Fluent Material Containing Patents (Class 5/644)
  • Publication number: 20140000036
    Abstract: A pillow has a body having a medial region and a pair of legs that extend from the medial region to define an opening therebetween. A sleep mask is attached across the front of the pillow by two elastic straps. A storage bag with handles is kept within a storage pocket of the pillow and is attached to the pillow. The bag can be removed from the interior and pulled over the pillow to form a carrying bag. Pouches are retained at the interior of the pillow body and can extend outward from the body. The pouches can fill with fillable material from the interior of the pillow body, allowing the firmness of the pillow to be adjusted. In addition, the legs can then be pushed together so that the pillow can be used as a more traditional pillow rested against a surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 27, 2012
    Publication date: January 2, 2014
    Inventor: Randall P. COHEN
  • Patent number: 8607387
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a gelastic cushion. The gelastic cushion is made from a conventional gelastic composition. The gelastic cushion has a structure having a first wall that defines an opening area and buckles when a force is applied to the first wall. When the first wall buckles a predetermined amount, a second wall, interconnected to the first wall, also buckles. The second wall decreases the chance that the first wall bottoms out. Bottoming out increases the pressure on the patient (a.k.a., the force) overlying the gelastic cushion. That increased pressure is undesirable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 19, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 17, 2013
    Assignee: Stryker Corporation
    Inventors: Roland E. Flick, Joel T. Jusiak
  • Publication number: 20130312194
    Abstract: A pillow supplement comprises an inflatable cushion dimensioned to fit in a pillow case with an existing pillow and having a plurality of internal gussets. In use, the inflatable cushion is at least partially inflated to achieve a desired size and firmness and inserted into a pillow case with the existing pillow.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 23, 2013
    Publication date: November 28, 2013
    Inventor: Kirk Sullivan
  • Patent number: 8572780
    Abstract: A multi-use therapeutic pillow for the head includes a cushioned frame having a central cavity that extends therethrough. A cushioned transverse member, operably coupled to the cushioned frame at its opposite ends, divides the central cavity into a lower cavity and an upper cavity. The lower cavity is larger than the upper cavity. In use, the multi-use therapeutic pillow is configured to protect and/or avoid contact with a sensitive anatomical structure, such as, the eyes, ears, nose, or mouth, while providing adequate support for the head.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 26, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 5, 2013
    Inventor: Bridget Watters
  • Publication number: 20130269111
    Abstract: Provided is a pillow to support the head and neck of a user. The pillow includes an inflatable bladder assembly, sheet, fill material and pillow casing. The inflatable bladder assembly includes an inflatable bladder. The sheet has a pocket securing the bladder. The fill material has a fold defining a first panel and a second panel of the fill material. The sheet is disposed in the fill material such that the sheet spans the first panel and the second panel and the bladder is disposed about the fold. The pillow casing secures the fill material, sheet and bladder. The pillow casing has a stitching that secures the sheet in relation to the fill material and secures the fill material in relation to the pillow casing. The stitching defines a depression at a predetermined position of one or more of a top surface and a bottom surface of the pillow casing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 12, 2012
    Publication date: October 17, 2013
    Applicant: BICOR PROCESSING CORP.
    Inventor: Allan Berg
  • Patent number: 8510883
    Abstract: A method and apparatus are disclosed for a method for securing a patient for a medical procedure and specifically for an innovative headrest system for securing a patient for an ocular imaging procedure. The approach avoids the need for linkages and sliding rods and such. Instead, it relies on three independently movable face rests (two for the forehead or temples and one for the chin) each with a deformable cushion that is urged into conformity with the patient's head and chin during an adjustment phase of operation. Once a comfortable position and suitable conforming shape is achieved, the positions of the face rests are rigidly fixed and the shape of the cushions are rendered rigid and non-deformable, by application of a light vacuum, for the procedural or imaging phase of operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 5, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2013
    Assignee: Arcscan, Inc.
