JP7672010B2 - Portable Head and Neck Support Pillow - Google Patents

Description

This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. Application No. 17/100,296, filed November 20, 2020, which is now a continuation-in-part of U.S. Application No. 17/352,289, filed June 19, 2021, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. Application No. 11,160,400 (issued November 2, 2021), and claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/274,321, filed November 1, 2021, all of which are expressly incorporated herein by reference.

The present invention relates to a portable head and neck support pillow configured to provide optimal support and comfort. More specifically, the present invention provides an improved pillow that supports a user's neck and head in both supine and upright positions, as well as in a seated position in which the user is reclined. However, the usefulness of the pillow disclosed herein is not limited to travel. The pillow may be used in medical settings as well where maintaining optimal head and neck support is necessary.

Pillows generally provide cushioning for the head and neck, typically in a supine position. Typically, support pillows, such as travel pillows, provide firm support for the neck in a manner designed to prevent the user's head from sagging forward or backward or from falling to the right or left. Travel pillows must support the head and neck while the user is in a moving vehicle, typically in a seated and/or reclining position at a range of angles, often while in the vehicle, as is common during long journeys in cars, trains, buses, airplanes, and the like. A common problem for travelers is the inability to sleep while traveling. Another problem is the inability of travelers to rest comfortably during long waits at train stations or airports, where the lack of a headrest makes resting difficult and uncomfortable.

U.S. Pat. No. 9,434,283 Korean Patent No. 101538695 U.S. Patent No. 8,584,285 B1

The present invention provides an improved support pillow that can be used for resting and sleeping at home or while traveling, for example, on an airplane. The support pillow assembly comprises a support pillow configured to optimally support a user's neck and head in upright, supine, and/or seated positions, and in a range therebetween. In one or more embodiments, the pillow disclosed herein includes a strap to better secure the invention to the user's head. The support pillow assembly further includes a pair of side rests that extend from the shoulders to the top of the user's head while in an upright position. The support pillow further includes a head rest between the pair of side rests to support the occipital portion of the head. The head rest is slightly depressed compared to the pair of side rests to align the user's head and neck in a forward position while the user's head is in a supine or vertical position, or in a reclined angle position between supine and vertical.

The headrest of the support pillow further includes an upper portion, a middle portion, and a lower portion. The lower portion of the support pillow is configured to be in an arc shape designed to wrap around the back of the neck and rest on the shoulders of the user. Furthermore, the arc extends from one side rest to the other side rest. The upper portion of the arc is at the base of the headrest and the lower portion of the arc is at the base of the side rest and rests on the shoulders against the front of the chest of the user. The middle portion of the headrest supports a middle portion of the head. In some embodiments, the middle portion further includes a hole for supporting the occipital or occipital bone portion of the head. Furthermore, the area from the middle portion of the rear of the headrest to the lower portion of the arc is tapered to maintain the neck in proper alignment while the user is leaning back. The upper portion of the headrest supports a rear portion of the head. The upper portion of the headrest is tapered to accommodate the head in proper alignment while resting. However, in some embodiments, the support pillow need not have a hole.

In some embodiments, the pillow is configured to support the neck and head of a user in a supine, inclined, or upright position. The pillow comprises a headrest portion, first and second side rests for supporting the head of a user, the headrest portion being positioned between the side rests, the headrest portion having a curved interior for supporting a rear portion of the head and neck, the curved interior having a larger radius at an upper portion thereof tapering to a smaller radius at a lower portion thereof, an arcuate lower portion, the lower portion resting on the nape of the neck of the user, an upper portion of the arcuate lower portion being positioned at a base of the headrest and a lower portion of the arcuate lower portion being positioned at a base of the side rest, first and second ear recesses on the first and second lateral sides of the headrest portion, the first and second ear recesses configured to accommodate the ears of the user, and first and second trapezius muscle recesses on the lower portions of the first and second sides of the arcuate lower portion, the first and second trapezius muscle recesses configured to accommodate the trapezius muscle of the user.

The support pillow optionally further includes a strap disposed at the bottom of the headrest to support the support pillow in place relative to the head. The strap may be attached to the headrest to tighten side to side to secure the headrest against the user's head. The strap may further be wrapped around the neck, starting from one side rest of the pair of side rests, through the headrest, and connecting to the other side rest. The strap may further include a connector to secure one side of the strap to the other side. The connector here is either a button, a Velcro hook and loop assembly, multiple hooks, and/or multiple buckles, and the like, to connect the straps together. It will be appreciated that the straps may be used in different configurations as long as they secure the headrest against the user's head.

The primary objective of the present invention is to provide a support pillow assembly for supporting the neck and head of a user in positions ranging from supine to reclined or vertical. The support pillow portion can be made from a single piece of foam that is sufficiently rigid to achieve support against head movement in reclined or upright positions, such as in an airplane. In one embodiment, viscoelastic foam (memory foam or Low-Resilience Polyurethane Foam (LRPu)) or other softer foam layers such as TopiFoam® can be used as the inner layer of the support pillow on which the head and neck rest for greater comfort. In some embodiments, a blow-up bladder is incorporated into the foam to create, among other usefulness, greater ability for the user to deflate the bladder and store it in a book size case, soft cloth type bag, or other means to compress the pillow between uses in a user-friendly and size-minimizing manner for carrying in a bag, case, or the like.

In some embodiments, the pillows may be made from bio-based materials, including plant-based materials such as, but not limited to, coconut, corn, flax, hemp, jute, sisal, soy, corn starch, hemp, natural fibers, and the like. In some embodiments, the pillows may be made from biodegradable materials such as green cell foam, corn starch, milk and clay mix, mycocomposite, and the like. In some embodiments, the pillows described herein are made from a combination of conventional and bio-based materials. By "bio-based" it is meant derived from living materials such as plants or other natural materials. In some embodiments, the pillows are 5%-95% bio-based, 10%-80% bio-based, 20%-70% bio-based, 30%-60% bio-based, or 40%-50% bio-based. In some embodiments, the pillow is about 20%, 25%, 30%, 35%, 40%, 45%, 50%, 55%, 60%, 65%, 70%, 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, or 95% biobased.

The object of the present invention is to provide a firmly constructed yet comfortable soft support pillow that provides optimal support for the head and neck while the user is resting or traveling in an upright and/or supine position, an intermediate position while seated, or a seated and reclining position.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a support pillow assembly that is strong enough to provide support against head movement and neck twisting, which are major impediments to sleep in an upright or reclined seated position, such as on an airplane.

It is yet another object of the present invention to provide a support pillow assembly constructed from a single piece polyester, polyurethane, latex, viscoelastic or memory foam.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a support pillow assembly having a concave recess for the back of the head to rest and which conforms to the neck to support the natural lordosis of the spine when the user rests his/her head while resting or traveling.

In some embodiments, the present disclosure provides a collapsible pillow for supporting the neck and head of a user in a supine position. In some embodiments, the pillow assembly includes a headrest portion and first and second side rests for supporting the user's head, the headrest portion being positioned between the side rests, the headrest portion including a curved interior portion for supporting a rear portion of the head. The support pillow further includes an arcuate lower portion, the lower portion resting on the user's shoulder, the upper portion of the arcuate lower portion being positioned at the base of the headrest, and the lower portion of the arcuate lower portion being positioned at the base of the pair of side rests. The pillow also includes a rigid support at the rear of the pillow, a rigid support at the front of the first side rest, and a rigid support at the exterior of the second side rest. In some embodiments, the pillow further includes a notch in the interior of the first side rest, the notch being configured to receive a front inner edge of the second side rest.

In some embodiments, the rigid support at the rear of the pillow covers 60% of the rear of the pillow. In some embodiments, the rigid support is aligned flush with the exterior of the first side rest. In some embodiments, the present disclosure provides a method of carrying a portable pillow, comprising folding a second side rest of a collapsible pillow described herein toward the first side rest and storing an inner edge of the second side rest within a notch in the first side rest.

To the accomplishment of the above and related ends, the invention may be embodied in the form illustrated in the accompanying drawings, it being understood, however, that the drawings are illustrative only and that changes may be made in the specific configurations shown and described within the scope of the appended claims.

Although the present invention is described above with respect to various exemplary embodiments and implementations, it should be understood that the various features, aspects, and functions described in one or more of the individual embodiments are not limited in applicability to the particular embodiment for which they are described, but instead may be applied alone or in various combinations to one or more of the other embodiments of the present invention, whether or not such an embodiment is described, and whether or not such features are presented as being part of a described embodiment. As such, the breadth and scope of the present invention should not be limited by any of the exemplary embodiments described above.

The presence in some instances of broadening words and phrases such as "around," "about," "one or more," "at least," "but not limited to," or other similar phrases shall not be read to mean that a narrower case is intended or required in instances where such broadening phrases may not be present. By "about" or "approximately," it is meant that a measurement is within 10% higher or lower than the recited measurement.

The objects and features of the present invention will become more fully apparent from the following description and appended claims taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. The present invention will be described and explained with additional specificity and detail through the use of the accompanying drawings, with the understanding that these drawings represent only typical embodiments of the invention and therefore should not be considered as limiting its scope.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a support pillow. FIG. 2 is a front view of the headrest of the support pillow according to the present invention. FIG. 2 is a rear view of the headrest of the support pillow according to the present invention. FIG. 2 is a side view of a headrest of a support pillow according to the present invention from a front view. FIG. 2 is a side view of a headrest of a support pillow according to the present invention from a front view. FIG. 2 is a top view of the headrest of the support pillow according to the present invention. FIG. 2 is a bottom view of the headrest of the support pillow according to the present invention. FIG. 13 illustrates a support pillow with tapered sides that are longer at the back than at the front. FIG. 2 shows a strap of a support pillow according to the present invention. FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a support pillow assembly. FIG. 2 is a front view of a portable support pillow as described herein. FIG. 2 is a front view of a portable support pillow as described herein. FIG. 2 is a top view of a portable support pillow as described herein. FIG. 2 is a front view of a portable support pillow as described herein including a front rigid support. FIG. 2 is a front view of a portable support pillow as described herein including a front rigid support. FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a portable support pillow as described herein including lateral rigid supports. FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a portable support pillow as described herein including a rigid rear support. FIG. 2 is a bottom view of a folded support pillow as described herein. FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a folded support pillow as described herein. FIG. 2 is a bottom view of a folded and compressed support pillow as described herein. FIG. 2 is a front view of a folded support pillow as described herein. FIG. 2 is a rear view of a support pillow as described herein showing the sliding rear plate in an extended position. FIG. 2 is a bottom view of the folded pillow when folded side to side. FIG. 13 is a bottom view of the folded and compressed pillow when folded side to side. FIG. 2 is a front view of the support pillow. FIG. 2 is a front perspective view of the support pillow. FIG. 2 is a rear perspective view of the support pillow. FIG. 2 is a top view of the support pillow. FIG. 2 is a top view of the support pillow. FIG. 2 is a bottom view of the support pillow. FIG. 2 is a bottom perspective view of the support pillow. FIG. 2 is a rear perspective view of the support pillow. FIG. 2 is a side view of the support pillow. FIG. 2 is a rear view of the support pillow. FIG. 2 is a side view of the support pillow. FIG. 2 is a front view of the support pillow. FIG. 2 is a bottom view of the support pillow. FIG. 2 is an inverted (upside down) view of the support pillow. FIG. 2 is a top view of the support pillow. FIG. 2 is a front view of the support pillow. FIG. 2 is a side view of the support pillow. FIG. 2 is a rear view of the support pillow. FIG. 2 is a side view of the inside of the support pillow. FIG. 2 shows a lateral external view of the support pillow. FIG. 2 is a front view of the support pillow. FIG. 2 is a rear view of the shorter support pillow. FIG. 13 shows a shorter support pillow with rounded edges. FIG. 13 is a bottom view of a shorter support pillow. FIG. 13 shows a shorter support pillow with rounded edges. FIG. 2 is a side view of a shorter support pillow. FIG. 13 shows a shorter support pillow with rounded edges. FIG. 13 is a side internal view of the shorter support pillow. FIG. 13 shows a shorter support pillow with rounded edges. FIG. 2 is a top view of a shorter support pillow. FIG. 13 shows a shorter support pillow with rounded edges. FIG. 2 illustrates a closed one hinge system of a multi-compartment carrier as described herein. FIG. 2 illustrates an open one hinge system of a multi-compartment carrier as described herein. FIG. 2 illustrates a closed two-hinge system of a multi-compartment carrier as described herein. FIG. 2 illustrates an open two-hinge system of a multi-compartment carrier as described herein. FIG. 1 shows a viscoelastic (memory foam) or similar soft foam insert. FIG. 1 is a top view of a pillow having an extension behind each side rest that is triangular in shape when viewed from above or below and that extends rearward at its thickness between 1/2 inch (1.27 cm) and 1 inch (2.54 cm). FIG. 13 shows a pillow having a button-like extension that serves to help angle the front portion of the side rest inward to better fit the user's head and neck when the user's head presses the headrest portion of the pillow against a backrest, bed, or other surface. FIG. 13 shows a pillow with inwardly angled side head rests to provide additional support to keep the head facing directly forward while minimizing sideways tilt. FIG. 1 shows a pillow including bladders and external nozzles for inflating and deflating the bladders. FIG. 13 shows a pillow with an attachable elastic band or pair of elastic bands used to compress it to a smaller size. FIG. 13 shows a pillow compressed by an attachable elastic band. 13A-13C show alternative configurations of the pillow having an attachable elastic band or pair of bands used to compress it to a smaller size. 13A-13C show alternative configurations of a pillow compressed by one or more attachable elastic bands. 1 illustrates a pillow with an attachment device that fastens the pillow to an airplane seat back, in some embodiments the pillow is part of an integrated airplane seat back design (as shown). 13A-13C are side views of a support pillow having an alternative configuration. 13A-13C are side views of a support pillow having an alternative configuration. 13A-13C are side views of a support pillow having an alternative configuration.

