US20080229508A1 - Inflatable device with recessed fluid controller and modified adjustment device - Google Patents
Inflatable device with recessed fluid controller and modified adjustment device Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20080229508A1 US20080229508A1 US12/134,183 US13418308A US2008229508A1 US 20080229508 A1 US20080229508 A1 US 20080229508A1 US 13418308 A US13418308 A US 13418308A US 2008229508 A1 US2008229508 A1 US 2008229508A1
- Authority
- US
- United States
- Prior art keywords
- pump
- fluid impermeable
- impermeable bladder
- substantially fluid
- bladder
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
Links
- 239000012530 fluid Substances 0.000 title claims abstract description 206
- 238000007789 sealing Methods 0.000 claims description 15
- 238000004891 communication Methods 0.000 claims description 6
- 238000005086 pumping Methods 0.000 claims description 4
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 description 22
- 230000007246 mechanism Effects 0.000 description 14
- 230000005611 electricity Effects 0.000 description 5
- 230000008901 benefit Effects 0.000 description 4
- 238000010276 construction Methods 0.000 description 4
- 230000001276 controlling effect Effects 0.000 description 3
- 239000004800 polyvinyl chloride Substances 0.000 description 3
- 230000002441 reversible effect Effects 0.000 description 3
- 230000004075 alteration Effects 0.000 description 2
- 239000013013 elastic material Substances 0.000 description 2
- 230000006872 improvement Effects 0.000 description 2
- 238000007373 indentation Methods 0.000 description 2
- 230000003245 working effect Effects 0.000 description 2
- 239000000853 adhesive Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000001070 adhesive effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000004888 barrier function Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000007664 blowing Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000000576 coating method Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000004020 conductor Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000003203 everyday effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000001788 irregular Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000013011 mating Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000004048 modification Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000012986 modification Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000005192 partition Methods 0.000 description 1
- 229920000728 polyester Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 229920002635 polyurethane Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 239000004814 polyurethane Substances 0.000 description 1
- 229920000915 polyvinyl chloride Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 230000001105 regulatory effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000008439 repair process Effects 0.000 description 1
- 229920001169 thermoplastic Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 239000004416 thermosoftening plastic Substances 0.000 description 1
- XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N water Substances O XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
Images
Classifications
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47C—CHAIRS; SOFAS; BEDS
- A47C27/00—Spring, stuffed or fluid mattresses or cushions specially adapted for chairs, beds or sofas
- A47C27/08—Fluid mattresses or cushions
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47C—CHAIRS; SOFAS; BEDS
- A47C27/00—Spring, stuffed or fluid mattresses or cushions specially adapted for chairs, beds or sofas
- A47C27/08—Fluid mattresses or cushions
- A47C27/081—Fluid mattresses or cushions of pneumatic type
- A47C27/082—Fluid mattresses or cushions of pneumatic type with non-manual inflation, e.g. with electric pumps
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47C—CHAIRS; SOFAS; BEDS
- A47C27/00—Spring, stuffed or fluid mattresses or cushions specially adapted for chairs, beds or sofas
- A47C27/08—Fluid mattresses or cushions
- A47C27/081—Fluid mattresses or cushions of pneumatic type
- A47C27/083—Fluid mattresses or cushions of pneumatic type with pressure control, e.g. with pressure sensors
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F04—POSITIVE - DISPLACEMENT MACHINES FOR LIQUIDS; PUMPS FOR LIQUIDS OR ELASTIC FLUIDS
- F04D—NON-POSITIVE-DISPLACEMENT PUMPS
- F04D25/00—Pumping installations or systems
- F04D25/02—Units comprising pumps and their driving means
- F04D25/08—Units comprising pumps and their driving means the working fluid being air, e.g. for ventilation
- F04D25/084—Units comprising pumps and their driving means the working fluid being air, e.g. for ventilation hand fans
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F04—POSITIVE - DISPLACEMENT MACHINES FOR LIQUIDS; PUMPS FOR LIQUIDS OR ELASTIC FLUIDS
- F04D—NON-POSITIVE-DISPLACEMENT PUMPS
- F04D29/00—Details, component parts, or accessories
- F04D29/60—Mounting; Assembling; Disassembling
- F04D29/601—Mounting; Assembling; Disassembling specially adapted for elastic fluid pumps
- F04D29/602—Mounting in cavities
-
- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
- Y10T—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
- Y10T137/00—Fluid handling
- Y10T137/3584—Inflatable article [e.g., tire filling chuck and/or stem]
-
- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
- Y10T—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
- Y10T137/00—Fluid handling
- Y10T137/8593—Systems
- Y10T137/85978—With pump
- Y10T137/86035—Combined with fluid receiver
Definitions
- Inflatable devices are used in a variety of contexts, such as where buoyancy or a cushioned support is needed, where space is limited or portability is desired.
- inflatable mattresses, cushions and other body supports are used for applications such as camping, hospital bedding, and both occasional and everyday bedding in the home.
- Such inflatable devices have the additional advantage that the degree of inflation of the support can be adjusted to provide selective support of an irregular object, such as a person.
- Other examples of inflatable devices include boats, rafts and other devices for use in the water.
- Fluid controller 80 may be constructed in any manner and using any materials that allow fluid controller 80 to control the flow of fluid into and/or out of bladder 20 .
- fluid controller 80 includes a pump 81 that may be constructed in any manner and using any materials that allow it to inflate and/or deflate bladder 20 .
- the pump 81 may be a conventional fluid pump including a motor 84 that drives an impeller 86 moving air into, or out of, bladder 20 .
- motor 84 may be powered by electricity. Electricity may be provided by a connection to standard house current or, where portability is desired, by batteries.
- Fluid controller 80 may be connected to bladder 20 in any manner that allows a pump to supply bladder 20 with fluid, inhibits undesired escape of fluid from bladder 20 and does not interfere with the use of bladder 20 .
- inflatable device 10 may be constructed with at least a portion of fluid controller 80 positioned within bladder 20 . Where fluid controller 80 is positioned at least partially within bladder 20 , fluid controller 80 will not interfere with the use of inflatable device 10 .
- the exterior profile (total volume and shape) of the fluid controller and inflated device in combination are essentially the same as the exterior profile of the inflated device absent the combination, thus reducing the opportunity for fluid controller 80 to impact or interfere with the use of inflatable device 10 .
- Fluid controller 80 may include structure to facilitate connection to bladder 20 .
- fluid controller 80 may include a portion adapted to connect to bladder 20 , such as a flange 82 as illustrated in FIGS. 3-5 .
- Flange 82 may, for example, extend from housing 90 or may be a separate component connected to housing 90 .
- flange 82 may include additional structure, such as a fluid impermeable wall 83 , that may allow it to perform other functions in fluid controller 80 in addition to providing a connection point for bladder 20 .
- flange 82 is connected to housing 90 , it may be connected anywhere and in any manner that allows it to fluid tightly connect fluid controller 80 and bladder 20 .
- flange 82 may be connected to housing 90 at or near outlet 120 from housing 90 .
- Flange 82 may be constructed of any material that allows it to durably and fluid tightly connect fluid controller 80 to bladder 20 .
- flange 82 may be constructed of a material that is more flexible than housing 90 , but less flexible than bladder 20 , bridging the flexibility gap between the two structures and resulting in a durable seal that may be performed, for example, by heat sealing.
- a suitable material of construction of flange 82 is PVC.
- the thickness of flange 82 may also affect its flexibility, with thinner flanges generally being more flexible than thicker flanges. Thus the thickness of flange 82 may be selected to provide a desired flexibility with a given material.
- flange 82 connects to housing 90 or another portion of fluid controller 80
- flange 82 may snap or screw together with another portion of fluid controller 80 .
- Additional structure may be included to promote a fluid seal between flange 82 and the remainder of fluid controller 80 .
- a seal such as an o-ring, may be placed between flange 82 and the remainder of fluid controller 80 .
- the inflatable device such that bladder 20 and fluid controller 80 are reversibly connected, rather than two portions of fluid controller 80 being reversibly connected. In either case, the reversible connection allows the removal of portions of fluid controller 80 for repair or replacement, preventing the entire inflatable device from having to be disposed of in the event of a failure of one component.
- Bladder 20 may also include structure to facilitate the connection between bladder 20 and fluid controller 80 .
- bladder 20 may have a portion constructed to facilitate connection of fluid controller 80 to bladder 20 , such as a retainer 22 as illustrated in FIGS. 7 and 13 .
- Retainer 22 may be constructed in any manner that will facilitate connection between bladder 20 and fluid controller 80 , such as by mechanically supporting fluid controller 80 .
- retainer 22 may be constructed as a strap positioned across fluid controller 80 .
- Adjustment device 100 may include structure for controlling the operation of fluid controller 80 .
- adjustment device 100 may include a conventional power switch 102 that energizes and de-energizes a pump within fluid controller 80 .
- Switch 102 may be any of the many well-known mechanisms for selectively connecting two conductors to supply electricity to a point of use. Switch 102 may allow the pump to be energized such that it inflates bladder 20 .
- Adjustment device 100 may also include structure that directs the deflation of bladder 20 .
- a second switch may reverse the direction of the pump to deflate bladder 20 .
- fluid controller 80 may incorporate a valve which must be opened to allow deflation of bladder 20 .
- adjustment device 100 may also include structure to mechanically or electro-mechanically open a valve to allow deflation of bladder 20 .
- a switch 106 may act upon a mechanical opening mechanism or activate a solenoid 104 to open a valve, such as valve 122 , and allow deflation of bladder 20 .
- the valve that is opened is a self-sealing valve, meaning that it is held closed, at least in part, by pressure within bladder 20 .
- a self sealing valve may include a diaphragm 124 that is urged against a valve seat 126 by fluid pressure from within bladder 20 .
- switch 106 may also energize the pump to withdraw fluid from bladder 20 .
- adjustment device 100 may be in mechanical communication with fluid controller 80 to disengage the valve.
- a button 108 on adjustment device 100 may be in mechanical communication with fluid controller 80 to open a valve.
Landscapes
- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
- General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Mattresses And Other Support Structures For Chairs And Beds (AREA)
- Massaging Devices (AREA)
- Invalid Beds And Related Equipment (AREA)
- Supply Devices, Intensifiers, Converters, And Telemotors (AREA)
- Reciprocating Pumps (AREA)
- Fluid-Driven Valves (AREA)
- Manipulator (AREA)
- Finger-Pressure Massage (AREA)
Abstract
An inflatable device comprising a substantially fluid impermeable bladder is disclosed. The fluid controller comprises an electrically powered pump positioned at least partially within a profile of the bladder. The fluid controller is coupled to the inflatable bladder and is adapted to permit air to exit the bladder through the fluid controller and to be provided to the bladder through the fluid controller.
Description
- This application is a continuation application under 35 U.S.C. 120 and claims the benefit to pending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/369,651 filed on Mar. 7, 2006 entitled Inflatable Device with Recessed Fluid controller and Modified Adjustment Device which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety for all purposes; U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/369,651 is a continuation application under 35 U.S.C. 120 and claims the benefit to pending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/859,706 filed on May 17, 2001, which claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 60/204,836, filed May 17, 2000 and to U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 60/280,040, filed Mar. 30, 2001, all of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety for all purposes.
- 1. Field of the Application
- The application is related to inflatable devices, and, more specifically, to an inflatable device with a recessed fluid controller and modified adjustment device.
- 2. Description of the Related Art
- Inflatable devices are used in a variety of contexts, such as where buoyancy or a cushioned support is needed, where space is limited or portability is desired. For example, inflatable mattresses, cushions and other body supports are used for applications such as camping, hospital bedding, and both occasional and everyday bedding in the home. Such inflatable devices have the additional advantage that the degree of inflation of the support can be adjusted to provide selective support of an irregular object, such as a person. Other examples of inflatable devices include boats, rafts and other devices for use in the water.
- A variety of methods are known for providing a fluid, such as air, to inflate an inflatable device. Typically, a pump is used to supply fluid to an orifice in the inflatable device. In most instances, fluid is introduced into inflatable devices through an inlet that may be sealed to retain fluid within the inflatable device. The inlet may also serve as an outlet for deflating the inflatable device. A pump for use with an inflatable device may include a motor that drives an impeller, moving the fluid into, or out of, the inflatable device. Motorized pumps may be powered by electricity. Typically, such electricity is provided by a connection to standard house current or, where portability is desired, batteries.
- One known inflatable device is illustrated in
FIG. 1 . This inflatable device is adapted for use as a mattress and includes abladder 20 constructed to contain air in the shape of a mattress. The inflatable device also includes afluid controller 80 connected tobladder 20 comprising a pump adapted toinflate bladder 20 when connected to household electric current. One such pump is described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,267,363, herein incorporated by reference. - In one embodiment, the application is directed to an inflatable device comprising a substantially fluid impermeable bladder and a fluid controller comprising an electrically powered pump at least partly positioned within the bladder.
- In another embodiment, the application is directed to a combination of a fluid controller comprising an electrically powered pump and an inflatable device. The combination comprises the fluid controller connected to the inflatable device such that the exterior profile of the fluid controller and inflated inflatable device in combination is essentially the same as the exterior profile of the inflated inflatable device.
- In another embodiment, the application is directed to an inflatable system comprising a substantially fluid impermeable bladder and a fluid controller comprising a pump in fluid communication with the bladder. The fluid controller further comprises a first locking mechanism and an adjustment device including a second locking mechanism sized and adapted to reversibly mate with the first locking mechanism.
- In another embodiment, the application is directed to an inflatable device, comprising a substantially fluid impermeable bladder and a fluid controller. The fluid controller comprises an electrically powered pump, a self-sealing valve, and an adjustment device. The adjustment device comprises a first switch electrically connected to the pump and a power source such that the first switch may selectively energize the pump, and a second switch electrically connected to a power source and electro-mechanically connected to a valve of the fluid controller such that it may selectively open the valve.
- The term “recess” is defined herein as an indentation. For example, a recess in a bladder may comprise an indentation in a wall of the bladder, in which an object (e.g., a fluid controller) may be located.
- The term “profile of a bladder” is defined herein as an outermost outline of the bladder, exclusive of any irregularities. For example, the profile of the
bladder 20 is illustrated inFIG. 2 bysolid line 14. The profile excludes any recess inbladder 20 in whichfluid controller 80 may be disposed. - The foregoing and other advantages of the application will be more fully appreciated with reference to the following drawings in which:
-
FIG. 1 is a top, plan view of a prior art inflatable device; -
FIG. 2 is a top, plan view of an inflatable device according to one embodiment of the application; -
FIG. 3 is a perspective, plan view of a fluid controller according to one embodiment of the application; -
FIG. 4 is a perspective, plan view of a fluid controller according to another embodiment of the application; -
FIG. 5 is a top, cross-sectional view of one embodiment of the application; -
FIG. 6 is a side, cross-sectional view of another embodiment of the application; -
FIG. 7 is a side, cross-sectional view of another embodiment of the application; -
FIG. 8 is a perspective, plan view of another embodiment of the application; and -
FIG. 9 is a perspective, plan view of another embodiment of the application. - The application is directed to an inflatable device with a recessed fluid controller and modified adjustment device. As used herein, a fluid controller is a device capable of regulating fluid flow and may include various components, such as a housing, valve, fluid conduit, pump, and the like. In one embodiment, the application is directed to an inflatable device including a substantially fluid impermeable bladder and a fluid controller comprising an electrically powered pump at least partly positioned within the bladder. As used herein, an object, such as a fluid controller, that is “positioned within” a bladder occupies a portion of the volume that would normally be occupied by the bladder, but need not be within the wall of the bladder. For example, a fluid controller could be located within a recess in the wall of a bladder and be “positioned within” the bladder, as this term is defined and used herein.
- Referring now to the figures, and, in particular
FIG. 2 , one embodiment of an inflatable device according to the application will be described by way of example. The embodiment illustrated inFIG. 2 includes aninflatable device 10 having a substantially fluidimpermeable bladder 20 and afluid controller 80 comprising an electrically powered pump at least partly positioned withinbladder 20. -
Bladder 20 may be constructed in any manner and of any material(s) capable of retaining a desired fluid under a degree of pressure necessary for its intended application. For example,bladder 20 may be constructed of a substantially fluid impermeable barrier and may be shaped in accordance with its intended use. Wherebladder 20 is intended for use as a mattress,bladder 20 may be constructed in the shape and thickness of a conventional mattress. -
Bladder 20 may include internal structure, such as ribs or partitions. For example,bladder 20 may be divided into two or more separate fluid containing compartments.Bladder 20 may also include internal structure to control the movement of fluid withinbladder 20. For example,bladder 20 may include baffles or walls withinbladder 20 to improve the flow of fluid whenbladder 20 is inflated or deflated. - A wall of
bladder 20 may be any thickness required to substantially contain a fluid under pressures at whichbladder 20 will be used. A thickness of the wall ofbladder 20 may depend upon material from whichbladder 20 is constructed. For example, more durable or elastic materials may not require the wall ofbladder 20 to be as thick as less durable or elastic materials. Typically, the wall ofbladder 20 may be 4-16 mils thick for polyvinyl chloride (PVC) film and polyurethane materials. -
Bladder 20 may be constructed of any material or materials capable of substantially containing a fluid and forming abladder 20 strong enough to withstand a pressure at whichbladder 20 is to be used. For example,bladder 20 may be constructed of a polymeric material, such as a thermoplastic.Bladder 20 may be constructed from a relatively inexpensive, easy to work with and durable material. Some example materials include polyvinyl chloride (PVC) film and polyester. The manner of makingbladder 20 may depend on its material of construction and configuration, as will be recognized by one of ordinary skill in the art. -
Bladder 20 may include additional materials to improve the utility and comfort ofbladder 20. For example,bladder 20 may include outer layers or coatings for durability, support or comfort. In some embodiments,bladder 20 may be coated with a material that is more pleasant to the touch than the material from whichbladder 20 is constructed. Whereinflatable device 10 is for use in supporting a person,bladder 20 may also include a layer to provide additional comfort, particularly where the person is to contactbladder 20. For example,bladder 20 may include a comfort layer. The comfort layer may be located on any surface ofbladder 20 that may come into contact with a user ofinflatable device 10. The comfort layer may improve the texture and feel ofbladder 20 and, further, may allow air and moisture to pass between a person andbladder 20, preventing discomfort. -
Fluid controller 80 may be constructed in any manner and using any materials that allowfluid controller 80 to control the flow of fluid into and/or out ofbladder 20. In one embodiment,fluid controller 80 includes apump 81 that may be constructed in any manner and using any materials that allow it to inflate and/or deflatebladder 20. For example, as illustrated inFIG. 5 , thepump 81 may be a conventional fluid pump including amotor 84 that drives animpeller 86 moving air into, or out of,bladder 20. Where the pump includesmotor 84,motor 84 may be powered by electricity. Electricity may be provided by a connection to standard house current or, where portability is desired, by batteries. Other types of pumps, such as diaphragm pumps, may also be used so long as they allow the pump to inflatebladder 20 to within a desired pressure range, which may include a pressure range that can be adjusted by, for example, another fluid pumping device, such as someone blowing into a conventional valve stem within the bladder, a foot pump, and the like. -
Fluid controller 80 may direct fluid flow in any manner consistent with its construction. For example, wherefluid controller 80 includes apump 81 withmotor 84 andimpeller 86,impeller 86 may draw fluid into, or out of,bladder 20 through aconduit 88. In some embodiments,conduit 88 may be positioned betweenmotor 84 and ahousing 90, as an annulus. For example, in the embodiment illustrated inFIG. 5 ,fluid controller 80 includes ahousing 90 that surrounds the inner workings of the pump.Housing 90 may also serve, for example, to protect the inner workings of the pump and to provide a connection betweenfluid controller 80 andbladder 20. - Preferably, where a pump is included in
fluid controller 80, the pump is able to inflatebladder 20 in a relatively short time period, such as in less than a minute for an inflatable mattress. The pump may be designed to include an appropriately powerful fluid moving mechanism to achieve a desired pumping time to fill a particular inflatable device. The pump also may be small and consume as little power as possible. Low power consumption is particularly desirable where the pump is to be powered by batteries, as it may extend battery life. The pump may also be configured to be quiet in operation. A balance of pumping capacity, size, power consumption, noise generation and cost may be selected for a particular application as will be recognized by those of skill in the art. -
Fluid controller 80 may be constructed of any material or materials that allow it to function as desired. Typical materials of construction of the various components offluid controller 80 will vary with the nature offluid controller 80 and any pump and are known to those of skill in the art. -
Fluid controller 80 may be connected tobladder 20 in any manner that allows a pump to supplybladder 20 with fluid, inhibits undesired escape of fluid frombladder 20 and does not interfere with the use ofbladder 20. For example,inflatable device 10 may be constructed with at least a portion offluid controller 80 positioned withinbladder 20. Wherefluid controller 80 is positioned at least partially withinbladder 20,fluid controller 80 will not interfere with the use ofinflatable device 10. In one embodiment, the exterior profile (total volume and shape) of the fluid controller and inflated device in combination are essentially the same as the exterior profile of the inflated device absent the combination, thus reducing the opportunity forfluid controller 80 to impact or interfere with the use ofinflatable device 10. For example, wherefluid controller 80 is located substantially withinbladder 20 in a mattress application, it allows an inflatable standard sized mattress to fit into a standard sized bed frame. Wherefluid controller 80 is located withinbladder 20, it may be sized such that it will not come into contact withbladder 20 whenbladder 20 is inflated, except at the point(s) of connection. - Where at least a portion of
fluid controller 80 is positioned withinbladder 20, it may be connected tobladder 20 in any manner that will not interfere with the use ofinflatable device 10 or allow undesired escape of fluid frombladder 20. For example,bladder 20 may be adhered or sealed to a portion offluid controller 80, such as with an adhesive or heat seal. In one embodiment, an outlet 120 (illustrated inFIG. 8 ) offluid controller 80 is sealed tobladder 20. -
Fluid controller 80 may include structure to facilitate connection tobladder 20. For example,fluid controller 80 may include a portion adapted to connect tobladder 20, such as aflange 82 as illustrated inFIGS. 3-5 .Flange 82 may, for example, extend fromhousing 90 or may be a separate component connected tohousing 90. As best seen inFIG. 5 ,flange 82 may include additional structure, such as a fluidimpermeable wall 83, that may allow it to perform other functions influid controller 80 in addition to providing a connection point forbladder 20. Whereflange 82 is connected tohousing 90, it may be connected anywhere and in any manner that allows it to fluid tightly connectfluid controller 80 andbladder 20. For example, whereflange 82 includes a fluidimpermeable wall 83,flange 82 may be connected tohousing 90 at ornear outlet 120 fromhousing 90. -
Flange 82 may be constructed of any material that allows it to durably and fluid tightly connectfluid controller 80 tobladder 20. For example,flange 82 may be constructed of a material that is more flexible thanhousing 90, but less flexible thanbladder 20, bridging the flexibility gap between the two structures and resulting in a durable seal that may be performed, for example, by heat sealing. One example of a suitable material of construction offlange 82 is PVC. The thickness offlange 82 may also affect its flexibility, with thinner flanges generally being more flexible than thicker flanges. Thus the thickness offlange 82 may be selected to provide a desired flexibility with a given material. - Where
flange 82 connects to housing 90 or another portion offluid controller 80, it is preferred that such connection be reversible. Forexample flange 82 may snap or screw together with another portion offluid controller 80. Additional structure may be included to promote a fluid seal betweenflange 82 and the remainder offluid controller 80. For example, a seal, such as an o-ring, may be placed betweenflange 82 and the remainder offluid controller 80. It is also possible to construct the inflatable device such thatbladder 20 andfluid controller 80 are reversibly connected, rather than two portions offluid controller 80 being reversibly connected. In either case, the reversible connection allows the removal of portions offluid controller 80 for repair or replacement, preventing the entire inflatable device from having to be disposed of in the event of a failure of one component. -
Bladder 20 may also include structure to facilitate the connection betweenbladder 20 andfluid controller 80. For example,bladder 20 may have a portion constructed to facilitate connection offluid controller 80 tobladder 20, such as aretainer 22 as illustrated inFIGS. 7 and 13 .Retainer 22 may be constructed in any manner that will facilitate connection betweenbladder 20 andfluid controller 80, such as by mechanically supportingfluid controller 80. For example,retainer 22 may be constructed as a strap positioned acrossfluid controller 80. - It will now be clear that
fluid controller 80 may be positioned withinbladder 20 in a variety of ways. For example,fluid controller 80 may include aflange 82 that positions it at least partially withinbladder 20. The size and shape offlange 82 may be selected to control the portion ofpump 81 that is positioned withinbladder 20. Alternatively,bladder 20 may include a recess andfluid controller 80 may be positioned within the recess and attached to bladder only at a pump outlet, or at other locations within the recess. -
Fluid controller 80 may be operated by any conventional control mechanism, such a conventional power switch.Fluid controller 80 may also include a structure for controllingfluid controller 80, such as anadjustment device 100.Adjustment device 100 may be separate or separable fromfluid controller 80 to allowfluid controller 80 to be controlled remotely. In one embodiment,adjustment device 100 is a hand-held device for controllingfluid controller 80. -
Adjustment device 100 may include structure for controlling the operation offluid controller 80. For example,adjustment device 100 may include aconventional power switch 102 that energizes and de-energizes a pump withinfluid controller 80.Switch 102 may be any of the many well-known mechanisms for selectively connecting two conductors to supply electricity to a point of use.Switch 102 may allow the pump to be energized such that it inflatesbladder 20.Adjustment device 100 may also include structure that directs the deflation ofbladder 20. For example, a second switch may reverse the direction of the pump to deflatebladder 20. In some embodiments,fluid controller 80 may incorporate a valve which must be opened to allow deflation ofbladder 20. In these embodiments,adjustment device 100 may also include structure to mechanically or electro-mechanically open a valve to allow deflation ofbladder 20. For example, aswitch 106 may act upon a mechanical opening mechanism or activate asolenoid 104 to open a valve, such asvalve 122, and allow deflation ofbladder 20. In one embodiment, the valve that is opened is a self-sealing valve, meaning that it is held closed, at least in part, by pressure withinbladder 20. For example, a self sealing valve may include adiaphragm 124 that is urged against avalve seat 126 by fluid pressure from withinbladder 20. Optionally, switch 106 may also energize the pump to withdraw fluid frombladder 20. - In one embodiment,
adjustment device 100 is connectable tofluid controller 80. In this embodiment,adjustment device 100 may be connected tofluid controller 80 at a conveniently located position such that it is easily found, particularly wheninflatable device 10 is in use. For example, whereinflatable device 10 is a bed,fluid controller 80 may be located at the head of the bed such thatadjustment device 100 may be connected thereto for easy access when the bed is in use. Any control elements onadjustment device 100, such asswitches button 108 may be located onadjustment device 100 for easy access. For example, the control elements may be located on a top portion ofadjustment device 100, as illustrated inFIG. 4 . Attachment ofadjustment device 100 tofluid controller 80 may also facilitate deflation ofbladder 20 withadjustment device 100. For example, where a valve must be opened to deflatebladder 20,adjustment device 100 may be in mechanical communication withfluid controller 80 to disengage the valve. In one embodiment, abutton 108 onadjustment device 100 may be in mechanical communication withfluid controller 80 to open a valve. - The connection between
adjustment device 100 andfluid controller 80 may be secure. For example, in one embodiment,adjustment device 100 reversibly locks tofluid controller 80. Whereadjustment device 100 locks tofluid controller 80,adjustment device 100 andfluid controller 80 may includemating locking mechanisms mechanisms mechanisms locking mechanism 110 includes one or more spring latches 114 that mate withimpressions 116 inother locking mechanism 112. Eitherlocking mechanism adjustment device 100 orfluid controller 80. - Having thus described certain embodiments of the inflatable device of the application, various alterations, modifications and improvements will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art. Such alterations, variations and improvements are intended to be within the spirit and scope of the application. Accordingly, the foregoing description is by way of example and is not intended to be limiting. The application is limited only as defined in the following claims and the equivalents thereto.
Claims (32)
1. An inflatable device, comprising:
a substantially fluid impermeable bladder; and
a fluid controller comprising an electrically powered pump, the pump being coupled at least partially to a wall of the substantially fluid impermeable bladder in a mounted position and orientation at least partially within a profile of the substantially fluid impermeable bladder so that the pump is accessible from an exterior of the substantially fluid impermeable bladder, and in the same mounted position and orientation of the pump, the fluid controller being adapted to permit air to exit the substantially fluid impermeable bladder through the fluid controller and to be provided to the substantially fluid impermeable bladder through the pump.
2. The inflatable device of claim 1 , wherein the fluid controller is constructed and arranged such that a majority of the pump is positioned within the profile of the substantially fluid impermeable bladder.
3. The inflatable device of claim 2 , wherein the fluid controller is constructed and arranged such that substantially all of the pump is positioned within the profile of the substantially fluid impermeable bladder.
4. The inflatable device of claim 1 , wherein the pump comprises a housing that is coupled to the wall of the substantially fluid impermeable bladder.
5. The inflatable device of claim 1 , wherein the fluid controller comprises a flange impermeably connected to the substantially fluid impermeable bladder.
6. The inflatable device of claim 5 , wherein the flange comprises a fluid impermeable wall that connects to a housing of the pump.
7. The inflatable device of claim 6 , wherein the flange is in contact with the housing at an outlet of the housing.
8. The inflatable device of claim 5 , wherein a portion of the pump is constructed and arranged to be removable from the flange.
9. The inflatable device of claim 1 , further comprising an adjustment device, including:
a first switch electrically connected to the pump and a power source such that the first switch may selectively energize the pump by actuation of the first switch; and
a second switch electrically connected to the power source and electro-mechanically connected to a valve of the fluid controller by an electromechanical device, such that upon actuation of the second switch, the electromechanical device acts upon the valve to selectively open the valve.
10. The inflatable device of claim 9 , wherein the electromechanical device comprises a solenoid.
11. The inflatable device of claim 1 , wherein the fluid controller comprises a valve and a member connected to the valve that moves the valve between an open and a closed position.
12. The inflatable device of claim 11 , wherein the member is adapted to be actuated by a switch on an adjustment device.
13. The inflatable device of claim 1 , wherein the inflatable device comprises a recess formed in a wall of the substantially fluid impermeable bladder.
14. The inflatable device of claim 13 , wherein the pump is at least partially positioned within the recess in the wall of the substantially fluid impermeable bladder.
15. The inflatable device of claim 1 , further comprising a flange impermeably connected to the substantially fluid impermeable bladder, the flange forming a recess, wherein the pump is at least partially positioned within the recess.
16. The inflatable device of claim 1 , wherein the substantially fluid impermeable bladder is shaped and sized so as to form a mattress.
17. The inflatable device of claim 1 , wherein the fluid controller comprises a valve through which the air exits the substantially fluid impermeable bladder.
18. An inflatable system, comprising:
a substantially fluid impermeable bladder; and
a fluid controller comprising:
a self-sealing valve;
a pump in fluid communication with the substantially fluid impermeable bladder through the self-sealing valve, the pump being disposed in a mounted position and orientation to the substantially fluid impermeable bladder at least partially within a profile of the substantially fluid impermeable bladder and so that the pump is accessible from an exterior of the substantially fluid impermeable bladder, and in the same mounted position and orientation of the pump, the fluid controller being adapted to permit air to exit the substantially fluid impermeable bladder through the valve and to be provided to the substantially fluid impermeable bladder through the pump and valve; and
an adjustment device including a first switch electrically coupled to an electromechanical device and a power source, the electromechanical device being electro-mechanically coupled to the valve, the first switch and the electromechanical device being configured and arranged in combination so that upon actuation of the first switch, the electromechanical device is energized so as to electro-mechanically actuate the valve to selectively open the valve.
19. The inflatable system of claim 18 , wherein the adjustment device further comprises:
a second switch having a first position and a second position, that is electrically coupled to the pump and the power source, and that is configured to selectively energize the pump by actuation of the second switch to one of the first and second positions.
20. The inflatable system of claim 18 , wherein the pump is an electrically powered pump.
21. The inflatable system of claim 20 , wherein a majority of the pump is positioned within the profile of the substantially fluid impermeable bladder.
22. The inflatable system of claim 21 , wherein substantially all of the pump is positioned within the profile of the substantially fluid impermeable bladder.
23. The inflatable system of claim 20 , wherein the substantially fluid impermeable bladder includes a recess sized and configured to accommodate at least a portion of the fluid controller.
24. The inflatable system of claim 20 , wherein the fluid controller includes a housing and the housing includes a flange that connects to the substantially fluid impermeable bladder.
25. The inflatable system of claim 18 , wherein the substantially fluid impermeable bladder is sized and shaped so as to form a mattress.
26. An inflatable device, comprising:
a substantially fluid impermeable bladder; and
a fluid controller comprising an electrically powered pump;
wherein the pump is coupled to the substantially fluid impermeable bladder in a mounted position and orientation such that the pump is located at least partially within a profile of the substantially fluid impermeable bladder and so that the pump is accessible from an exterior of the substantially fluid impermeable bladder, and when in the same mounted position and orientation of the pump, the fluid controller is adapted to permit air to exit the substantially fluid impermeable bladder through the fluid controller and be provided to the substantially fluid impermeable bladder through the pump.
27. The inflatable device of claim 26 , wherein a majority of the pump is positioned within the profile of the substantially fluid impermeable bladder.
28. The inflatable device of claim 26 , wherein the fluid controller comprises a housing having a flange that connects to the substantially fluid impermeable bladder.
29. The inflatable device of claim 26 , wherein the substantially fluid impermeable bladder is shaped and sized so as to form a mattress.
30. The inflatable device of claim 26 , wherein the fluid controller further comprises a valve through which the air is provided to and exits the substantially fluid impermeable bladder.
31. An inflatable system, comprising:
a substantially fluid impermeable bladder; and
a fluid controller comprising:
a self-sealing valve; and
a pump in fluid communication with the substantially fluid impermeable bladder through the self-sealing valve, the pump being coupled at least partially to a wall of the substantially fluid impermeable bladder in a mounted position and orientation to the substantially fluid impermeable bladder at least partially within a profile of the substantially fluid impermeable bladder so that the pump is accessible from an exterior of the substantially fluid impermeable bladder, and in the same mounted position and orientation of the pump, the fluid controller being adapted to permit air to exit the substantially fluid impermeable bladder through the self-sealing valve and to be provided to the substantially fluid impermeable bladder through the pump and self-sealing valve.
32. An inflatable system, comprising:
a substantially fluid impermeable bladder; and
a fluid controller comprising:
a self-sealing valve; and
a pump in fluid communication with the substantially fluid impermeable bladder through the self-sealing valve, the pump being coupled at least partially to a wall of the substantially fluid impermeable bladder in a mounted position and orientation to the substantially fluid impermeable bladder at least partially within a profile of the substantially fluid impermeable bladder, and in the same mounted position and orientation of the pump, the fluid controller being adapted to withdraw air from the substantially fluid impermeable bladder through the pump and the self-sealing valve by actuating open the self-sealing valve with an electromechanical device and by pumping air out of the substantially fluid impermeable bladder, and the fluid controller is adapted provide air to the substantially fluid impermeable bladder through the pump and self-sealing valve.
Priority Applications (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US12/134,183 US20080229508A1 (en) | 2000-05-17 | 2008-06-05 | Inflatable device with recessed fluid controller and modified adjustment device |
Applications Claiming Priority (5)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US20483600P | 2000-05-17 | 2000-05-17 | |
US28004001P | 2001-03-30 | 2001-03-30 | |
US09/859,706 US7039972B2 (en) | 2000-05-17 | 2001-05-17 | Inflatable device with recessed fluid controller and modified adjustment device |
US11/369,651 US20060143832A1 (en) | 2000-05-17 | 2006-03-07 | Inflatable device with recessed fluid controller and modified adjustment device |
US12/134,183 US20080229508A1 (en) | 2000-05-17 | 2008-06-05 | Inflatable device with recessed fluid controller and modified adjustment device |
Related Parent Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US11/369,651 Continuation US20060143832A1 (en) | 2000-05-17 | 2006-03-07 | Inflatable device with recessed fluid controller and modified adjustment device |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
US20080229508A1 true US20080229508A1 (en) | 2008-09-25 |
Family
ID=26899829
Family Applications (5)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US09/859,706 Expired - Lifetime US7039972B2 (en) | 2000-05-17 | 2001-05-17 | Inflatable device with recessed fluid controller and modified adjustment device |
US11/345,193 Abandoned US20060123549A1 (en) | 2000-05-17 | 2006-02-01 | Inflatable device with recessed fluid controller and modified adjustment device |
US11/369,651 Abandoned US20060143832A1 (en) | 2000-05-17 | 2006-03-07 | Inflatable device with recessed fluid controller and modified adjustment device |
US12/134,183 Abandoned US20080229508A1 (en) | 2000-05-17 | 2008-06-05 | Inflatable device with recessed fluid controller and modified adjustment device |
US13/073,641 Abandoned US20110167564A1 (en) | 2000-05-17 | 2011-03-28 | Inflatable device with recessed fluid controller and modified adjustment device |
Family Applications Before (3)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US09/859,706 Expired - Lifetime US7039972B2 (en) | 2000-05-17 | 2001-05-17 | Inflatable device with recessed fluid controller and modified adjustment device |
US11/345,193 Abandoned US20060123549A1 (en) | 2000-05-17 | 2006-02-01 | Inflatable device with recessed fluid controller and modified adjustment device |
US11/369,651 Abandoned US20060143832A1 (en) | 2000-05-17 | 2006-03-07 | Inflatable device with recessed fluid controller and modified adjustment device |
Family Applications After (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US13/073,641 Abandoned US20110167564A1 (en) | 2000-05-17 | 2011-03-28 | Inflatable device with recessed fluid controller and modified adjustment device |
Country Status (14)
Country | Link |
---|---|
US (5) | US7039972B2 (en) |
EP (1) | EP1284624B1 (en) |
JP (1) | JP5060008B2 (en) |
KR (1) | KR20030015245A (en) |
CN (2) | CN1632324B (en) |
AT (1) | ATE390066T1 (en) |
AU (3) | AU2001261673B2 (en) |
BR (1) | BR0110869B1 (en) |
CA (3) | CA2735313C (en) |
DE (1) | DE60133382T2 (en) |
MX (1) | MXPA02011252A (en) |
PL (1) | PL365174A1 (en) |
SG (1) | SG152903A1 (en) |
WO (1) | WO2001087121A2 (en) |
Cited By (5)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US20120090698A1 (en) * | 2010-09-27 | 2012-04-19 | Giori Gualtiero G | Pressure control and feedback system for an adjustable foam support apparatus |
US8413674B2 (en) | 2000-05-17 | 2013-04-09 | Robert B. Chaffee | Valve with electromechanical device for actuating the valve |
US8776293B2 (en) | 2001-03-30 | 2014-07-15 | Robert B. Chaffee | Pump with axial conduit |
US8826478B2 (en) | 2000-05-17 | 2014-09-09 | Robert B. Chaffee | Inflatable device forming mattresses and cushions |
US9737153B2 (en) | 2001-07-10 | 2017-08-22 | Robert B. Chaffee | Configurable inflatable support devices |
Families Citing this family (42)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US6332760B1 (en) * | 2000-04-04 | 2001-12-25 | Team Worldwide Corporation | Inflatable product provided with built-in battery case and socket |
DE60133382T2 (en) * | 2000-05-17 | 2009-04-02 | Robert B. Boston Chaffee | INFLATABLE DEVICE WITH INTEGRATED FLOW REGULATOR AND IMPROVED ADJUSTING DEVICE |
RU2271129C2 (en) | 2001-03-30 | 2006-03-10 | Роберт Б. ШАФФЕ | Inflatable apparatus with deepened fluid control means and control panel |
US6990700B2 (en) * | 2001-06-22 | 2006-01-31 | Team Worldwide Corporation | Inflatable product provided with electric air pump |
US6701559B2 (en) * | 2001-08-01 | 2004-03-09 | Aero Products International, Inc. | Increased height inflatable support system |
US6543073B2 (en) * | 2001-08-27 | 2003-04-08 | Hsin-Tsai Wu | Inflation seat assembly for an inflatable article |
FR2834545B1 (en) * | 2002-01-07 | 2007-11-16 | Hsin Tsai Wu | INFLATION PACKAGE ASSEMBLY FOR AN INFLATABLE ARTICLE |
AU2003252060A1 (en) * | 2002-07-17 | 2004-02-02 | Aero Products International, Inc. | Inflatable support system |
CA2528332A1 (en) * | 2003-06-09 | 2005-01-06 | Aero International Products, Inc. | Reversible inflation system |
GB0420174D0 (en) * | 2004-09-10 | 2004-10-13 | Survitec Group Ltd | Fascines |
US20060117489A1 (en) * | 2004-12-08 | 2006-06-08 | Chun-Chung Tsai | Built in air blower to automatically open/close an air channel to inflate/deflate an air-cushioned bed |
US7588425B2 (en) * | 2005-03-18 | 2009-09-15 | Aero Products International, Inc. | Reversible inflation system |
CN2786331Y (en) * | 2005-03-25 | 2006-06-07 | 王正宗 | Aerated product with concealed aerating pump |
US7127762B1 (en) | 2005-05-12 | 2006-10-31 | Ideal Time Consultants Limited | Inflatable product with stowable pump |
CN1865744A (en) * | 2005-05-18 | 2006-11-22 | 王正宗 | Electric charging nozzle for air-filled product |
US7536739B2 (en) * | 2005-08-10 | 2009-05-26 | Kreg Medical, Inc. | Therapeutic mattress |
US20070077153A1 (en) * | 2005-09-30 | 2007-04-05 | Austen Timothy F | Rechargeable AC/DC pump |
US7376994B2 (en) * | 2006-01-24 | 2008-05-27 | Hsin-Tsai Wu | Multi-functional inflatable bed |
WO2007115316A2 (en) | 2006-04-04 | 2007-10-11 | Chaffee Robert B | Method and apparatus for monitoring and controlling pressure in an inflatable device |
CN200968325Y (en) * | 2006-10-13 | 2007-10-31 | 王正宗 | Electric air charging and releasing apparatus capable of heat sinking and pressure relieving |
US20080226476A1 (en) * | 2007-03-16 | 2008-09-18 | Lau Vincent W S | Air pump with dual power supply |
US8033797B2 (en) | 2007-05-17 | 2011-10-11 | The Coleman Company, Inc. | Pump with automatic deactivation mechanism |
US20090124402A1 (en) * | 2007-11-08 | 2009-05-14 | Amberg Entertainment | Inflatable play structure with integrated air source |
CA2718203C (en) | 2008-03-13 | 2019-04-23 | Robert B. Chaffee | Method and apparatus for monitoring and controlling pressure in an inflatable device |
US8678007B2 (en) | 2008-10-10 | 2014-03-25 | Winston Allen Porter, III | Patient support system and method |
US8678006B2 (en) * | 2008-10-10 | 2014-03-25 | Winston Allen Porter, III | Patient support system and method |
US20100170044A1 (en) * | 2009-01-08 | 2010-07-08 | Kao Victor | Inflatable air mattress with imbedded pump |
US8684030B2 (en) * | 2009-04-02 | 2014-04-01 | Robert B. Chaffee | Inflatable device with fluid controller and self-sealing valve |
US20100282344A1 (en) * | 2009-05-11 | 2010-11-11 | Edward Francis Carolan | Self-Inflating Inflatable Display |
US8657565B2 (en) | 2010-04-22 | 2014-02-25 | The Coleman Company, Inc. | Pump with integrated deflation port |
US20120024295A1 (en) | 2010-07-30 | 2012-02-02 | Mihin Chiropractic Clinic, LLC | Orthopedic device |
US8734135B2 (en) | 2011-08-30 | 2014-05-27 | Zhe Jiang Hong Zhu Plastic Hardware Co., Ltd. | Electric air pump with a hinged connection between the casing and outer bracket |
US9381107B2 (en) * | 2012-10-12 | 2016-07-05 | Scott Macleod | Post shoulder surgery rehabilitation bed wedge |
US8978693B2 (en) | 2013-01-28 | 2015-03-17 | Windcatcher Technology LLC | Inflation valve allowing for rapid inflation and deflation of an inflatable object |
US9456701B2 (en) | 2014-06-13 | 2016-10-04 | Aeris Technology LLC | Valve assembly for controlling fluid communication between fluid chambers, inflatable device, and method |
CN104688479A (en) * | 2015-03-14 | 2015-06-10 | 扬州市第一人民医院 | Controllable double-column hollow airbag cushion |
US10687633B2 (en) | 2016-01-13 | 2020-06-23 | Bestway Inflatables & Material Corp. | Inflatable bed |
CN106344362B (en) * | 2016-11-04 | 2019-02-12 | 皖南医学院第一附属医院 | A kind of polynary temperature adjustment massage machine of dialysis |
CN206368786U (en) | 2016-12-08 | 2017-08-01 | 明达实业(厦门)有限公司 | The attachment structure of pump and aerated product |
CN107781147B (en) * | 2017-11-28 | 2024-09-17 | 广东商旅宝健康科技有限公司 | Electric inflator |
US11517121B2 (en) * | 2019-09-09 | 2022-12-06 | Dennis M. Boyd | Air mattress and pump combination |
US11925269B2 (en) * | 2021-02-26 | 2024-03-12 | King Koil Licensing Company, Inc. | Mattress system and assembly |
Citations (94)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US1185684A (en) * | 1905-02-03 | 1916-06-06 | Schrader S Son Inc | Valve for pneumatic pillows and other articles. |
US1263599A (en) * | 1917-12-08 | 1918-04-23 | Ashton Hamilton | Pneumatic-tire valve. |
US2028060A (en) * | 1935-09-07 | 1936-01-14 | Gilbert Eskell | Protector |
US2112641A (en) * | 1936-09-25 | 1938-03-29 | Aw Wheaton Brass Works | Safety vent valve |
US2168774A (en) * | 1938-07-08 | 1939-08-08 | Automatic Switch Co | Solenoid valve |
US2285324A (en) * | 1941-11-12 | 1942-06-02 | Bennett Alexander Edgar | Check valve operator |
US2288889A (en) * | 1939-05-12 | 1942-07-07 | Francis J Costello | Valve |
US2482198A (en) * | 1944-09-05 | 1949-09-20 | Parker Appliance Co | Valve structure |
US2565406A (en) * | 1948-07-08 | 1951-08-21 | Stennitt Thomas | Power-operable wood-splitting machine |
US2701579A (en) * | 1952-01-02 | 1955-02-08 | Goodrich Co B F | Inflating valve for inflatable articles |
US2767735A (en) * | 1951-10-24 | 1956-10-23 | Dumont Aircraft Fitting Compan | Valve device |
US2803527A (en) * | 1956-07-06 | 1957-08-20 | Robert O Lundahl | Portable electric fan unit |
US2823668A (en) * | 1953-10-12 | 1958-02-18 | Carl P Van Court | Inflatable splint |
US2949927A (en) * | 1957-10-10 | 1960-08-23 | Henry H Mackal | Resilient inflation-deflation valve |
US2990070A (en) * | 1958-12-30 | 1961-06-27 | Walton W Cushman | Pneumatic dunnage |
US3086698A (en) * | 1961-03-03 | 1963-04-23 | Goldstein Mayer | Portable blower |
US3095901A (en) * | 1962-03-16 | 1963-07-02 | Vincent H Larson | Rapid opening valve |
US3123336A (en) * | 1964-03-03 | Diaphragm valves | ||
US3164151A (en) * | 1962-12-14 | 1965-01-05 | Nicoll Esmond D Vere | Inflatable splint |
US3208721A (en) * | 1963-04-30 | 1965-09-28 | Raybestos Manhattan Inc | Valve diaphragm |
US3367819A (en) * | 1961-12-22 | 1968-02-06 | Goodrich Co B F | Method of making inflatable dunnage bag |
US3403696A (en) * | 1966-10-20 | 1968-10-01 | Pynchon George | Silent check-valve |
US3424151A (en) * | 1966-01-03 | 1969-01-28 | Kendall & Co | Inflatable splint |
US3459363A (en) * | 1967-12-21 | 1969-08-05 | United States Steel Corp | Valve-unloading mechanism for reciprocating pumps |
US3462775A (en) * | 1967-02-24 | 1969-08-26 | Bernhard Markwitz | Supporting means to prevent parts of the body from contracting bed-sores |
US3511472A (en) * | 1968-01-12 | 1970-05-12 | American Air Filter Co | Limiting flow valve |
US3561435A (en) * | 1968-11-15 | 1971-02-09 | Dev Inc | Combined splint and coolant container |
US3610235A (en) * | 1968-05-30 | 1971-10-05 | Semperit Ag | Artificial hip joint |
US3665958A (en) * | 1968-09-16 | 1972-05-30 | Gpe Controls Inc | Vent closure device |
US3667625A (en) * | 1970-08-05 | 1972-06-06 | Goodyear Tire & Rubber | Dunnage device |
US3667075A (en) * | 1970-02-24 | 1972-06-06 | Wesley D Ballard | Mattress spring bellows assembly as for hospitals, and the like |
US3719401A (en) * | 1971-04-28 | 1973-03-06 | Fiat Spa | Solenoid-operated hydraulic switching valve |
US3762404A (en) * | 1969-08-21 | 1973-10-02 | Olympic Surgical Co Inc | Positioning aid |
US3785395A (en) * | 1972-01-19 | 1974-01-15 | B Andreasson | Air valves |
US3829918A (en) * | 1970-09-30 | 1974-08-20 | P Stamberger | Means for increasing the air pressure within self-inflated hollow bodies for use as cushions and for like purposes |
US3831628A (en) * | 1973-03-13 | 1974-08-27 | E Kintner | Check valve |
US3898703A (en) * | 1972-02-22 | 1975-08-12 | Paul Stamberger | Method and means for increasing the air pressure within self-inflated hollow bodies for use as cushions and for like purposes |
US3899797A (en) * | 1973-04-09 | 1975-08-19 | Schwartzman Morris | Inflatable structural component |
US4068334A (en) * | 1976-06-04 | 1978-01-17 | Harry E. Grover | Inflatable body support apparatus |
US4168063A (en) * | 1978-04-19 | 1979-09-18 | Rowland George D | Inflatable athletic wrist movement restraint |
US4266298A (en) * | 1980-01-31 | 1981-05-12 | Marlene S. Mindey | Inflatable heel protector |
US4273310A (en) * | 1978-09-05 | 1981-06-16 | Peter Ginzler | Device for blocking or releasing fluid flow |
US4317244A (en) * | 1980-04-21 | 1982-03-02 | Balfour Richie Gordon A | Mattress cover for an inflatable air mattress |
US4768247A (en) * | 1988-03-14 | 1988-09-06 | Beier John K | Travel Pillow |
US4862533A (en) * | 1987-09-18 | 1989-09-05 | Adams Iii Mark H | Sleeping bag and an air mattress |
US4891855A (en) * | 1988-11-14 | 1990-01-09 | Team Worldwide Corporation | Inflatable suntanner with speedy and homogeneous suntan effect |
US4911405A (en) * | 1988-02-13 | 1990-03-27 | Hewlett-Packard Co. | Valve unit |
US4948092A (en) * | 1990-03-07 | 1990-08-14 | Royce Medical Company | Combined check valve and fluid pressure relief valve |
US4982466A (en) * | 1988-10-12 | 1991-01-08 | Leggett & Platt, Incorporated | Body support system |
US5037062A (en) * | 1988-10-20 | 1991-08-06 | Deutsche Forschungsanstalt Fur Luft- Und Raumfahrt E.V | Quick acting ball valve |
US5040555A (en) * | 1987-09-15 | 1991-08-20 | Cheng Chung Wang | Inflatable umbrella |
US5051060A (en) * | 1989-07-20 | 1991-09-24 | Leybold Aktiengesellschaft | Gas friction pump having an outlet-side helical stage |
US5052894A (en) * | 1988-09-28 | 1991-10-01 | Mangar Aids Limited | Portable compressed air supply with remote control |
US5060324A (en) * | 1990-07-23 | 1991-10-29 | Marinberg Boris V | Inflatable apparatus for immobilizing and changing positions of a patient |
US5085214A (en) * | 1990-10-18 | 1992-02-04 | Twenty-First Century Products, Incorporated | Inflatable cushion for supporting an extremity |
US5102365A (en) * | 1991-04-08 | 1992-04-07 | Team Worldwide Corp. | Inflatable article |
USD328324S (en) * | 1990-02-26 | 1992-07-28 | Team Worldwide Corporation | Inflatable pool lounge |
US5178523A (en) * | 1989-09-11 | 1993-01-12 | Team Worldwide Corporation | Auxiliary package for a bath-pool |
US5186667A (en) * | 1991-09-03 | 1993-02-16 | Team Worldwide Corporation | Floating hammock |
US5288286A (en) * | 1992-02-25 | 1994-02-22 | Davis Albert D | Adjustable pressure cast for orthopedic injuries |
US5450858A (en) * | 1993-02-02 | 1995-09-19 | Zablotsky; Theodore J. | Lumbosacral belt |
US5494258A (en) * | 1993-05-28 | 1996-02-27 | Hewlett-Packard Company | Valve |
US5503618A (en) * | 1994-10-06 | 1996-04-02 | Rey; Rafael R. | Hydromassage pillow |
US5511942A (en) * | 1993-11-04 | 1996-04-30 | Micronel Ag | Axial mini ventilator with parabolic guide vanes |
US5535849A (en) * | 1995-03-13 | 1996-07-16 | Flo-Dynamics, Inc. | Hand held transmission fluid changer |
US5606756A (en) * | 1994-07-14 | 1997-03-04 | Price Manufacturing, Inc. | Air bedding system with diaphragm pump |
US5652484A (en) * | 1994-11-01 | 1997-07-29 | Select Comfort Corporation | Air control system for an air bed |
US5890882A (en) * | 1997-01-06 | 1999-04-06 | Innovative Air Products, Inc. | Inflator with drop-in batteries and universal adapters |
US5941272A (en) * | 1996-12-04 | 1999-08-24 | Imaginair, Inc. | Three way universal valve |
US5962159A (en) * | 1996-04-26 | 1999-10-05 | Sanyo Electric Co., Ltd. | Battery pack which can be attached independent of orientation |
US5970545A (en) * | 1995-05-26 | 1999-10-26 | Mangar International Limited | Support apparatus for use on beds |
US6032080A (en) * | 1995-05-11 | 2000-02-29 | Automated Air Structures, Inc. | Method and apparatus for maintaining an air-supported structure |
US6073289A (en) * | 1997-12-18 | 2000-06-13 | Hill-Rom, Inc. | Air fluidized bed |
US6085555A (en) * | 1998-10-29 | 2000-07-11 | China Textile Institute | Palm-top fabric leading edge detector |
US6098000A (en) * | 1994-06-24 | 2000-08-01 | Mccord Winn Textron Inc. | Interactive, individually controlled, multiple bladder seating comfort adjustment system and method |
US6206654B1 (en) * | 1999-04-15 | 2001-03-27 | Dlm Plastics Corporation | Air mattress inflation apparatus |
US6237621B1 (en) * | 1996-07-19 | 2001-05-29 | Robert B. Chaffee | Valve for inflatable objects |
US6302145B1 (en) * | 1997-08-25 | 2001-10-16 | Hill-Rom Services, Inc. | Valve assembly |
US6397419B1 (en) * | 1999-03-10 | 2002-06-04 | Select Comfort Corporation | System and method for sleep surface adjustment |
US20030028971A1 (en) * | 2001-07-10 | 2003-02-13 | Chaffee Robert B. | Configurable inflatable support devices |
US6543073B2 (en) * | 2001-08-27 | 2003-04-08 | Hsin-Tsai Wu | Inflation seat assembly for an inflatable article |
US20030115000A1 (en) * | 2001-12-13 | 2003-06-19 | Bodas Devadatta V. | Method to estimate power and cooling requirements of systems |
US6719401B2 (en) * | 2001-04-17 | 2004-04-13 | Seiko Epson Corporation | Ink ejectability maintenance device and ink jet printer incorporating the same |
US6836914B1 (en) * | 2003-06-27 | 2005-01-04 | Lung-Po Tsai | Air-cushioned bed with built in air blower |
US20050044634A1 (en) * | 2003-08-25 | 2005-03-03 | Cheng-Chung Wang | Self inflatable mattress with at least two isolated chambers |
US6955527B2 (en) * | 2003-05-29 | 2005-10-18 | Stanley Yen | Two-way mounting air pump with an inflation mode and a deflation mode |
US7025576B2 (en) * | 2001-03-30 | 2006-04-11 | Chaffee Robert B | Pump with axial conduit |
US20060123549A1 (en) * | 2000-05-17 | 2006-06-15 | Chaffee Robert B | Inflatable device with recessed fluid controller and modified adjustment device |
US7120955B2 (en) * | 2001-06-22 | 2006-10-17 | Team Worldwide Corporation | Inflatable product provided with electric air pump |
US7127762B1 (en) * | 2005-05-12 | 2006-10-31 | Ideal Time Consultants Limited | Inflatable product with stowable pump |
US7284291B2 (en) * | 2005-03-25 | 2007-10-23 | Cheng-Chung Wang | Inflatable product with an integrated pump |
US7334274B2 (en) * | 2003-09-17 | 2008-02-26 | Cheng-Chung Wang | Swirling bathing tub |
US7475440B2 (en) * | 2001-07-10 | 2009-01-13 | Chaffee Robert B | Inflatable device forming mattresses and cushions |
US7644724B2 (en) * | 2000-05-17 | 2010-01-12 | Robert Chaffee | Valve with electromechanical device for actuating the valve |
Family Cites Families (84)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US625114A (en) * | 1899-05-16 | Inflation-valve | ||
US633968A (en) * | 1899-06-22 | 1899-09-26 | Charles A Hunt | Mattress. |
US679519A (en) * | 1900-12-31 | 1901-07-30 | Lyman T Smith | Valve for pneumatic tires. |
US827823A (en) * | 1906-02-26 | 1906-08-07 | George L Starr | Fluid-pressure brake. |
US847758A (en) * | 1906-05-09 | 1907-03-19 | Clara C Frye | Surgical appliance. |
US1361453A (en) * | 1919-08-25 | 1920-12-07 | Hannah H Frey | Cushion |
US1451136A (en) * | 1921-08-10 | 1923-04-10 | Benjamin F Allnutt | Filling tube for liquid receptacles |
US2064695A (en) * | 1935-06-11 | 1936-12-15 | Nathaniel L Foster | Air valve |
US2456690A (en) * | 1942-08-28 | 1948-12-21 | United Shoe Machinery Corp | Fluid-pressure-operated mechanism |
US3026909A (en) * | 1959-03-27 | 1962-03-27 | Grinnell Corp | Reinforced diaphragm |
US3099386A (en) * | 1960-09-30 | 1963-07-30 | Howard B Pieper | Portable blower |
US3068494A (en) * | 1961-01-16 | 1962-12-18 | Monroe Fabricators Inc | Air pump for inflatable structures |
US3112502A (en) * | 1961-05-03 | 1963-12-03 | Hodgman Rubber Company | Pump for air matresses |
US3142850A (en) * | 1962-08-13 | 1964-08-04 | Knapp Monarch Co | Inflator for co2 inflation device |
US3505695A (en) * | 1967-10-05 | 1970-04-14 | Stebco Ind Inc | Strain separable inflation gauge for inflatable articles |
US3563676A (en) * | 1968-10-21 | 1971-02-16 | Pioneer Rubber Co The | Balloon inflater apparatus |
AU458068B2 (en) * | 1971-02-05 | 1975-01-30 | YAT CHUEN YUEN and KIN SUN YUEN | Inflatable mattresses and cushions |
US3755832A (en) * | 1972-04-03 | 1973-09-04 | L Bennett | Self-enclosed folding bed |
US4080105A (en) * | 1975-07-14 | 1978-03-21 | Connell Edwin E | Tire inflator |
US3995653A (en) * | 1975-08-01 | 1976-12-07 | Mackal Glenn H | Inflation device |
US4146070A (en) * | 1977-07-29 | 1979-03-27 | Signode Corporation | Dunnage bag inflation air gun |
US4146069A (en) * | 1977-07-29 | 1979-03-27 | Signode Corporation | Apparatus for rapidly inflating and pressurizing a dunnage bag |
US4175297A (en) * | 1978-02-03 | 1979-11-27 | Richardson Robert H | Inflatable pillow support |
US4213745A (en) * | 1978-09-11 | 1980-07-22 | Roberts Samuel A | Pump for central heating system |
US4225989A (en) * | 1978-10-05 | 1980-10-07 | Glynwed Group Services Limited | Inflatable supports |
US4300759A (en) * | 1980-03-31 | 1981-11-17 | Amf Incorporated | Inflatable aquatic exerciser |
US4521166A (en) * | 1981-11-02 | 1985-06-04 | Phillips William E | Inflatable air pump |
US4829616A (en) * | 1985-10-25 | 1989-05-16 | Walker Robert A | Air control system for air bed |
US4897890A (en) * | 1983-01-05 | 1990-02-06 | Walker Robert A | Air control system for air bed |
US4594743A (en) * | 1984-07-10 | 1986-06-17 | Siesta Corp. | Air support bed |
DE3428650C2 (en) * | 1984-08-03 | 1986-08-14 | Braun Ag, 6000 Frankfurt | Hair dryer with axial fan |
US4678014A (en) * | 1984-11-05 | 1987-07-07 | Siesta Corporation | Inflator/deflator with molded housing |
US4692091A (en) * | 1985-09-23 | 1987-09-08 | Ritenour Paul E | Low noise fan |
GB8529809D0 (en) * | 1985-12-04 | 1986-01-15 | Dermalex Co Ltd | Air supply & control apparatus |
US4734017A (en) * | 1986-08-07 | 1988-03-29 | Levin Mark R | Air blower |
JPH01193460A (en) * | 1988-01-27 | 1989-08-03 | Mitsubishi Electric Corp | Elevator winding-up device |
US4990060A (en) * | 1989-03-20 | 1991-02-05 | Team Worldwide Corporation | Air pump with secondary air inlet |
CN2050703U (en) * | 1989-04-14 | 1990-01-10 | 张翀 | Pulsatingly air-stuffing sofa |
US4897980A (en) * | 1989-06-05 | 1990-02-06 | James River Corporation | Apparatus for forming a bulk package |
US5267363A (en) | 1989-07-25 | 1993-12-07 | Chaffee Robert B | Pneumatic support system |
US4977633A (en) | 1989-07-25 | 1990-12-18 | Chaffee Robert B | Collapsible air bed |
US5068933A (en) * | 1990-11-07 | 1991-12-03 | Sexton Eugene D | Air comfort pillow |
US5144708A (en) | 1991-02-26 | 1992-09-08 | Dielectrics Industries | Check valve for fluid bladders |
JPH0568630A (en) * | 1991-09-13 | 1993-03-23 | Matsushita Electric Works Ltd | Internal pressure holding device for air mat |
JP2616856B2 (en) * | 1991-11-20 | 1997-06-04 | 富士ロビン株式会社 | Remote control device for portable fire pump |
US5170522A (en) * | 1991-12-16 | 1992-12-15 | Select Comfort Corporation | Air adjustable bed |
US5203808A (en) * | 1992-01-08 | 1993-04-20 | Ide Russell D | Water bed with compact built-in drain pump |
DE69308057T2 (en) * | 1992-04-14 | 1997-05-28 | Ebara Corp | Pump housing in sheet metal construction |
US5216769A (en) * | 1992-09-03 | 1993-06-08 | Eakin Byron C | Foldable bed |
US5249319A (en) * | 1992-09-09 | 1993-10-05 | Mellen Air Manufacturing, Inc. | Low air loss, pressure relieving mattress system |
US5406661A (en) | 1993-09-15 | 1995-04-18 | Reebok International Ltd. | Preloaded fluid bladder with integral pump |
DE4413445C2 (en) * | 1994-04-18 | 1996-02-01 | Josef Graf | Method for producing an air mattress with a part acting as a pump and a part to be inflated by the pump |
US5491854A (en) * | 1994-05-19 | 1996-02-20 | Music; Earl D. | Inflatable mattress and bed assembly with taut, tensioned cover |
JP3182307B2 (en) * | 1994-12-27 | 2001-07-03 | 株式会社荏原製作所 | All circumferential pump |
US5598593A (en) * | 1995-02-10 | 1997-02-04 | Aqua-Leisure Industries, Inc. | Inflatable air bed |
US5727270A (en) * | 1995-06-07 | 1998-03-17 | Airceltec Inc. | Valveless self sealing fluid or gas container |
FR2737095B1 (en) * | 1995-07-26 | 1997-10-31 | Parienti Raoul | PARASOL COOLING MATTRESS WITH INFLATION, DEFLATION, AUTOMATIC FOLDING USING SOLAR ENERGY |
US5893609A (en) * | 1997-06-20 | 1999-04-13 | Mccord Winn Textron Inc. | Air pumping system for an automotive seat |
US5904172A (en) * | 1997-07-28 | 1999-05-18 | Select Comfort Corporation | Valve enclosure assembly |
US6206544B1 (en) * | 1997-08-15 | 2001-03-27 | Paul D. Costa | Catadioptric lens system for collecting and directing light from large aperture luminescent light illuminating fixtures |
CN2334273Y (en) * | 1997-11-06 | 1999-08-25 | 刘善瑶 | Inflated health care mattress |
EP0916812B1 (en) | 1997-11-17 | 2003-03-05 | ALSTOM (Switzerland) Ltd | Final stage for an axial turbine |
DE29721150U1 (en) * | 1997-11-28 | 1998-02-12 | Chang, Chung Tai, Yung Kang Shih, Tainan | Inflatable warm bed |
CA2323108C (en) | 1998-03-11 | 2004-12-14 | Sleep Tec, Inc. | Sleeper sofa with an air mattress |
NL1009759C2 (en) * | 1998-07-28 | 2000-02-01 | Vogel Willi Ag | Rotation device. |
WO2000009890A1 (en) * | 1998-08-13 | 2000-02-24 | Chaffee Robert B | A switchable inflation device |
US6651283B1 (en) * | 1998-08-24 | 2003-11-25 | The Nautilus Group, Inc. | Air bed |
US6129524A (en) * | 1998-12-07 | 2000-10-10 | Turbodyne Systems, Inc. | Motor-driven centrifugal air compressor with axial airflow |
US6287095B1 (en) * | 1999-07-05 | 2001-09-11 | Intex Recreation Corp. | Internal air pump for inflatables |
US6206644B1 (en) * | 1999-08-06 | 2001-03-27 | Microbar Systems, Inc. | Compact dual pump |
US6722306B1 (en) * | 2000-01-27 | 2004-04-20 | Team Worldwide Corporation | Air pump having minimum number of parts |
US6296459B1 (en) * | 2000-02-15 | 2001-10-02 | Intex Recreation Corp. | Electric air pump having multiple impellers and method |
USD446284S1 (en) | 2000-02-18 | 2001-08-07 | Robert Chaffee | Hand-held pump |
US6332760B1 (en) * | 2000-04-04 | 2001-12-25 | Team Worldwide Corporation | Inflatable product provided with built-in battery case and socket |
USD445284S1 (en) * | 2000-06-21 | 2001-07-24 | Yi-Chen Chen | Dispenser |
US6659737B2 (en) * | 2001-02-05 | 2003-12-09 | Engineered Machined Products, Inc. | Electronic fluid pump with an encapsulated stator assembly |
US6550086B2 (en) * | 2001-07-20 | 2003-04-22 | Boyd Flotation, Inc. | Airbed valve system |
US6701559B2 (en) * | 2001-08-01 | 2004-03-09 | Aero Products International, Inc. | Increased height inflatable support system |
US6530751B1 (en) * | 2001-08-23 | 2003-03-11 | Supertrend International Inc. | Device for controlling air filling and exhausting of an air cushion |
TW529685U (en) * | 2001-11-28 | 2003-04-21 | Jeng-Tzung Wang | Air valve device |
US6571412B1 (en) * | 2002-03-28 | 2003-06-03 | Shang Neug Wu | Multiple tubes combination structure |
US6709246B2 (en) * | 2002-05-07 | 2004-03-23 | Boyd Flotation, Inc. | Inflation/deflation device having spring biased value |
DE20211675U1 (en) * | 2002-07-29 | 2002-09-19 | Yen, Stanley, Taipeh/T'ai-pei | air pump |
US7322801B2 (en) * | 2003-08-26 | 2008-01-29 | Thomas Industries Inc. | Compact linear air pump and valve package |
-
2001
- 2001-05-17 DE DE2001633382 patent/DE60133382T2/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
- 2001-05-17 AU AU2001261673A patent/AU2001261673B2/en not_active Expired
- 2001-05-17 SG SG200407907-5A patent/SG152903A1/en unknown
- 2001-05-17 CA CA 2735313 patent/CA2735313C/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
- 2001-05-17 PL PL01365174A patent/PL365174A1/en not_active IP Right Cessation
- 2001-05-17 EP EP20010935594 patent/EP1284624B1/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
- 2001-05-17 CN CN2005100045056A patent/CN1632324B/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
- 2001-05-17 AU AU6167301A patent/AU6167301A/en active Pending
- 2001-05-17 JP JP2001583596A patent/JP5060008B2/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
- 2001-05-17 CN CNB018096832A patent/CN1191777C/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
- 2001-05-17 KR KR1020027015467A patent/KR20030015245A/en not_active Application Discontinuation
- 2001-05-17 US US09/859,706 patent/US7039972B2/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
- 2001-05-17 CA CA 2596504 patent/CA2596504C/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
- 2001-05-17 AT AT01935594T patent/ATE390066T1/en not_active IP Right Cessation
- 2001-05-17 CA CA 2408536 patent/CA2408536C/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
- 2001-05-17 WO PCT/US2001/015834 patent/WO2001087121A2/en active Application Filing
- 2001-05-17 MX MXPA02011252A patent/MXPA02011252A/en active IP Right Grant
- 2001-05-17 BR BR0110869A patent/BR0110869B1/en not_active IP Right Cessation
-
2006
- 2006-02-01 US US11/345,193 patent/US20060123549A1/en not_active Abandoned
- 2006-03-07 US US11/369,651 patent/US20060143832A1/en not_active Abandoned
-
2007
- 2007-02-02 AU AU2007200447A patent/AU2007200447C1/en not_active Expired
-
2008
- 2008-06-05 US US12/134,183 patent/US20080229508A1/en not_active Abandoned
-
2011
- 2011-03-28 US US13/073,641 patent/US20110167564A1/en not_active Abandoned
Patent Citations (103)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US3123336A (en) * | 1964-03-03 | Diaphragm valves | ||
US1185684A (en) * | 1905-02-03 | 1916-06-06 | Schrader S Son Inc | Valve for pneumatic pillows and other articles. |
US1263599A (en) * | 1917-12-08 | 1918-04-23 | Ashton Hamilton | Pneumatic-tire valve. |
US2028060A (en) * | 1935-09-07 | 1936-01-14 | Gilbert Eskell | Protector |
US2112641A (en) * | 1936-09-25 | 1938-03-29 | Aw Wheaton Brass Works | Safety vent valve |
US2168774A (en) * | 1938-07-08 | 1939-08-08 | Automatic Switch Co | Solenoid valve |
US2288889A (en) * | 1939-05-12 | 1942-07-07 | Francis J Costello | Valve |
US2285324A (en) * | 1941-11-12 | 1942-06-02 | Bennett Alexander Edgar | Check valve operator |
US2482198A (en) * | 1944-09-05 | 1949-09-20 | Parker Appliance Co | Valve structure |
US2565406A (en) * | 1948-07-08 | 1951-08-21 | Stennitt Thomas | Power-operable wood-splitting machine |
US2767735A (en) * | 1951-10-24 | 1956-10-23 | Dumont Aircraft Fitting Compan | Valve device |
US2701579A (en) * | 1952-01-02 | 1955-02-08 | Goodrich Co B F | Inflating valve for inflatable articles |
US2823668A (en) * | 1953-10-12 | 1958-02-18 | Carl P Van Court | Inflatable splint |
US2803527A (en) * | 1956-07-06 | 1957-08-20 | Robert O Lundahl | Portable electric fan unit |
US2949927A (en) * | 1957-10-10 | 1960-08-23 | Henry H Mackal | Resilient inflation-deflation valve |
US2990070A (en) * | 1958-12-30 | 1961-06-27 | Walton W Cushman | Pneumatic dunnage |
US3086698A (en) * | 1961-03-03 | 1963-04-23 | Goldstein Mayer | Portable blower |
US3367819A (en) * | 1961-12-22 | 1968-02-06 | Goodrich Co B F | Method of making inflatable dunnage bag |
US3095901A (en) * | 1962-03-16 | 1963-07-02 | Vincent H Larson | Rapid opening valve |
US3164151A (en) * | 1962-12-14 | 1965-01-05 | Nicoll Esmond D Vere | Inflatable splint |
US3208721A (en) * | 1963-04-30 | 1965-09-28 | Raybestos Manhattan Inc | Valve diaphragm |
US3424151A (en) * | 1966-01-03 | 1969-01-28 | Kendall & Co | Inflatable splint |
US3403696A (en) * | 1966-10-20 | 1968-10-01 | Pynchon George | Silent check-valve |
US3462775A (en) * | 1967-02-24 | 1969-08-26 | Bernhard Markwitz | Supporting means to prevent parts of the body from contracting bed-sores |
US3459363A (en) * | 1967-12-21 | 1969-08-05 | United States Steel Corp | Valve-unloading mechanism for reciprocating pumps |
US3511472A (en) * | 1968-01-12 | 1970-05-12 | American Air Filter Co | Limiting flow valve |
US3610235A (en) * | 1968-05-30 | 1971-10-05 | Semperit Ag | Artificial hip joint |
US3665958A (en) * | 1968-09-16 | 1972-05-30 | Gpe Controls Inc | Vent closure device |
US3561435A (en) * | 1968-11-15 | 1971-02-09 | Dev Inc | Combined splint and coolant container |
US3762404A (en) * | 1969-08-21 | 1973-10-02 | Olympic Surgical Co Inc | Positioning aid |
US3667075A (en) * | 1970-02-24 | 1972-06-06 | Wesley D Ballard | Mattress spring bellows assembly as for hospitals, and the like |
US3667625A (en) * | 1970-08-05 | 1972-06-06 | Goodyear Tire & Rubber | Dunnage device |
US3829918A (en) * | 1970-09-30 | 1974-08-20 | P Stamberger | Means for increasing the air pressure within self-inflated hollow bodies for use as cushions and for like purposes |
US3719401A (en) * | 1971-04-28 | 1973-03-06 | Fiat Spa | Solenoid-operated hydraulic switching valve |
US3785395A (en) * | 1972-01-19 | 1974-01-15 | B Andreasson | Air valves |
US3898703A (en) * | 1972-02-22 | 1975-08-12 | Paul Stamberger | Method and means for increasing the air pressure within self-inflated hollow bodies for use as cushions and for like purposes |
US3831628A (en) * | 1973-03-13 | 1974-08-27 | E Kintner | Check valve |
US3899797A (en) * | 1973-04-09 | 1975-08-19 | Schwartzman Morris | Inflatable structural component |
US4068334A (en) * | 1976-06-04 | 1978-01-17 | Harry E. Grover | Inflatable body support apparatus |
US4168063A (en) * | 1978-04-19 | 1979-09-18 | Rowland George D | Inflatable athletic wrist movement restraint |
US4273310A (en) * | 1978-09-05 | 1981-06-16 | Peter Ginzler | Device for blocking or releasing fluid flow |
US4266298A (en) * | 1980-01-31 | 1981-05-12 | Marlene S. Mindey | Inflatable heel protector |
US4266298B1 (en) * | 1980-01-31 | 1996-05-21 | Mindey Marlene S | Inflatable heel protector |
US4317244A (en) * | 1980-04-21 | 1982-03-02 | