Abstract: An ergonomically designed, inexpensive and portable napping chair/seat may allow the user to be comfortably supported throughout the body in a balanced reclining position close to the floor that may encourage sleep. The user's hands may be folded and may rest on the user's chest or stomach while using the nap seat. Unlike a bed, which is designed for several hours of sleep, the nap seat may have a slim armless design that can ensure quick naps. Users who fall into a deeper sleep and attempt to turn over may be awakened gently as their arms or legs fall off the nap seat. The device may be easily moved between locations due to its small size, foldability and light weight. The device may be made of “green” recycled material. The device may be covered with a removable cover that may be made of “green,” or recycled/sustainable material.

Abstract: A convertible pillow system includes an enclosing bottom member moveable between folded and unfolded positions, and at least one bumper member carried by the enclosing bottom member. The enclosing bottom member may have a substantially arcuate shape. Further, the enclosing bottom member and the at least one bumper member may form an enclosed area when the enclosing bottom member is in the unfolded position. The enclosing bottom member and the at least one bumper member may form a pillow when the enclosing bottom member is in the folded position. The least one bumper member includes a first portion that is fixedly connected to the enclosing bottom member, and a second portion that is detachably connected to the enclosing bottom member.

Abstract: A system of modular, detachable cushions having surfaces containing hook and/or loop fasteners that fasten to mating loop, open weave or hook surfaces to define adjustable, conformal contoured support surfaces at user contact surfaces and appliances producing fatigue and/or abrasion (e.g. automotive seats, chairs, compartment walls, desks, footwear, helmets, tools etc.). The cushions can include air, elastomer, fabric, fiber, foam, liquid, gel, and/or rubber cushioning materials or combinations thereof arranged in envelopes, pads, cavities or tiered assemblies. The cushions include surfaces fitted with one or more layers of cushioning materials or envelopes of cushioning material and one or more regions of fastener materials that mate with interconnecting fasteners at the contact surface or appliance.

Abstract: An assembly-free head cushion for toddlers traveling in a booster seat or regular auto seat, physically disabled persons, and for the general comfort of any vehicle passenger seeking a comfortable way to prop their head while seated on the couch, airplane, etc. The head cushion disclosed herein is attachable beneath the vehicle headrest to cushion and center passengers traveling in a vehicle. The comfort cushion is attached by a bean-filled ballast inserted beneath the headrest, and suspends downward to two opposing polyester-filler-stuffed pockets positioned on each side of the passenger to promote an erect position and generally provide cushioned support for passengers to ride in greater comfort over short and long distances, especially while sleeping.

Abstract: A method and apparatus is disclosed for sensing when a person is disposed on or arises from a support that flexes or sags when a person is disposed thereon. Such supports include beds, supports for a mattress or a seat, such as a sling-type seat found on wheelchairs. In one embodiment, an assembly is positioned beneath the support and includes a sensor. The sensor indicates when tension on the assembly exceeds a certain amount which is indicative of sagging of the support. The assembly may be adjustable in length to maintain proper tension in the absence of sag. The sensor may be a switch that includes a plunger which operates against the bias of a biasing member which either completes or interrupts an electrical circuit in response to tension placed on the assembly due to sagging of the support. In another embodiment, the assembly may be at least partially elastic. In yet another embodiment, a strain gauge may be employed to detect stretching of the assembly due to sagging of the support.

Abstract: A pillow system comprises a curved main pillow having a pillow body having a midsection and a pair of ends. The pillow body is curved and is both flexible and firm to permit it to wrap around a user. A padded attachment member may be removably attachable to the pillow body, and may have a flexible midportion that permits the attachment member to be folded in half. The pillow may include a belt having two portions that may be coupled to each other to secure the pillow body around a user.