Various travel pillows have been described. One such example is described in U.S. Patent No. 9,434,283, assigned to Danami LLC, which discloses a travel pillow for use on vehicle seats, e.g., on airplanes, particularly during long journeys. The travel pillow provides support to the head in a forward direction while limiting any forward and/or lateral twisting motion of the head. The pillow described therein provides support to a person's head and neck, but is too bulky around the back of the neck which particularly impairs its usefulness in reclined or upright positions, as the pillow pushes the head and neck forward and, further, does not rest on the shoulders when used in reclined or upright positions, preventing the pillow from properly stabilizing the head and neck, which is essential for resting or sleeping in these positions.

Another Korean Patent No. 101538695, assigned to Youngwan Park, discloses a three-dimensional pillow that allows the head and neck parts to maintain a stable position at all times during travel, thereby allowing a person to rest comfortably while seated in a chair. The travel pillow described therein can provide adequate support to a person's neck and head while the person is sleeping. However, the pillow does not provide enough space to align the neck in an upright or vertical position.

Another example is U.S. Patent No. 8,584,285 B1 assigned to Ryan Sipherd, which discloses a U-shaped travel pillow shaped to fit a neck support and lateral head support. This pillow supports the head and neck posteriorly, but relies on "deflection relief" slots posteriorly to allow the head buttress to flex inward to provide lateral support to the head and neck. This design lacks a head buttress of adequate depth to provide lateral head and neck support, and does not rest or fit over the shoulders to resist lateral head and neck movement or twisting while in a semi-reclined or upright seated position.

In view of the shortcomings of prior art travel pillow designs, there is a great need for an improved pillow that optimally and comfortably stabilizes a user's head and/or neck, which is generally described herein as a support pillow and in some embodiments is referred to as a travel pillow. In particular, there is a need for a support pillow that is adjustable and customized to maximize the user's comfort. For example, there is a need to develop a support pillow that does not push the head forward or allow the head to assume a forward, backward, or sideways position.

The present disclosure thus provides an improved support pillow that is configured to support a user's head and/or neck in multiple positions while resting or sleeping in an upright or reclined seated position, such as on an airplane. By "recline," it is meant any degree of reclining from upright to flat with respect to the user's back.

In some embodiments, the pillow finds use in a medical setting. In this embodiment, the pillow need not be used for travel, but may find use in a hospital, doctor's office, or in a patient's home after surgery. It is recognized that after many surgical procedures, patients should or must remain in an upright or back and/or head elevated position, even when sleeping at all times in some instances. Existing pillows fail to provide the necessary degree of support, and patients report that they frequently struggle to maintain the correct position. However, the pillow described herein provides sufficient support to the back of the head as well as to the sides to prevent the problematic lateral movements that are all too often experienced by patients when using other pillows. Thus, the pillow of the present application finds use in medical facilities, hotels, or home recovery. In some embodiments, the pillows of the present application find use as an auxiliary device for immobilizing the head and neck for therapeutic or health-based reasons, such as when combined with the use of a CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) machine, supplemental oxygen, or the like, and for better sleep for patients with a diagnosed medical condition or a psychological/physiological/comfort preference for back position sleeping, or a full range of medical or post-surgical conditions that require the patient to sleep exclusively or primarily in a strictly supine or inclined (back elevated any amount up to 90 degrees including upright) position. In addition to the above, such conditions include, but are not limited to, pulmonary and cardiac conditions in which a tilted or upright position is necessary to force edema fluids to shift posteriorly (towards the base of the thoracic cavity) and/or improve diaphragmatic excursion or otherwise improve symptoms, including, but not limited to, orthopnea and paroxysmal nocturnal dyspnea (PND). In these medical embodiments, the pillow can have a wider dimension for stability, and the sides of the headrest (106a and 106b or 206a and 206b) are increased from 1-2 inches as shown in Figures 1 and 2 to 5-7 inches, respectively. In some embodiments, the present invention allows the shoulders and upper back to provide additional support to the head and neck when not in a fully supine position.

The pillow can be constructed from a single or multiple pieces of foam that provides excellent vertical support, lateral support, and cushioning for the user's head. In some pillow embodiments, blow-up air bladders can be incorporated into the foam. The head rest is soft, yet strong enough to provide support against head rotation and neck twisting in a reclined seated position, such as on an airplane, or when sleeping in a position tilted upward at any angle relative to the supine position. The pillow has a concave recess for the rear portion of the head to rest in, and is shaped to fit the neck supporting its natural lordosis.

FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of one embodiment of a support pillow (102) embodying aspects of the present invention. The support pillow has a length (l), a height (h), and a width (w), and the pillow (102) is configured to support the neck and/or head of a user while the user is resting in a seated position. The support pillow (102) also provides vertical and lateral support for the user's head. The support pillow (102) further comprises a head rest (104) and a pair of side rests (106), which in some embodiments may be identical to each other and are configured to cover the left and right sides of the user's head. Each side rest (106a, 106b) is configured to cover the left and right sides of the user's head from the shoulder to the temporal-parietal portion of the head. The support pillow (102) may be customized by the user, i.e., sized and shaped to match the approximate shape of the user's head. In some embodiments, the support pillow is configured to accommodate an average sized human head. Each side rest (106a, 106b) may be sized or otherwise configured to have a recess that comfortably accommodates the ears when the head is in at least a center forward position. In some embodiments, the pillow is configured with ear holes or recessed troughs on the sides of the pillow so that the pillow contacts the head without significantly compressing the user's ears. In some embodiments, another softer foam layer, between ¼ inch and 1 inch thick, lines the interior of the pillow. This foam layer is placed within the head/neck recess so that its dimensions now match the radius plus or minus ½ inch. This foam layer can be made of a softer foam than the rest of the pillow, such as viscoelastic foam (memory foam or low resilience polyurethane foam (LRPu)), TopiFoam®, or similar softer foam or material. (See FIG. 38).

The headrest (104) of the support pillow is further recessed between the pair of side rests (106) to support the rear portion of the head. The headrest (104) is pressed inward to align the user's head and neck in a forward "anatomical" position when the user is resting or sleeping, such as during travel. The headrest (104) of the support pillow (102) further includes an upper portion, a middle portion, and a lower portion.

The upper portion of the headrest (104) of the support pillow (102) supports the rear (occipital) and lateral (temporoparietal) portions of the user's head. In one embodiment of the invention, the upper portion of the headrest (104) is tapered to accommodate the head in proper alignment while the user leans his/her head against it while resting. The center portion of the headrest (104) of the support pillow (102) supports the center portion of the head. The center portion further comprises holes in some embodiments to support the rear of the head. In shorter embodiments of the support pillow (illustrated in FIGS. 32A-36B), the upper portion of the headrest supports the rear head and neck around the level of the mastoid process or craniocervical junction.

The lower portion of the support pillow (102) has an arched shape to allow the support pillow (102) to rest on the user's shoulders, ensuring that the support pillow (102) stays in place without falling off the shoulders, providing the necessary stability for the pillow and, therefore, the user's head and neck. In one embodiment of the invention, the upper portion of the arched lower portion is at the base of the head rest (104) and the lower portion of the arched lower portion is at the base of the side rests (106a, 106b) of the support pillow (102) and arches towards the front of the user, so that the lower portions of the side rests rest on the user's clavicle, shoulders, and/or chest.

The support pillow (102) may be constructed of a single piece foam material. The single piece foam material is designed and configured to form the head and neck support portion of the support pillow (102). Typically, the single piece support pillow (102) includes a pair of side rests (106) on either side of the head rest (104), which are angled upward relative to the head rest (104) to support the left and right portions of the head. The thickness of the head rest (104) decreases symmetrically toward the centerline of the pillow (102). Alternatively, the single piece support pillow (102) includes a pair of side rests (106) on either side of the head rest (104). In some embodiments, the pair of side rests (106) are not identical. Customization of the side rests is also envisioned to accommodate various anatomical variations and/or preferences between users. This customization is envisioned to be done manually and/or based on three-dimensional digital imaging of the user's head, neck, and shoulder dimensions, among other means.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the support pillow (102) is constructed of a conformable foam material that conforms to the shape of the user's head, neck, and shoulders, providing added comfort and stability to the shoulders. In some embodiments, the support pillow (102) is constructed from memory foam or viscoelastic foam. In alternative embodiments, the foam is polyurethane foam or latex foam.

The main body of the device may be made from high pressure compression molded polyether urethane of approximately 0.25-1 lb/ ^cu.ft . density, or any other type of foam with suitable softness and resilience, to provide a balanced rigid structure with suitable softness for stability and comfort. In some embodiments, the density is 0.25-5 lb/ ^cu.ft . or 0.5-1.5 lb/ ^cu.ft . The device may be machine cut into pieces or molded as known in the art.

In one embodiment, the foam or other exterior material is coated with a layer that allows for surface cleaning and sterilization and improves comfort and appearance. In some embodiments, this backing can be a smooth polyurethane or plastic and can be 0.01 to about 2.5 mm thick. In some embodiments, the backing can be 0.5 to 2 mm thick. This layer can be applied through an exterior spray process or through an alternative foam manufacturing method that produces this exterior layer as an integral part of the exterior surface of the foam.

The pillow may be exposed to a variety of elements including dirt and grime, blood, sweat, tears, viruses including SARS-Cov-2, bacteria, and other pathogens. The surface coating (or simply the exterior surface of the pillow) provides the unique and timely advantage of not requiring a washing machine or hand cleaning process that may not be readily available when traveling away from home, or convenient tools that are typically available at or near the home; instead, a simple wipe down with alcohol or other disinfectant is instantly more convenient and more effective. In some embodiments, the pillow surface and/or the pillow itself may be impregnated with copper or other materials known to have antimicrobial properties, including resistance against Covid-19 and other infectious viruses and pathogens.

In an alternative embodiment, the support pillow (102) may also be provided with a removable cover or case to protect the pillow, which may be removed for cleaning or replacement of the pillow. The removable cover may be designed according to the dimensions and design of the support pillow (102) or in a looser manner. The cover of the support pillow (102) is primarily made of soft fibers such as fleece, cotton, or silk. Other materials may be used depending on environmental considerations, health and germ concerns, or user preferences.

FIG. 2A shows a front view of a support pillow (202) constructed by a single piece foam, showing a headrest (204) and a pair of side rests (206a, 206b) of the support pillow (202). Mainly, the headrest (204) includes an upper portion (204a), a center portion with a headrest hole (204b), and a headrest lower portion (204c). In some embodiments, the center portion does not have a hole. In some embodiments, the upper portion tapers from a thicker portion at the upper portion to a thinner portion toward the headrest hole (204b). In some embodiments, the lower portion (204c) tapers from a thicker portion at the lower portion to a thinner portion toward the headrest hole (204b). The headrest hole (204b) is configured to support the back of the user's head. The lower portion (204c) is configured in an arc shape. In some embodiments, the hole can also act as a drink holder or tray table when the support pillow (202) is not in use or when the pillow is placed face down on the user's lap. In one embodiment of the present invention, the hole (204b) shape is circular.

In alternative embodiments of the present invention, the shape of the hole (204b) is oval, square, triangular, or any other shape. In alternative embodiments of the present invention, the diameter of the hole (204b) is about 2-15 cm. In some embodiments, the diameter of the hole is 5-10 cm. In some embodiments, the hole is 6-8 cm, and in some embodiments, the hole is about 7 cm in diameter. In some embodiments, there is no hole at the rear of the pillow. In some embodiments, the length of the support pillow (202) ranges from about 20-60 cm. It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that some measurements disclosed herein are made in cm (metric units), while other measurements are given in inches (imperial units). These measurements are easily convertible by using the conversion: 1 inch = 2.54 cm.

