Compact body support apparatus

A compact body support apparatus is provided for use with an armrest of a vehicle such as an airplane, train, or bus. The compact body support apparatus comprises a base, a support post, a housing, and a headrest cushion. The support post presents a lower end secured to the base and an upper end. The housing is secured to the upper end of the support post. The headrest cushion is secured to the housing for supporting a head of a user. The compact body support apparatus is configured to be selectively placed into a collapsed position and a deployed position, such that the support post and at least a portion of the base are disposed within the housing when the compact body support apparatus is in the collapsed position and the support post extends in a generally downward direction when the compact body support apparatus is in the deployed position.

BACKGROUND

Embodiments of the invention are directed towards a personal pillow particularly suited for use on a transportation vehicle. More specifically, embodiments of the invention are directed to a compact, foldable head support apparatus for use on an airplane, train, bus, or other vehicle.

2. Related Art

There exists a need for more comfortable resting and sleeping positions while sitting in a vehicle, such as in airline, train, or bus seats. Typically, these seats provide little to no support for patrons attempting to sleep in them. These seats will include a seat back, a seat bottom, a seat headrest, and at least one armrest. Various devices and cushions have attempted to solve this problem, but with limited results.

Most personal cushions include several problems. First, these personal cushions rely on the user to lean against an existing part of the vehicle, such as a seat headrest, a wall of the vehicle, or a back side of the seat in front of them. None of these existing locations is at a comfortable position and angle for sleeping. Second, these personal cushions are not customizable. Every person enjoys sleeping at a different angle or position, and the desired angle can change during a single flight. Third, many of these personal cushions are inconvenient for neighboring passengers. Fourth, many of these personal cushions are difficult to carry onto and off of the vehicle, due to a bulky nature. Finally, many of these personal cushions are difficult to set up and employ.

SUMMARY

Embodiments of the invention solve the above-mentioned problems by providing a compact body support apparatus. The compact body support apparatus provides a support for the user to rest on in a more natural position than existing personal cushions. A comfortable and natural resting position is to rest one's head upon their hand, while the elbow is used as a support on the armrest. However, this position is likely to cause discomfort in the elbow, arm, or hand of the passenger. Embodiments of the invention seek to imitate this natural resting position with a mechanical device while providing a more comfortable resting position. The compact body support apparatus is fully customizable, including in adjusting the height, adjusting the angle of the support, adjusting the angle of the cushion relative to the support, etc. The compact body support apparatus also provides minimal inconvenience to neighboring passengers by utilizing only a small portion of the armrest, such that the neighboring passenger can utilize the remainder of the armrest if desired. The compact body support apparatus easily and conveniently collapses at least partially within itself such that it presents a minimal profile in a collapsed position. In the collapsed position, the compact body support apparatus is conveniently sized to fit in the hand or bag of the user.

A first embodiment of the invention is directed to a compact body support apparatus comprising a base, a support post, a housing, and a headrest cushion. The base is configured to interface with a seat of a vehicle. The support post presents a lower end secured to the base and an upper end. The housing is secured to the upper end of the support post. The headrest cushion is secured to the housing for supporting a body part of a user. The compact body support apparatus is configured to be selectively placed into a collapsed position and a deployed position, such that the support post and at least a portion of the base are disposed within the housing when the compact body support apparatus is in the collapsed position and the support post extends in a generally downward direction when the compact body support apparatus is in the deployed position. The upper end of the support post is disposed in a first location of the housing when in the collapsed position and disposed in a second location of the housing when in the deployed position.

A second embodiment of the invention is directed to a compact body support apparatus comprising a base, a support post, a housing, and a headrest cushion. The base is configured to interface with an armrest of a vehicle and presents a general L-shape that is generally complementary to a shape presented by the armrest. The support post presents a lower end pivotably secured to the base and an upper end. The housing is secured to the upper end of the support post. The headrest cushion is secured to the housing for supporting a head of a user.

A third embodiment of the invention is directed to a method of mounting upon a compact body support apparatus, the method comprising the following steps: acquiring a compact body support apparatus including a base, a support post, a housing, and a headrest cushion, wherein the compact body support apparatus is disposed in a collapsed position such that the support post and a least a portion of the base are disposed within the housing; grasping the base of the compact body support apparatus; pulling the base away from the housing, such that the support post secured thereto pivots out of the housing; continuing to pull the base away from the housing until the compact body support apparatus is in a deployed position; placing the base against an armrest; adjusting a length presented by the support post to a desired length; and resting against the headrest cushion disposed on the housing.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The following description of the invention references the accompanying drawings that illustrate specific embodiments in which the invention can be practiced. The embodiments are intended to describe aspects of the invention in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice the invention. Other embodiments can be utilized and changes can be made without departing from the scope of the invention. The following detailed description is, therefore, not to be taken in a limiting sense.

