 and bottom edge 118. First long side 120 includes first edge 122, second edge 124, top edge 126 and bottom edge 128.

FIG. 1C is a cross-sectional view of custom designed pillow 100. First chamber 160 includes filler material 162. Second chamber 170 includes filler material 172. Third chamber 180 includes filler material 182.

To construct pillow 100, first edge 112 of short side 110 is connected to first edge 122 of first long side 120. Second edge 114 of short side 110 is connected to a second end of a second long side. Second edge 124 of long side 120 is connected to a second edge of a short side. Second edge of a second long side is connected to a second edge of a short side. Top side 130 is connected to first short side 110 at top edge 116, two long sides 120 at top edge 126, and the second short side at a top edge. Bottom side is connected to first short side 110 at bottom edge 118, two long sides 120 at bottom edge 128, and the second short side at a bottom edge. First chamber 160 is bounded by top side 130, a bottom side, two short sides 110, first long side 120 and first interior wall 140. Second chamber 170 is bounded by top side 130, a bottom side, two short sides 110, first interior wall 140 and second interior wall 150. Third chamber is bounded by top side 130, a bottom side, two short sides 110, second interior wall 150 and a second long side.

Preferably, the two short sides 110 are of substantially equal length. First long side 120 and the second long side are of substantially equal length. Short sides 110, top side 130, a bottom side, first long side 120 and a second long side form the exterior shell of pillow 100. This shell keeps filler materials 162, 172, and 182 inside of the pillow 100. Filler materials 162, 172 and 182 cause chambers 160, 170 and 180 to maintain their volume. The type and amount of filler material in a chamber determines the fill weight of the chamber. The fill weight of filler materials 162, 172, and 182 determines the firmness and support that chambers 160, 170, and 180 respectively supply to the person's head. Filler materials 162, 172 and 182 provide comfort and support for the neck and head of the person using the pillow by creating a cushion for the neck and head to rest on and by supporting the neck and head at appropriate heights. Interior walls 140 and 150 keep filler materials 162, 172 and 182 in their appropriate chambers 160, 170 and 180 inside of pillow 100. Interior walls 140 and 150 allow chambers 160, 170 and 180 to maintain different fill weights of filler materials 162, 172 and 182.

The appropriate fill weights of filler materials 162, 172 and 182 will be determined by the characteristics of the person using the pillow. Characteristics that could be considered to determine the appropriate fill weight include height, weight, age, sex, posture, body type, chest size, neck size and head size and the firmness of the mattress in use. One with skill in the art understands that there is a direct correlation between a person's height and neck length. People with longer necks need more support for their heads. People who have a greater weight typically have heavier head and shoulder regions and need more support.

The inventor has noted that as the body ages there is a general loss of bone density, which can alter a preferred density of the pillow. The lower the bone density, the less support is needed. Females generally have smaller frames than males, including subsequently thinner necks, arms, and lighter head mass. Accordingly females generally do not need as much support. The chest size of a person can determine how close a persons head is to the pillow when the person is laying down. A bigger chest typically means that the head will be further from the pillow, and more support is needed.

Neck posture can effect how much support is needed depending on the sleeping position. For a person that sleeps on their back, a neck posture where the neck leans forward would mean that more support is needed, while a neck posture where the neck leans backwards would require less support. A larger head typically means more support is needed. A person's preferred pillow firmness affects the appropriate pillow for that person. The appropriate pillow for a person who prefers a softer pillow would have less fill weight than the appropriate pillow for a person who prefers a firmer pillow. The mattress used can also affect the appropriate amount of support needed. A softer mattress will allow a person to sink further into the mattress, which causes a need for less support from the pillow.

In a preferred embodiment, pillow 100 is a Back Sleeper pillow. A Back Sleeper is a type of pillow designed for people that sleep primarily on their back. In a Back Sleeper pillow, the fill weight of filler material 162 in first chamber 160 and filler material 182 in third chamber 180 should be greater than the fill weight of filler material 172 in second chamber 170. This allows subtle but firm outer chambers 160 and 180 to support the neck while center chamber 170 softly cradles the head.

The size of the pillow 100 varies in different embodiments of the invention. In one embodiment pillow 100 is a standard size with dimensions of 18″×24″×2″. In another embodiment pillow 100 is king sized with dimensions of 18″×24″2″. The relative sizes of chambers 160, 170 and 180 may also vary.

As known to those skilled in the art, the filler material used may also vary. In a preferred embodiment the filler material is PrimaLoft®. In another preferred embodiment the filler material is Sensuelle™. In yet another preferred embodiment the filler material is Lyocell™. The material for the exterior portions including two short sides 110, long side 120, another long side, top side 130, and a bottom side may also vary. In a preferred embodiment, the material used is 312 thread count combed cotton Sateen™. This material allows the pillow to breathe while providing a cool and gentle sensation to the face and neck of the person using the pillow.

The specific characteristics of the person used to determine an appropriate fill weight also varies in different types of pillows. In a preferred embodiment, the fill weight of pillow 100 will vary according to height, weight, and chest size as seen in Chart 1 below.

FIG. 2A is a perspective view of a second custom designed pillow 200. Pillow 200 includes two short sides 210, first long side 220, a second long side, top side 230, a bottom side, an interior portion, and filler material.

FIG. 2B is a perspective view of custom designed pillow 200 with short side 210, first long side 220, and top side 230 unattached. Short side 210 includes first edge 212, second edge 214, top edge 216 and bottom edge 218. First long side includes first edge 222, second edge 224, top edge 226 and bottom edge 228.

FIG. 2C is a cross-sectional view of custom designed pillow 200. Pillow 200 includes first side 220, top side 230, interior portion 240 and filler material 250.

To construct pillow 200, first edge 212 of short side 210 is connected to first edge 222 of first long side 220. Second edge 214 of short side 210 is connected to a second end of a second long side. Second edge 224 of long side 220 is connected to a second edge of a short side. Second edge of a second long side is connected to a second edge of a short side. Top side 230 is connected to first short side 210 at top edge 216, two long sides 220 at top edge 226, and the second short side at a top edge. Bottom side is connected to first short side 210 at bottom edge 218, two long sides 220 at bottom edge 228, and the second short side at a bottom edge. This forms interior portion 240 that contains filler material 250.

Preferably, the two short sides 210 are of substantially equal length. First long side 220 and a second long side are of substantially equal length. Short sides 210, top side 230, a bottom side, first long side 220 and a second long side bound the interior portion and form the exterior shell of pillow 200. This shell keeps filler material 250 inside of pillow 200. The presence of filler material 250 inside of pillow 200 helps pillow 200 to maintain its shape and support the head and neck of the user. The type and amount of filler material 250 in pillow 200 determine the fill weight of filler material 250. The type of filler material 250 and the fill weight of filler material 250 determines the firmness and amount of support of pillow 200. The greater the fill weight, the more firmness and support is offered by pillow 200.

The appropriate fill weight and filler material 250 will be determined by the characteristics of the person using the pillow. As with pillow 100 described above, characteristics that could be considered to determine the appropriate fill weight include height, weight, age, sex, posture, body type, chest size, neck size and head size and the firmness of the mattress in use. These characteristics influence the appropriate fill weight of pillow 200 in similarly to how they influence the appropriate fill weight of pillow 100 described above. For example, people who have a greater weight typically have heavier heads and need more support. Therefore the fill weight of pillow 200 should be greater for someone with a greater weight.

In a preferred embodiment pillow 200 is a Side Sleeper pillow. A Side Sleeper pillow is a type of pillow designed for people that sleep primarily on their sides. In a Side Sleeper pillow the two short sides 210, first long side 220 and second long side create a baffled side panel surrounding the pillow. The baffled side panel provides appropriate neck alignment and an even sleep surface. In one embodiment the baffled side panel is substantially 2 inches tall.

The size of pillow 200 varies in different embodiments of the invention. In one embodiment pillow 200 is a standard size with dimensions of 18″×24″×2″. In another embodiment pillow 200 is king sized with dimensions of 18″×24″×2″.

As known to those skilled in the art, the filler material used may also vary. In a preferred embodiment the filler material is PrimaLoft®. In another preferred embodiment the filler material is Sensuelle™. In yet another preferred embodiment the filler material is Lyocell™. The material for the exterior portions including two short sides 210, long side 220, another long side, top side 230, and a bottom side may also vary. In a preferred embodiment, the material used is 312 thread count combed cotton Sateen™. This material allows the pillow to breathe while providing a cool and gentle sensation to the face and neck of the person using the pillow.

The specific characteristics of the person used to determine an appropriate fill weight varies in different types of pillows. In a preferred embodiment, the fill weight of pillow 200 will vary according to height, weight, chest size, and preferred pillow firmness as seen in Chart 2 below.

FIG. 3A is a perspective view of a third custom designed pillow 300. Pillow 300 includes fist side 310, a second side, first edge 320, second edge 330, top side 340, a bottom side, an interior portion, and a filler material. First side 310 has center height 312, top edge 314, bottom edge 316, first endpoint 317 and second endpoint 318.

FIG. 3B is a cross-sectional view of custom designed pillow 300. Pillow 300 includes first edge 320, second edge 330, top side 340, interior portion 350 and filler material 360.

To construct pillow 300, top side 340 and the bottom side are connected at first edge 320 and second edge 330. First side 310 is connected to top side 340 at top edge 314. First side 320 is also connected to the bottom side at bottom edge 316. The second side is similarly connected to top side 340 and the bottom side. Interior portion 350 is bounded by first side 310, the second side, first edge 320, second edge 330, top side 340, and the bottom side. Interior portion 350 is filled with filler material 360.

First side 310, the second side, first edge 320, second edge 330, top side 340, and the bottom side form an exterior shell of pillow 300. This shell keeps filler material 360 inside of pillow 300. The presence of filler material 360 inside of pillow 300 causes pillow 300 to maintain its shape and support the head and neck of the user. The type and amount of filler material 360 in pillow 300 determines the fill weight of the filler material 360. The type of filler material 360 and the fill weight of filler material 360 determine the firmness and amount of support of by pillow 300. The greater the fill weight, the more firmness and support is offered by pillow 300.

The appropriate fill weight and filler material 360 will be determined by the characteristics of the person using the pillow. As with pillow 100 and pillow 200 described above, characteristics that could be considered to determine the appropriate fill weight include height, weight, age, sex, posture, body type, chest size, neck size and head size and the firmness of the mattress in use. These characteristics influence the appropriate fill weight of pillow 300 in similarly to how they influence the appropriate fill weight of pillow 100 and pillow 200 described above. For example, people who have a greater weight typically have heavier heads and need more support. Therefore the fill weight of pillow 300 should be greater for someone with a greater weight.

In a preferred embodiment, pillow 300 is a Stomach Sleeper pillow. A Stomach Sleeper pillow is a type of pillow designed for people that sleep primarily on their stomach. In a Stomach Sleeper pillow, the first side 310 and the second side create a tapered baffled end. The tapered baffled end has a height equal to the center height 310 of the first side and a sleep surface that gently slopes to first edge 320 and second edge 330. The tapered shape of the Stomach Sleeper provides a flatter pillow 300, which is better for people that sleep on their stomachs. In one embodiment the center height 310 is substantially 2 inches tall.

The size of pillow 300 varies in different embodiments of the invention. In one embodiment pillow 300 is a standard size with dimensions of 18″×24″×2″. In another embodiment pillow 300 is king sized with dimensions of 18″×24″×2″.

As known to those with skill in the act, the filler material used may also vary. In a preferred embodiment the filler material is PrimaLoft®. In another preferred embodiment the filler material is Sensuelle™. In yet another preferred embodiment the filler material is Lyocell™. The material for the exterior portions including first side 310, a second side, first edge 320, second edge 330, top side 340, and a bottom side may also vary. In a preferred embodiment, the material used is 312 thread count combed cotton Sateen™. This material allows the pillow to breathe while providing a cool and gentle sensation to the face and neck of the person using the pillow.

The specific characteristics of the person used to determine an appropriate fill weight varies in different types of pillows. In a preferred embodiment, the fill weight of pillow 300 will vary according to height, weight, chest size, gender, and for women—cup size, as seen in Charts 3-5 below.

FIG. 4 is a flowchart of a preferred method 400 of determining a pillow for a person. As shown in FIG. 4, step 410 is to determine a pillow type based on the sleeping position of the person. Generally, people either sleep on their back, side, or stomach. The sleeping position should be the position the person usually sleeps in. Some examples of sleeping position are back, side and stomach. In step 410, a pillow type is chosen based on the person's sleeping position. The sleeping position determines the appropriate basic structure for the person's pillow.

In step 420 a pillow code is determined based on comparing the characteristics of the person to a chart. The chart is specific to the sleeping position of the person and includes values for different characteristics that determine the appropriate pillow for the person. For example, Chart 2 below applies to a person who sleeps on his or her side. Chart 2 has values for height, weight, chest size, and preferred pillow firmness. When characteristics of the person are compared to Chart 2, it results in a specific pillow code. For example, comparing the characteristics of a 5′8″ person weighing 160 pounds with a 39″ chest who prefers a soft pillow would result in the pillow code SiS2.

In step 430 a pillow weight and filler material is selected based on the pillow code. The pillow code determined in step 420 is compared to a table containing pillow codes, filler materials, and filler weights (as shown at the top of Chart 3). This results in a specific filler material and filler weight for the pillow. Using the example from above where the pillow code is SiS2, the filler material would be Lyocell™ and the filler weight would be 20 ounces.

In a preferred embodiment for a person that does not sleep on his or her side a chart different from Chart 2 is used. In a preferred embodiment for a person who sleeps on his or her back Chart 1 is used. In a preferred embodiment for a female with a small chest who sleeps on her stomach Chart 3 is used. In a preferred embodiment for a female with a large chest who sleeps on her stomach Chart 4 is used. In a preferred embodiment for a male who sleeps on his stomach Chart 5 is used.

In a preferred embodiment the characteristics of height, weight, and chest size are considered for a person that sleeps on his/her back. In another preferred embodiment, the characteristics of weight, chest side, height, and preferred pillow firmness are considered for a person that sleeps on his/her side. In yet another preferred embodiment, the characteristics of gender, height, chest size, and weight are considered for a person that sleeps on his/her stomach.

In a preferred embodiment the type of pillow is a body pillow. To determine the fill weight and filler material of a body pillow, the person's height and weight are considered. Preferably the body pillow has a length of substantially 54″ and a width of substantially 20″. In an alternative preferred embodiment, the body pillow has a length of substantially 60″ and a width of substantially 20″. Preferably, the filler material is Spiraloft™, which is based on the person's characteristics.

In a preferred embodiment, the type of pillow is a pillow with a shape other than those described above. In an alternative preferred embodiment, the pillow shape one of a circle, an oval, a triangle, a hexagon, a pentagon, a different polyhedron, or the like.

While particular elements, embodiments and applications of the present invention have been shown and described, it is understood that the invention is not limited thereto since modifications may be made by those skilled in the art, particularly in light of the foregoing teaching. It is therefore contemplated by the appended claims to cover such modifications and incorporate those features which come within the spirit and scope of the invention.

CHART 1 Chart 1 contains pillow codes for a person who sleeps on his or her back. This chart includes the characteristics of height, chest size, and weight. MALE/FEMALE Back Position Height Chest Weight Pillow   0-5′ 3″  0-34 <130 BS1   0-5′ 3″  0-34 >130 BS1   0-5′ 3″ 34-40 <150 BS1   0-5′ 3″ 34-40 >150 BS2   0-5′ 3″ 40-46 <200 BS2   0-5′ 3″ 40-46 >200 BS2   0-5′ 3″ 46> <225 BS3   0-5′ 3″ 46> >225 BS3 5′ 3″-5′ 6″  0-34 <150 BS1 5′ 3″-5′ 6″  0-34 >150 BS2 5′ 3″-5′ 6″ 34-40 <170 BS2 5′ 3″-5′ 6″ 34-40 >170 BS2 5′ 3″-5′ 6″ 40-46 <210 BS2 5′ 3″-5′ 6″ 40-46 >210 BS3 5′ 3″-5′ 6″ 46-50 <230 BS2 5′ 3″-5′ 6″ 46-50 >230 BS3 5′ 3″-5′ 6″ 50> <250 BS3 5′ 3″-5′ 6″ 50> >250 BS3 5′ 6″-5′ 9″  0-35 <160 BS2 5′ 6″-5′ 9″  0-35 >160 BS2 5′ 6″-5′ 9″ 35-40 <185 BS2 5′ 6″-5′ 9″ 35-40 >185 BS3 5′ 6″-5′ 9″ 40-46 <225 BS3 5′ 6″-5′ 9″ 40-46 >225 BS3 5′ 6″-5′ 9″ 46-50 <245 BS3 5′ 6″-5′ 9″ 46-50 >245 BS4 5′ 6″-5′ 9″ 50> <265 BS4 5′ 6″-5′ 9″ 50> >265 BS4 5′ 9″-6′ 2″  0-36 <170 BS2 5′ 9″-6′ 2″  0-36 >170 BS3 5′ 9″-6′ 2″ 36-40 <200 BS3 5′ 9″-6′ 2″ 36-40 >200 BS3 5′ 9″-6′ 2″ 40-46 <240 BS3 5′ 9″-6′ 2″ 40-46 >240 BS4 5′ 9″-6′ 2″ 46-50 <265 BS3 5′ 9″-6′ 2″ 46-50 >265 BS4 5′ 9″-6′ 2″ 50> <275 BS4 5′ 9″-6′ 2″ 50> >275 BS4 6′ 2″-higher  0-36 <180 BS2 6′ 2″-higher  0-36 >180 BS3 6′ 2″-higher 36-40 <220 BS3 6′ 2″-higher 36-40 >220 BS4 6′ 2″-higher 40-46 <245 BS4 6′ 2″-higher 40-46 >245 BS4 6′ 2″-higher 46-50 <260 BS4 6′ 2″-higher 46-50 >260 BS4 6′ 2″-higher 50> <285 BS4 6′ 2″-higher 50> >285 BS4