In some embodiments, the length of the support pillow can be about 25-50 cm or 30-40 cm. More specifically, the length of the support pillow (202) is about 30 cm. In some embodiments, especially when the support pillow is used in medical applications, the overall length of the headrest increases to about 60 cm.

In one embodiment, the upper portion is for supporting the rear of the head and is tapered to create a concave recessed region that extends from the bottom of the upper portion to the top of the upper portion. In some embodiments, the recessed region is recessed 9 cm to 13 cm relative to a plane created from the front of both sides of the pillow, and the concave recessed region includes a radius of curvature at the top that is greater than the radius of curvature at the bottom of the concave recessed region. In one embodiment, the concave recessed region is configured to support the rear of the head and neck to maintain the head and neck in proper alignment.

In one embodiment, the upper portion comprises a concave recessed region extending from the lower portion of the upper portion to the upper portion, the recessed region being semicircular or semi-elliptical when viewed from above or below, spanning 180 degrees to 220 degrees of a full circle, preferably between 205 and 215 degrees, with a radius (exact for a circle, average for an ellipse) at the upper portion of the upper portion between 4 cm and 10 cm, preferably between 5 cm and 8 cm, and a radius (exact for a circle, average for an ellipse) at the lower portion of the upper portion between 3 cm and 8 cm, preferably between 4.5 cm and 6 cm, tapering evenly between these two radii in a partially inverted truncated cone shape.

In one embodiment, the upper portion comprises a concave recessed region extending from the lower portion of the upper portion to the upper portion of the upper portion, the recessed region being semicircular or semi-elliptical when viewed from above or below, spanning 180 degrees to 220 degrees of a full circle, preferably between 205 and 215 degrees, with a radius (for a circle, exact, for an ellipse, average) at the upper portion of the upper portion between 4 cm and 10 cm, preferably between 5 cm and 8 cm, and a radius (for a circle, exact, for an ellipse, average) at the lower portion of the upper portion between 3 cm and 8 cm, preferably between 4.5 cm and 6 cm. , average) radius, tapering evenly between these two radii in a shape that matches the shape of the average rear of the head and neck of a human male (see attached figure) or the shape of the average rear of the head and neck of a human female, and the human head and neck contour matches head sizes that fall between the average male and average female, and between 1% to 10% larger than the average male head and neck (circumference 57 cm (22-1/2 inches)) and 1% to 10% smaller than the average female head and neck (circumference 55 cm (22-3/4 inches)).

In one embodiment, the width of the headrest (204) at its upper portion ranges from about 8 cm to 20 cm. More specifically, the width of the headrest (204) is about 9 cm to 14 cm. Further, the height of the headrest (204) ranges from 10 cm to 26 cm. More specifically, the height of the headrest portion (204) ranges from 17.5 cm at its rearmost point to 21.25 cm at its forwardmost point.

The lower portion (204c) of the head rest (204) curves in an arc at a certain height from the lower portion of the side rests (206a, 206b). For example, the height at which the lower portion is arced can range from about 6 cm to about 16 cm. More specifically, the height of the arced lower portion of the side rest (206) is about 6 cm from the bottom of the pillow to the bottom of the head rest (204). In other words, the distance between the top of the arc at the base of the head rest (204) and the bottom of the arc at the front base of the side rests (206a, 206b) is about 6 cm. This distance can range from 4 cm to 8 cm.

2A, it is apparent that the support pillow easily accommodates users of various sizes since the side rests (206a, 206b) are separated by a specific distance depending on the anatomical structure of the user's head, neck, and shoulders. The distance between the side rests (206a, 206b) ranges from about 9 cm to about 26 cm. More specifically, the distance between the side rests (206a, 206b) is about 12 cm to 16 cm. In some embodiments, the distance between the side rests is 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, or 26 cm. In some embodiments, the length of the support pillow (202) is about 25 to 60 cm. In some embodiments, the length of the support pillow is about 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46, 47, 48, 49, 50, 51, 52, 53, 54, 55, 56, 57, 58, 59, or 60 cm. More specifically, the length of the support pillow (202) is about 27 cm.

Figure 2B shows a rear view of the support pillow (202) constructed from a single piece foam, showing the rear portion of the support pillow (202). The length of the support pillow (202) is about 25-40 cm in some embodiments. In some embodiments, the length of the support pillow is about 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46, 47, 48, 49, 50, 51, 52, 53, 54, 55, 56, 57, 58, 59, or 60 cm. More specifically, the length of the support pillow (202) is about 27 cm.

Figure 2C shows a side view of the head rest of the support pillow (202) constructed by a single piece foam and a view of the side rest (206a) of the support pillow (202). The front of the support pillow is to the right. The rear of the support pillow (202) is to the left. In one embodiment according to the invention, the side rest (206a) has a height ranging from about 20 cm to about 35 cm. In some embodiments, the side rest has a height of about 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, or 35 cm. More specifically, the height of the side rest (206) is about 22 cm. For larger or smaller sized pillows, the dimensions of the support pillow (202) will be increased or decreased, respectively, to accommodate the head, neck, and shoulder anatomy of a user of that size, as known to those skilled in the art.

Figure 2D shows a side view of the support pillow (202) constructed from a single piece foam and shows a view of the side rest (206b) of the support pillow (202). The front of the support pillow is the left side. The rear of the support pillow is the right side. The side rest (206b) has a height ranging from about 20 cm to about 35 cm. In some embodiments, the side rest has a height of about 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, or 35 cm. More specifically, the height of the side rest (206) is about 22 cm. In some embodiments, the left and right side rests (206a, 206b) are identical, although this is not required in all embodiments. That is, in some embodiments, the side rests are not identical.

2E shows a top view of the support pillow (202) and a view of the upper portion of the headrest (204). As shown in FIG. 2E, the headrest (204) portion is configured with a curved shape from the center to the top portion (204a) in the headrest. It is clear from this view that the thickness of this portion decreases as the headrest (202) slopes from the center to the top. The radius of curvature of the headrest (204) ranges from 4 cm to 16 cm. In some embodiments, the radius of curvature ranges from 5 cm to 14 cm. In some embodiments, the radius of curvature ranges from 6 cm to 12 cm. In some embodiments, the radius of curvature of the headrest is about 4 cm, 5 cm, 6 cm, 7 cm, 8 cm, 9 cm, 10 cm, 11 cm, 12 cm, 13 cm, 14 cm, 15 cm, or 16 cm. In some embodiments, the radius of curvature of the top edge of the headrest is greater than the bottom edge. In this embodiment, the radius of curvature of the top edge or upper portion of the head rest is about 3 cm, 4 cm, 5 cm, 6 cm, 7 cm, 8 cm, 9 cm, 10 cm, 11 cm, 12 cm, 13 cm, 14 cm, 15 cm, or 16 cm. In some embodiments, the radius of curvature of the bottom edge or lower portion of the head rest is about 2 cm to about 12 cm, or about 3 cm to about 10 cm, or about 4 cm to about 8 cm. In some embodiments, the radius of curvature of the bottom edge or lower portion of the head rest is about 2 cm, 2.5 cm, 3 cm, 3.5 cm, 4 cm, 4.5 cm, 5 cm, 5.5 cm, 6 cm, 6.5 cm, 7 cm, 7.5 cm, 8 cm, 8.5 cm, 9 cm, 9.5 cm, 10 cm, 10.5 cm, 11 cm, 11.5 cm, or 12 cm. An acceptable average radius of curvature is 7.5 cm. In some embodiments, the radius of curvature is between 2.5 and 6.25 cm, i.e., the diameter is between 5 and 12.5 cm.

Figure 2F shows a bottom view of the support pillow (202) and a bottom view of the headrest (204). The area from the center of the hole to the bottom of the arcuate lower portion (204c) is carved to accommodate the user's neck in proper alignment while the user rests their head against it.

Figure 3 shows an alternative configuration of the support pillow (202). In this embodiment, the support pillow has tapered sides where the front of the support pillow is shorter than the rear of the support pillow. Such a configuration finds use when space for a traveler may be limited, such as when the pillow must fit under an existing head support, as commonly found with airplane seatbacks, and a smaller profile of the pillow may be advantageous. For example, as illustrated in the figure, the rear of the support pillow may be approximately 14-20 cm high, more preferably 16-18 cm high, more preferably 18 cm high, while the front of the support pillow may be approximately 10-15 cm high, more preferably 12-14 cm high, or more preferably 14 cm high. In some embodiments, the height of the front of the support pillow is 5%, 10%, 15%, 20%, 25%, or 30% shorter than the height of the rear of the support pillow.

Figure 4 shows the strap 402 of the support pillow assembly 500 (see Figure 5) according to the present invention. In this embodiment, the strap (402) is provided to hold the support pillow (102) in place relative to the head. The strap (402) can be engaged with the support pillow (102) in various configurations. Considering the support pillow of Figure 1, the strap (402) can be placed at the bottom of the support pillow (102) to hold the support pillow (102) in place relative to the user's head. In one configuration, the strap (402) starts from one side rest (106) in front of the neck and extends to the other side rest (106).

The strap (400) may be made of an elastic material that is stretchable enough to accommodate the neck of the user. Furthermore, the strap (400) provides the necessary support to maintain the head rest in place against the user's head. Furthermore, the strap may be made of an elastic cotton material. In another embodiment, the strap may be a belt that holds the support pillow (102) in place against the user's head. In one embodiment of the present invention, the width of the strap ranges from 4.5 cm to 6 cm. More specifically, the width of the strap is about 4.5 cm and secures the support pillow (102) in place against the user's head.

The strap (400) comprises a central component (402) that can be made of various materials, and a connector having a male member (404) and a female member (406) for fastening one side of the central component (402) to the other. Typically, the connector is made of a Velcro hook and loop assembly, a connector having male and female members. Alternatively, the connector can be a button, hook, magnet, and/or buckle to connect the strap (400) ends together.

5 shows a perspective view of a support pillow assembly (500). In accordance with the present invention, the support pillow assembly (500) comprises a support pillow (502) configured to support the neck and/or head of a user in a supine, reclined, or vertical position. The support pillow (502) also provides vertical and lateral support for the user's head. The support pillow (502) further comprises a head rest (504) and a pair of side rests (506), which in some embodiments may be identical to each other and are configured to cover the left and right sides of the user's head. Each side rest (506a, 506b) is configured to cover the left and right sides of the user's head from the shoulders to the top of the head. The side rests (506a, 506b) may be sized such that the user's ears do not contact the support pillow when the head is in at least a center forward position.

The headrest (504) of the support pillow is further recessed between the pair of side rests (106) to support the rear portion of the head. The headrest (504) is pressed inwardly to align the user's head and neck in a forward-facing position when the user is resting or sleeping during travel. The headrest (504) of the support pillow (502) further includes an upper portion, a middle portion, and a lower portion.

The upper portion of the headrest (504) of the support pillow (502) supports the rear or upper portion of the user's head. In one embodiment of the invention, the upper portion of the headrest (504) is tapered to accommodate the head in proper alignment while the user rests and leans his/her head against it. The center portion of the headrest (504) of the support pillow (502) supports the central rear (occipital) portion of the head. In some embodiments, the center portion further comprises a hole for supporting the occipital portion of the head.

The lower portion of the support pillow (502) is contoured to be arched to allow the support pillow (502) to rest on the user's shoulders so that it stays in place without falling off the shoulders. In one embodiment of the invention, the upper portion of the arched lower portion is at the base of the back rest (504) and the lower portion of the arched lower portion is at the base of the side rests (506a, 506b) of the support pillow (502) and arches towards the front of the user so that the lower portions of the side rests rest on the user's shoulders and/or chest.

In some embodiments, the support pillow assembly (500) further comprises a strap (400) disposed on the bottom of the support pillow (502) to support the support pillow (502) in place against the user's head. The strap (400) may be configured to wrap around the front of the user's neck, starting from one of the side rests (506a) and connecting to the other side rest (506b). Alternatively, the strap (400) may wrap around the support pillow and, in some embodiments, may abut against the rear of the user's neck. The strap (400) is preferably used to hold the support pillow (502) against the user in various support configurations. The strap (400) is preferably made of a durable and elastic material that easily fits around the user's neck. The length of the strap (400) may be adjusted depending on the size and shape of the user's head and neck.

Optional strap (400) further includes male and female members that can be joined by using a connector to secure one side of strap (400) to the other side of strap (400). In one embodiment, the connector is a Velcro hook and loop assembly type connection. In other embodiments, the connector can be a button, magnet, hook, and/or loop connector, or other separable fastener that allows attachment to hold the pillow in place in various orientations.

