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Nap-Cap - How About A Hat-Tip For Larry Niven?

Those creative folks at Heads Up(TM) have created the Nap-Cap, a "stylish cap" that keeps your head supported in a comfortable position while sleeping in transit.


(From Heads Up(TM) Nap-Cap)

The idea is that, rather than having your head nod from side to side (or up and down) while on a train or plane, you can keep yourself in position. It's actually a sleep system which includes:

  • The adjustable Nap-Cap
  • Flexible bands for head positioning and support
  • Straps for fastening to the seat
  • Eyeshade, earplugs, instruction manual and carry pouch.
Science fiction fans often talk about the failure of sf authors to patent or trademark their ideas. It just so happens that in 2000, author Larry Niven, in his novel Saturn's Race actually wrote about a "napcap" that helped people get to sleep. In the novel, the napcap was an electronic device that improved the quality and depth of sleep. It's true, the Heads Up (TM) Nap-Cap is just a simple mechanical sleep aid.

But I think Larry Niven deserves at least a hat-tip, don't you? ;)

(Speaking of which) thanks to Popgadget for the story.

Scroll down for more stories in the same category. (Story submitted 10/23/2004)

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