As illustrated inFIG. 1, a compact body support apparatus10of embodiments of the invention broadly comprises a headrest cushion12, a housing14, a support post16, at least one stabilizing post18, and a base20. The compact body support apparatus10is configured to be selectively emplaced into a deployed position (as illustrated inFIGS. 1-5) and a collapsed position (as illustrated inFIGS. 9-10). In the deployed position, the compact body support apparatus10is configured to be emplaced upon (and/or secured to) an armrest22of a seat24in a vehicle in which the user26is riding as a passenger, as illustrated inFIG. 1. In the collapsed position, the compact body support apparatus10is configured to be grasped by the user26for storage and transportation.

As illustrated inFIG. 1, when in the deployed position the compact body support apparatus10serves to provide a comfortable resting device for the user26. The user26places the base20against the armrest22of the seat24or against another surface. The user26then orients the support post16toward their head or other body part. As further described below, the compact body support apparatus10can be customized to support the headrest cushion12at a desired height and angle. The user26then orients the headrest cushion12and the housing14in a desired orientation. The user26then places their head, face, neck, shoulder, etc. against the headrest cushion12. The stabilizing posts18then compress to allow the housing14(and by extension the headrest cushion12secured thereto) to pivot relative to the support post16. This allows the compact body support apparatus10to conform to a shape presented by the user26, as illustrated inFIG. 1. The stabilizing posts18also provide shock absorption and customizable angles of the housing14and headrest cushion12.

As illustrated inFIGS. 9-10, when in the collapsed position the compact body support apparatus10presents a compact, easy-to-carry shape. In the collapsed position, the support post16, the stabilizing posts18, and the base20are disposed at least partially within the housing14. The support post16is secured in the shortest (or substantially shortest) length. The stabilizing posts18are substantially parallel to the support post16.

The user26manipulates the compact body support apparatus10to move the compact body support apparatus10between the collapsed position and the deployed position. From the collapsed position, the user26grasps the base20and/or support post16. The user26then pulls the base20and/or support post16away from the housing14in which it is stored. As the user26pulls the base20and/or support post16, the support post16pivots outward and moves laterally along a portion of the housing from a first location to a second location (discussed below). As the user26pulls the base20and/or support post16, the stabilizing posts18pivot outward. Eventually, as the user26continues to pull the base20and/or support post16, the user26will reach the deployed position. The user26may then optionally secure the base20to the armrest22or other surface to provide additional stability.

The components of the compact body support apparatus10will now be discussed in depth. As discussed above, the compact body support apparatus10includes the base20, the support post16, the stabilizing posts18, the headrest cushion12, and the housing14. The headrest cushion12is secured to the housing14and oriented upwards. The support post16, the stabilizing posts18, and the base20are secured within the housing14and configured to be oriented generally downward.

As illustrated inFIGS. 3-4, in embodiments of the invention, the base20presents a general L-shape. The base20comprises a vertical segment28, a horizontal segment30, and a support-post interface32. The vertical segment28is joined with the horizontal segment30at an approximately 90 degree angle. The support-post interface32is disposed on the horizontal portion and oriented generally upward. The support post16is secured to, or partially within, the support-post interface32. In some embodiments, the base20further comprises an armrest lock34. The armrest lock34allows the user26to selectively secure the base20to the armrest22such that the compact body support apparatus10remains secured to the armrest22upon the user26removing contact from the compact body support apparatus10. The armrest lock34also helps keep the compact body support apparatus10oriented generally upward and prevents slippage of the base20relative to the armrest22.

Most seats, particularly seats of an airplane, train, or bus, have armrests22with a substantially flat top and present a square or rectangular shape about a vertical cross-section. This fairly standardized shape of armrests22provides a substantially complementary shape for the base20. The L-shape formed of the vertical segment28and the horizontal segment30of the base20are configured to rest on a corner36of the armrest22, as illustrated inFIGS. 1 and 2. Furthermore, the L-shaped base20is an advantageous choice for transferring the force of the user26resting their head on the apparatus to the armrest22to promote the support and stability of the compact body support apparatus10. These armrests22are also typically quite stable so as to provide for the above-discussed support.