The support pillow assembly (500) includes a support pillow (502) constructed from a single piece of foam material. The single piece of foam material is designed and configured to form the head and neck support portion of the support pillow (502). Typically, the single piece support pillow (502) includes a pair of side rests (506) on either side of the head rest (504), the side rests (506) angled upward relative to the head rest (504) to support the left and right portions of the head. The thickness of each side rest decreases symmetrically toward the head rest (504) of the support pillow (502). Alternatively, the single piece support pillow (502) includes a pair of side rests (506) on either side of the head rest (504). In some embodiments, the pair of side rests (506) are not identical.

In some embodiments, the support pillow assembly (500) further includes a strap (400) disposed at the bottom of the support pillow (502), the strap (400) being wrapped around from one side rest to the other side rest (506).

In one embodiment of the present invention, the support pillow (502) of the support pillow assembly (500) is constructed of a conformable foam material that conforms to the shape of the user's head, neck, and shoulders, providing additional comfort and stability to the shoulders. In some embodiments, the support pillow (502) is constructed in whole or in part from memory foam, TopiFoam®, or viscoelastic foam. In alternative embodiments, the foam is polyurethane foam or latex foam. In some embodiments of the support pillow, there may be a thin coating applied as an exterior layer of the pillow and/or any of its associated storage, covers, straps, utility collapse mechanisms, and rigid support surfaces to facilitate cleaning of pathogens or general soils.

In an alternative embodiment, the support pillow (502) may also be provided with a removable cover or case to protect the pillow, which may be removed for cleaning or replacement of the pillow. The removable cover may be designed according to the dimensions or design of the support pillow (502). The cover of the support pillow (502) is primarily made of soft fibers, such as fleece or cotton. Other materials may be used depending on environmental considerations, removal of pathogens, such as viruses or bacteria, or user preference.

6, the present disclosure also provides a pillow (602) configured to collapse for ease of storage. In this example, the pillow may be configured with a single unitary body with a right side (606a) and a left side (606b) and a central portion (604) configured to accommodate the user's head and neck. The lower portion (608a) of the right side and the lower portion (608b) of the left side are each curved, as described herein above, beginning at the rear of the pillow and extending downwardly over the user's shoulders toward the user's chest. Additionally, the pillow includes further features including a notch (610) that may be in the lower portion of either the right or left side. The notch is shown in FIG. 6 at the lower portion of the left side. As noted above, the pillow is collapsible to fold one side of the side to the opposing side. The notch (610) accommodates the front inner edge of the side that is to be folded. For example, in FIG. 6, the front right inner edge (612) once folded is inserted into a notch on the left side. In some embodiments, the pillow has notches on each of the right and left sides that can accommodate the front inner edge of the left or right side, respectively.

Additional features shown in FIG. 6 include indentations on the right (614a) and left (614b) sides of the pillow. The indentations are configured to accommodate the user's ears, allowing the ears to be comfortably positioned against the sides of the pillow.

Further details regarding the possibly crushable pillow are illustrated in FIG. 7. Exemplary dimensions include a maximum height (702) of 8.75 inches, a height from the top of the pillow to the rearmost edge (704) of 7.75 inches. An exemplary height (706) of the ear recess is 3.42 inches. An exemplary height (710) from the lower rear edge of the pillow to the bottom of the ear recess is 2.67 inches. An exemplary length (714) from the lateral edge of the side rest to the forwardmost edge of the front of the side rest is 1.78 inches. An exemplary length (712) from the lateral edge of the side rest to the forwardmost edge on the lower side of the pillow is 2.35 inches. An exemplary length (716) from the lateral edge of the pillow to the uppermost front edge of the side rest is 2.53 inches. An exemplary length (718) from the lateral edge of the pillow to the upper front edge of the head rest is 2.79 inches. An exemplary length (720) from the lateral edge of the pillow to the lower front edge of the head rest is 3.43 inches. Although specific dimensions are stated herein, it is recognized that each of the dimensions may be increased or decreased by 1%, 2%, 3%, 4%, 5%, 6%, 7%, 8%, 9%, 10%, 15%, 20%, 25%, 30%, 35%, 40%, 45%, or 50%.

Further details regarding the possibly crushable pillow are described in FIG. 8. FIG. 8 is a top view of the pillow. Exemplary dimensions include a width from the rear of the pillow to the upper rear edge of the top of the head rest of 0.67 inches, and a width from the rear of the pillow to the lower rear edge of the bottom of the head rest of 1.39 inches. The width (806) from the rear of the pillow to the rearmost edge of the ear recess is 2.28 inches. The width (808) from the forwardmost edge of the pillow to the forwardmost edge of the ear recess is 1.34 inches. The diameter (810) of the lower curved head rest area is 4.65 inches. The diameter (812) of the upper curved head rest area is 6.16 inches. The width (814) of the top edge of the pillow from the rear edge to the forward-most edge is 5 inches. The width (816) of the pillow from the rear edge to the forward-most edge is 6.5 inches. Although specific dimensions are stated herein, it is recognized that each of the dimensions may be increased or decreased by 1%, 2%, 3%, 4%, 5%, 6%, 7%, 8%, 9%, 10%, 15%, 20%, 25%, 30%, 35%, 40%, 45%, or 50%. In some embodiments, the pillow may have larger horizontal and vertical dimensions while still maintaining the specified head recess dimensions. The head-supporting lateral sides of the pillow may range in width (from exterior to interior of side) from the specified 2-3/4 inches to 7 inches for less portable uses.

Figures 9 and 10 provide further details regarding the crushable pillow. As can be seen, on the front of the left side, there is a hard surface (902) attached to the pillow. This hard surface can be made of plastic, metal, wood, or any other rigid material and can be covered with rubber or another possibly synthetic material with a rough or tacky texture. In some embodiments, the plastic can be made from a biodegradable plastic such as Poly-Lactic Acid (PLA). This hard panel can be on the left, right, or both front sides of the headrest.

The purpose of the rigid surface is to form a rigid front segment of the collapsible pillow as described further herein to provide firmness when softer foams are used, and to provide a rigid surface that, when folded, aligns with its inner surface having the rigid surface shown in FIG. 11 and described below, allowing for an even distribution of forces on the foam to facilitate compression against another rigid surface on the rear of the pillow, creating a thinner and more portable configuration when the pillow is secured using a Velcro hook and loop assembly, tab-in slots, or other similar ratcheting mechanism, or within a case as described elsewhere. The rigid surface can cover 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, 95%, 96%, 97%, 98%, 99%, or 100% of the surface to which it is attached. In some embodiments, the center portion includes holes as described herein, but in some embodiments does not include holes. When used with a solid back to facilitate storage collapse of the pillow, there may be no need for holes.

11 is a side view of the pillow. As can be seen, on the right side of the pillow there is a hard surface (1102) attached to the pillow. This hard surface can be located on the right or left side of the pillow and can be made of plastic, metal, wood, polylactic acid (PLA) or any other rigid material and can be covered with rubber or another possibly synthetic material with a rough or sticky texture, the purpose of which is to reduce the sliding of the pillow against any abutting surface. The purpose of the rigid surface is to provide firmness when softer foams are used, and to provide a rigid surface that when folded aligns with its inner surface having the rigid surface shown in FIG. 10 and described above, allowing for an even distribution of force on the foam to facilitate compression against another rigid surface on the rear of the pillow, creating a thinner and more portable configuration when the pillow is secured with magnets, Velcro hook and loop assemblies, tab-in slots, buckles, or other "ratchet" mechanisms or within a case as described elsewhere. The rigid surface can cover 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, 95%, 96%, 97%, 98%, 99%, or 100% of the surface to which it is attached.

12 shows the back view of the pillow. As can be seen, a hard surface (1202) is also attached to the back of the pillow. This hard surface can be made of plastic, metal, wood, or any other rigid material such as polylactic acid (PLA) and can be covered with rubber or another possibly synthetic material with a rough or sticky texture, the purpose of which is to reduce the sliding of the pillow against any abutting surface. The purpose of the hard surface is to provide firmness when softer foams are used and also to provide a hard surface, which when folded allows for an even distribution of forces on the foam to facilitate compression against the two aligned hard surfaces on the front of the folded pillow, creating a thinner and more portable configuration when the pillow is secured using a Velcro® hook and loop assembly, tab-in slots, or other similar ratcheting mechanism or in a case as described elsewhere. The rigid surface can cover 20%-80% of the rear of the pillow, or in some embodiments, 45%-75% of the rear of the pillow. In some embodiments, the rigid surface can cover 20%, 30%, 40%, 50%, 60%, 65%, 70%, 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, 95%, 96%, 97%, 98%, 99%, or 100% of the rear pillow surface to which the rigid surface is attached. When the rear rigid surface (1202) covers less than 100% of the rear of the pillow, it can be located primarily on the rear left or right side of the pillow. In such a case, the rear rigid surface (1202) is approximately aligned with an edge on the same side as the notch (610). Thus, the rear uncovered portion (1204) of the pillow is on the same side as the side to which the rigid surface (1102) is attached. The uncovered portions of the pillow provide flexibility to the pillow, allowing the sides to fold forward to collapse the pillow.

In one embodiment, the support pillow comprises a rigid rear section on the rear side of the pillow. The rigid rear section may be made of cardboard, plastic, metal, or other material capable of providing rigidity and/or support for the user. Additionally, the rigid rear section finds a dual purpose as a component of a storage container, as further outlined herein. In some embodiments, the rigid rear section is made of plastic, composite, pressboard, laminate, or other similarly hard material, is between 2 mm and 6 mm thick, preferably between 3 mm and 5 mm thick, is present on the rear surface of the pillow or integrated within that face of the pillow, has a height that is 100 percent of the height of the pillow, has a length that is between 30 percent and 100 percent of the length of the pillow, is evenly centered around the centerline of the pillow or is located only along the right or left side of the rear surface of the pillow, has a length that is between 30 percent and 80 percent of the length of the pillow, and preferably between 60 percent and 80 percent of the length of the pillow, and has a height that is 100 percent of the height of the pillow. In embodiments where the rigid rear portion occupies 100 percent of the rear surface of the pillow, the rigid surface may have a crimp, sometimes called a "living hinge" or actual hinge, where the rigid material may be partially or fully folded along a line that is to the left or right of the pillow's centerline, 20-60 percent of the distance from the pillow's centerline to the lateral edge. In embodiments with a rigid surface on the side of one side rest, the hinge or crimp is toward the side rest, and the lateral surface of the side rest is also covered by the rigid surface.

In one embodiment, the rigid rear portion is made of plastic, composite, pressboard, laminate, or other similarly rigid material, is between 2 mm and 6 mm thick, preferably between 3 mm and 5 mm thick, is present on one or both of the side support headrest portions of the pillow, preferably on one of the front surfaces or integrated within that surface of the pillow, is between 100 and 80 percent of the pillow height, preferably 100 percent, is 100 percent long, is centered evenly around the centerline of the pillow or is located only along the right or left side of the rear surface of the pillow, is between 30 and 80 percent of the pillow length, and preferably between 60 and 80 percent, is 100 percent long.

In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 13A, the side of the pillow having the hard surface (1102) is folded forward and toward the opposite side of the pillow to form a collapse support pillow. The edge (612) fits into the notch (610) and forms the hard or rigid front cover of the pillow. The rear hard surface (1202) forms the rear rigid cover of the pillow. The uncovered rear portion (1204) of the pillow is now positioned on the side of the collapse pillow, leaving the left and right sides exposed to pillow material. This has the advantage of being flexible or compressible, which allows for further reduction in the size of the collapse pillow. In some embodiments, the collapse pillow can be compressed by 5% to 75% of its original collapsed size, 10% to 60% of its original collapsed size, or 20% to 50% of its original collapsed size. In some embodiments, the collapsed pillow is compressed by 5%, 10%, 15%, 20%, 25%, 30%, 35%, 40%, 45%, or 50% of its original collapsed size.

Figure 13B shows a perspective view of the front of the crush support pillow, showing how the side rigid shells (1102) meet the front rigid shell (902) to form a solid front of the crush support pillow.

Figure 13C shows a bottom view of the folded, compressed support pillow. The sides (1102) fold adjacent to the front rigid surface (902), leaving the sides soft and compressible. The compression pillow can be locked by a front locking mechanism (1302). The front locking mechanism can be comprised of straps, buckles, strings, Velcro hook and loop assemblies, ratchet systems, and the like. Additionally, the compression support pillow can also include lateral locking mechanisms (1304a and 1304b) to facilitate maintaining the compression pillow in the compressed configuration. The lateral locking mechanisms can be comprised of straps, buckles, strings, Velcro hook and loop assemblies, ratchet systems, and the like.

Figure 13D shows a front view of the folded and compressed pillow. Rigid supports (1102) and (902) form the front of the collapsed pillow.

