Ergonomic Body Support

Abstract

An ergonomic body support comprises a deformable cushion module and a flexible cover closely encasing the cushion module. The cushion module has an undeformed state and forms an undeformed configuration along with the cover in the undeformed state. The undeformed state comprises a pair of substantially identical V-shaped panels, each defining a vertex having a width W1 and first and second diverging arms. The arms terminate in first and second ends of equal widths W2. The panels are equidistantly spaced a height h and the undeformed configuration is symmetric to a central plane through the vertices and equidistantly spaced between the ends. The undeformed configuration has a generally rectangular profile along the arms. The panels each have a boundary length defined by an outer circumference C1, an inner circumference C2 and the ends.

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE

The present disclosure relates generally to pillows, and more particularly, to an ergonomic body support.

There are a number of patents that disclose body support pillows. Prior art body support pillows have one or two longitudinally extending segments proportionally configured to envelop the spine, torso, and limbs of an average sized user. While size and shape vary between specific models, the longitudinally extending spinal support segments are primarily configured to support a user positioned on his or her side. Prior art body support pillows are traditionally stuffed with cotton, down or another pliable material that allows the user to reposition the spinal support segments.

U.S. Pat. Nos. 7,353,552 to Leach, 7,472,443 to Littlehorn et al., and 8,316,488 to Rojas are representative of the prior art.

Leach teaches a contoured body pillow having an oval shape and adapted to conform to the spine and upper torso of a user. U-shaped longitudinally extending spinal support arms project in opposite directions from a contoured longitudinally extending back portion. The U-shaped arms are long enough such that terminal ends of each arm contact one another, and the body pillow forms an oval shape which surrounds the user's upper torso.

Littlehorn teaches a longitudinally extending pillow having a top, middle and bottom portions. The top portion is curved and is designed to cushion the head of a user. The middle portion is cylindrical and oriented perpendicular to the top portion. The bottom portion is curved and adapted to fit between the user's legs and cradle the lower torso and tail bone. The body pillow disclosed in Littlehorn has a length from about thirty-six inches to about fifty-six inches.

Rojas teaches a body support pillow configured to support the head and neck of a user in a seated position. The body support pillow disclosed in Rojas comprises a central body, and left and right arms connected to the central body. The central body is triangularly shaped and projects above the left and right arms, which are cooperatively configured to encircle the neck and provide support. Each arm is generally triangularly shaped and comprises a bulbous upper portion adjacent the central body and a tubular lower portion terminating in a free end.

Despite providing comfort and spinal support, prior art body support pillows of the type disclosed in Leach and Littleton are unwieldy. In order to adopt different sleeping positions during periods of rest, a user must invest substantial energy to move the longitudinally extending spinal support segments. While such prior art pillows aim to give support and allow for adjustability, the generally round shape and pliable stuffing of many prior art body support pillows does not provide a sturdy platform and lacks enough spinal support for many users.

While prior art body support pillows of the type disclosed in Rojas are more compact, they may only be used effectively when the user is configured in a sitting position. Additionally, the triangular sectional configuration of these types of pillows provides support for the neck when in a seated position, but forces the user's neck into awkward angles when utilized in a fully reclined sleeping position.

Accordingly, there is a need in the market for a body pillow that provides support for a user's head and cervical spine through multiple sleeping positions without the bulk and discomfort of prior art pillows.

SUMMARY

Briefly stated, an ergonomic body support in accordance with the present disclosure comprises a deformable cushion module and a flexible cover encasing the cushion module. In the undeformed state, the cushion module and the flexible cover form an undeformed configuration, which comprises a pair of substantially identical opposed V-shaped panels. Each V-shaped panel defines a vertex having a width W₁ and first and second diverging arms. The panels are generally parallel and are equidistantly spaced a distance or height h. The arms terminate in respective first and second ends of equal widths, W₂, tapering between the vertex and first and second ends.

The undeformed configuration is symmetric to a central plane which contains the vertices and is equidistantly spaced between the first and second ends. Furthermore, the undeformed configuration has a generally rectangular profile along the arms. The panels have a boundary length in the undeformed configuration which is defined by an outer circumference C₁ and inner circumference C₂ and the first and second ends.

The ergonomic support of the present disclosure provides significant advantages over prior art body support pillows. The V-shaped panels allow a user to adopt multiple positions on his or her side, back, or stomach. The configuration of the first and second arms with respect to the vertex cradle the user's head neck and shoulders, while the rectangular sectional configuration provides enhanced support integrity for the neck and head without contorting the head and neck into the uncomfortable angles typical of the type of body support pillows disclosed in Rojas.

While the arrangement of the cushion module is ideal for side users, the arms and vertex also permit a user to rest comfortably on his or her stomach or back. Additionally, a user does not need to manipulate unwieldy longitudinal spinal support sections to adopt a different sleeping position during periods of rest. The height h may be customized for the user's preference by placing the ergonomic body support of the present disclosure on top of a user's pre-existing pillows.

Furthermore, the rectangular sectional configuration and discrete comfort zones cooperate to provide optimal rigidity and support for a user's head, shoulders and cervical vertebrae. In one embodiment, the comfort zones comprise separate layers of latex and/or visco-elastic polyurethane foam having different densities or levels of firmness.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Aspects of the preferred embodiment will be described in reference to the Drawing, where like numerals reflect like elements:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an ergonomic body support, partly diagrammatic, in accordance with certain aspects of the present disclosures;

FIG. 2 is a sectional view, partly diagrammatic, of the ergonomic body support of FIG. 1 taken where the plane P1 intersects with the body support at the vertices of the V-shaped panels;

FIG. 3 is a top-plan view, partly diagrammatic, of the ergonomic body support of FIG. 1; the plane has been omitted for clarity;

FIG. 4 is a sectional view, partly diagrammatic, of the ergonomic body support of FIG. 1 taken where the plane P2 intersects with the body support intermediate the vertices and ends;

FIG. 5 is a sectional view, partly diagrammatic, of an alternate embodiment of the ergonomic body support of the present disclosure; and

FIG. 6 shows a perspective view of the ergonomic body support of FIG. 5, with particular emphasis on the outer circumference C₁ near the vertex.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

An exemplary ergonomic body support illustrating various aspects of the present disclosure will now be described with reference to the drawings, wherein like numbers refer to like parts. Throughout the figures, it will be understood by those of skill in the art that some features and components of the body support are omitted for clarity.

FIGS. 1 and 2 illustrate an embodiment of an ergonomic body support 100. The ergonomic body support 100 comprises a deformable cushion module 102 and a flexible cover 104, which closely encases the cushion module 102.

As shown in FIG. 2, the cushion module has a comfort matrix 106, comprising a plurality of zones, Z₁, Z₂. . . Z_n. While the comfort zones comprise two discrete regions, Z₁ and Z₂, in the embodiment shown in FIG. 2, one of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the total number, n, of comfort zones may be multiplied without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. Additionally, while Z₁ and Z₂ are shown as vertically oriented layered regions in FIG. 2, the comfort zones may be oriented in a multitude of other configurations.

The comfort matrix 106 may comprise a plurality of comfort zones, Z₁-Z_n, integrated in a single unitary structure. Alternatively, the comfort matrix 106 may comprise a plurality of independent comfort zones, Z₁-Z_n, which are stacked or otherwise grouped within the flexible cover 104.

As utilized herein, the term “comfort zone” means regions of the cushion module 102 having different physical characteristics. The difference in physical characteristics of the comfort zones, Z₁, Z₂, etc., may be defined by the density of the material, level of firmness of the material, or a mixture of the two.

In one embodiment the first and second comfort zones, Z₁ and Z₂ have different densities. The first comfort zone Z₁ has a density selected from a range between approximately 2.0 lbs/ft³ and approximately 6.0 lbs/ft³, while the density of the second comfort zone Z₂ is selected from a range between approximately 4.0 lbs/ft³ and approximately 5.5 lbs/ft³.

Alternatively, the difference between comfort zones may be achieved by utilizing materials that have different levels of firmness. The first comfort zone Z₁ has a level of firmness selected from a range between approximately 12 lbs./50 in² and approximately 26 lbs./50 in² on the Indentation Force Deflection scale at 25% compression (IFD@25%). The second comfort zone Z₂ has a level of firmness selected from a range between approximately 5 lbs./50 in2 and approximately 18 lbs./50 in2 IFD@25%.

The difference between the comfort zones may also be achieved by utilizing different materials. For example, viscoelastic polyurethane foam having a density or level of firmness falling within the ranges suggested above may comprise one or both of the comfort zones Z₁ or Z₂. Alternatively, latex foam having a density or level of firmness falling within the ranges disclosed above may be utilized for one or both of the comfort zones Z₁ or Z₂.

The implementation of a plurality of different comfort zones, Z_n, provides selective degrees of comfort while offering adequate support for the head, spine and shoulders. Alternatively, utilizing a combination of materials such as latex and viscoelastic polyurethane foam allows a user to select a desired sleep experience. For example, a user may select a viscoelastic polyurethane foam comfort zone for its ability to cradle and support the user's head and shoulders, or a latex foam comfort zone for its breathable characteristics and ability to provide pressure relief.

Referring to FIGS. 1-3, the flexible cover 104 closely encases the cushion module 102. The cushion module 102 and the flexible cover 104 define an undeformed configuration, shown primarily in FIGS. 1 and 3. The flexible cover 104 may be made from any material which maintains a predetermined geometric shape over time without stretching, shrinking or warping. Examples of suitable natural or synthetic materials having high shape-retention integrity include terry cloth, nylon, or polyester.

With reference to FIGS. 1 and 3, the undeformed configuration comprises a pair of substantially identical V-shaped panels 108. Each of the V-shaped panels defines a vertex 110 and first and second diverging arms 112 and 114, respectively. The first and second diverging arms 112 and 114 project away from the vertex and terminate in respective first and second ends 116 and 118.

As best seen in FIGS. 2-4, the vertex has a width W₁, while the first and second ends each have a width W₂. The V-shaped panels taper between the vertex 110 and first and second ends 116 and 118, such that W₁ is wider than W₂. While W₁ and W₂ both provide an ample platform, the vertex 110 provides an ideal location for a user to rest his or her head.

The panels 108 are equidistantly spaced apart a distance h in the undeformed configuration, giving the body support 100 a rectangular profile along the first and second arms 112 and 114. In the embodiment where the comfort zones comprise first and second comfort zones, Z₁ and Z₂, the first comfort zone Z₁ has a height h₁ and the second comfort zone Z₂ has a height h₂. The distance h equals the sum of h₁ and h₂. In one embodiment h₁ is selected from a range between approximately 2.5 inches and approximately 4 inches, while h₂ is selected from a range between approximately 1 inch and approximately 2 inches. Thus, in this embodiment the distance h is selected from a range between approximately 3.5 inches and approximately 6 inches.

As seen in FIG. 1, the first and second arms are symmetric to a central plane P₁. P₁ bisects the body support 100 intermediate the first and second ends 116 and 118, at the vertex 110. A second plane P2 intersects the first and second arms 112 and 114 near the first and second ends 116 and 118. Referring to FIGS. 2 and 4, as the first and second arms 112 and 114 diverge from the vertex 110, the height h of the body support 100 remains the same, while the V-shaped panels 108 get progressively narrower. Thus, the body support provides a platform having a constant height h between. Additionally, while the width of the body support narrows between the vertex 110 and the first and second ends 116 and 118, the sectional configuration of the body support 100 remains substantially constant. This configuration improves the support integrity and provides rigid structure throughout the ergonomic body support 100. Thus, the user may adopt any sleep position, and the ergonomic body support 100 will provide the same degree of support for the head and cervical vertebrae anywhere along either of the arms 112 or 114.

Each of the panels 108 has a boundary length which is defined by an outer circumference C₁, an inner circumference O₂ and the first and second ends 116 and 118. In one embodiment the outer circumference C₁ is selected from range between approximately 42 inches and approximately 66 inches, while the inner circumference O₂ is selected from a range between approximately 32 inches and approximately 56 inches.

As best seen in FIGS. 5 and 6, a removable case 120 may optionally be provided for use with the body support 100. The removable case 120 has generally slightly larger dimensions than the cushion module 102 and cover 104 in the undeformed state so as to facilitate removability. As shown in FIG. 6 a zipper 122 or other form of reversible closure system may be provided along a portion of the outer circumference C₁. The removable case 120 may be fabricated from any breathable material that will not irritate a user's skin. Examples of suitable materials include satin, high thread-count cotton fabric, velvet, or linen.

While a preferred embodiment has been set forth for purposes of illustration, the foregoing description should not be deemed a limitation of the invention herein. Accordingly, various modifications, adaptations and alternatives may occur to one skilled in the art without departing from the spirit of the invention and scope of the claimed coverage.

Claims

1. An ergonomic body support comprising:

a deformable cushion module having a comfort matrix comprising a plurality of discrete comfort zones and having an undeformed state; and

a flexible cover closely encasing said cushion module;

said cushion module and said flexible cover forming an undeformed configuration in said undeformed state comprising: a pair of substantially identical V-shaped panels each defining a vertex having a width W1 and first and second diverging arms terminating in respective first and second ends of equal widths W2, said panels generally tapering between said vertex and said first and second ends such that W1 is wider than W2, said panels being equidistantly spaced a height h and said undeformed configuration being symmetric to a central plane through said vertices and equidistantly spaced between said ends and said undeformed configuration has a generally rectangular profile along said arms, each said panel having a boundary length defined by an outer circumference C1, an inner circumference C2 and said first and second ends.

2. The ergonomic body support of claim 1, wherein said comfort zones comprise a plurality of vertically oriented layers having differing densities.

3. The ergonomic body support of claim 2, wherein said comfort zones comprise a first and a second comfort zone Z1 and Z2, respectively.

4. The ergonomic body support of claim 3, wherein said first comfort zone Z1 has a higher density than said second comfort zone Z2.

5. The ergonomic body support of claim 3, wherein said first comfort zone Z1 has a density selected from a range between approximately 2.0 lbs/ft3 and approximately 6.0 lbs/ft3 and said second comfort zone Z2 has a density that is selected from a range between approximately 4.0 lbs/ft3 to approximately 5.5 lbs/ft3.

6. The ergonomic body support of claim 3, wherein the first comfort zone Z1 has a height h1 and the second comfort zone Z2 has a height h2.

7. The ergonomic body support of claim 6, wherein h1 is selected from a range between approximately 2.5 inches and approximately 4 inches, and h2 is selected from a range between approximately 1 inch and approximately 3 inches.

8. The ergonomic body support of claim 3, wherein said first comfort zone Z1 comprises latex foam and said second comfort zone Z2 comprises viscoelastic polyurethane foam.

9. The ergonomic body support of claim 1, wherein said comfort zones comprise vertically oriented layers having differing levels of firmness.

10. The ergonomic body support of claim 9, wherein said discrete comfort zones comprise a first and a second comfort zone Z1 and Z2, respectively.

11. The ergonomic body support of claim 10, wherein said first comfort zone Z1 has a firmness that is selected from approximately 12 lbs./50 in2 to approximately 26 lbs./50 in2 on the Indentation Force Deflection scale at 25% compression, and said second comfort zone Z2 has a firmness that is selected from a range between approximately 5 lbs./50 in2 to approximately 18 lbs./50 in2 on the Indentation Force Deflection scale at 25% compression.

12. The ergonomic body support of claim 9, wherein the first comfort zone Z1 has a height h1 and the second comfort zone Z2has a height h2.

13. The ergonomic body support of claim 12, wherein h1 is selected from a range between approximately 2.5 inches and approximately 4 inches, and h2 is selected from a range between approximately 1 inch and approximately 2 inches.

14. The ergonomic body support of claim 1, wherein C1 is chosen from a range between approximately 42 inches and approximately 66 inches.

15. The ergonomic body support of claim 1, wherein O2 is chosen from a range between approximately 32 inches and approximately 56 inches.

16. The ergonomic body support of claim 1, wherein W1 is selected from a range between approximately 6 inches to approximately 8 inches, and W2 is selected from a range between approximately 5.5 inches to approximately 7 inches.

17. The ergonomic body support of claim 1, wherein h is selected from a range between approximately 3.5 inches and approximately 6 inches.

18. The ergonomic body support of claim 1, wherein the comfort matrix comprises an integrated structure.

19. The ergonomic body support of claim 1, wherein the comfort matrix comprises a plurality of independent comfort zone structures.

20. The ergonomic body support of claim 1, wherein the body support is insertable into a removable case having generally slightly larger dimensions than the cover.