In other embodiments of the invention, the compact body support apparatus10is configured to be placed against, and be supported by, another component of the vehicle. In one embodiment of the invention, the base20is configured to rest against a tray table of the seat in front of the seat24in which the user26is sitting (i.e. that is in a lowered position). In yet another embodiment of the invention, the base20is configured to rest against the floor of the vehicle, such as via a tripod-configured base. In still another embodiment of the invention, the base20is configured to rest against a seat cushion of the seat24, such as between the legs of the seated user.

When the user26is seated in the seat24, an angle can be defined from a corner36of the armrest22between a horizontal plane across the top of the armrests22and the passenger's desired head position. If the user26was to rest their head such as illustrated inFIG. 1, components of the moment of force from supporting the passenger's head would be directed down upon and outwards through the armrest22, supporting the structure in both directions. This lends itself well to the construction of the L-shaped base20, as the force from the passenger's head is directed into the stable armrest22.

In embodiments of the invention, an interfacing side38of the vertical segment28and an interfacing side40of the horizontal segment30present a friction-inducing segment42, as illustrated inFIG. 11. The friction-inducing segment42increases the friction between the base20and the armrest22. The interfacing sides38,40of each portion of the L-shaped base20may be textured and/or lined with a nonslip material to increase the coefficient of friction between the L-shaped base20and the armrest22.

In embodiments of the invention, the L-shaped base20could remain planted to the armrest22without any attachment device so long as the passenger's head was continuously supplying force outwards upon the cushion. However, to avoid the compact body support apparatus10falling if and when the downward force of the head is removed, in some embodiments the armrest lock34is provided. In some embodiments of the invention, the armrest lock34includes a belt44and a buckle46. In other embodiments, the armrest lock34includes an elastic band, a nylon strap, or cinching buckle. In some embodiments, the armrest lock34may comprise magnetic components for magnetically attracting to a metal armrest.

In addition or alternatively, the armrest lock34may include an opening in the base20to allow a bolt or other fastener to be secured to the armrest22of the seat24. If the seat24was designed with a receiver, the compact body support apparatus10could be attached directly to the armrest22(and the L-shape presented by the base20may not be utilized).

In some embodiments, the support-post interface32of the base20includes a first ball-joint receiver48and a second ball-joint receiver50, as illustrated inFIGS. 11 and 12. In embodiments of the invention, the first ball-joint receiver48is a monolithic component of the base20and the second ball-joint receiver50is a separate component of the base20. A ball joint52of the support post16is inserted into a void54of the first ball-joint receiver48. The second ball-joint receiver50is then placer around the ball joint52of the support post16and adjacent to the first ball-joint receiver48and the horizontal segment30of the base20. The second ball-joint receiver50is then secured to the base20such that the ball joint52of the support post16is retained therein.

The ball joint52of the support post16allows the support post16to pivot relative to the base20. A typical ball joint52will allow the support post16(and by extension the housing14and headrest cushion12secured thereto) to pivot along all three rotational degrees of freedom. This allows the user26to pivot the compact body support apparatus10in a forward-backward direction, in a left-right direction, and about the post (typically referred to as yaw, roll, and pitch in the areal vehicle context). This, combined with the telescoping function of the support post16discussed below, allows the user26to place the headrest cushion12at a wide variety of positions and orientations relative to the base20. In particular, the compact body support apparatus10is designed to be adaptable such that it can adjust to support the head of the user26whether the user26desires to sit back in their seat24, sit up straight, or lean forward.

The limit of travel of the support post16within the base20is typically set by a thickness presented by the support post16. As the ball joint52of the support post16pivots within the support-post interface32, the pivoting motion must cease upon a portion of support post16contacting an inner ring56presented by the first ball-joint receiver48and the second ball-joint receiver50of the support-post interface32. The support post16may then continue to travel laterally, i.e. along the inner ring56, or move back away from the inner ring56, as desired by the user26. In addition, in some embodiments of the invention, the support-post interface32may be tightened or loosened to add or reduce friction that holds the ball joint52in a given orientation.

In embodiments of the invention, a limit of travel in the forward-backward direction (i.e. along the armrest22) may be at least 60 degrees, at least 90 degrees, or at least 120 degrees. In embodiments of the invention, a limit of travel in the left-right direction (i.e. perpendicular to the armrest22) may be at least 60 degrees, at least 90 degrees, or at least 120 degrees. In embodiments of the invention, the limit of travel in the forward-backward direction is substantially the same as the limit of travel in the left-right direction.