    Inventors: George J. Eilers, J. David Stienmier, Wes Weber
  • Patent number: 8458834
    Abstract: A travel pillow includes a base panel having a plurality of segregated, independently-inflatable bladders therein for supporting a user's head and neck. Extending from each of two opposing side edges of the base panel is a fastening strap having a hook-and-loop fastener thereon. Accordingly, the fastening straps are secured about a passenger seat headrest or other support surface to provide a pillow for supporting a passenger's head that can be inflated to a desired firmness.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 11, 2013
    Inventor: Bobby Glenn Brown
  • Publication number: 20130117939
    Abstract: A travel pillow device that may be secured to any of a user's limbs. The device comprises a pillow with an elastic securing strap extending from a one side seam, across the back of the pillow, to a second side seam. The securing strap may be uniform and continuous or may be separated into two parts that are secured together by fasteners. The securing strap facilitates removable securement of the pillow to a user's hand, arm, foot, or leg. The head of the user or another person, such as a child can then be leaned on the pillow. Alternatively the pillow can be secured to a hand or foot and used to support another limb, possibly an injured one. The travel pillow is thus a versatile e and freely positionable comfort and therapy device that can be used in a variety of locations and environments.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 14, 2012
    Publication date: May 16, 2013
    Inventor: Nicole Moss
  • Patent number: 8424137
    Abstract: Ribbed gel devices for cushioning purposes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 3, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 23, 2013
    Assignee: Edizone, LLC
    Inventors: Tony M. Pearce, Terry V. Pearce
  • Patent number: 8418293
    Abstract: Disclosed is a travel pillow for providing the head and neck alignment of a human user resting against a seat back. The travel pillow has an interior shell of a semi-stiff unitary construction. There is a head support region defining a head supporting space for supporting the user's head, a neck support region defining a neck supporting space for supporting the user's neck posteriorly, an enlarged portion bridging together the head support region and the neck support region, the enlarged portion varying in radius from the head support region to the neck support region all elements functioning together as a single unit to maintain the columnar alignment of the user's head directly above the user's neck, and lobes extending upwardly on either side of the head support region to support the head at the intersection of the occipital bone, parietal bone and temporal bones on either side of the head to prevent lateral bending of the neck.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 7, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2013
    Inventor: Edward Tansingco
  • Patent number: 8387186
    Abstract: A kind of assembly kit group, for use as a back cushion, a sitting cushion, and a sitting cushion having a rotatable base, with a sitting cushion cover set to cover the outside section of a cushion body, and this cushion body having a concave hole in the central section, then a combining element combines to the inside of the concave hole in the central section position of the cushion body, so as to allow the central section position of this sitting cushion cover to slide into the inside of this concave hole.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 5, 2013
    Inventor: Ming Ming Yu
  • Publication number: 20130019409
    Abstract: Embodiments typically might relate to pillows that are comfort customizable based on user preference. For example, embodiments might include an outer casing and a self-inflating inner core. A user might adjust the firmness and/or thickness of the pillow by altering the amount of fluid, such as air, within the inner core.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 19, 2012
    Publication date: January 24, 2013
    Inventors: Joseph E. Blazar, Gary M. Wahrmund
  • Patent number: 8347434
    Abstract: An air-operated device for better sleep includes a pad whose inside has an interlayer composed of two sheets stacked together. The top surface of the pad has an accommodating cavity in communications with the interlayer. The pad has an air vent. Two airbags are disposed adjacently in the accommodating cavity. The airbags are in touch with the interlayer by the adjacent side. The airbags are connected to the air vent of the pad via an air-transporting pipe, respectively. An action pad is disposed correspondingly in the accommodating cavity and depresses the two airbags. A controller is connected to the air vent of the pad to inflate and deflate the airbags. When the airbags are inflated, the action pad is pushed by the air bags to sway upward.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2013
    Assignee: Trinity Biotech Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Jui-Peng Chan, Hsi-Chuan Huang
  • Patent number: 8341784
    Abstract: An adjustable head support apparatus includes an adjustable head support member including one or more inflatable members; and an encasement layer configured to encase the one or more inflatable members. The adjustable head support apparatus further includes a measurement unit configured to provide measurements relating to a pressure of the one or more inflatable members; an analysis unit configured to determine goal characteristics of the adjustable head support member for a person using the measurements relating to the pressure of the one or more inflatable members; and a control unit configured to control adjustments to pressure of the one or more inflatable members using the determined goal characteristics.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 13, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 1, 2013
    Assignee: Kingsdown, Inc.