Abstract: An active support assembly (30) includes a frame assembly (32) having subframes (34). Active devices (36) includes a flexible element (38) having a stationary end (40) attached to the frame assembly (42). An opposing end of each of the active devices (36) or flexible elements (38) also include a movable end (42). Electroactive polymer actuators (70) are organized into an array (68), with each actuator (70) aligned with a flexible element (38). Increases in the level of the activation signals cause the corresponding actuators (70) to expand, and forcibly extend the movable ends (42), with expansion of the flexible elements (38). The active support assemblies can be used with mattresses, overlays and seating for purposes of adjusting the same in response to the application of external forces caused by an occupant.

Abstract: In one embodiment, a pillow is constructed of a pillow body having a top portion, a middle portion, and a bottom portion. The top portion has a curved end and two curved sides that are generally parallel to each other. The middle portion is generally cylindrical in geometry. The bottom portion includes an enlarged section that flares outward from the middle portion. The bottom portion may also include a curved central section and narrow end section having a curved end.

Abstract: An inflatable mattress is provided that includes a top panel having a top surface, and a bottom panel having a plurality of perforations defined therethrough. The bottom panel is sealingly assembled to the top panel. An inflatable foot rest is attached to the top surface of the top panel and is suitable for raising at least one leg of a patient when the patient is lying upon the top panel.

Abstract: Cushions include a plurality of core structures and a support material at least partially surrounding each core structure of the plurality of core structures. The core structures and support material comprise different deformable polymer materials. Each of the core structures may be configured as a column having a column axis. Methods of forming cushions include forming a plurality of core structures, and at least partially surrounding each core structure of the plurality of core structures with a support material comprising a second, different deformable polymer material. The core structures may be configured such that each core structure is integrally interconnected along a length thereof to no more than two other core structures of the plurality of core structures.

Abstract: This invention relates generally to a body pillow and support system. Due to the need for additional support, pregnant women often encounter difficulty sleeping. The support pregnant women typically need is not just for their head, but for their abdomen, back and/or legs. Many pregnant women find themselves hot or cold as well as hot on one part of their body and cold on a different part of their body. All of these conditions are usually met by the pregnant woman finding several pillows and stuffing those same pillows all around her when she is trying to get some rest. This invention also is useful for a diverse group of people who need soft support to rest or recuperate and is not limited to women who are pregnant.

Abstract: Cushions include a plurality of core structures wherein each core structure of the plurality of core structures is interconnected along a length thereof to at least one other core structure of the plurality of core structures. Each of the core structures may be configured as a column having a column axis. The core structures may be connected by a joiner rib. The joiner ribs may be integrally formed with the core structures. Methods of forming cushions include forming a plurality of core structures and configuring each core structure to be interconnected along at least a portion of a length thereof to at least one other core structure.

Abstract: A pillow system comprises a curved pillow body having a top surface, a bottom surface, a midsection and a pair of curved arms that each have an end. The system also includes a padded booster that is configured to rest on the top surface of the pillow body. The booster has a midportion and a pair of ends. The ends have a height that is larger than the height at the midportion, and the midportion is flexible to permit the booster to be folded in half.

Abstract: A system of modular, detachable cushions having surfaces containing hook and/or loop fasteners that fasten to mating loop, open weave or hook surfaces to define adjustable, conformal contoured support surfaces at user contact surfaces and appliances producing fatigue and/or abrasion (e.g. automotive seats, chairs, compartment walls, desks, footwear, helmets, tools etc.). The cushions can include air, elastomer, fabric, fiber, foam, liquid, gel, and/or rubber cushioning materials or combinations thereof arranged in envelopes, pads, cavities or tiered assemblies. The cushions include surfaces fitted with one or more layers of cushioning materials or envelopes of cushioning material and one or more regions of fastener materials that mate with interconnecting fasteners at the contact surface or appliance.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a resting support (10) for supporting portions of a resting person (1) in a forwards leaning seated position, and to a method of using such a support.

Abstract: A stretch assist cushion includes an upper member with an upper surface serving as a sitting surface in contact with the user's hip directly or through a covering member covering the upper member, the upper member made of an elastic material; and a lower member located below the upper member and with lower surface serving as a bottom surface in contact with a floor directly or through a covering member covering the lower member, the lower member made of a material harder than the material of the upper member. When the cushion is positioned such that the bottom surface is in contact with the floor, the sitting surface has a predetermined tilt angle relative to the floor, and the lower member determines a predetermined distance between the floor and the lowest point of the sitting surface that has the predetermined tilt angle.