In some embodiments, the pillow is folded and compressed side-to-side, rather than front-to-back, as described above. This folded configuration has the advantage of greater ease of compression, since the same force compresses a smaller surface area, and the compressed pillow can have a shorter overall dimension compared to the front-to-back compression embodiment. FIG. 13F shows a bottom view of this alternative configuration of the folded and compressed support pillow when compressed in the side-to-side dimension. In this embodiment, the rigid surface of the rear of the pillow (1206) occupies approximately 37.5 percent of the rear of the pillow, and the headrest opposite the side on which this rigid surface resides has a rigid surface (1104) that occupies 80-100% of its lateral surface. The front of the headrest on the same side as the 37.5% of the rear portion that has rigid support has a rigid support that occupies 80-100% of its surface. The edges (616) fit within the notches (611) leaving the front and rear of the pillow soft and compressible. The compression pillow can be locked by a front locking mechanism (1309). The front locking mechanism can be comprised of straps, buckles, strings, Velcro hook and loop assemblies, ratchet systems, and the like. Additionally, as shown in FIG. 13G, the compression support pillow can also include additional front and rear locking mechanisms (1313a and 1313b) to facilitate maintaining the compression pillow in the compressed configuration. The front and rear locking mechanisms can be comprised of straps, buckles, strings, Velcro hook and loop assemblies, ratchet systems, and the like.

In some embodiments, the support pillow comprises an extendable rigid panel that extends below the rear bottom of the pillow. FIG. 13E shows a rear view of the support pillow, showing the sliding rear panel (1306) in an extended position. When not extended, the sliding rear panel (1306) slides inside the rigid rear panel (1202). In some embodiments, the rear plate can be attached to the support pillow or the rear plate with a hinge can fold rather than slide. The extendable plate can be made of plastic, metal, wood, polylactic acid (PLA), or any other rigid material and can be covered with rubber or another possibly synthetic material with a rough or sticky texture, the purpose of which is to reduce the sliding of the pillow against any abutting surface.

In some embodiments, the height of the extendable panel is between about 10 cm and about 40 cm. The extendable panel can be 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, 95%, 96%, 97%, 98%, 99%, or 100% of the size of the rigid back plate (1202). In some embodiments, the extendable panel is 50%, 60%, 70%, 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, 95%, 96%, 97%, 98%, 99%, or 100% of the width of the rigid back plate (1202).

Figure 14 shows a front view of the open pillow, showing the notch (610), ear cavities (614(a)) and (614(b)), as well as the front rigid plate (902) and the side or lateral rigid plate (1102). Additionally, the curved section (1402) between the sides and below the head rest is evident. In some embodiments, a similar contoured or curved area is found at the top of the head rest where the top curves from back to front. In some embodiments, the top and bottom curves are parallel to one another. In some embodiments, the front contour of the sides is flat, but in some embodiments, they are curved as outlined herein.

Figure 15 shows a perspective view of the support pillow, showing the front plate (902) and ear cavity (614(a)).

Figure 16 shows a rear perspective view of the travel pillow, showing the side or lateral rigid supports (1102) as well as the rear rigid support (1202).

Figure 17A shows a top perspective view of the support pillow, showing the lateral rigid supports (1102), the front rigid supports (902), the ear cavities (614(a)) and (614(b)), and the notch (610).

Figure 17B shows a top view of the support pillow, showing the front rigid support (902), ear cavities (614(a)) and (614(b)), and notch (610).

FIG. 18 shows a bottom view of the support pillow, showing the notch (610) and the trapezius recesses (1802 and 1804). The trapezius recesses are configured to abut and accommodate the user's trapezius muscles.

Figure 19 shows a perspective bottom view of the support pillow, showing the notch (610) and trapezius recess (1802 and 1804). Additionally, the anterior rigid support (902) is shown.

Figure 20 shows a rear view of the support pillow, showing the posterior rigid support (1202) and the trapezius recess (1802 and 1804) and notch (610).

Figure 21 shows the lateral side of the support pillow with lateral rigid supports (1102).

FIG. 22 shows the rear of the pillow and shows example dimensions of the support pillow in inches (cm). Example dimensions are shown for length and height. In some embodiments, the length of the rear of the support pillow (2204) is between 10 inches (25.4 cm) and 15 inches (38.1 cm), or between 11 inches (27.94 cm) and 14 inches (35.56 cm), or between 11.25 inches (28.575 cm) and 12.5 inches (31.75 cm). In some embodiments, the length of the rear portion (2204) is 10, 10.5, 11, 11.5, 12, 12.5, 13, 13.5, 14, or 14.5 inches. In some embodiments, the height of the rear portion (2204) of the support pillow is between 5 inches and 12 inches, or between 6.5 inches and 11 inches, or between 7 inches and 10 inches, or between 7.5 inches and 9 inches. In some embodiments, the height of the rear of the support pillow (2204) is 5, 5.5, 6, 6.5, 7, 7.25, 7.5, 7.75, 8, 8.25, 8.5, 8.75, 9, 9.25, 9.5, 9.75, 10, 10.5, or 11 inches. It is recognized that each of the dimensions may be increased or decreased by 1%, 2%, 3%, 4%, 5%, 6%, 7%, 8%, 9%, 10%, 15%, 20%, 25%, 30%, 35%, 40%, 45%, or 50%. In some embodiments, the pillow has a contour at the top that curves from back to front.

FIG. 23 shows a side view of the pillow (2306(a)). Some example dimensions for illustration purposes are set forth in FIGS. 7 and 8. Additionally, the width (2314) from the rear of the pillow to the lowest point of the pillow is 5.62 inches. The length (2316) from the lowest point of the pillow to the forward most point of the pillow is 0.78 inches. In some embodiments, the width of the support pillow is wider at the bottom than at the top. That is, in some embodiments, the width of the bottom is between 1 inch and 4 inches wider than the width of the top of the pillow. In some embodiments, the bottom is between 1.25 inches and 3 inches wider than the width of the top of the pillow. In some embodiments, the width of the lower portion of the pillow is 0.5, 0.75, 1, 1.25, 1.5, 1.75, 2, 2.25, 2.5, 2.75, or 3 inches (1.27, 1.905, 2.54, 3.175, 3.81, 4.445, 5.08, 5.715, 6.35, 6.985, or 7.62 cm) wider than the width of the upper portion of the pillow. In some embodiments, the width of the upper support pillow is 3 to 10 inches (7.62 cm to 25.4 cm), or 4 to 8 inches (10.16 cm to 20.32 cm), or 5 to 7.5 inches (12.7 cm to 19.05 cm). In some embodiments, the width is 3, 3.5, 4, 4.5, 5, 5.5, 6, 6.5, 7, 7.5, or 8 inches. It is recognized that each of the dimensions may be increased or decreased by 1%, 2%, 3%, 4%, 5%, 6%, 7%, 8%, 9%, 10%, 15%, 20%, 25%, 30%, 35%, 40%, 45%, or 50%.

As can be seen in FIG. 23, in some embodiments, the side of the support pillow comprises two curved regions. The first curved region (2302) is from the top front edge of the side and curves from the top of the side to a point (2304) that is the bottom of the side or the widest point of the bottom of the side. In some embodiments, the pillow comprises an edge (2312) that extends from the widest point (2304) to a point posteriorly and downwardly (2308). The second curved region (2310) extends from the lower rear edge of the pillow to a point posteriorly and downwardly (2308).

FIG. 24 shows a front view of the pillow (2402) and side rests (2406(a) and 2406(b)) and provides example dimensions in inches (cm). As explained above, the rear of the support pillow has a height, but the overall height of the pillow can be longer. This is because in some embodiments, the sides of the support pillow curve downward from the rear of the pillow, thereby increasing the overall height. In some embodiments, the overall height of the pillow is 0.25-5 inches, or 0.5-4 inches, or 0.75-3 inches, or 1-2 inches longer than the height of the rear. In some embodiments, the overall height of the support pillow is 0.5, 1, 1.5, 2, 2.5, 3, 3.5, or 4 inches longer than the rear of the pillow. It is recognized that each of the dimensions may be increased or decreased by 1%, 2%, 3%, 4%, 5%, 6%, 7%, 8%, 9%, 10%, 15%, 20%, 25%, 30%, 35%, 40%, 45%, or 50%.

FIG. 25 shows a bottom view of the support pillow, illustrating the trapezius recesses (1802 and 1804) and the notch (610). Exemplary dimensions of each of the features of the travel pillow are provided. The notch (610) can take various shapes, such as a square, a rectangle, a scalene triangle, a triangle, or a circle, with a scalene triangle being illustrated in FIG. 25. Referring to the trapezius recesses, each of the trapezius recesses is configured to accommodate the trapezius muscle of the user. The trapezius recesses have a length (L), a height (H), and a depth (D). In some embodiments, the length of each of the trapezius recesses is 1-4 inches, or 1.5-3 inches, or 2-2.5 inches. In some embodiments, the length of the shoulder recess is 1, 1.5, 2, 2.5, 3, 3.5, 4, 4.5, or 5 inches. In some embodiments, the upper portion of the shoulder recess is shorter than the lower portion of the shoulder recess due to the curvature of the head rest. The height of the trapezius recess is 0.5 to 4 inches, or 1.0 to 3 inches, or 2 to 2.5 inches. In some embodiments, the length of the shoulder recess is 0.5, 1, 1.5, 2, 2.5, 3, 3.5, 4, 4.5, or 5 inches (1.27, 2.54, 3.81, 5.08, 6.35, 7.62, 8.89, 10.16, 11.43, or 12.7 cm). It is recognized that each of the dimensions may be increased or decreased by 1%, 2%, 3%, 4%, 5%, 6%, 7%, 8%, 9%, 10%, 15%, 20%, 25%, 30%, 35%, 40%, 45%, or 50%.

FIG. 26 shows a perspective rear view of the support pillow while inverted, highlighting the notch (610) and sides (2202) and rear (2204) of the pillow. An exemplary length (2602) of the pillow is 29.337 cm (11.55 inches). It is recognized that each of the dimensions may be increased or decreased by 1%, 2%, 3%, 4%, 5%, 6%, 7%, 8%, 9%, 10%, 15%, 20%, 25%, 30%, 35%, 40%, 45%, or 50%.

Figure 27 shows a top view of the support pillow, showing the ear cavities (614(a)) and (614(b)) as well as the notch (610), sides (2202), and back (2204).

Figure 28A shows a front view of the support pillow, showing the front support (902). In some embodiments, the front panel (902) is 4-10 inches high, depending on the height of the sides of the pillow. In some embodiments, the panel is 6-8 inches high. In some embodiments, the width of the panel can be non-uniform to accommodate the width of the underlying pillow section, but in some embodiments, the panel is 0.5-3 inches wide or 1-2 inches wide. It is recognized that each of the dimensions may be increased or decreased by 1%, 2%, 3%, 4%, 5%, 6%, 7%, 8%, 9%, 10%, 15%, 20%, 25%, 30%, 35%, 40%, 45%, or 50%. It is recognized that the front support may occupy at least 70%, 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, 91%, 92%, 93%, 94%, 95%, 96%, 97%, 98%, or 100% of the front edge of the pillow.

Figure 28B shows a side view of the support pillow, showing the rigid support (1102). In some embodiments, the lateral panels (1102) are 5-10 inches in height, depending on the height of the pillow side. In some embodiments, the panels are 6-8 inches in height. In some embodiments, the height of the panels can be non-uniform to accommodate the height of the underlying pillow section. In some embodiments, the width of the lateral panels is 3-7 inches, or 3.5-6 inches, or 4-5.5 inches. In some embodiments, the width of the panels can be non-uniform to accommodate the width of the underlying pillow section. It is recognized that each of the dimensions may be increased or decreased by 1%, 2%, 3%, 4%, 5%, 6%, 7%, 8%, 9%, 10%, 15%, 20%, 25%, 30%, 35%, 40%, 45%, or 50%. It is recognized that the lateral support may occupy at least 70%, 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, 91%, 92%, 93%, 94%, 95%, 96%, 97%, 98%, or 100% of the lateral side of the pillow.

28C shows a rear view of the support pillow and lists exemplary dimensions of the rear support (1202). Exemplary dimensions of each of the features of the travel pillow are provided. In some embodiments, the rear panel (1102) is 3.5-10 inches in height depending on the height of the rear of the pillow. In some embodiments, the panel is 5.75-8 inches in height. In some embodiments, the height of the panel can be non-uniform to accommodate the height of the underlying pillow section. In some embodiments, the width of the lateral panels is 3-10 inches, or 4-8 inches, or 5-7 inches. In some embodiments, the width of the panels can be non-uniform to accommodate the width of the underlying pillow section. It is recognized that each of the dimensions may be increased or decreased by 1%, 2%, 3%, 4%, 5%, 6%, 7%, 8%, 9%, 10%, 15%, 20%, 25%, 30%, 35%, 40%, 45%, or 50%. It is recognized that the front support may occupy at least 50%, 55%, 60%, 65%, 70%, 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, 91%, 92%, 93%, 94%, 95%, 96%, 97%, 98%, or 100% of the rear edge of the pillow.