CHART 2 Chart 2 contains pillow codes for a person who sleeps on his or her side. This chart includes the characteristics of height, chest size, weight and preferred pillow firmness. MALE/FEMALE - Side Position Height Chest Weight Pillow - Firm Pillow - SOFT   0-5′ 3″  0-34 <130 SiSf1 SiS1   0-5′ 3″  0-34 >130 SiSf1 SiS1   0-5′ 3″ 34-40 <150 SiSf1 StS1   0-5′ 3″ 34-40 >150 SiSf1 SiS2   0-5′ 3″ 40-46 <200 SiSf2 SiS3   0-5′ 3″ 40-46 >200 SiSf2 SiS4   0-5′ 3″ 46> <225 SiSf3 SiS4   0-5′ 3″ 46> >225 SiSf3 SiS4 5′ 3″-5′ 6″  0-34 <150 SiSf1 SiS1 5′ 3″-5′ 6″  0-34 >150 SiSf1 SiS2 5′ 3″-5′ 6″ 34-40 <170 SiSf1 SiS2 5′ 3″-5′ 6″ 34-40 >170 SiSf2 SiS3 5′ 3″-5′ 6″ 40-46 <210 SiSf2 SiS3 5′ 3″-5′ 6″ 40-46 >210 SiSf3 SiS4 5′ 3″-5′ 6″ 46-50 <230 SiSf2 SiS4 5′ 3″-5′ 6″ 46-50 >230 SiSf3 SiS4 5′ 3″-5′ 6″ 50> <250 SiSf3 SiS4 5′ 3″-5′ 6″ 50> >250 SiSf3 SiS5 5′ 6″-5′ 9″  0-35 <160 SiSf1 SiS2 5′ 6″-5′ 9″  0-35 >160 SiSf1 SiS2 5′ 6″-5′ 9″ 35-40 <185 SiSf1 SiS2 5′ 6″-5′ 9″ 35-40 >185 SiSf2 SiS3 5′ 6″-5′ 9″ 40-46 <225 SiSf2 SiS3 5′ 6″-5′ 9″ 40-46 >225 SiSf3 SiS4 5′ 6″-5′ 9″ 46-50 <245 SiSf3 SiS4 5′ 6″-5′ 9″ 46-50 >245 SiSf3 SiS4 5′ 6″-5′ 9″ 50> <265 SiSf3 SiS5 5′ 6″-5′ 9″ 50> >265 SiSf4 SiS5 5′ 9″-6′ 2″  0-36 <170 SiSf1 SiS2 5′ 9″-6′ 2″  0-36 >170 SiSf2 SiS3 5′ 9″-6′ 2″ 36-40 <200 SiSf2 SiS3 5′ 9″-6′ 2″ 36-40 >200 SiSf2 SiS3 5′ 9″-6′ 2″ 40-46 <240 SiSf2 SiS3 5′ 9″-6′ 2″ 40-46 >240 SiSf3 SiS4 5′ 9″-6′ 2″ 46-50 <265 SiSf3 SiS4 5′ 9″-6′ 2″ 46-50 >265 SiSf4 SiS5 5′ 9″-6′ 2″ 50> <275 SiSf3 SiS4 5′ 9″-6′ 2″ 50> >275 SiSf4 SiS5 6′ 2″-higher  0-36 <180 SiSf1 SiS2 6′ 2″-higher  0-36 >180 SiSf2 SiS3 6′ 2″-higher 36-40 <220 SiSf3 SiS3 6′ 2″-higher 36-40 >220 SiSf3 SiS4 6′ 2″-higher 40-46 <245 SiSf3 SiS4 6′ 2″-higher 40-46 >245 SiSf4 SiS4 6′ 2″-higher 46-50 <260 SiSf4 SiS4 6′ 2″-higher 46-50 >260 SiSf4 SiS5 6′ 2″-higher 50> <285 SiSf4 SiS5 6′ 2″-higher 50> >285 SiSf4 SiS5

CHART 3 Chart 3 contains pillow codes for a female who sleeps on her stomach. This chart includes the characteristics of height, chest size in inches and cup size, and weight. Female Stomach|Position| Height Chest A-C Cup Weight Pillow   0-5′ 3″  0-34 Yes <130 StS1   0-5′ 3″  0-34 Yes >130 StS1   0-5′ 3″ 34-40 Yes <150 StS1   0-5′ 3″ 34-40 Yes >150 StS2   0-5′ 3″ 40-46 Yes <200 StS2   0-5′ 3″ 40-46 Yes >200 StS3   0-5′ 3″ 46> Yes <225 StS2   0-5′ 3″ 46> Yes >225 StS3 5′ 3″-5′ 6″  0-34 Yes <150 StS1 5′ 3″-5′ 6″  0-34 Yes >150 StS2 5′ 3″-5′ 6″ 34-40 Yes <170 StS1 5′ 3″-5′ 6″ 34-40 Yes >170 StS2 5′ 3″-5′ 6″ 40-46 Yes <210 StS2 5′ 3″-5′ 6″ 40-46 Yes >210 StS3 5′ 3″-5′ 6″ 46-50 Yes <230 StS3 5′ 3″-5′ 6″ 46-50 Yes >230 StS4 5′ 3″-5′ 6″ 50> Yes <250 StS3 5′ 3″-5′ 6″ 50> Yes >250 StS4 5′ 6″-5′ 9″  0-35 Yes <160 StS1 5′ 6″-5′ 9″  0-35 Yes >160 StS2 5′ 6″-5′ 9″ 35-40 Yes <185 StS2 5′ 6″-5′ 9″ 35-40 Yes >185 StS3 5′ 6″-5′ 9″ 40-46 Yes <225 StS2 5′ 6″-5′ 9″ 40-46 Yes >225 StS3 5′ 6″-5′ 9″ 46-50 Yes <245 StS3 5′ 6″-5′ 9″ 46-50 Yes >245 StS4 5′ 6″-5′ 9″ 50> Yes <265 StS3 5′ 6″-5′ 9″ 50> Yes >265 StS4 5′ 9″-6′ 2″  0-36 Yes <170 StS1 5′ 9″-6′ 2″  0-36 Yes >170 StS2 5′ 9″-6′ 2″ 36-40 Yes <200 StS2 5′ 9″-6′ 2″ 36-40 Yes >200 StS3 5′ 9″-6′ 2″ 40-46 Yes <240 StS3 5′ 9″-6′ 2″ 40-46 Yes >240 StS4 5′ 9″-6′ 2″ 46-50 Yes <265 StS3 5′ 9″-6′ 2″ 46-50 Yes >265 StS4 5′ 9″-6′ 2″ 50> Yes <275 StS4 5′ 9″-6′ 2″ 50> Yes >275 StS4 6′ 2″-higher  0-36 Yes <180 StS2 6′ 2″-higher  0-36 Yes >180 StS3 6′ 2″-higher 36-40 Yes <210 StS3 6′ 2″-higher 36-40 Yes >210 StS4 6′ 2″-higher 40-46 Yes <245 StS3 6′ 2″-higher 40-46 Yes >245 StS4 6′ 2″-higher 46-50 Yes <275 StS4 6′ 2″-higher 46-50 Yes >275 StS4 6′ 2″-higher 50> Yes <300 StS4 6′ 2″-higher 50> Yes >300 StS4