Abstract: A seat having a plurality of defined zones for supporting the human anatomy. The zoned seating can also include one or more recoil shields that can be one piece, multiple pieces, or can itself comprise multiple sections that correspond with the multiple zones or individual zones. The seating can also include inserts to assist in supporting or isolating certain desired portions of the human anatomy. The seating includes both seat back structures and seat pan structures, with each including a zoned configuration designed to support and stabilize specific structures of the human anatomy in a defined manner. The zones can separate independent and defined zones that are designed to be separate and act as individual anatomical support areas that collectively support, cradle and permit the human anatomy to be supported in a comfortable manner. It is preferred that the zones act and operate independently from one another.

Abstract: A back support device (100) having a first convex region (160) and a concave region (200) being connected to the first convex region (160), the first convex region (160) and the concave region (200) being configured to support respective regions of a user's back, wherein a ratio between a straight line distance across the first convex region (160) and a straight line distance across the concave region (200) approximates a geometric progression.

Abstract: The invention disclosed herein is securely supported resting apparatus that includes a resting platform sufficient to support the leaning weight of the user and a configuration of straps to provide support in a limited or enclosed space.

Abstract: A massage table apparatus for woman includes a first hole for accommodating the face contour of a woman and a second hole for accommodating the breasts contour thereof when the woman is lying on the massage table on a face down position so as to bring a degree of comfort to the woman engaging in leisure activities including massage.

Abstract: A cushion comprising an array of individual suspension elements arranged in a pattern wherein one embodiment the longitudinal axis of each suspension element in the array is positioned at a right angle or parallel to the longitudinal axes of the adjacent suspension elements. Each suspension element has a displaceable load-bearing surface, a first end wall, a second end wall, and an optional bottom wall, with load-bearing surface and recited walls defining an inner chamber. The material thickness of the load-bearing surface generally is greater than the material thickness of the end walls whereby the end walls deflect outwardly toward the load-bearing surfaces of adjacent support elements under load. The load-bearing surface can have a substantially arch-shaped, elliptical or rectangular cross-section and may be constructed from different materials to make a composite suspension element.

Abstract: A system of modular, detachable cushions having surfaces containing hook and/or loop fasteners that fasten to mating loop, open weave or hook surfaces to define adjustable, conformal contoured support surfaces at user contact surfaces and appliances producing fatigue and/or abrasion (e.g. automotive seats, chairs, compartment walls, desks, footwear, helmets, tools etc.). The cushions can include air, elastomer, fabric, fiber, foam, liquid, gel, and/or rubber cushioning materials or combinations thereof arranged in envelopes, pads, cavities or tiered assemblies. The cushions include surfaces fitted with one or more layers of cushioning materials or envelopes of cushioning material and one or more regions of fastener materials that mate with interconnecting fasteners at the contact surface or appliance.

Abstract: A padded covering for parts of a chair, consisting of a padded material (2) with elastic properties at least within the thickness thereof, and covered with a semi-transparent, perforated mesh fabric, wherein said padded material has a three-dimensional structure that is at least partially visible through said fabric and comprises recesses opening out onto the fabric (3). Said covering is produced via a method comprising the steps of cutting out a suitably-shaped piece capable of covering the specific chair portion; stitching at least two concentric lines at the edges and over the entire periphery of the piece in order to flatten the edge region; cutting out, in a semi-transparent perforated mesh fabric (3), a correspondingly-sized piece; placing said semi-transparent fabric piece on top of the padded piece; and fastening the piece.

Abstract: A bed is provided which orients a user in a multi-angled, prone position. The bed supports a downward positioning of a user's face to maintain an open airway to reduce or eliminate sleeping problems associated with gravity aggravated apnea. By positioning the user's head downward, gravity operates to maintain the user's airway open as opposed to forcing it closed. The bed is provided with a moisture absorbent covering which may be changed and laundered as desired.

