Patent Publication Number: US-2023148771-A1

Title: Layered pillow system, adjustable pillow system, and methods of use

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     The present application claims priority to the U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63/280,096 which was filed on Nov. 16, 2022, which is hereby incorporated by reference herein in its entirety, including any figures, tables, or drawings. 
    
    
     FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE 
     This disclosure relates to a layered pillow system, adjustable pillow system, and methods of use. More specifically, and without limitation, the present disclosure relates to pillow furnishings and beddings. More specifically, and without limitation, the present disclosure relates to a pillow with adjustable height features which provide for flexibility and comfort. 
     COPYRIGHT NOTICE 
     At least a portion of the disclosure of this patent document contains material that is subject to copyright protection. The copyright owner has no objection to the facsimile reproduction by anyone of the patent document or the patent disclosure, as it appears in the Patent and Trademark Office patent files and/or records, but otherwise reserves all copyright rights whatsoever. The following notice applies to the software and data as described below and in the drawings that form a part of this document. Copyright Marika Nilson, All rights reserved. 
     BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE 
     Pillows and similar furnishings are well known in the art. Pillows are important for sleeping, resting, and for creating comfort. Ever since pillows were invented, there has been a long-felt need in the art to have a pillow that is adjustable and has utilities that support the head, neck, and face in a variety of supine, resting, and upright positions. 
     Existing sleep pillows are designed for sleep in a supine position. They typically cannot be adjusted for fullness and are not suitable for all sleeping positions. Pillows with larger amounts of loft, for instance, are recommended for side sleeping, while pillows with lesser amounts of loft are recommended for stomach sleepers. There is a need for a single sleeping pillow that can be adjusted for fullness and is suitable for all supine sleeping positions (side, back, and stomach). 
     Existing pillows are designed for use in a supine position. However, these pillows are not comfortable when used in a reclining or upright position. They are often too large, too heavy, and do not stay in place. There is a need for a pillow that is adjustable in terms of fullness and can be used comfortably in both supine and upright positions. 
     For those who sleep on their sides or on their stomach in a prone position, a traditional pillow is often uncomfortable. The nose is blocked, so one has to rotate one&#39;s head significantly to one side in order to breathe freely. This can lead to neck and shoulder discomfort. There is a need for a pillow that is adjustable for fullness, creates a clear pathway to the nose for breathing, keeps the head and neck in relative alignment, and provides optimal comfort for side and stomach sleepers. 
     Thus, an object of the present disclosure to provide an adjustable pillow that allows for optimal comfort of the user. The present application provides these and other advantages as will be apparent from the following detailed description and accompanying figures. 
     The disclosure herein provides these advantages and others as will become clear from the specification and claims provided. 
     SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE: 
     A layered pillow system, adjustable pillow system, and methods of use are presented. More specifically, and without limitation, the present disclosure relates to pillow furnishings and beddings. More specifically, and without limitation, the present disclosure relates to a pillow with adjustable height features which provide for flexibility and comfort. 
     Thus, an object of the disclosure is to provide a layered pillow system, an adjustable pillow system that allows for optimal comfort of the user, and methods of use. The present application provides these and other advantages as will be apparent from the following detailed description and accompanying figures. 
     Thus, it is a primary object of the disclosure to provide a layered pillow system, an adjustable pillow system that allows for optimal comfort of the user, and methods of use that improve upon the state of the art. 
     Another object of the disclosure is to provide a layered pillow system, an adjustable pillow system that allows for optimal comfort of the user, and methods of use that provides maximum comfort in a variety of sleep positions. 
     Yet another object of the disclosure is to provide a layered pillow system, an adjustable pillow system that allows for optimal comfort of the user, and methods of use that provides maximum comfort in a variety of sleep situations. 
     Another object of the disclosure is to provide a layered pillow system, an adjustable pillow system that allows for optimal comfort of the user, and methods of use that provides maximum comfort when sleeping supine. 
     Yet another object of the disclosure is to provide a layered pillow system, an adjustable pillow system that allows for optimal comfort of the user, and methods of use that provides maximum comfort when sleeping prone. 
     Another object of the disclosure is to provide a layered pillow system, an adjustable pillow system that allows for optimal comfort of the user, and methods of use that provides maximum comfort when side sleeping. 
     Yet another object of the disclosure is to provide a layered pillow system, an adjustable pillow system that allows for optimal comfort of the user, and methods of use that provides ergonomic support for sleeping and other activities, including but not limited to resting, reading, watching television, and others. 
     Another object of the disclosure is to provide a layered pillow system, an adjustable pillow system that allows for optimal comfort of the user, and methods of use that provides for an adjustable pillow loft. 