    Inventors: David B. Scott, Robert D. Oexman
  • Publication number: 20120311787
    Abstract: The present invention provides a method and system for customization of flow characteristics of a support using permanent and controlled evacuation of interstitial gas during the manufacturing process. The flow characteristics can be customized to provide a stiffer or less stiff support by a comparative degree. The flow characteristics can be permanently changed. The support includes a bladder filled with a fluidized particulate material. The medium of the fluidized particulate material includes interstitial spaces. A predetermined amount of gas can be removed to provide a support having a desired specific support characteristic.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 11, 2012
    Publication date: December 13, 2012
    Inventors: William Purdy, Robert Purdy
  • Publication number: 20120272453
    Abstract: A pillow having a bladder for containing fluid or gas and on top of which compressible fill is to float. The pillow includes an elongate neck support mat atop an upper surface of the bladder, under the compressible fill, and extending along the substantially the length of one side of the bladder. The elongate mat provides upwards neck support when a user's head displaces fluid or gas by applying a downwards force near the center portion of the bladder.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 25, 2012
    Publication date: November 1, 2012
    Inventor: John Jaskot
  • Publication number: 20120204350
    Abstract: The present disclosure provides for an inflatable foam pillow having a support layer. More particularly, the present disclosure provides for an inflatable foam pillow comprising a support layer, a shell, and a housing layer attached to the shell which surrounds the support layer and secures the support layer against a side wall of the shell. In some embodiments, the shell may be an inflatable bladder. In some embodiments, the pillow may further include a valve or pump for inflating, holding or releasing the air from the pillow.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 10, 2012
    Publication date: August 16, 2012
    Applicant: SLEEP INNOVATIONS, INC.
    Inventor: Boris Katsnelson
  • Publication number: 20120186022
    Abstract: An anti-wrinkle pillow shaped to avoid contact of facial tissues with the pillow surface while sleeping on the side, in combination with pillow extensions that surround the upper body to provide added comfort and support.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 25, 2012
    Publication date: July 26, 2012
    Inventor: Nancy Navarro
  • Patent number: 8205282
    Abstract: The pillow includes a pillow tick which includes first and second substantially identical fabric members. A chamber extends along the length of the pillow at one longitudinal edge thereof. An air bladder member with crushable foam or polyester pellets is positioned within the chamber. A valve extends from the air bladder member to provide adjustable neck support. Pressure is exerted on the foam with the valve open. When the desired firmness is achieved, the valve is closed. Two baffle members are positioned in the tick volume between the other longitudinal edge of the tick and the chamber. The tick volume contains natural or synthetic fill. The baffles angle toward each other to provide good support and comfort and to reduce movement of the fill.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 13, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 26, 2012
    Assignee: Pacific Coast Feather Company
    Inventors: Ruth L. Brogan, Laura A. Regan
  • Patent number: 8176921
    Abstract: A therapeutic cushion (1) having a plurality of fluid-filled chambers (2, 3, 4, 5, 6), with each chamber having an internal volume that is independently adjustable. In a pillow embodiment, air-filled chambers are dynamically regulated in response to a monitored behavior or characteristic of a resting user. Air cushion (1) includes a lower chamber (2) upon which the other chambers are arranged. First or basic chamber (3) extends laterally along, and is directed inwardly from, a rear edge of underlying chamber (2). Adjoining first chamber (3) are first and second supporting chambers (4, 5), these being separated from one another to leave a region (10) that is disposed between their ends (7, 8) and bisected by center line (9). Region (10) is intended to accommodate the resting user's head. A second lateral chamber (6) extends laterally along and is directed inwardly from a forward edge of underlying chamber (2) to adjoin supporting chambers (4, 5), providing a neck support.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2012
    Assignee: LeniMed GmbH
    Inventor: Daryoush Bazargani
  • Publication number: 20120079660
    Abstract: An anti-snoring massage pillow comprises a pillow body provided with a sound sensing unit, a control unit, an inflator unit, at least one exhaust unit and an air bag system including at least one air bag. When the user who lies on the pillow body snores, the sound of snoring will be sensed by the sound sensing unit, and then the control unit will drive the inflator unit to inflate the air bag system. After being inflated for a center period, the control unit will stop driving the inflator unit to inflate the air bag system, and the air in the air bag system will be exhausted through the exhaust unit. By such arrangements, the head posture and position of the user can be adjusted by inflation of the air bag system, and the air bag system can further offer a massage to the head of the user during the inflation process.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 3, 2010