Abstract: A tear and fatigue resistant gel article comprising two or more communicating internal volumes like cavities when depressed by external pressure or force is capable of collapsing unto itself in a controllable and directionally preselected manner by venting static air within said internal through openings in said gel article, said gel article is made from gel compositions having rigidity of from about 20 gram Bloom to about 1,800 gram Bloom suitable for cushioning and other uses.

Abstract: The invention discloses a body cushioning pad, a body contact mat and a multi-layered cushioning structure composed of the body cushioning pad and the body contact mat. The cushioning pad consists of a plurality of foam blocks, each provided with an internal cavity having a predetermined size and shape to control the firmness of the block and means for maintaining the foam blocks as a unit. The body contact mat is a bi-dimensional latticed structure of spaced-apart studs made of a compressible material linked together by flexible linking elements. The multi-layered cushioning structure comprises both the cushioning pad and the body contact mat, and a wrapper to wrap the cushioning pad and the contact mat together.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an apparatus for relieving back pain, the apparatus having a top and a leg assembly for supporting the top when the apparatus is placed on a surface. A method of relieving back pain is also provided, wherein a user adjusts the height of an apparatus according to the user's buttock popliteus length, and lay on the surface and place his/her lower legs or feet on the top of an apparatus such that the knees are bent at substantially 90 degrees and his/her back is flat on the surface.

Abstract: A method and device for developing a positional orientation sleep aspect (POSA) to enhance individual awareness of sleeping position to enable the individual located on a bed of fixed width to assume at least one preselected side-sleeping orientation on either a left or right side. The method utilizes a pillow combination having a full transverse span shorter than the fixed width of the bed and including first and second elongate pillows tethered together in parallel orientation by an intermediate member for providing concurrent support at front and back sides of the individual.

Abstract: A support cushion for supporting a person (e.g. a pregnant woman) lying on their side includes a first cushion part configured to support the person's back, a second cushion part spaced-apart from the first cushion part and configured to support the front of the person's abdomen and/or the person's legs, and a connecting part that connects the first cushion part to the second cushion part, the connecting part configured to extend under the person's side. The first and second cushion parts may be elongate and generally in the form of cylinders, and the connecting part may be in the form of a flexible cushioned panel. The second cushion part may support a pregnant woman's swollen abdomen and may extend between, and support, her legs.

Abstract: A versatile support member constructed of a metallic mesh is provided in a bedding product. The support member is placed on top of the mattress core (whether foam or spring coil) before the mattress cover is attached. The support member may be constructed of titanium wire in a woven or welded mesh grid or web configuration, although other metals (such as, but not limited to, vanadium, chromium, platinum, molybdenum, nickel, iron, zinc), alloys thereof, or fiber composites (such as, but not limited to, carbon or graphite) may be used. The support member may be directly attached to the core or may be secured to the upper or lower border rods by hog rings, stitching, lacing, or other conventional means.

Abstract: An inflatable lifting device is disclosed for lifting the rectal area of a patient laying on a mattress. The inflatable lifting device is an inflatable U-shaped bladder with an air port to supply air into the bladder and a tether to maintain the U-shape of the bladder. The inflated bladder creates a cavity sized for the easy insertion and removal of a bedpan under the patient. The inflatable lifting device may be positioned on top of an upper surface of the mattress or within the mattress just below the upper surface.

Abstract: A cushion body, which can secure both soft touch feeling and durability, a seat having the same, and a manufacturing method thereof are provided. A cushion body 11 is constituted by stacking a sheet-like fibrous structure 4a with a low density in which webs 2 are stacked such that their extending direction conforms with a thickness direction T of the cushion body and a sheet-like fibrous structure 4b with a high density whose flexing degree to load in the thickness direction T is smaller than that of the sheet-like fibrous structure 4a with a low density, where the sheet-like fibrous structure 4a with a low density is disposed nearer a sitting surface 10a than the sheet-like fibrous structure 4b with a high density. Since the sheet-like fibrous structure 4a with a low density on the side of the sitting surface 10a receives load from the outside of the cushion body 11 due to sitting and flexes largely, it provides soft touch feeling to an sitting occupant.