Figure 29 shows an internal view of the lateral side, showing the notch (610) and ear cavity (614(b)).

30 shows an exterior view of the side (3006). Exemplary dimensions of each of the features of the travel pillow are provided in the description of FIGS. 7 and 8. It is recognized that each of the dimensions may be increased or decreased by 1%, 2%, 3%, 4%, 5%, 6%, 7%, 8%, 9%, 10%, 15%, 20%, 25%, 30%, 35%, 40%, 45%, or 50%. In some embodiments, the radius of curvature of the lower edge of the side rest is about 30-50 cm, about 32-47 cm, about 35-45 cm, about 38-42 cm, about 39-40 cm. In some embodiments, the radius of curvature of the lower edge of the side rest is about 30 cm, 31 cm, 32 cm, 33 cm, 34 cm, 35 cm, 36 cm, 37 cm, 38 cm, 39 cm, 40 cm, 41 cm, 42 cm, 43 cm, 44 cm, 45 cm, 46 cm, 47 cm, 48 cm, 49 cm, or 50 cm. In some embodiments, the radius of curvature of the front edge of the side rest is about 30-50 cm, about 32-47 cm, about 35-45 cm, about 38-42 cm, or about 39-41 cm. In some embodiments, the radius of curvature of the front edge of the side rest is about 30 cm, 31 cm, 32 cm, 33 cm, 34 cm, 35 cm, 36 cm, 37 cm, 38 cm, 39 cm, 40 cm, 41 cm, 42 cm, 43 cm, 44 cm, 45 cm, 46 cm, 47 cm, 48 cm, 49 cm, or 50 cm.

Figure 31 shows a front view of the pillow, showing the ear cavities (614(a) and 614(b)) and notch (610). Exemplary dimensions of each of the features of the travel pillow are provided in the descriptions of Figures 7 and 8. It is recognized that each of the dimensions may be increased or decreased by 1%, 2%, 3%, 4%, 5%, 6%, 7%, 8%, 9%, 10%, 15%, 20%, 25%, 30%, 35%, 40%, 45%, or 50%.

With reference to FIG. 32A, a rear perspective view of a shorter support pillow is provided. In this example, the measurements of the pillow may be similar to those described herein, except that the overall height of the pillow is shorter. In this example, the overall height is approximately 5 inches to 7 inches, as the pillow has sides that curve downward toward the user's chest. In some examples, the overall height is approximately 5.5 inches to 6.5 inches. In some examples, the overall height is approximately 5, 5.5, 6, 6.5, or 7 inches. In this example, the rear height of the support pillow is approximately 4 inches to 6 inches. In some embodiments, the height of the rear of the pillow is approximately 4, 4.5, 5, 5.5, or 6 inches (10.16, 11.43, 12.7, 13.97, or 15.24 cm). FIG. 32B provides an alternative presentation of the view of FIG. 32A, except that the edges of the pillow are rounded to provide added comfort and security to the user.

FIG. 33A shows a bottom view of the support pillow. As outlined in FIG. 32, in some embodiments the support pillow is shorter, i.e. shorter in height, but other measurements are similar to those described herein. FIG. 33A shows the trapezius recesses (1802 and 1804) and the notch (610). Exemplary dimensions of each of the travel pillow features are provided. The notch (610) can take a variety of shapes, such as a square, a rectangle, a scalene triangle, a triangle, or a circle, although a scalene triangle is illustrated in FIG. 33A. Referring to the trapezius recesses, each of the trapezius recesses is configured to accommodate the trapezius muscle of the user. The trapezius recesses have a length (l), a height (h), and a depth (d). In some embodiments, the length of each of the trapezius recesses is 1-4 inches, or 1.5-3 inches, or 2-2.5 inches. In some embodiments, the length of the shoulder recesses is 1, 1.5, 2, 2.5, 3, 3.5, 4, 4.5, or 5 inches. In some embodiments, the upper portion of the shoulder recess is shorter than the lower portion of the shoulder recess due to the curvature of the head rest. The height of the trapezius recess is 0.5 to 4 inches, or 1.0 to 3 inches, or 2 to 2.5 inches. In some embodiments, the length of the shoulder recess is 0.5, 1, 1.5, 2, 2.5, 3, 3.5, 4, 4.5, or 5 inches. It is recognized that each of the dimensions may be increased or decreased by 1%, 2%, 3%, 4%, 5%, 6%, 7%, 8%, 9%, 10%, 15%, 20%, 25%, 30%, 35%, 40%, 45%, or 50%. FIG. 33B provides an alternative presentation to the view of FIG. 33A, except that the edges of the pillow are rounded to provide added comfort and security to the user.

FIG. 34A shows a side view of the shorter pillow (2306(A)) and provides example dimensions in inches (cm). As outlined in FIG. 32, in some embodiments the support pillow is shorter, i.e. shorter in height, but other measurements are similar to those described herein. In some embodiments the support pillow is wider at the bottom than at the top, i.e. in some embodiments the width at the bottom is 1 inch to 4 inches wider than the width at the top of the pillow. In some embodiments the width at the bottom is 1.25 inches to 3 inches wider than the width at the top of the pillow. In some embodiments, the width of the lower portion of the pillow is 0.5, 0.75, 1, 1.25, 1.5, 1.75, 2, 2.25, 2.5, 2.75, or 3 inches (1.27, 1.905, 2.54, 3.175, 3.81, 4.445, 5.08, 5.715, 6.35, 6.985, or 7.62 cm) wider than the width of the upper portion of the pillow. In some embodiments, the width of the upper support pillow is 3 to 10 inches (7.62 to 25.4 cm), 4 to 8 inches (10.16 to 20.3 cm), or 5 to 7.5 inches (12.7 to 19.05 cm). In some embodiments, the width is 3, 3.5, 4, 4.5, 5, 5.5, 6, 6.5, 7, 7.5, or 8 inches. It is recognized that each of the dimensions may be increased or decreased by 1%, 2%, 3%, 4%, 5%, 6%, 7%, 8%, 9%, 10%, 15%, 20%, 25%, 30%, 35%, 40%, 45%, or 50%.

As can be seen in FIG. 34, in some embodiments, the side of the support pillow has two curved regions. The first curved region (2302) is from the top front edge of the side and curves from the top of the side to a point (2304) that is the bottom of the side or the widest point of the bottom of the side. In some embodiments, the pillow has an edge (2312) that extends from the point (2304) with the widest width to a point (2308) in a posterior and downward direction. The second curved region (2310) extends from the lower rear edge of the pillow to a point (2308) in a posterior and downward direction. In this embodiment, the pillow has a side that curves downward toward the chest of the user, so the overall height is about 5 inches to 7 inches. In some embodiments, the overall height is 5.5 inches to 6.5 inches. In some embodiments, the overall height is about 5, 5.5, 6, 6.5, or 7 inches. In this embodiment, the rear height of the support pillow is about 4 inches to 6 inches. In some embodiments, the rear height of the pillow is about 4, 4.5, 5, 5.5, or 6 inches. FIG. 34B provides an alternative presentation of the view of FIG. 34A, except that the edges of the pillow are rounded to provide added comfort and security to the user.

35A and 35B show an internal view of the lateral side, showing the ear cavities or recesses (614(B)) and the trapezius recess (1802). Again, because the pillow has sides that curve downward toward the user's chest, the overall height is approximately 5 inches to 7 inches. In some embodiments, the overall height is approximately 5.5 inches to 6.5 inches. In some embodiments, the overall height is approximately 5, 5.5, 6, 6.5, or 7 inches. In this embodiment, the height of the rear of the support pillow is approximately 4 inches to 6 inches. In some embodiments, the height of the rear of the pillow is approximately 4, 4.5, 5, 5.5, or 6 inches. It is recognized that each of the dimensions may be increased or decreased by 1%, 2%, 3%, 4%, 5%, 6%, 7%, 8%, 9%, 10%, 15%, 20%, 25%, 30%, 35%, 40%, 45%, or 50%. In particular, in the pillow configuration shown in FIG. 35A, the ear recesses are at the upper edge of the pillow. The height of the ear recesses is approximately 2 inches, 2.25 inches, 2.38 inches, 2.5 inches, 2.75 inches, or 3 inches. FIG. 35B provides an alternative presentation of the view in FIG. 35A, except that the edges of the pillow are rounded to provide added comfort and security to the user.

Figure 36 shows a top view of the support pillow, showing the ear cavities or recesses (614(a) and 614(b)) and notches (610), sides (2202), and back (2204). Exemplary dimensions of each of the features of the travel pillow are provided above. It is recognized that each of the dimensions may be increased or decreased by 1%, 2%, 3%, 4%, 5%, 6%, 7%, 8%, 9%, 10%, 15%, 20%, 25%, 30%, 35%, 40%, 45%, or 50%. Figure 36B provides an alternative presentation of the view of Figure 36A, except that the edges of the pillow are rounded to provide added comfort and security to the user.

In some embodiments of the pillow, including both the "tall" and "short" pillow height variations described above, the pillow includes an extension behind each side rest that is triangular in shape (770a and 770b) when viewed from above or below, and extends rearwardly from ½ to 1 inch at its thickest point. See FIG. 39. The purpose of the extensions is to angle the front portion of the side rest inward to better fit the user's head and neck when the user's head presses against the headrest portion of the pillow against a backrest, bed, or other surface. The triangular shape of these extensions ensures maximum surface area of contact between the pillow and the surface against which it is pressed, thereby increasing friction and therefore stability. The width of the triangular extension can be between 10 and 50 percent, preferably 30 percent, of the width of the pillow, and its height can be between 10 and 100 percent, preferably 100 percent, of the height of the pillow. In some embodiments, the triangular extension is curved to match the "bevel" curvature of the pillow's edge, as described and shown elsewhere, and in some embodiments, the triangular extension is rectangular rather than triangular when viewed from above or below. In these embodiments, the rigid support at the rear of the pillow can be bent, curved, or otherwise contoured to match the extension, rather than being flat.

In some embodiments, the pillow has between one and five simple circular, square, or rectangular extensions (788a and 788b) that are between 1 inch and 5 inches, preferably 2 inches, in width (and between 1 inch and 5 inches in height if rectangular), and preferably reside within 1/10 to 1/3, preferably 1/4, of the lateral width of the rear of the pillow, respectively. See FIG. 40. These button-like extensions serve the purpose of helping angle the front portion of the side rest inward to better fit the user's head and neck when the user's head presses the headrest portion of the pillow against a backrest, bed, or other surface. In these embodiments, the rigid support at the rear of the pillow may be bent, curved, or otherwise contoured to match the extensions, rather than being flat.

In some embodiments, the pillow further comprises an attachment for securing the front compression panel. See FIG. 13C (1302). The attachment can be a buckle, a string, a button, a Velcro® hook and loop assembly, and/or a hook, and the like. In some embodiments, the collapse pillow comprises a compression system to facilitate compression of the collapse pillow. The compression system can be comprised of a strap, a buckle, a string, a Velcro® hook and loop assembly, a ratchet system, and the like. See (1304(a) and 1304(b)).

In some embodiments, a box or "exoskeleton" is used to provide packaging for the product and/or to facilitate locking in a compressed position. This can be made from flexible or rigid plastic, metal, wood, or any material that provides protection for the pillow. In some embodiments, this piece will also be made from polylactic acid. All plastic parts can be made using standard injection molding.

In some embodiments, the pillow is further configured to hold or integrate various elements. In one embodiment, the pillow includes vertically oriented slits to accommodate wires of a third party wired earbud speaker or a BLUETOOTH® wireless speaker. In some embodiments, the slits can also function as storage recesses into which the lateral arms of the pillow are inserted when folded for portability.

In one embodiment, the pillow is configured with a speaker integrated into the foam positioned at or near the ear canal. In this embodiment, the pillow may have wiring that connects to the speaker and may also have wiring that allows for audio input. In some embodiments, the speaker has BLUETOOTH® wireless technology for wireless connectivity to audio input. In some embodiments, the pillow also includes a battery, charger, and/or electrical plug, as needed.

In some embodiments, the support pillow is configured with a rechargeable battery and/or a pocket for the insertion of a rechargeable battery for portable electronic devices such as cell phones, tablets, computers, and the like. Additionally, the support pillow may be configured with various plugs such as, but not limited to, USB and/or USB-c ports, micro USB ports, and the like. In some of these embodiments, the charging mechanism is wireless with or without magnetic attachment capabilities.

In some embodiments, the support pillow may be configured with an electric heater and/or massager for added comfort for the user. In one embodiment, the pillow has an integrated vibration or other head and/or neck massage and/or heating and/or cooling mechanism.

In some embodiments, the pillow may be further configured with one or more integrated storage compartments for holding items such as, but not limited to, sunglasses, a cell phone, pens, and the like.