     Yet another object of the disclosure is to provide a layered pillow system, an adjustable pillow system that allows for optimal comfort of the user, and methods of use that provides for adjustable pillow firmness. 
     Another object of the disclosure is to provide a layered pillow system, an adjustable pillow system that allows for optimal comfort of the user, and methods of use that are compact. 
     Yet another object of the disclosure is to provide a layered pillow system, an adjustable pillow system that allows for optimal comfort of the user, and methods of use that, are portable. 
     Another object of the disclosure is to provide a layered pillow system, an adjustable pillow system that allows for optimal comfort of the user, and methods of use that provide curved edges. 
     Yet another object of the disclosure is to provide a layered pillow system, an adjustable pillow system that allows for optimal comfort of the user, and methods of use that provides for increasing and decreasing the height of the pillow. 
     Another object of the disclosure is to provide a layered pillow system, an adjustable pillow system that allows for optimal comfort of the user, and methods of use that, are ergonomic in shape. 
     Yet another object of the disclosure is to provide a layered pillow system, an adjustable pillow system that allows for optimal comfort of the user, and methods of use that are easy to use. 
     These and other objects, features, or advantages of the present disclosure will become apparent from the specification and claims. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS: 
         FIG.  1    is a top, perspective view of the layered pillow system, an adjustable pillow system that allows for optimal comfort of the user, in accordance with one example of one embodiment of the present disclosure; the view showing a plurality of layers; the view showing a plurality of ridges; the view showing a curved edge. 
         FIG.  2    is a bottom, perspective view of the layered pillow system, an adjustable pillow system that allows for optimal comfort of the user, in accordance with one example of one embodiment of the present disclosure; the view showing a plurality of layers; the view showing a plurality of ridges; the view showing a curved edge. 
         FIG.  3    is a front, elevation view of the layered pillow system, an adjustable pillow system that allows for optimal comfort of the user, in accordance with one example of one embodiment of the present disclosure; the view showing a plurality of layers; the view showing a plurality of ridges; the view showing a curved edge. 
         FIG.  4    is a rear, elevation view of the layered pillow system, an adjustable pillow system that allows for optimal comfort of the user, in accordance with one example of one embodiment of the present disclosure; the view showing a plurality of layers; the view showing a plurality of ridges; the view showing a curved edge. 
         FIG.  5    is a top view of the layered pillow system, an adjustable pillow system that allows for optimal comfort of the user, in accordance with one example of one embodiment of die present disclosure; the view showing a plurality of layers; the view showing a curved edge. 
         FIG.  6    is a bottom view of the layered pillow system, an adjustable pillow system that allows for optimal comfort of the user, in accordance with one example of one embodiment of the present disclosure; the view showing a plurality of layers; the view showing a curved edge. 
         FIG.  7    is a side view of the layered pillow system, an adjustable pillow system that allows for optimal comfort of the user, in accordance with one example of one embodiment of the present disclosure; the view showing a plurality of layers; the view showing a plurality of ridges. 
         FIG.  8    is a side view of the layered pillow system, an adjustable pillow system that allows for optimal comfort of the user, in accordance with one example of one embodiment of the present disclosure; the view showing a plurality of layers; the view showing a plurality of ridges. 
     
    
    
     The figures and the forgoing description give examples of embodiments. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that one or more of the described elements may well be combined into a single functional element. Alternatively, certain elements may be split into multiple functional elements. Elements from one embodiment may be added to another embodiment. For example, orders of processes described herein may be changed and are not limited to the manner described herein. 
     The scope of the embodiments is by no means limited by these specific examples. Numerous variations, whether explicitly given in the specification or not, such as differences in structure, dimension, and use of material, are possible. 
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DISCLOSURE: 
     In the following detailed description, reference is made to the accompanying drawings which form a pan hereof, and in which is shown by way of illustration specific embodiments in which the disclosure may be practiced. These embodiments are described in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice the disclosure, and it is to be understood that other embodiments may be utilized and that mechanical, procedural, and other changes may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure(s). The following detailed description is, therefore, not to be taken in a limiting sense, and the scope of the disclosure(s) is defined only by the appended claims, along with the full scope of equivalents to which such claims are entitled. 
     As used herein, the terminology such as vertical, horizontal, top, bottom, front, back, end, sides and the like are referenced according to the views, pieces and figures presented. It should be understood, however, that the terms are used only for purposes of description, and are not intended to be used as limitations. Accordingly, orientation of an object or a combination of objects may change without departing from the scope of the disclosure. 
     Reference throughout this specification to “one embodiment,” “an embodiment,” “one example,” or “an example” means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment or example is included in at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. Thus, the appearance of the phrases “in one embodiment,” “in an embodiment,” “one example,” or “an example” in various places throughout this specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment or example. Furthermore, the particular features, structures, databases, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable combinations and/or sub-combinations in one or more embodiments or examples. in addition, it should be appreciated that the figures provided herewith are for explanation purposes to persons ordinarily skilled in the art and that the drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale. 
