In search of a solution
Early in my career, I received a whiplash injury to my neck, that eventually led to severe disc degeneration at several levels of my cervical spine. I learned the hard way that my sleep posture played a critical role in the quality of my sleep, and in turn, how poor sleep quality adversely affected the ability of my body to heal.
While I could get temporary relief from treatments for my injury, my sleep position would invariably re-aggravate my cervical spine issues, causing me to wake with severe pain several times every night.
Living in pain provided a strong motivation to find solutions, so I invested thousands of dollars evaluating dozens of different pillows, that ranged from inexpensive options to high-end luxury products.
During my quest to find the “perfect pillow,” the challenge became clear. No single pillow would meet my needs. So, after years of frustration, I finally decided to put my experience to the test, and try my hand at designing a pillow that would allow me to sleep comfortably on my back, as well as my sides.
To save time and money with designing the prototypes, I learned the skills of sewing, serging, pattern making, cutting fabric, etc. During this time, I came to understand that even minor changes to the pillow’s design pattern, could significantly affect the functional performance and comfort of the prototype pillow.
After fifteen iterations, I reached the final design of the WingsPillow™ for which I received a US Design Patent in 2021. Click here to see the drawings used in the US Patent Application.
Three pillows in one
What makes the WingsPillow™ truly different is its multi-functionality. The pillow performs as if you have three customized pillows combined into one. By offering customizable fill levels within its innovative shape, the WingsPillow™ allows for smoother transitions between sleep positions, promoting better sleep with less disruptions.
Why does shape matter?
The majority of pillow manufacturers focus on the materials used in a pillow’s cover or its filling. While these considerations are important, the actual shape of the pillow strongly impacts your ability to transition comfortably from your back to your sides, as well as the quarter turn position (the transitional position between the back and side sleeping positions). What differentiates the WingsPillow™ from other pillows is its unique, US Design Patented shape that allows sleepers to transition comfortably from their backs to their sides, with minimal adjustments and disruption to their sleep. The central section of the WingsPillow™ is designed so that back sleepers can fine-tune the support under their heads and necks, and maintain a neutral spine alignment for optimal comfort. On either side of this center section, the “wings” of the WingsPillow™ are designed to provide side sleepers with adjustable support of their heads, necks, and shoulders in a comfortable, neutral spine alignment.