In one embodiment, the pillow finds use as a component of a multi-component carrier (1700). FIG. 37 is a side view of the multi-component carrier. In this embodiment, the carrier comprises two compartments (1702, 1704) that share a central barrier or wall (1710). The multi-component carrier has one compartment (1704) configured to store a pillow as described herein and an adjacent compartment (1702) for storage of additional items. A hinge system (1706) allows one side to be opened at a time. An opening and closing mechanism (1708) allows one side to be opened at a time or both sides simultaneously. In some embodiments, this features a lock. In some embodiments, each chamber is the same size. In other embodiments, the chambers are asymmetric. One side is configured to hold a pillow as described herein, and more particularly, a compressed pillow as described herein. The other compartment may include a foam-lined interior to protect the contents of that chamber. When one hinge (1706) is used as shown in Figures 37A and 37B, the compartment (1702) for additional items may also include an internal base (1712) that holds the contents in place when the chamber is opened. Advantageously, the top case may be opened when one compartment is face down. The carrier is then turned upside down to open the other compartment. When two hinge systems are used as shown in Figures 37C and 37D, only the lids (1714, 1716) of each chamber open, leaving the walls of the compartment attached to or integral with the base (1710). This helps ensure that the contents of the compartment do not spill when the lid is opened. The contents may include, but are not limited to, cell phones, pens, keys, wallets, business cards, money, glasses, sunglasses, and other small personal items. In another embodiment, temporary storage of such items in a more limited manner may be placed or inserted into a small external pocket on the outside of the pillow itself, such pocket being sealable, in one embodiment, with a zipper, a Velcro hook and loop assembly, or, as in the present technology or in another embodiment, not sealed but with a low profile to hold items for temporary storage.

In some embodiments, the pillow's side head rest is angled inward at an angle ranging from 5 degrees to 30 degrees, in some embodiments 5 to 20 degrees, 10 to 20 degrees, and in some embodiments 12 to 17 degrees. In some embodiments, the head rest is angled inward at an angle of 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, or 20 degrees. In some of these embodiments, the rear stiffening panel, without the side panels, occupies 60 to 70 percent of the rear surface toward the side head rest, which allows the lateral side rest to hinge laterally to accommodate the user's head and neck when in place, after which the lateral side rest returns to its inwardly angled position. See FIG. 41. The purpose of the inward angle is to provide more secure support for the head and neck, doubling the effect of the rear wedge extension described elsewhere, without the need for active pressure to be applied to the rear of the pillow by the backrest or other surface on which the pillow rests to achieve this effect. In these examples, it is recognized that the compression caused by the inward angling of the side rests reduces the size of the head support, with the average radius of the head support being approximately 6 cm at its upper portion and tapering to approximately 4.75 cm at its lower portion.

In some embodiments, the pillow includes bladders (4200) and external nozzles (4202) for inflation and deflation of these bladders. See FIG. 42. The nozzles can have one-way valves that can be manually opened in some of these embodiments. The nozzles can be configured anywhere on the pillow as long as they do not interfere with the function and/or comfort of the pillow. In some of these embodiments, the bladders occupy only the side headrest portion of the pillow, with the connection between the bladders through the rear of the headrest, so that the bladders can be inflated simultaneously; in other embodiments, there are also bladders that occupy the rear headrest as well. The percentage of the pillow that these bladders occupy can range from 10 percent to 100 percent (the latter being a fully inflatable pillow with a thin layer of foam or other soft coating), and is preferably 30 percent. The purpose of the bladder is twofold: first, to provide firmness when the bladder is fully inflated, which may vary when the bladder is not fully inflated, balanced by the outer foam of the bladder (minus the interior portion reserved in this embodiment for the bladder), whose density and shape specifications are specified elsewhere; and second, to provide portability when fully deflated. In some of these embodiments, the placement and folding configuration of the firm panels are as specified elsewhere, and in some embodiments, the panels on the rear surface occupy a central portion thereof ranging from 30 percent to 100 percent, preferably 70 percent. In these configurations, the side arms fold together symmetrically toward the center of the pillow when deflated; the side arms overlap as necessary when the pillow is folded into this flat configuration. In some of these embodiments, the side panels are located on both sides, and the coverage percentage varies as described elsewhere for panels located on only one side. In some of these embodiments, there is no front panel, and in some embodiments, the front panel is symmetrically positioned on the front surface of each side rest. In some embodiments of the inflatable pillow, there is no rigid panel on either surface. In some of these embodiments that do not have a rigid panel, there is a rubber, polyurethane, or adhesive surface on the rear surface of the pillow, occupying 30 to 100 percent, preferably 95 percent, whose purpose is to create adhesion through friction between the rear surface of the pillow and the backrest or other flat surface against which it abuts, as would normally be described with reference to a rigid panel. Air bladders can be present in all of the embodiments described elsewhere, including the embodiment above with respect to the angled side headrests.

Alternate embodiments are envisioned in which the pillow has dimensions to accommodate the head, neck, and shoulders of a child between toddler and teen. These embodiments will encompass the range of other versions described above and below, except that all of their measurements are smaller but exactly or approximately proportional to the measurements of the embodiments described above and below. The size ratios of these alternate embodiments to the embodiments described elsewhere will be 50, 55, 60, 65, 70, 75, 80, 85, 90, and 95 percent, preferably between 70 percent and 85 percent.

In shorter versions of these embodiments, the overall height is about 3 inches to 6 inches. In some embodiments, the overall height is about 3 inches to 5.5 inches. In some embodiments, the overall height is about 3, 3.5, 4, 4.5, 5, 5.5, or 6 inches. In this embodiment, the height of the rear of the support pillow is about 3 inches to 5 inches. In some embodiments, the height of the rear of the support pillow is 4, 4.5, 5, 5.5, or 6 inches. Size ratios between these alternative embodiments and those described elsewhere can be 50, 55, 60, 65, 70, 75, 80, 85, 90, and 95 percent, preferably between 70 and 85 percent.

In taller versions of these embodiments, the pillows have heights ranging from about 7 inches to about 10 inches.

In these smaller embodiments, the head recess can vary proportionately in overall dimensions to reflect the difference in head-to-neck-to-shoulder ratios of infants and children relative to that of adults. The radius (exact if circular, average if elliptical) at the top of the upper portion can be between 4 and 7 cm, between 2 and 3 cm, and preferably between 2.5 and 5.5 cm at the bottom of the upper portion, tapering evenly between these two radii to accommodate head and neck contours that correspond to the radii of the average rear head and neck of a human infant (see attached figures) or the average rear head and neck of a human child, and sizes intermediate between an average infant and an average child, and head sizes 1-20 percent larger than the average infant head and neck (20 inches in circumference) and 1-20 percent smaller than the average infant head and neck.

In some embodiments (see FIG. 43), the pillow has an attachable elastic band or pair of bands, such as elastic bands, for use in compressing to a smaller size. The band wraps around to connect to itself using buttons, Velcro® hook and loop assemblies, hooks, buckles, and/or magnets (2901). In some embodiments, the band fastens to itself using buttons, Velcro® hook and loop assemblies, hooks, buckles, and/or magnets (2902). (FIG. 43A), folded with straps open; (FIG. 43B), folded and compressed with straps closed. Two of the benefits or utilities of the compressed smaller size are easier portability and use of bags, soft or hard cases to allow for pillow security and protection, simpler portability, and improved aesthetic benefits.

In some embodiments (see FIG. 44), the pillow has an attachment device (3302) that fastens the pillow to the airplane seat back (3301). This device can be made of metal, buttons, Velcro hook and loop assemblies, hooks, buckles, and/or magnets and can be adjustable in height to accommodate various passenger head and neck postures. In some embodiments, the pillow is part of an integrated airplane seat back design, such as designs that airlines and airplane manufacturers choose to incorporate for passenger comfort, among others. In some embodiments, the headrest folds laterally to allow for use of the seat back without a headrest support.

In some embodiments (see FIG. 43), the pillow has an attachable elastic band or pair of elastic bands for use in compressing to a smaller size. The band wraps around to connect to itself (2901) using buttons, Velcro® hook and loop assemblies, hooks, buckles, and/or magnets. In some embodiments, the band fastens to the pillow itself (2902) using buttons, Velcro® hook and loop assemblies, hooks, buckles, and/or magnets. (FIG. 43A), folded with straps open; (FIG. 43B), folded and compressed with straps closed. Two of the benefits or utilities of the compressed smaller size are easier portability and use of bags, soft or hard cases to allow for pillow security and protection, simpler portability, and improved aesthetic benefits.

In some embodiments (see FIG. 44), the pillow has an attachment device (3302) that fastens the pillow to the airplane seat back (3301). This device can be made of metal, buttons, Velcro hook and loop assemblies, hooks, buckles, and/or magnets and can be adjustable in height to accommodate various passenger head and neck positions. In some embodiments, the pillow is part of an integrated airplane seat back design, such as designs that airlines and airplane manufacturers choose to incorporate for passenger comfort, among others. In some embodiments, the headrest folds laterally to allow for use of the seat back without a headrest support.

In some embodiments, the front lower portion of the side rest that conforms to the clavicle (collarbone) is truncated (see FIG. 45). That is, in some embodiments, the pillow includes a side rest that conforms to the clavicle, and in some embodiments, the pillow does not include a side rest that conforms to the clavicle. In these latter embodiments, the length of the lower portion of the side rest is truncated relative to the length of the side rest that conforms to the clavicle. A side rest that lacks a clavicle conforming region is reduced in length by 0.1 inches, 0.2 inches, 0.3 inches, 0.4 inches, 0.5 inches, 0.6 inches, 0.7 inches, 0.8 inches, 0.9 inches, or 1 inch. In some embodiments, the reduction in length is 0.1-1 inch, 0.2-0.7 inch, 0.5-0.5 inch. The change in measurements is generally within 2 cm. In this version, the "slot" (610) on the headrest arm lateral to the folding arm is eliminated or modified to accommodate the folding arm having a truncated front-down configuration, and the solid panels on the sides of the side rest are modified to fit the truncated side rest. This configuration applies to both the "tall" and "short" versions of the pillow described above, which may also have beveled or curved edges as described above.

In some embodiments of this truncated version described in the above section, the entire front side rest is truncated (see FIG. 46). In this embodiment, the length of the side rest is reduced by 0.5-2 inches, or 0.8-1.5 inches, or 1-1.3 inches relative to the length of the clavicle-fitting version. The length can be 4-6 inches, or 4.1-5 inches. The change in measurement is approximately within 2 cm. In this version, the "slot" on the headrest arm lateral to the folding arm is eliminated or modified to accommodate the folding arm having a truncated front-down configuration, and the solid panels on the sides of the side rest are modified to fit the truncated side rest. This configuration applies to both the "tall" and "short" versions of the pillows described above, which may also have beveled or curved edges, as described above.

In some embodiments of this truncated version described in the above section, the entire front side rest is truncated and curved to have a forward convex surface (see FIG. 47). In this embodiment, the length of the top of the side rest is about 5.09 inches, and the width from the back of the pillow to the front-most edge of the pillow is about 5.27 inches. The measurements vary by approximately 2 cm. In this version, the "slot" on the headrest arm lateral to the folding arm is eliminated or modified to accommodate the folding arm with a truncated front-down configuration, and the solid panels on the sides of the side rest are modified to fit the truncated side rest. This configuration applies to both the "tall" and "short" versions of the pillow described above, which may also have beveled or curved edges as described above.

Once constructed, the pillow, referred to herein as a support pillow, finds a variety of uses. In one embodiment, the pillow finds use as a support pillow for air travel, ground vehicles, or other modes of travel for comfort or required head or neck immobilization. In an alternative embodiment, the pillow finds use for sleeping whether traveling or not. In a similar or entirely separate embodiment, the pillow may be used while resting in a chair, couch, or other seated mode. In a particular embodiment, the pillow finds use with respect to a patient following an injury, medical procedure, or surgery. Frequently after such surgery or incident, the patient is required to sleep on their back because the pillow facilitates their ability to do so comfortably. This will apply especially to cosmetic surgery and non-cosmetic head or neck surgery. Thus, the disclosure herein provides a method of immobilizing a post-operative patient by having the patient lean against the pillow as described herein, ensuring that the head is comfortably immobilized. This may also apply to resting and sleeping in a reclined or supine position after an injury or medical procedure; such positioning of the head and neck promotes healing and ensures stability and comfort.

While various embodiments of the present invention have been described above, it should be understood that they have been presented by way of example only, and not by way of limitation. Similarly, the figures may depict example architectures or other configurations for the present invention, which is done to aid in understanding the features and functionality that may be included in the present invention. The present invention is not limited to the example architectures or configurations depicted, and the desired features may be implemented using various alternative architectures and configurations.