    Publication date: April 5, 2012
    Inventor: Jui-Yao CHEN
  • Publication number: 20120036642
    Abstract: The pillow includes a pillow tick which includes first and second substantially identical fabric members. A chamber extends along the length of the pillow at one longitudinal edge thereof. An air bladder member with crushable foam or polyester pellets is positioned within the chamber. A valve extends from the air bladder member to provide adjustable neck support. Pressure is exerted on the foam with the valve open. When the desired firmness is achieved, the valve is closed. Two baffle members are positioned in the tick volume between the other longitudinal edge of the tick and the chamber. The tick volume contains natural or synthetic fill. The baffles angle toward each other to provide good support and comfort and to reduce movement of the fill.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 13, 2010
    Publication date: February 16, 2012
    Applicant: Pacific Coast Feather Company
    Inventors: Ruth L. Brogan, Laura A. Regan
  • Patent number: 8069856
    Abstract: A dynamic infant head support for preventing, or correcting, the abnormal shape of a head of an infant, and a method of using the support for treating deformational plagiocephaly. The support is an oval-shaped pillow, with a central opening to receive the head of the infant to be treated. Spaced barriers divide the interior of the pillow into a plurality of compartments. A ring-like manifold passes through the interior of the pillow and communicates with each compartment. A plurality of valves is operatively associated with the manifold; one valve is located in each compartment. The valves allow fluid, such as pressurized air, in the manifold, to inflate individual compartments. The manifold is pressurized by a pump, at a remote location; a heater warms the pressurized air. A remote controller is connected to the valves by electrical leads. The controller governs the sequence of operation of the valves, and regulates the duration of time that each valve is open.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 6, 2011
    Assignee: Jessica Joy Kell
    Inventor: Jessica Joy Kell
  • Patent number: 8056167
    Abstract: The invention discloses differing embodiments of pillow speaker systems and methods. In one embodiment, a method is disclosed of directing sound energy emitted from a speaker substantially into a cavity of a gas pillow. In other embodiments, pillow speaker systems are disclosed which direct sound energy emitted from the speakers substantially into the gas pillow cavity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 15, 2011
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventors: Kwun-Wing W. Cheung, Kevin S. Zielke
  • Publication number: 20110275966
    Abstract: A pillow with simulated respiration includes a pair of impervious panels that are joined together to form a rectangular shaped enclosed body and a mechanism for inflating/deflating the body periodically to simulate an individual's breathing. The pillow may also include a cushion on top of the body with an electric heating pad on top of the cushion together with a pair of vibrators. The vibrators each have an elongated shape and are constructed and dimensioned to message an individual's neck and upper shoulders when the individual's head is placed on the cushion. The pillow also includes a textile cover with a zipper on one side thereof and a satin pillow case.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 4, 2010
    Publication date: November 10, 2011
    Inventor: Solaiman B. Alkhattaf
  • Patent number: 8011045
    Abstract: A localized patient support comprises a base, an annular ring supported above the base and defining a cavity, and a gel pad having a plurality of sections located in the cavity. In some embodiment, the localized patient support includes an insert received in the cavity and located between the base and the gel pad. At least some of the sections of the gel pad located in the cavity are vertically movable substantially independently of adjacent sections of the gel pad. In some embodiments, the base, the annular ring, and the insert comprise foam elements. In other embodiments, the base and the annular ring comprise foam elements and the insert comprises individually inflatable and deflatable air bladders.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 6, 2011
    Assignee: Allen Medical Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: Thomas K. Skripps
  • Patent number: 8001636
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for properly positioning a patient to allow rapid and effective endotracheal intubation during an anesthetic induction is disclosed. The apparatus includes a plurality of inflatable sections for supporting the patient's head and upper back, where the inflatable sections are independently inflatable and deflatable with respect to one another so that the patient's ear and sternum can be aligned in the same horizontal plane. The apparatus also includes an anchoring means that is attached to at least one of the plurality of inflatable sections for anchoring the apparatus in place. An air system connected to the plurality of inflatable sections and including separate connections to the individual inflatable sections operates to provide air to the apparatus. The apparatus optionally includes an independently inflatable cylinder in the anchoring means that is used in pregnant patients.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 23, 2011