In other embodiments of the invention, as illustrated inFIG. 17, the described pivoting action of the support-post interface via a swivel/radial joint58to connect the base20and the support post16. In this embodiments, a first cam lock used to hold the L-shaped base20in place. Upon release, an internal spring pushes apart the two halves of the swivel/radial joint58allowing the base20of the joint to turn radially and the angle of the support post16relative to the L-shaped base20to be changed. Desired limits of travel may be incorporated into the joint, as discussed above.

The support post16raises the headrest cushion12to the desired height, as illustrated inFIGS. 1-2. The support post16provides support for the housing14and the headrest cushion12at an upper end60and is secured to the base20at a lower end62. The support post16can be adjusted longer or shorter by the user26as desired. In embodiments of the invention the support post16comprises a static segment64, a first telescoping segment66, a second telescoping segment68, an upper telescope lock70, a lower telescope lock72, a head segment74, a stabilizer interface76, and the ball joint52. Generally, the static segment64is disposed at the upper end60, the first telescoping segment66is disposed between the upper end60and the lower end62, and the second telescoping segment68is disposed at the lower end62of the support post16. The upper telescope lock70is disposed on the static segment64and around the first telescoping segment66. The lower telescope lock72is disposed on the first telescoping segment66and around the second telescoping segment68. The head segment74is disposed at the upper end60and interfaces with the housing14, as described below. The stabilizer interface76provides an attachment point78for the at least one stabilizing post.

The first telescoping segment66is disposed at least partially within the static segment64. The upper telescope lock70is disposed between the static segment64and the first telescoping segment66to secure the first telescoping segment66in a certain position relative to the static segment64. The second telescoping segment68is disposed at least partially within the first telescoping segment66. The upper telescope lock70is disposed between the first telescoping segment66and the second telescoping segment68to secure the second telescoping segment68in a certain position relative to the first telescoping segment66. Accordingly, an outer diameter of the first telescoping segment66is substantially the same as or slightly smaller than an inner diameter of the static segment64, and an outer diameter of the second telescoping segment68is substantially the same as or slightly smaller than an inner diameter of the first telescoping segment66.

The static segment64is secured to the head segment74, the stabilizer interface76, and the upper telescope lock70. The upper telescope lock70is secured at a lower end of the static segment64. The upper telescope lock70is configured to selectively engage and disengage from the first telescoping segment66that is disposed therein. The head segment74is secured at the upper end60of the static segment64to move along the channel of the housing14, so as to move the compact body support apparatus10between the collapsed position and the deployed position. The stabilizer interface76provides an attachment point78for each of the stabilizing posts.

The upper telescope lock70is secured around the static segment64to keep the first telescoping segment66secured in a certain position. The upper telescope lock70is configured to be selectively placed in a locked position and an unlocked position. When in the locked position, the upper telescope lock70prevents the first telescoping segment66from moving relative to the static segment64. When in the unlocked position, the upper telescope lock70allows the first telescoping segment66to slide relative to the static segment64such that the support post16becomes longer and shorter (and the headrest cushion12becomes higher and lower, assuming the base20is emplaced on the armrest22). In some embodiments the upper telescope lock70is changed between positions via the manipulation of a release lever80, a rotation of the upper telescope lock70about the static segment64, the pressing of a button, etc.

The first telescoping segment66is disposed between the static segment64and the second telescoping segment68. In embodiments of the invention, the first telescoping segment66includes a slide assist (not illustrated). The upper telescope lock70is secured to a lower end of the first telescoping segment66and the slide assist is secured to an upper end of the first telescoping segment66. When in the shortest length, as illustrated inFIGS. 1 and 2, the first support post16is not visible because it is secured entirely or mostly within the static segment64.

The lower telescope lock72is secured around the first telescoping segment66to keep the second telescoping segment68secured in a certain position. The lower telescope lock72is configured to be selectively placed in a locked position and an unlocked position. When in the locked position, the lower telescope lock72prevents the second telescoping segment68from moving relative to the first telescoping segment66. When in the unlocked position, the lower telescope lock72allows the second telescoping segment68to slide relative to the first telescoping segment66such that the support post16becomes longer and shorter (and the headrest cushion12becomes higher and lower). In some embodiments the lower telescope lock72is changed between positions via the manipulation of a release lever82, a rotation of the upper telescope lock70about the static segment64, the pressing of a button, etc.