     System: 
     With reference to the figures, a layered pillow system, adjustable pillow system, and methods of use are presented. Layered pillow system, adjustable pillow system, and methods of use  10  (also referred to as “a layered pillow system, an adjustable pillow system that allows for optimal comfort of the user” and “pillow system”, “adjustable pillow system”, “layered pillow system”, “adjustable furnishing system”, “adjustable curved edge pillow”, or simply “system”) is formed of any suitable size, shape and design. 
     In the arrangement shown as one example, adjustable pillow system  10  includes a plurality of layers  20 , a plurality of grooves  30 , a plurality of notches  40 , and a curved edge  50 , among other features, components, and functionality. 
     In accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure, and in one arrangement as shown, adjustable curved edge pillow  10  having three layers  20  is presented. Each layer is positioned at the top of or below another layer and/or to the side of another layer and/or next to open space, as may be occupied by a user, and/or on a surface. 
     In one embodiment, and as shown in one example, the adjustable curved edge pillow  10  includes three layers  20 . Each of the layers are interconnected through a plurality of notches and a plurality of grooves. In this embodiment, a top layer or first layer does not have grooves, but only notches on a bottom side. In this way, the top and/or outer layer can be used for comfortably placing the head or other part of a user. 
     In this example, the second layer or middle layer includes both a plurality of notches and a plurality of grooves. In this way, the second layer and/or middle layer can connect to the top layer or first layer by a plurality of grooves within the top side of the second layer; these grooves connecting to the plurality of notches of the bottom side of the first layer or top layer. 
     Similarly, in this example, the bottom layer or third layer includes a plurality of grooves on the top side so that the bottom layer or third layer can interconnect with the middle layer or second layer. Similar to the top layer or first layer, the bottom layer does not have grooves or notches on the outer surface, in this case the bottom surface, for comfort purposes. 
     From this arrangement and this example, it can be seen that a number of layers are hereby contemplated for use. This may be one single layer, this may be two layers, three layers, four layers, five layers, six layers, seven layers, eight layers, nine layers, or more. Furthermore, each of these layers may vary in dimensionality from very thin to thick depending on the desires and uses. 
     Furthermore, in the arrangement shown, as one example, some of the layers vary in which side may include a plurality of notches and/or a plurality of grooves. However, it is also contemplated that all layers may be identical such that each layer includes a plurality of grooves and/or a plurality of notches. 
     Plurality of Layers: 
     In the arrangement shown, as one example, system  10  includes a plurality of layers  20  (also referred to as “sections”, “furnishings”, or simply “layers”). Plurality of sections  20  are formed of any suitable size, shape, and design, and is configured to provide a comfortable, adjustable height and/or width for a pillow and/or cushion. 
     In the arrangement shown, as one example, three interconnected layers are shown which can be used in concert, separated and used separately, and/or rejoined again. In this way, flexibility in use is provided. In the arrangement shown, as one example, a first layer or top layer is shown adjacent to and connected through grooves and notches to a second layer or middle layer. The second layer or middle layer is shown adjacent to and connected through grooves and notches to a third layer or bottom layer. While three layers are shown in close and tight tolerances with two outer layers, any number of inner layers and/or outer layers are hereby contemplated for use including zero outer layers and/or only a top layer and a bottom layer and no inner layers. 
     In the arrangement shown, as one example, the present disclosure provides an adjustable curved edge pillow made up of several layers. The height of the pillow can be increased or decreased by removing or adding layers. The pillow adjustable curved edge pillow of the present disclosure has a curved edge that makes the pillow suitable for side sleepers, back sleepers, and stomach sleepers as the pillow is rectangular in shape having one of the sides cut out in the shape of a crescent to accommodate a variety of sleeping positions. 
     The layers of the adjustable curved edge pillow can be made from a variety of materials, including but not limited to memory foam, latex or stuffed with a filling of materials like shredded memory foam, foam, latex, polyester, cotton, or other suitable fillings, or a combination thereof. Some of the layers may have different levels of softness/firmness, thus enabling the user to obtain the level of firmness/softness they require. 
     First Layer: In the arrangement shown, a first layer  22  is included. The first layer extends a length from a front (curved side) to a rear between opposing sides. The first layer having a thickness between a top and a bottom. In one embodiment, the first layer is also referred to as a top layer and does not include any notches or grooves. However, the top layer or first layer may include grooves and/or notches on the top side and/or bottom side. 