    Assignee: Nissen IPAD, LLC
    Inventors: Mark D. Nissen, James M. Gayes
  • Patent number: 7997276
    Abstract: A device for face-down, prone respiration comprising a head support made of resilient material having a facial cavity conformable to the contours of a person's face, a plenum cavity in fluid communication with the person's face, a substantially L-shaped support base removably engaged to the head support, a horizontal member of the base engaged underneath the head support and a vertical member of the base engaged to an end of the head support proximate to the facial cavity and in fluid communication with the plenum cavity, the vertical member having at least one air pump intake pathway and at least one exhalation discharge pathway integral to the base whereby air pumped through at least one air pump intake pathway creates a plenum in plenum cavity which is inhaled by person and air exhaled by person is discharged back into plenum cavity and out the at least one exhalation discharge pathway.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 16, 2011
    Inventor: James E. Goff
  • Publication number: 20110173754
    Abstract: An inflatable pillow usable in a first mode for a person sleeping on their back and in a second mode for a person sleeping on their side, wherein the pillow when inflated has a profile which features a generally flat base for stable support of the pillow, a first end wall curving upwardly to a first height, and an opposed end wall curving upwardly to a second height, the end walls leading to the upper surface of the pillow which inclines downwardly from each end wall into a valley within the central part of the pillow, wherein the first height is greater than the second height, and when used in the first mode the pillow is orientated so that the end wall of greater height and upper surface provide support for the upper spine region and head of a person lying on their back, and when the pillow is used in the second mode, the end wall of lesser height and the upper surface provide support for the upper spine region and head of a person lying on their side.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 19, 2011
    Publication date: July 21, 2011
    Applicant: ARTOON PTY LTD
    Inventor: Michael David Calder
  • Publication number: 20110094035
    Abstract: Disclosed is a travel pillow for providing the head and neck alignment of a human user resting against a seat back. The travel pillow has an interior shell of a semi-stiff unitary construction. There is a head support region defining a head supporting space for supporting the user's head, a neck support region defining a neck supporting space for supporting the user's neck posteriorly, an enlarged portion bridging together the head support region and the neck support region, the enlarged portion varying in radius from the head support region to the neck support region all elements functioning together as a single unit to maintain the columnar alignment of the user's head directly above the user's neck, and lobes extending upwardly on either side of the head support region to support the head at the intersection of the occipital bone, parietal bone and temporal bones on either side of the head to prevent lateral bending of the neck.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 7, 2010
    Publication date: April 28, 2011
    Inventor: Edward Tansingco
  • Publication number: 20100325802
    Abstract: Improved face cradles, more properly called head cradles, provide increased comfort for clients. Various embodiments of novel frontal and temporal skull support pads eliminate the discomforts of existing face cradles. The head cradle embodiments remove the pressure caused by conventional horseshoe face cradles. These pressures can cause facial discomfort, congestion, and restricted breathing, all of which can adversely affect the ability of the user to maximize relaxation. In addition to novel pad embodiments, the head cradles features embodiments whereby the support bars that attach to the support pads, as well as the support pads, can provide a variety of possible adjustments (e.g. lowered, raised, widened, narrowed, lengthened, and angled) to accommodate individual users. Some embodiments mimic fingers of human hands.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 30, 2009
    Publication date: December 30, 2010
    Inventors: Cara C. Schwartz, Kendyl A. Roman
  • Patent number: 7832034
    Abstract: A pillow cover includes a pillow casing and a neck support provided thereon. A neck support includes an elongated retention pocket and a neck supporting element received in the retention pocket therewithin. The user is able to use his or her own pillow to incorporate with the pillow cover such that when the user sleeps in a bed by using his or her own pillow for head support in a comfortable way, the neck support of the pillow cover provides a substantial neck support to keep the neck of the user in alignment with the spine while sleeping.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2010
    Inventors: Fong Yu Liu, Lisa Wang Arnold