The second telescoping segment68is disposed at least partially within the first telescoping segment66and secured in place by the lower telescope lock72. The second telescoping segment68is secured to the ball joint52at a lower end.

In embodiments of the invention, the support post16is formed of a metal, such as stainless steel. In embodiments of the invention, the support post16is formed of a polymer. For example, the support post16may be formed of a polycarbonate by plastic extrusion process. As another example, the support post16may be formed by injection molding of a plastic. In some embodiments, the static segment64, the first telescoping segment66, and the second telescoping segment68are each formed of either stainless steel or a polymer, and more than one type of material is used in the support post16.

In embodiments of the invention, two stabilizing posts18are utilized in the compact body support apparatus10to perform various functions. Before discussing these functions, it will be beneficial to the reader to define angles and directions. A housing plane is defined by a top of the housing14and a bottom of the headrest cushion12. When in the collapsed position, the support post16and the stabilizing posts18are typically substantially parallel with the housing plane. When in the deployed position, the support post16is typically substantially perpendicular to the housing plane, and the stabilizing posts18are typically disposed at approximately 45 degrees from the housing plane. This is accomplished by head segment74of the support post16moving from a first location84to a second location86within a J-shaped track88of the housing14(as discussed more below and illustrated inFIG. 7) and by the stabilizing posts18changing a length that is presented. The housing14presents a post-storage end90and a base-storage end92. The stabilizing posts18are disposed on either side of and toward the post-storage end90of the housing14and secured thereto.

First, the stabilizing posts18provide lateral and longitudinal stability, by acting as a stability triangle (in combination with the support post16), as illustrated inFIG. 4. This allows the headrest cushion12to provide support across its surface. Second, the stabilizing posts18compress to provide a custom angle of the headrest cushion12relative to the support post16. This allows the housing plane to tip downward (i.e. toward the base20) about the support post16so as to cushion the head of the user26, as illustrated inFIG. 1. In some embodiments, the housing plane may also tip upward by an elongating of the stabilizing posts18. Third, the stabilizing posts18keep the head segment74of the support post16oriented correctly within the J-shaped track88to allow for easy transitions between the two positions.

In embodiments of the invention, the stabilizing post18comprises a shock absorber94. The shock absorber94is a mechanical, hydraulic, or pneumatic device that is configured to absorb or dampen the shock applied to it. The shock absorber94may utilize a spring, a cushion, or a viscous fluid for absorbing the energy. It should be noted that in the invention, this energy can come from above or below. For example, the shock absorber94will absorb energy imparted on it from the user26placing their head against it from above, from turbulence imparted on the armrest22from below, etc. Components of the shock absorber94include a piston96and a tube98. The viscous liquid, spring, or other shock-absorbing substance is disposed within the tube98. The piston96is at least partially disposed within the tube98. The piston96is allowed to move freely in and out of the tube98, but such movements are retarded by the viscous fluid. Further, the tube98is enclosed so as to prevent the leaking of the viscous fluid.

The shock absorber94may further include an actuator100, such as a spring, as illustrated inFIGS. 2 and 16. The actuator100applies a force in a direction to provide for the shock absorber94to favor an elongated configuration. The actuator100forces the piston96away from the tube98. This keeps the housing14and the headrest cushion12substantially level unless and until an even greater force is applied to the shock absorber94by the head or other body part of the user26.

In embodiments of the invention, the actuator100assists in keeping the compact body support apparatus10in the collapsed position. This is because the actuator100places a force on a portion of the housing14when in the collapsed position. This force keeps the support post16and the stabilizing post18from falling out of the bottom of the housing14. In these embodiments, the user26releases the compact body support apparatus10from the collapsed position by overcoming the force applied by the actuator100so as to reduce the length of the stabilizing segment. This allows the stabilizing posts18and the support post16to pivot out of the housing14.

In other embodiments of the invention, the stabilizing posts18are rigid (i.e. non-telescoping), as illustrated inFIG. 18. Additional customization is provided by allowing the stabilizer interface76of the support post16to slide up and down on the support post16, raising or lowering their intersection and subsequently modifying the angle of the headrest cushion12relative to the head of the user26, as illustrated inFIG. 1. The stabilizer interface76may be held in place with a third locking mechanism, possibly a third telescope lock102as illustrated inFIG. 18, until the user26desires to adjust the cushion angle.

