Patent ID: 8341784

Claim:
An adjustable head support apparatus comprising: an adjustable head support member comprising: a first inflatable member; a second inflatable member; and an encasement layer configured to encase the first inflatable member and the second inflatable member; a measurement unit configured to provide measurements relating to a first pressure of the first inflatable member and a second pressure of the second inflatable member; an analysis unit configured to determine objective goal values for the first pressure and the second pressure that provide neutral spinal alignment for a person positioned on the adjustable head support member, the goal values being objectively determined from anthropometric data derived from a plurality of different test persons; and a control unit configured to compare the measurements relating to the first pressure and the second pressure to the objective goal values for the first pressure and the second pressure and to automatically control adjustments to pressure of the first inflatable member and to pressure of the second inflatable member, the adjustments being designed to achieve the determined objective goal values, wherein the analysis unit is configured to determine whether the person is in a supine position, prostrate position or side-lying position, using the measurements relating to the first pressure and the second pressure.