CHART 4 Chart 4 contains pillow codes for a female who sleeps on her stomach. This chart includes the characteristics of height, chest size in inches and cup size, and weight. Female Stomach Position D or Larger Height Chest Cup Weight Pillow - Soft   0-5′ 3″  0-34 Yes <130 StS2   0-5′ 3″  0-34 Yes >130 StS2   0-5′ 3″ 34-40 Yes <150 StS2   0-5′ 3″ 34-40 Yes >150 StS2   0-5′ 3″ 40-46 Yes <200 StS2   0-5′ 3″ 40-46 Yes >200 StS3   0-5′ 3″ 46> Yes <225 StS3   0-5′ 3″ 46> Yes >225 StS4 5′ 3″-5′ 6″  0-34 Yes <150 StS2 5′ 3″-5′ 6″  0-34 Yes >150 StS3 5′ 3″-5′ 6″ 34-40 Yes <170 StS2 5′ 3″-5′ 6″ 34-40 Yes >170 StS3 5′ 3″-5′ 6″ 40-46 Yes <210 StS3 5′ 3″-5′ 6″ 40-46 Yes >210 StS4 5′ 3″-5′ 6″ 46-50 Yes <230 StS4 5′ 3″-5′ 6″ 46-50 Yes >230 StS4 5′ 3″-5′ 6″ 50> Yes <250 StS4 5′ 3″-5′ 6″ 50> Yes >250 StS4 5′ 6″-5′ 9″  0-35 Yes <160 StS2 5′ 6″-5′ 9″  0-35 Yes >160 StS3 5′ 6″-5′ 9″ 35-40 Yes <185 StS3 5′ 6″-5′ 9″ 35-40 Yes >185 StS3 5′ 6″-5′ 9″ 40-46 Yes <225 StS3 5′ 6″-5′ 9″ 40-46 Yes >225 StS4 5′ 6″-5′ 9″ 46-50 Yes <245 StS4 5′ 6″-5′ 9″ 46-50 Yes >245 StS4 5′ 6″-5′ 9″ 50> Yes <265 StS4 5′ 6″-5′ 9″ 50> Yes >265 StS4 5′ 9″-6′ 2″  0-36 Yes <170 StS2 5′ 9″-6′ 2″  0-36 Yes >170 StS3 5′ 9″-6′ 2″ 36-40 Yes <200 StS3 5′ 9″-6′ 2″ 36-40 Yes >200 StS3 5′ 9″-6′ 2″ 40-46 Yes <240 StS3 5′ 9″-6′ 2″ 40-46 Yes >240 StS4 5′ 9″-6′2″ 46-50 Yes <265 StS4 5′ 9″-6′ 2″ 46-50 Yes >265 StS4 5′ 9″-6′ 2″ 50> Yes <275 StS4 5′ 9″-6′ 2″ 50> Yes >275 StS4 6′ 2″-higher  0-36 Yes <180 StS3 6′ 2″-higher  0-36 Yes >180 StS4 6′ 2″-higher 36-40 Yes <210 StS4 6′ 2″-higher 36-40 Yes >210 StS4 6′ 2″-higher 40-46 Yes <245 StS4 6′ 2″-higher 40-46 Yes >245 StS4 6′ 2″-higher 46-50 Yes <275 StS4 6′ 2″-higher 46-50 Yes >275 StS4 6′ 2″-higher 50> Yes <300 StS4 6′ 2″-higher 50> Yes >300 StS4