The housing14of the compact body support apparatus10will now be discussed in more detail. As discussed above, the housing14generally includes the base-storage end92and the post-storage end90. The housing14comprises a housing body104and a channel segment106.

In embodiments of the invention, the channel segment106is disposed within and secured to the housing body104. In other embodiments, the channel segment106and the housing body104are monolithic. Typically, the channel segment106provides for more structural stability and strength than the housing body104. This is because the weight applied to the compact body support apparatus10is supported directly in the channel segment106. In embodiments of the invention, the channel segment106includes, a first stabilizer channel108, a second stabilizer channel110, and a support channel112with the above-discussed J-shaped track88disposed therein. It should be appreciated that while the J-shaped track88is referred to in the singular, there are (in embodiments of the invention) a J-shaped track88on each side of the support channel112. The J-shaped track88presents a curved end114and a straight end116. The curved end114is disposed toward the center of the housing14. The straight end116is disposed toward the post-storage end90. It should also be noted that the above-discussed first location84is at the curved end114and the second location86is at the straight end116. The curved end114detents to keep the head segment74secured in the deployed position until manipulated by the user26. Further, the head segment74can pivot within the curved end114, such that the support post16can be disposed at various angles relative to the housing14.

The channel segment106may also include a plurality of fastener receptors118for the receipt of fasteners. Typically, the support channel112is disposed between the first stabilizer channel108and the second stabilizer channel110. The channel segment106may include a plurality of walls120separating the various channels and separating the housing body104. In other embodiments, the channel segment106presents a single large channel (not illustrated) into which the various supports are disposed. In these embodiments, the head segment74of the support post16may present a wide crosspiece so as to interface with the J-shaped track88on either side of the large channel.

The interaction between the J-shaped track88and the head segment74of the support post16will now be discussed in greater detail. The head segment74of the support post16includes a crosspiece122and a slide segment124. The crosspiece122extends laterally from the head segment74. When installed in the J-shaped track88, the crosspiece122extends into at least a portion of the J-shaped track88on each side. A slide segment124is disposed at each end of the crosspiece122. The slide segment124is therefore disposed within the J-shaped track88on each side. The slide segment124may include a roller126, as illustrated inFIGS. 6 and 7, a friction-reducing substance, ball bearings, or the like. The roller126is rotatably secured to the crosspiece122so as to assist the head segment74is moving between the first location84and the second location86. The friction-reducing substance may also be disposed within the J-shaped track88. The sliding action of the head segment74within the J-shaped track88allows the compact body support apparatus10to both provide support for the user26and compactly collapse within the housing14. When in the collapsed position, it is advantageous to position the head segment74at or near the post-supporting end of the housing14so the support post16can be relatively long (i.e. slightly shorter than housing14along the lateral direction when in the minimal distance configuration). When in the deployed position, it is advantageous to position the head segment74near the center of the housing14such that it provides approximately central and uniform support for the user26.

In embodiments of the invention, the housing body104is generally a rectangular prism, as best illustrated inFIGS. 8 and 9. The housing body104provides for protection for the components therein, support for the headrest cushion12, etc. The housing body104and/or the headrest cushion12may present a general figure “8” shape when viewed from above, as illustrated inFIG. 8. This shape allows for the user26to grasp the housing14and the headrest cushion12about two opposing depressions as viewed from above. This allows a large cushion area while still allowing the user26to easily grasp the compact body support apparatus10.

As shown inFIGS. 8-10, when the compact body support apparatus10is the collapsed position, the housing14serves as an aesthetically pleasing and durable outer casing that encloses and protects the base20, the support post16, the stabilizing posts18, and any other components of the head support apparatus. The minimum length of the support post16may be designed such that the horizontal segment30and/or vertical segment28of the L-shaped base20integrates with an outer wall130of the housing14at the base-storage end92to complete the above-discussed encasing. In some embodiments, the support post16and/or L-shaped base20may snap into place to maintain the collapsed position until further use is desired. When in its completely collapsed form, the structure may appear nearly seamless, with few to no extruding parts. The housing14may also present at least one handgrip128that protrudes from the housing so as to aid in the user26gripping the housing14.