     Second Layer: In the arrangement shown, a second layer  24  is included. The second layer extends a length from a front (curved side) to a rear between opposing sides. The second layer having a thickness between a top and a bottom. In one embodiment, the second layer is also referred to as a middle layer and does include both notches or grooves. 
     Third Layer: In the arrangement shown, a first layer  26  is included. The third layer extends a length from a front (curved side) to a rear between opposing sides. The third layer having a thickness between a top and a bottom. In one embodiment, the third layer is also referred to as a middle layer and does not include any notches or grooves. However, the bottom layer or third layer may include grooves and/or notches on the top side and/or bottom side. Plurality of Grooves: 
     In the arrangement shown, as one example, system  10  includes a plurality of layers  20  which include a plurality of grooves  30  (also referred to as “acceptors”, “pockets”, or simply “grooves”). Grooves  30  are formed of any suitable size, shape, and design, and is configured to accept the notches of different layers so as to connect, in close and tight tolerances, a plurality of layers. 
     In the arrangement shown, as one example, the plurality of grooves are located on the top side or first side of each or some of the layers. In this way, the plurality of grooves accept notches located on the bottom sides or second side of the layers. In the arrangement shown, as one example, each of the plurality of grooves extends the entire length of the layer from the front to the rear, in approximately parallel spaced relation to one another. However, one or all of the grooves may extend only a portion thereof or in differing directions and differing sizes so as to create a firm fit. 
     In the arrangement shown, as one example, each of the plurality of grooves are formed of a generally rectangular shape. However, other shapes are also contemplated for use, including a combination of various shapes. Furthermore, in the arrangement shown, a first groove and a second groove are shown, However, varying numbers of grooves are also contemplated for use. For example, a single groove, two grooves, three grooves, four grooves, five grooves, six grooves, or more. 
     First Groove: In the arrangement shown, as one example, system  10  includes a first groove  32  extending a length from the front to the rear. The first groove has a width and a depth and is configured to accept a notch within close and tight tolerances so as to securely and operably fit a plurality of layers together. 
     Second Groove: In the arrangement shown, as one example, system  10  includes a second groove  34  extending a length from the front to the rear. The first groove has a width and a depth and is configured to accept a notch within close and tight tolerances so as to securely and operably fit a plurality of layers together. 
     Plurality of Notches: 
     In the arrangement shown, as one example, system  10  includes a plurality of layers  20  which include a plurality of notches  40  (also referred to simply “notches”). Notches  40  are formed of any suitable size, shape, and design, and is configured to insert and/or slide into the grooves of different layers so as to connect, in close and tight tolerances, a plurality of layers. 
     In the arrangement shown, as one example, the plurality of notches are located on the bottom side or second side of each or some of the layers. In this way, the plurality of notches insert into grooves located on the top sides or first sides of the layers. In the arrangement shown, as one example, each of the plurality of notches extends the entire length of the layer from the front to the rear, in approximately parallel spaced relation to one another. However, one or all of the notches may extend only a portion thereof or in differing directions and differing sizes so as to create a firm fit. 
     In the arrangement shown, as one example, each of the plurality of notches are formed of a generally rectangular shape. However, other shapes are also contemplated for use, including a combination of various shapes. Furthermore, in the arrangement shown, a first notch and a second notch are shown. However, varying numbers of notches are also contemplated for use. For example, a single notch, two notches, three notches, four notches, five notches, six notches, or more. 
     First Notch: In the arrangement shown, as one example, system  10  includes a first notch  42  extending a length from the front to the rear. The first notch has a width and a depth and is configured to accept a notch within close and tight tolerances so as to securely and operably fit a plurality of layers together. 
     Second Notch: In the arrangement shown, as one example, system  10  includes a second notch  44  extending a length from the front to the rear. The first notch has a width and a depth and is configured to accept a notch within close and tight tolerances so as to securely and operably fit a plurality of layers together. 
     Curved Edge: 
     In the arrangement shown, as one example, system  10  includes a curved edge  50  (also referred to as “an ergonomic edge”, “a curve”, or simply “curve”). Ergonomic edge  50  is formed of any suitable size, shape, and design, and is configured to provide comfort and posturepedic benefits for a variety of uses and sleep positions. 
     In the arrangement shown, as one example, a single curved edge is shown located along the front side of each of the plurality of layers. The curved edge is generally in the form of a crescent shape. The curved edge is located along the front of each of the plurality of layers and may vary in size and shape from layer to layer. Furthermore, a single curved edge is shown, as one embodiment, but multiple curved edges along differing or additional sides are also contemplated for use. 
     In addition to the above identified features, options, controls, and components, system  10  may also include other features and functionalities, among other options, controls, and components. 
     It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that other various modifications could be made to the system, process, and method of use without parting from the spirit and scope of this disclosure. All such modifications and changes fall within the scope of the claims and are intended to be covered thereby.