Abstract: The invention relates to a supporting device for the back and head of a human being. Said device comprises a partial area of a back supporting section at the level of the shoulder blade, a central supporting surface in the region of a vertebral column and open areas which are arranged on the both sides of the central supporting surface in such a way that the shoulder blade regions can be lowered beyond the central supporting area. The invention can be used for furniture for the household or workplace.

Abstract: A cushion body which has a force to support a large load and both a soft touch feeling and can maintain an undulation shape of a groove portion and the like provided on a contact surface with a seat occupant favorable, a seat using the same, and a manufacturing method thereof are provided.

Abstract: A multi-purpose textured pad. There is: a first flexible planar member, second flexible planar member; a first compressible padding material; a second compressible padding material; an array of elongated texture devices disposed in a layer above the top surface of the first flexible planar member, each including: a plurality of elongated texture members, an elongated base member and a plurality of flexible strips; and two pairs of fastening mechanisms. The second flexible planar member is coupled to the first flexible planar member at a plurality of edges. The first compressible padding material supports a user. The second compressible padding material generates an audible sound when compressed. The base member extends along the first flexible planar member. The elongated texture devices provide density and thickness to a top surface of the first flexible planar member. The fastening mechanisms secure the planar members in a folded mode.

Abstract: A pillow system comprises a curved main pillow having a pillow body having a midsection and a pair of ends. The pillow body is curved and is both flexible and firm to permit it to wrap around a user. A curved side pillow is operably attached to one of the ends of the main pillow such that the side pillow is positionable around the user's side and back when the main pillow is placed adjacent to the user's stomach. The side pillow has an inner portion near the main pillow and an outer portion away from the main pillow. The side pillow tapers downward in height from the inner portion to the outer portion.

Abstract: A therapeutic bolster for applying a constant pressure or a rolling massage to a body portion which simulates the touch of a human thumb or palm. The bolster includes a rigid, non-flexible core having a curved outer surface, and a foam cover substantially surrounding the core. The covering is bonded to the core such that an inward surface of the covering remains in a continuous contact with curved outer surface of the core. A method of making the bolster is also disclosed.

Abstract: A device for a cot or child's bed comprises a mattress support mounted on springs. Actuation means is provided to roll and/or rock the mattress support on the springs such that the side portions and/or the end portions of the mattress support repeatedly rise and fall. The actuation means could, for example, comprise a linear actuator, a swash plate mechanism or an air bag.

Abstract: A support for the neck and head of a human being, such as a travel pillow, comprises a right and a left elongate support member (101,102; 201,202; 302;303; 401,402; 400A,401A; 500,502; 504,506; 906,908), and a collapsible intermediate section (100,106; 200; 300,305; 400; 510,512; 910). The support members are adapted to extend in the human being's cranial-caudal direction and to support a right and a left portion of the back head and neck, whereby the support members define left and right edges for engaging the human being's neck and mastoid bones behind the human being's ears to provide a stable support for the human being's head when the support is under pressure from the human being's head and neck. Each of the support members and the intermediate section is sufficiently bendable to conform to the natural contour of the left and right neck and head portions of the human being.

Abstract: An improved cushioning apparatus having a plurality of individual pockets containing an improved filler material comprising granular viscoelastic foam, said apparatus further comprising a top buffering layer for improved stability and comfort.

Abstract: An inter-active pillow for children comprised of three fabric pieces sewn together to form the body of the pillow and a pocket in back. A pillow insert with fabric casing and polyester fiberfill to be inserted inside the pillow. Additionally, four pieces of Velcro will be sewn to the front of the pillow to accommodate one pair of eyes, one nose, and one mouth. Included with the pillow will also be six pairs of eyes, six noses, and six mouths, all in various sizes, shapes and colors with Velcro sewn to the back side of each piece, making faces inter-changeable. The pocket on the back of pillow will be used to store extra face pieces, along with overnight items. The pocket opening may contain closure means such as Velcro, snaps, or zippers to secure pocket in a closed position.