In some embodiments, moving the compact body support apparatus10from the collapsed position to the deployed position requires an action to disengage the support post16and/or stabilizing post support from a locked-in position, such as via the release of a snap or depression of a button (not illustrated). The stabilizing posts18remains statically jointed to the housing14, while the end of the support post16is free to slide down the J-shaped track88illustrated inFIG. 10from the first location84near the outer wall130of the housing. The sliding end of the support post16snaps or otherwise locks into the second location86at the curled end of the J-shaped track88to provide structural support while the compact body support apparatus10is in use. In some embodiments the physical structure of the J-shaped track88and/or joints may differ, but typically at least one static end and at least one moving end are utilized.

In some embodiments of the invention, the housing14presents a plurality of openings132. In some embodiments, the plurality of openings132includes a stylus opening134, a battery pack opening136, and a general-purpose pocket138. Each of the plurality of openings132in the housing14allow for other objects to be inserted therein for easy storage.

In embodiments of the invention, the stylus opening134is disposed at the post-storage end90of the housing14. The stylus opening134is oriented substantially parallel to the housing14plane and substantially parallel to the orientation of the support post16within the housing14. In some embodiments, the stylus opening134includes a stylus140. The stylus opening134may additionally include a cover (not illustrated), such as if the stylus140is not included with the compact body support apparatus10.

The stylus140may be used by the user26in conjunction with a smart phone, tablet computer, laptop computer, or the like. The stylus140, being disposed within the compact body support apparatus10is conveniently located for the use of the user26. For example, the user26may typically remove the compact body support apparatus10from their luggage for the duration of the flight, train trip, etc. This means that the user26will already have removed their stylus140and will not have to independently remember it. To remove the stylus140from the stylus opening134, the user26may manually pull the stylus140, push the stylus140in such that an actuator100will eject the stylus140(not illustrated), push the stylus140out from the interior of the housing14, or the like.

In embodiments of the invention, the battery pack opening136is disposed at the base-storage end92of the housing14. In some embodiments, there are two battery pack openings136disposed on either lateral side of the base-storage end92. This provides for a symmetrical aesthetic appearance and a symmetrical weight (when a set of battery packs142are disposed therein). Like the stylus opening134, the battery pack opening136is oriented substantially parallel to the housing plane and substantially parallel to the orientation of the support post16within the housing14. The battery pack openings136may also include a cover (not illustrated), such as if the battery pack142is not included with the compact body support apparatus10. In some embodiments, the cover may be selectively removed and added over the battery pack142so as to prevent damage and foreign substances from entering the battery pack142. In some embodiments, the a storage container (not illustrated) may be disposed in the battery pack opening136in lieu of the batter pack142. In some of these embodiments, the user26may select what, if any, item will be in the battery pack opening. For example, if the user26does not have a use for a battery pack142, the user26may instead dispose a storage container in the battery pack opening136.

The battery packs142can perform any or all of various functions. First, the battery packs142may provide charging power to external devices. The battery packs142of these embodiments may include a USB port144. The USB port144allows for the user26to plug a USB cable into the battery pack142to charge their smart phone, tablet computer, powered headphones, digital music player, gaming device, electronic readers, or the like. The battery pack142is charged via an external power source (not illustrated). For example, the battery pack142may be externally charged via a USB-power cable that is plugged into the USB port144of the battery pack142. The battery pack142may also be removable such that it can be easily recharged or replaced upon the battery pack142losing charge capacity.

Second, in some embodiments of the invention, the battery packs142can be utilized to provide electrical power within the compact body support apparatus10. In one embodiment, the electrical power is utilized to power an electrical massager (not illustrated) within the compact body support apparatus10. The electrical massager is disposed within the headrest cushion12, or between the headrest cushion12and the housing14. The electrical massager provides a gentle and comfortable vibration to the head of the user26. In another embodiment, the electrical power is utilized to power an internal speaker (not illustrated). This internal speaker is disposed within the headrest cushion12and/or the housing14. The internal speaker is similar to a headphone speaker, such that the noise produced thereby is only easily heard by a person having their head against the headrest cushion12. The internal speaker may include an audio input connection, such that the user26can supply music or spoken word to the speaker from an external device, such as a smart phone or digital music player. Additionally, or in the alternative, the internal speaker may provide white noise, active noise cancellation, or other sleep-inducing sounds without an input from an external device. In still another embodiment, the electrical power is utilized to power a flashlight, which may be disposed within the battery pack opening136and oriented outward. This allows the user26to conveniently illuminate a reading material while having their head emplaced on the compact body support apparatus10. In still other embodiments, not illustrated, the battery pack142could be used to power a fan, to power a heating device, and/or to power a cooling device. In some embodiments, the various devices discussed above are customizable to the user26, such that the user can select which (if any) of the devices to dispose within the compact body support apparatus10. For example, the user26may select to have one battery pack142with a USB port144and one battery pack with a heating device (not illustrated).

Third, in some embodiments of the invention, the battery packs142can be utilized to deploy the compact body support apparatus10. In these embodiments, the user26presses a button or provides another input that the user26desires to move the compact body support apparatus10between positions. For example, the user26may press a button on the head support apparatus to move the compact body support apparatus10to the deployed position. An electronic motor (not illustrated) then powers an actuator100to push the head segment74into the curved end114of the J-shaped track88.

The general-purpose pocket138provides for convenient storage for various external objects. Typically, the general-purpose pocket138is typically a slit between the headrest cushion12and the housing14or within the headrest cushion12. In some embodiments of the invention, the general-purpose pocket138is configured to receive small and/or thin objects, such as passports, identification cards, credit cards, boarding passes, money. In some embodiments, the general-purpose pocket138is configured to receive larger objects such as a wallet, a cell phone, a gaming device, snack food, a small book, etc. In these embodiments, the compact body support apparatus10can serve as the entirety of the carry-on luggage for the user26. This provides convenience for the user26. The general-purpose cover may include a zipper, a button, or other enclosing structure to securely retain the objects therein.

The headrest cushion12is disposed atop the housing14. The headrest cushion12presents the general figure “8” shape that is similar to the shape presented by the housing14, as illustrated inFIG. 8. The headrest cushion12is formed of a cushion member146for comfortably supporting the head, neck, or other body part of the user26. The cushion member146may be formed of foam, gel, or similar materials. The headrest cushion12may include an outer cover148that is selectively removable by the user26. This allows the user26to wash the outer cover148and replace the outer cover148upon it becoming worn or the like. The outer cover148may also be customizable and include information such as the manufacturer, the user26, an organization associated with the user26, etc.

In some embodiments, the headrest cushion12is secured to the housing14via the outer cover148. The outer cover148interfaces with a portion of the housing14, such as a cap piece, not illustrated, to hold the outer cover148in position relative to the housing14. As the headrest cushion12is disposed between the outer cover148and the housing14, the headrest cushion12is secured in place. In these embodiments, the headrest cushion12may be removable from the housing14for cleaning and customization purposes. For example, the compact body support apparatus10may be provided with headrest cushions12of various softness versus firmness, materials, etc. This allows the user26to select a headrest cushion12that is the most comfortable to them. In some embodiments, the headrest cushion12is disposable, such that the user26may discard the headrest cushion12upon it becoming worn and acquire a replacement.

In some embodiments, a transition-assist band150is utilized to assist transitions between the deployed position and the collapsed position (and vice versa), as illustrated inFIG. 16. The transition-assist band150is disposed partially with in the housing14. The transition-assist band150is an elastic band that is secured at one end to the head segment74of the support post and at a second end to the stabilizer interface76of the support post16. The transition assist band is routed through a cross-post152of the housing. The transition-assist band150applies a force that pulls the support post16from the deployed position (once the user26moves the head segment74into a portion of the straight segment of the J-shaped track88) to the collapsed position. So, as the user26pulls downward on the support post16to overcome the curved end114of the J-shaped track88, the transition-assist band150then pulls the compact body support apparatus10closed. As such, the transition-assist band150is at maximum stretch when the support post16is disposed at approximately a 45 degree angle relative to the housing plane.

In other embodiments of the invention, the housing14and/or the headrest cushion12presents another shape other than the general figure “8” shape when viewed from above. For example, the housing14and/or the headrest cushion12may present a rectangle, a square, a circle, an ellipse, a U-shape, a J-shape, an arcuate shape, an annular shape, or the like.

In other embodiments, the compact body support apparatus10comes in a variety of sizes. For example, the compact body support apparatus10may come in an extra-large size for users26needing additional height or weight accommodation. As another example, the compact body support apparatus10may come in a child size for users needing less height and weight accommodation. In these embodiments, the compact body support apparatus10may appear and operate generally similar but of a different scale in physical dimensions.

In other embodiments, the compact body support apparatus10is designed for use by a chiropractor, masseuse, or similar person. In these embodiments, the user26is the patient or customer. The compact body support apparatus10may include the headrest cushion12of a size and shape to accommodate the user26laying their head forward. This may include openings or depression for the mouth and nose.