  • Publication number: 20100281616
    Abstract: An axillary support device is provided for decompressing the axilla (armpit) and associated structures in a sidelying position. A thoracic cushion provides firm axillary support to a user at the level of the mid to upper thorax, distal to the axilla. A head cushion connected to the thoracic cushion supports the user's head and may maintain a neutral cervical spine alignment position. A connector connecting the cushions creates a valley to receive an upper arm of the user. A back support may be used to maintain the sidelying position. An inflatable bladder may be used to adjust the axillary support device in order to appropriately relieve pressure on the user's axilla and associated structures. With the axillary support device, the upper arm of the user is relatively free to extend perpendicularly in front of the body in the sidelying position with reduced stress on the lateral shoulder and axilla.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 11, 2009
    Publication date: November 11, 2010
    Inventor: James Karlson
  • Patent number: 7827636
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a gelastic cushion. The gelastic cushion is made from a conventional gelastic composition. The gelastic cushion has a structure having a first wall that defines an opening area and buckles when a force is applied to the first wall. When the first wall buckles a predetermined amount, a second wall, interconnected to the first wall, also buckles. The second wall decreases the chance that the first wall bottoms out. Bottoming out increases the pressure on the patient (a.k.a., the force) overlying the gelastic cushion. That increased pressure is undesirable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 9, 2010
    Assignee: Gaymar Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Roland E. Flick, Joel T. Jusiak
  • Patent number: 7823234
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a gelastic cushion. The gelastic cushion is made from a conventional gelastic composition. The gelastic cushion has a structure having a first wall that defines an opening area and buckles when a force is applied to the first wall. When the first wall buckles a predetermined amount, a second wall, interconnected to the first wall, also buckles. The second wall decreases the chance that the first wall bottoms out. Bottoming out increases the pressure on the patient (a.k.a., the force) overlying the gelastic cushion. That increased pressure is undesirable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 2, 2010
    Assignee: Gaymar Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Roland E. Flick, Joel T. Jusiak
  • Patent number: 7823233
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a gelastic cushion. The gelastic cushion is made from a conventional gelastic composition. The gelastic cushion has a structure having a first wall that defines an opening area and buckles when a force is applied to the first wall. When the first wall buckles a predetermined amount, a second wall, interconnected to the first wall, also buckles. The second wall decreases the chance that the first wall bottoms out. Bottoming out increases the pressure on the patient (a.k.a., the force) overlying the gelastic cushion. That increased pressure is undesirable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 2, 2010
    Assignee: Gaymar Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Roland E. Flick, Joel T. Jusiak
  • Patent number: 7802333
    Abstract: A surgical positioning aid includes a n inflatable pillow with a non-inflatable sleeve. The non-inflatable sleeve has two substantially parallel attachment regions secured to a panel of the inflatable pillow and two open end portions to provide access between the non-inflatable sleeve and the inflatable pillow. The space between the non-inflatable sleeve and the inflatable pillow can be telescoped onto a surgical support post in proximity to an operating table. Air then can be directed into the inflatable pillow so that a patient can be supported relative to the post without creating pressure points on the patient.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 28, 2010
    Assignee: O.R. Comfort, LLC
    Inventors: L. Henri Marguet, Nigel E. Sharrock, Samuel Delgado
  • Patent number: 7797773
    Abstract: A neck rest includes a first body member and a second body member. The first body member has a first recess for receiving a user's neck and defines a cushion extending around the recess for at least partially surrounding the user's neck. The second body member is different from the first body member and connected to the first body member. The second body member defines a second recess for receiving at least a lower portion of the user's head. The second body member defines a cushion extending around the second recess for at least partially surrounding the lower portion of the user's head.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 27, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 21, 2010
    Inventor: Peter J. Wilk
  • Publication number: 20100229307