Claims (49)

1. A pillow for supporting the neck and head of a user in a supine, inclined or upright position, the pillow assembly, in a positional relationship to the user using the pillow , comprising:
a. a headrest portion comprising a curved interior for supporting a rear portion of the head and neck, the curved interior having a larger radius at an upper portion of the curved interior that tapers to a smaller radius at a lower portion of the curved interior;
b. first and second side rests for supporting the head of the user, the headrest portion being positioned between the side rests;
c. an arcuate lower portion, a lower portion of the arcuate lower portion resting on the nape of the neck of the user, and further, an upper portion of the arcuate lower portion positioned at a base of the head rest and the lower portions of the arcuate lower portion positioned at bases of the first and second side rests;
d. first and second ear recesses on first and second lateral sides of the headrest portion, the first and second ear recesses configured to receive ears of the user;
e. first and second trapezius muscle recesses on the lower portion of the arcuate lower portion positioned at the base of the first and second side rests, the first and second trapezius muscle recesses configured to accommodate the trapezius muscle of the user;
f. a curved portion on each of the first and second lower surfaces of the side rests that rest on the user's shoulders, the curved portion sloping downwardly from rear to front to extend downwardly from the rear shoulder area to cover the user's clavicle area;
g. an inward angle between the fore-aft axis of each side rest and a vertical line from the rear of the pillow of between 5 and 20 degrees;
h) rigid supports on a rear surface of the pillow, on a front surface of the first side rest, and on a lateral surface of the second side rest;
i. a notch on an interior of the first side rest configured to receive an inner front edge of the second side rest when the side rest is folded inward for portability;
the pillow has a length of 25 to 50 cm;
The pillow is configured to be collapsible into a collapsed configuration. The pillow of claim 1, further comprising at least one strap configured to compress the pillow when crushed. The pillow of claim 2, comprising at least two straps configured to compress the pillow when crushed. The pillow of any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the rigid support on the rear of the pillow covers 70% of the rear of the pillow. The pillow of any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the rigid support on the rear of the pillow is aligned flush with a lateral surface of the first side rest. The pillow of any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the ear recesses have a quarter oval shape to accommodate the lower portions of the user's ears, the quarter oval having a maximum vertical dimension of 6 cm, a maximum front-to-back dimension of 6 cm, and a maximum left-to-right dimension (depth) of 2.2 cm. The pillow according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the height of the pillow measured 2 cm rearward of the most forward extent of the side rest is 15 cm, and the rearward height of the pillow measured at the most rearward extent of the side rest is 13 cm. The pillow of claim 7, wherein the front-to-back depth of the pillow is 18 cm, measured 2.5 cm from the bottom of the pillow and 3.5 cm from the lateral-most extent of the side rests, and the front-to-back depth of the top of the pillow is 15.5 cm, measured 3.5 cm from the lateral-most extent of the side rests. 9. A pillow as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the height of the pillow, measured 2 cm rearward of the most forward extent of the side rest, is 22 cm and the rearward height of the pillow, measured at the most rearward extent of the side rest, is 17 cm. 10. A pillow according to any one of claims 1 to 9 , comprising a single piece of polyester, polyurethane, polyether urethane, latex, viscoelastic or memory foam. 11. The pillow of claim 10 , made from high pressure compression molded polyether urethane of 0.25 to 5 lb/cu. ft. density. A pillow according to claim 11 , provided with a coating of smooth polyurethane or plastic, between 0.1 and 2.5 mm thick. 13. The pillow of claim 12 , wherein the smooth polyurethane or plastic is capable of allowing for surface cleaning or sterilization. 14. The pillow of claim 1, further comprising at least one attachment feature selected from the group consisting of a carabiner, a hook, and a loop. 15. The pillow of claim 1, wherein the length of the pillow is 25 cm, 26 cm, 27 cm, 28 cm, 29 cm, 30 cm, or within 10% longer or shorter than 25 cm, 26 cm, 27 cm, 28 cm, 29 cm, or 30 cm. 1. A pillow for supporting the neck and head of a user in a supine, inclined or upright position, the pillow assembly, in a positional relationship to the user using the pillow , comprising:
a. a headrest portion comprising a curved interior for supporting a rear portion of the head and neck, the curved interior having a larger radius at an upper portion of the curved interior that tapers to a smaller radius at a lower portion of the curved interior;
b. first and second side rests for supporting the head of the user, the headrest portion being positioned between the first and second side rests;
c. an arcuate lower portion, a lower portion of the arcuate lower portion resting on the nape of the neck of the user, and further, an upper portion of the arcuate lower portion positioned at a base of the head rest and the lower portions of the arcuate lower portion positioned at bases of the first and second side rests;
d. first and second ear recesses on first and second lateral sides of the headrest portion, the first and second ear recesses configured to receive ears of the user;
e. first and second trapezius muscle recesses on the lower portion of the arcuate lower portion positioned at the base of the first and second side rests, the first and second trapezius muscle recesses configured to accommodate the trapezius muscle of the user;
f. a curved portion on each of the first and second lower surfaces of the side rests that rest on the user's shoulders, the curved portion sloping downwardly from rear to front to extend downwardly from the rear shoulder area to cover the user's clavicle area;
g. an inward angle between the fore-aft axis of each side rest and a vertical line from the rear of the pillow of between 5 and 20 degrees;
h) a pillow comprising rigid supports on a rear surface of said pillow, on a front surface of said first side rest and on a lateral surface of said second side rest. 17. The pillow of claim 16 , wherein the rigid support on the rear of the pillow covers 70% of the rear of the pillow. 18. A pillow according to claim 16 or 17 , wherein the rigid support on the rear of the pillow is aligned flush with a lateral surface of the first side rest. 19. The pillow of any one of claims 16 to 18, wherein the ear recesses are configured with a concave shape to accommodate lower portions of the user's ears, the ear recesses having a maximum vertical dimension that is 6 cm or 10% higher or lower than 6 cm, a maximum front-to-back dimension that is 6 cm or 10% higher or lower than 6 cm, and a maximum left-to-right dimension (depth) that is 2.2 cm or 10% higher or shorter than 2.2 cm. 20. A pillow as claimed in any one of claims 16 to 19, wherein the height of the pillow, measured 2 cm rearward of the most forward extent of the side rest, is 15 cm or 10% higher or lower than 15 cm, and the rearward height of the pillow, measured at the most rearward extent of the side rest, is 13 cm or 10% higher or lower than 13 cm . 21. The pillow of claim 20, wherein the front-to-back depth of the pillow, measured 2.5 cm from the bottom of the pillow and 3.5 cm from the lateralmost extent of the side rests, is 18 cm or 10% more or less than 18 cm, and the front-to-back depth of the top of the pillow, measured 3.5 cm from the lateralmost extent of the side rests, is 15.5 cm or 10% more or less than 15.5 cm. 22. A pillow according to any one of claims 16 to 21 , comprising a single piece of polyester, polyurethane, polyether urethane, latex, viscoelastic or memory foam. 23. The pillow of claim 22 , made from high pressure compression molded polyether urethane of 0.25 to 5 lb/cu. ft. density. 24. A pillow according to claim 23 , provided with a coating of smooth polyurethane or plastic of between 0.1 and 2.5 mm thickness. 25. The pillow of any one of claims 16 to 24 , further comprising a cover. 26. The pillow of claim 25 , wherein the cover is made primarily of a flexible fabric. 27. The pillow of any one of claims 16 to 26 , further comprising at least one strap configured to compress the pillow when crushed. 28. The pillow of any one of claims 16 to 27 , wherein the length of the pillow is 25cm, 26cm, 27cm, 28cm, 29cm, 30cm, or within 10% longer or shorter than 25cm, 26cm, 27cm, 28cm, 29cm, or 30cm. 1. A pillow for supporting the neck and head of a user in a supine, inclined or upright position, the pillow assembly, in a positional relationship to the user using the pillow , comprising:
a. a headrest portion comprising a curved interior for supporting a rear portion of the head and neck, the curved interior having a larger radius at an upper portion of the curved interior that tapers to a smaller radius at a lower portion of the curved interior;
b. first and second side rests for supporting the head of the user, the headrest portion being positioned between the first and second side rests;
c. an arcuate lower portion, a lower portion of the arcuate lower portion resting on the nape of the neck of the user, and further, an upper portion of the arcuate lower portion positioned at a base of the head rest and the lower portions of the arcuate lower portion positioned at bases of the first and second side rests;
d. first and second ear recesses on first and second lateral sides of the headrest portion, the first and second ear recesses configured to receive ears of the user;
e. first and second trapezius muscle recesses on the lower portion of the arcuate lower portion positioned at the base of the first and second side rests, the first and second trapezius muscle recesses configured to accommodate the trapezius muscle of the user;
f. a curved portion on each of the first and second lower surfaces of the side rests that rest on the user's shoulders, the curved portion sloping downwardly from rear to front to extend downwardly from the rear shoulder area to cover the user's clavicle area;
g. rigid supports on a rear surface of the pillow, on a front surface of the first side rest, and on a lateral surface of the second side rest;
A pillow wherein each side rest is angled vertically (90 degrees) forward relative to the rear of the pillow. 30. The pillow of claim 29, wherein the height of the pillow, measured 2 cm rearward of the forward-most extent of the side rest, is 22 cm or within 10% greater than or less than 22 cm, and the rearward height of the pillow, measured at the rearward-most extent of the side rest, is 17 cm or within 10% greater than or less than 17 cm. 31. The pillow of claim 29 or 30 , comprising a single piece of polyester, polyurethane, polyether urethane, latex, viscoelastic or memory foam. 32. The pillow of any one of claims 29 to 31 , made from high pressure compression molded polyether urethane of 0.25 to 5 lb/cu. ft. density. A pillow according to any one of claims 29 to 32 , provided with a coating of smooth polyurethane or plastic of between 0.1 and 2.5 mm thickness. 34. The pillow of claim 33 , wherein the smooth polyurethane or plastic is capable of allowing for surface cleaning or sterilization. 35. The pillow of claim 34, wherein the length of the pillow is 25 cm, 26 cm, 27 cm, 28 cm, 29 cm, 30 cm, or within 10% of 25 cm, 26 cm, 27 cm, 28 cm, 29 cm, or 30 cm . 1. A travel pillow for supporting the neck and head of a user in a supine position, the travel pillow being configured in a position relative to the user using the travel pillow, the travel pillow comprising:
a single unitary headrest portion and first and second side rests for supporting the head of the user;
the headrest portion is positioned between the first and second side rests;
The headrest portion is
an upper portion having a concavely recessed area extending from a lower portion of the upper portion to an upper portion of the upper portion, the concavely recessed area being 5 cm to 10 cm wide, the concavely recessed area having a greater radius of curvature at the upper portion than at the lower portion of the concavely recessed area, the concavely recessed area being configured to support a posterior portion of the head and maintain the head in proper alignment;
b. a central portion having a hole with a diameter of 5-10 cm, said hole supporting the occipital bone of the head;
c) an arcuate lower portion having an upper portion and first and second lower portions, the upper portion of the arcuate lower portion configured to rest on a user's shoulder, the upper portion of the arcuate lower portion positioned at a base of the head rest, the first and second lower portions of the arcuate lower portion positioned at bases of the first and second side rests, and the first and second lower portions configured to project away from the head rest, over the user's shoulders and in front of the user's chest. 37. The travel pillow of claim 36 , wherein the travel pillow assembly is made from a foam material. 38. The travel pillow of claim 37 , wherein the foam material is viscoelastic, polyester, polyurethane, or latex. 39. The travel pillow of any one of claims 36 to 38 , further comprising straps, ends of the straps being connected to each other via a hook-and-loop assembly, hooks or buttons. 40. A travel pillow as claimed in any one of claims 36 to 39 , wherein the shape of the hole in the headrest portion is a circle, a triangle, an oval or a square. 41. The travel pillow of claim 40 , wherein the hole is configured to hold a drink. 42. A travel pillow according to any one of claims 36 to 41 , comprising a strap attached to each side rest, said straps connecting a pair of said side rests. 43. A travel pillow as claimed in any one of claims 36 to 42, wherein each side rest comprises a front portion and a rear portion, the rear portion of each side rest adjacent the head rest, and the front portion of each side rest being higher than the rear portion of each side rest. 44. A travel pillow according to any one of claims 36 to 43 , wherein the travel pillow is 25-35cm in length. A travel pillow as claimed in any one of claims 36 to 44 , wherein the headrest is 15 to 25cm wide. A travel pillow according to any one of claims 36 to 45 , wherein each of the pair of side rests is 20 to 30 cm wide. 47. A travel pillow according to any one of claims 36 to 46 , wherein the diameter of curvature of the arcuate lower portion is between 12 and 20 cm. 48. The travel pillow of any one of claims 36 to 47 , further comprising a strap, the width of the strap being between 3 and 6 cm, the strap being configured to wrap from one side rest to the other. 49. The travel pillow of any one of claims 36 to 48 , wherein the upper portion tapers from thicker at the top to thinner towards the headrest hole.

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