CHART 5 Chart 5 contains pillow codes for a male who sleeps on his side. This chart includes the characteristics of height, chest size, and weight. MALE Stomach Position Height Chest Weight Pillow - Soft   0-5′ 3″  0-34 <130 StS1   0-5′ 3″  0-34 >130 StS2   0-5′ 3″ 34-40 <150 StS1   0-5′ 3″ 34-40 >150 StS2   0-5′ 3″ 40-46 <200 StS2   0-5′ 3″ 40-46 >200 StS2   0-5′ 3″ 46> <225 StS2   0-5′ 3″ 46> >225 StS3 5′ 3″-5′ 6″  0-34 <150 StS1 5′ 3″-5′ 6″  0-34 >150 StS2 5′ 3″-5′ 6″ 34-40 <170 StS1 5′ 3″-5′ 6″ 34-40 >170 StS2 5′ 3″-5′ 6″ 40-46 <210 StS2 5′ 3″-5′ 6″ 40-46 >210 StS3 5′ 3″-5′ 6″ 46-50 <230 StS3 5′ 3″-5′ 6″ 46-50 >230 StS4 5′ 3″-5′ 6″ 50> <250 StS3 5′ 3″-5′ 6″ 50> >250 StS4 5′ 6″-5′ 9″  0-35 <160 StS1 5′ 6″-5′ 9″  0-35 >160 StS2 5′ 6″-5′ 9″ 35-40 <185 StS2 5′ 6″-5′ 9″ 35-40 >185 StS3 5′ 6″-5′ 9″ 40-46 <225 StS2 5′ 6″-5′ 9″ 40-46 >225 StS3 5′ 6″-5′ 9″ 46-50 <245 StS3 5′ 6″-5′ 9″ 46-50 >245 StS4 5′ 6″-5′ 9″ 50> <265 StS4 5′ 6″-5′ 9″ 50> >265 StS4 5′ 9″-6′ 2″  0-36 <170 StS1 5′ 9″-6′ 2″  0-36 >170 StS2 5′ 9″-6′ 2″ 36-40 <200 StS2 5′ 9″-6′ 2″ 36-40 >200 StS3 5′ 9″-6′ 2″ 40-46 <240 StS3 5′ 9″-6′ 2″ 40-46 >240 StS3 5′ 9″-6′2″ 46-50 <265 StS3 5′ 9″-6′ 2″ 46-50 >265 StS4 5′ 9″-6′ 2″ 50> <275 StS4 5′ 9″-6′ 2″ 50> >275 StS4 6′ 2″-higher  0-36 <180 StS2 6′ 2″-higher  0-36 >180 StS3 6′ 2″-higher 36-40 <210 StS3 6′ 2″-higher 36-40 >210 StS4 6′ 2″-higher 40-46 <245 StS3 6′ 2″-higher 40-46 >245 StS4 6′ 2″-higher 46-50 <275 StS4 6′ 2″-higher 46-50 >275 StS4 6′ 2″-higher 50> <300 StS4 6′ 2″-higher 50> >300 StS4

CHART 6 Chart 6 contains all of the pillow codes for the above charts and the corresponding fill weights and types for filler material. Back Sleepers Code Brand Ounces Specifications BS1 Primaloft 30 oz 11 outer/8 inner BS2 Primaloft 34 oz 13 outer/8 inner BS3 Primaloft 38 oz 15 outer/8 inner BS4 Primaloft 42 oz 17 outer/8 inner

Claims

1. A custom designed pillow for a person, the person having characteristics of a height, weight, age, sex, posture, body type, chest size, neck size, head size, and the person preferring a pillow firmness and a bed firmness, the pillow comprising:

one or more chambers;
filler material deposited in each of the one or more chambers;
wherein a fill weight of the filler material is based on one or more of the person's characteristics and preferences.

2. A custom designed pillow for a person, the person having characteristics of a height, weight, age, sex, posture, body type, chest size, neck size, head size, and the person preferring a pillow firmness and a bed firmness, the pillow comprising:

two short sides, each having a first, second, top and bottom edges;
a first and second long side, each having a first, second, top and bottom edges, the first long side attached to each of the two short sides at the first edges and the second long side attached to each of the two short sides at the second edges;
a top side attached to the two long sides and two short sides at the top edges;
a bottom side attached to the two long sides and short sides at the bottom edges;
a first chamber bounded by the top side, bottom side, the two short sides, the first long side, and a first interior wall;
a second chamber bounded by the topside, bottom side, the two short sides, the first interior wall, and a second interior wall;
a third chamber bounded by the top side, bottom side, the two short sides, the second interior wall, and the second long side; and
filler material deposited in the first chamber, second chamber, and third chamber;
wherein a fill weight of the filler material in the first chamber, the second chamber, and the third chamber is based on one or more of the person's characteristics and preferences.

3. The pillow of claim 2, wherein the fill weight of the filler material in the first chamber and the third chamber is substantially the same, and the fill weight of the second chamber is less that the fill weight of the first and third chambers.

4. The pillow of claim 2, wherein the fill weight in the second chamber is substantially 8 ounces, and the fill weight in the first and third chambers ranges from substantially 11 ounces to substantially 17 ounces each.

5. The pillow of claim 2, wherein the filler material is one or more of PrimaLoft®, Sensuelle™, or Lyocell™.

6. The pillow of claim 2, wherein the two short sides, the first and second long sides, the top side, and the bottom side are made of cotton Sateen™, have a thread count greater than 300, the two short sides are of substantially equal length and the first and second long sides are of substantially equal length.

7. A custom designed pillow for a person, the person having characteristics of a height, weight, age, sex, posture, body type, chest size, neck size, head size, and the person preferring a pillow firmness and a bed firmness, the pillow comprising:

two short sides, each having a first, second, top and bottom edges;
a first and second long side, each having a first, second, top and bottom edges, the first long side attached to each of the two short sides at the first edges and the second long side attached to each of the two short sides at the second edges;
a top side attached to the two long sides and two short sides at the top edges;
a bottom side attached to the two long sides and short sides at the bottom edges;
an interior portion bounded by the top side, the bottom side, the two short sides and the two long sides; and
filler material deposited in the interior portion;
wherein a fill weight of the filler material is based on one or more of the person's characteristics and preferences.

8. The pillow of claim 7, wherein the fill weight ranges from substantially 20 ounces to substantially 31 ounces.

9. The pillow of claim 7, wherein the filler material is one or more of PrimaLoft®, Sensuelle™, or Lyocell™.

10. The pillow of claim 7, wherein the two short sides, the first and second long sides, the top side, and the bottom side are made of cotton Sateen™, have a thread count greater than 300, the two short sides are of substantially equal length and the first and second long sides are of substantially equal length.

11. A custom designed pillow for a person, the person having characteristics of a height, weight, age, sex, posture, body type, chest size, neck size, head size, and the person preferring a pillow firmness and a bed firmness, the pillow comprising:

a first side and a second side, each having a center height, a top edge, a bottom edge, a first endpoint where the top edge and the bottom edge meet, and a second endpoint where the top edge and the bottom edge meet;
a first edge and a second edge, the first edge running from the first endpoint of the first side to the first endpoint of the second side, and the second edge running from the second endpoint of the first side to the second endpoint of the second side;
a top side attached to the first edge, the second edge, and the first side and second side at the top edges;
a bottom side attached to the first edge, the second edge, and the first side and second side at the bottom edges;
an interior portion bounded by the first side, the second side, the top side, the bottom side, the first edge and the second edge; and
a filler material deposited in the interior portion;
wherein a fill weight of the filler material is based on one or more of the person's characteristics and preferences.

12. The pillow of claim 11, wherein the fill weight ranges from substantially 17 ounces to substantially 21 ounces.

13. The pillow of claim 11, wherein the filler material is one or more of PrimaLoft®, Sensuelle™, or Lyocell™.

14. The pillow of claim 11, wherein the first side, second side, top side and bottom side are made of cotton Sateen™, have a thread count greater than 300, the first and second sides are substantially the same length and the first and second edges are substantially the same length.

15. A method of determining a pillow for a person, the person having characteristics of a height, weight, age, sex, posture, body type, chest size, neck size, head size, and the person preferring a pillow firmness and a bed firmness, the method comprising:

determining a pillow type based on the person's sleeping position;
determining a pillow code based on one or more of the characteristics and preferences of the person; and
selecting a fill weight and material for the pillow based on the pillow code.

16. The method of claim 15, wherein the pillow type is one of a Back Sleeper, Stomach Sleeper or Side Sleeper.

17. The method of claim 15, wherein the pillow code is determined as a function of height.

18. The method of claim 15, wherein the pillow code is determined as a function of weight.

19. The method of claim 15, wherein the pillow code is determined as a function of chest size.

20. The method of claim 15, wherein the pillow code is determined as a function of preferred pillow firmness.

21. The method of claim 15, wherein the step of determining a pillow code further comprises:

locating the pillow code on a first series of charts, each chart in the first series comprising values for at least one of the characteristics and preferences of the person, and each chart representing pillows of a particular pillow type based on sleeping position.
Patent History
Publication number: 20060236460
Type: Application
Filed: Mar 31, 2006
Publication Date: Oct 26, 2006
Inventor: Mark Hooper (Wilson, NC)
Application Number: 11/394,110
Classifications
Current U.S. Class: 5/636.000
International Classification: A47G 9/00 (20060101);