    Abstract: Considering a case where a patient with whiplash syndrome can sleep safely, it is when the patient is sleeping at an appropriate orientation, whereby if a pillow enabling sleep while maintaining an appropriate orientation exists, a sick person can sleep peacefully, and furthermore, the pillow may be useful in treating the whiplash syndrome. A pillow enabling the patient with whiplash syndrome to sleep peacefully is thus developed. A pillow 1 of the present invention has a deformable pillow body 2 including an upper surface cloth 21 and a lower surface cloth 22 having an edge cloth 23 as a boundary, formed with a head depression part 4 including a bottom surface 41 at a position depressed from the upper surface cloth 21 to the lower surface cloth 22 of the pillow body 2, and a groove part 6 extending from the head depression part 4 to the edge cloth 23 of the pillow body 2 and being formed by joining the upper surface cloth 21 to the lower surface cloth 22.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 22, 2007
    Publication date: September 16, 2010
    Inventor: Kenjiro Sato
  • Patent number: 7788750
    Abstract: A multi-function pillow for therapeutic neck and head support is provided. The pillow generally includes first and second pillow sides united so as to form a sealable pillow cavity, and fluid retaining and neck support elements receivable within the cavity. The first pillow side includes a chamber containing a fill material therethrough. The second pillow side includes at least two chambers, at least one chamber of the at least two chambers containing a fill material therethrough, and one chamber of the at least two chambers defining a central depression for the second pillow side. The fluid retaining element, which is substantially co-extensive with the pillow sides, includes a fluid chamber circumscribing a central region thereof which is to underlie the central depression of the second pillow side.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 5, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 7, 2010
    Assignee: Core Products International Inc.
    Inventor: Paul R. Norstrem
  • Patent number: 7788751
    Abstract: A sitting neck support device preferably includes a support base and at least one air valve. The support base includes a first boundary sheet and a second boundary sheet. The perimeters of the first and second boundary sheets are secured to each other. A breathing opening and two hand openings are preferably formed in the support base. A plurality of air chambers are formed in the support base with a plurality of partitions. First and second positioning straps extend from opposing ends of the support base. A strip of hook or loop fastener is preferably applied to the first and second positioning straps. In use, the sitting neck support device is inflated with the at least one air valve. The support base is curled into a substantial cylinder by securing the first and second positioning straps; tucked under the face; and placed on or over the legs of a user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 7, 2010
    Inventors: Stephen K. Diemer, Rodney T. Herdina, Janet L. Diemer
  • Publication number: 20100205744
    Abstract: The invention relates to a pillow (10), comprising two sheets of flexible material, joined together to define a space, suitable for inflating to provide a cushioned support. The pillow has a head zone (16) for providing cushioning means to a user's head and two wings (18), configured to extend away from the head zone such that the pillow is substantially U-shaped in the plane of the pillow, when deflated. A channel (22) is provided between the sheets of flexible material to connect the wings (18). The channel (22) is positioned at a point in the head zone (16) furthermost from the wing ends (20). The width of the channel increases from the centre line (24) such that when the pillow is inflated, the pillow has a substantially V-shaped profile, formed about the centre line (24) and centerred on the channel (22).
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 19, 2010
    Publication date: August 19, 2010
    Inventors: Barnaby Bevan EDWARDS, Steven Richard Spong
  • Patent number: 7730566
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a gelastic cushion. The gelastic cushion is made from a conventional gelastic composition. The gelastic cushion has a structure having a first wall that defines an opening area and buckles when a force is applied to the first wall. When the first wall buckles a predetermined amount, a second wall, interconnected to the first wall, also buckles. The second wall decreases the chance that the first wall bottoms out. Bottoming out increases the pressure on the patient (a.k.a., the force) overlying the gelastic cushion. That increased pressure is undesirable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 8, 2010
    Assignee: Gaymar Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Roland E. Flick, Joel T. Jusiak
  • Patent number: 7716763
    Abstract: An apparatus and method position a patient for rapid and effective endotracheal intubation. The apparatus includes a pillow, which has a plurality of independently inflatable and deflatable sections which may be grouped together to position a patient so that a pinna of an ear of the patient and a sternum of the patient are aligned in the same horizontal plane. The plurality of inflatable and deflatable sections include at least a back support section and a base support section, which, when grouped together, can lift an upper body of the patient in order to facilitate the positioning of the patient. When the plurality of sections are grouped for the aforementioned positioning of the patient, the base section is located beneath the back support section. The plurality of inflatable and deflatable sections may further include a head rest section and a head tilt adjustment section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 18, 2010
    Assignee: Nissen IPAD, LLC
    Inventors: Mark D. Nissen, James M. Gayes
  • Publication number: 20100071135
    Abstract: A pillow includes an outer enclosure; an inner enclosure being received inside the outer enclosure and provided with an air valve; a fibrous material consisting of a plurality of fibers being filled in a space between the outer enclosure and the inner enclosure; and a core being received inside the inner enclosure. The fibers of the fibrous material function like a cushion, and the tiny air spaces existed among the fibers allow the pillow to provide a buffering effect, so that a user lying on back or on side can always comfortably rest his or her head on the pillow to enjoy good sleep quality.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 19, 2008
    Publication date: March 25, 2010
    Inventor: Junior Julian HSU
  • Publication number: 20100058538
    Abstract: The resent invention is a baby headrest device, having a sleeve having a flat top surface and a bottom surface with the inner cavity of the sleeve being filled with a cushioning material, and the sleeve having a maximum dimension of from about 3 inches to about 12 inches and between about 1 inch and about 4 inches thick. The sleeve would have a specialized cover to protect from dirt and damage. Such cover would further contain an opening for the sleeve, and would have a closing mechanism for said opening.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 8, 2009
    Publication date: March 11, 2010
    Inventor: Michael Rieber
  • Patent number: 7669265
    Abstract: Some embodiments of the present invention generally relate to pillow devices comprising a pair of opposing lobe cushions connected by a cross member comprising a neck supporting cushion. In some embodiments the cushions may define a region for receiving a back portion of a human head in a cradling relation. Furthermore, according to some embodiments the cradle region can optionally be adjustable by the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 25, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 2, 2010
    Inventor: Mary Jane Weise
  • Patent number: 7657954
    Abstract: A head and face covering apparatus includes a flexible housing that defines a pillow case and is U-shaped. The housing includes a central portion and a pair of arms extending away from the central portion. The housing has an elongated opening therein. A pillow is removably extendable into the housing through the opening. A flexible head covering is attached to the housing and extends upwardly therefrom. The head covering includes a rear wall, a pair of lateral walls, and a top wall. The top and lateral walls form a continuous front edge defining an opening extending into a front side of the head covering. The rear and lateral walls are attached to the housing. The head covering has an internal volume greater than 1.0 cubic feet to allow a person's face to be encapsulated by the head covering when the person abuts their head against the rear wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 9, 2010
    Inventor: Gwen Bunkers
  • Publication number: 20090222990
    Abstract: When carrying babies or small children in motor vehicles or on bicycles, many people install and use a baby or child's seat (3) for the increased safety of the baby or child, and the peace of mind this brings. Typically, such baby seats (3) are provided with a three point, “Y” shaped, harness (2) for securing the baby in position. Whilst such a harness (2) means that the baby or small child is secure in the seat (3), the effects of acceleration and deceleration as well as movement left and right of the vehicle are not addressed. In order to improve the ride comfort to the baby, in addition to supporting the neck and head, a neck roll (1) is proposed which can be fitted to any three point harness (2) or baby seat (3). This neck roll (1) both stops the baby's head from rocking left and right during travel, as well as giving support during acceleration of the vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 24, 2005
    Publication date: September 10, 2009
    Applicant: Hamax AS
    Inventor: Einar Stubberud
  • Publication number: 20090222991
    Abstract: This lounging device is an upper body elevator apparatus having an optional neck rest that should be used for recreational and/or therapeutic purposes. With an elevation of almost 90° the elongated tubular pillows are between a top and bottom sheet and are connected by gussets which gives the device its wedge effect. On either side of the center surface are air diffusers which allow air to diffuse from the pillows (pneumatic cushions) of the center surface to comfort and support the back. The elevating wedge and optional tubular neck support operate together to elevate the head at an angle comfortable for sitting in an upright position for many recreational and therapeutic purposes. An elongated tubular anchor/butt rest is shown connected to bottom sheet to include a lower body support surface. This is a cost effective device that every household can afford. Other embodiments are described and shown.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 3, 2009
    Publication date: September 10, 2009
    Inventor: Thomas W. Davis, III