Abstract: Technology is described herein for providing implementations of a maternity pillow that hugs the contours of a pregnant woman's midsection, providing support to her belly while she is lying on her side and preventing the weight of her belly from pulling on her back. The maternity pillows of the claimed invention are designed so as to negate the need for adjustment every time the woman moves, rolls over, gets up or lies down. Additionally, the maternity pillows of the claimed invention specifically target the midsection of a woman's body that needs support while lying down, without providing unnecessary and/or unwanted bulk.

Abstract: An adjustable treatment support comprises at least three generally planar rigid support members mountable to one another in different angular orientations to provide a support structure having a variety of configurations. Individual support members are mountable to one another to provide a support structure suitable for use with a bed to provide an extending head support for massage and other types of body work. Individual support members may also be configured to provide a support structure suitable for use with a subject in a seated position at a chair adjacent a table. The individual support members are collapsible or detachable for convenient storage and transport. Kits comprising a plurality of support members, a bag for storing and transporting them, instructional materials, music and other relaxation accessories are also provided.

Abstract: A combination pillow and enclosed area system includes an enclosing bottom member, and a plurality of bumper members. The enclosing bottom member is moveable between folded and unfolded positions and includes a closure device connected thereto that is moveable between opened and closed positions. The plurality of bumper members are carried by the enclosing bottom member. The enclosing bottom member and plurality of bumper members form an enclosed area when the enclosing bottom member is in the unfolded position, and a pillow when the enclosing bottom member is in the folded position.

Abstract: Disclosed is a substantially c-shaped pillow that offers support to a woman's breast, particularly during breastfeeding. The breast pillow wraps around the breast offering support to the entire breast and assisting in proper placement of the breast during breastfeeding, freeing the woman from having to use her hand to hold her breast in place.

Abstract: A support apparatus having a receiving member adapted to receive a work object, a frame for mounting the receiving member in a range of positions relative to a predetermined area, and an adjustment assembly borne by the frame operable to place the receiving member in a selected position within the range of positions relative to the predetermined area.

Abstract: A cushion body, which can secure both soft touch feeling and durability, a seat having the same, and a manufacturing method thereof are provided. A cushion body 11 is formed by stacking a first sheet-like fibrous structure 4a and a second sheet-like fibrous structure 4b where webs 2 are stacked such that their extending direction conforms with a thickness direction T of the cushion body and between the first sheet-like fibrous structure 4a and the second sheet-like fibrous structure 4b, a load receiving member 4e whose flexing degree to load in the thickness direction T is small is disposed. Since the first sheet-like fibrous structure 4a is disposed on a sitting surface 10a, the structure is largely flexed when applied with the load from outside the cushion body 11 due to sitting and gives soft touch feeling to a seat occupant.

Abstract: Disclosed is a substantially c-shaped pillow that offers support to a woman's breast, particularly during breastfeeding. The breast pillow wraps around the breast offering support to the entire breast and assisting in proper placement of the breast during breastfeeding, freeing the woman from having to use her hand to hold her breast in place.

Abstract: The invention is directed to an intensive use furniture component having a sealing connection on a mounting surface for sealingly attaching to a floor or wall to prevent liquid from seeping under or behind the furniture component. The furniture component is formed by an outer shell having a side wall extending generally perpendicular to the mounting surface. A mounting flange is disposed adjacent the sidewall. A bolt hole is formed in the mounting flange. The sealing connection comprises a caulk channel formed as a channel in the mounting surface for receiving a bead of caulk to fill the seam between the mounting surface and the wall or floor to prevent fluid from seeping past the caulk channel to a space adjacent the interior mounting surface.

Abstract: A convertible baby or infant bed in combination with a play mat and diaper changing station assembly comprising a rectangular central padded section contiguous with hinged members along each side of the rectangular central section, the hinged members pivoting upward to adjoin other proximal hinged members by means of a hook and loop fastener or other means of attachment, the assembly being adapted to fold into tote form and provided with a shoulder strap for ease of carrying.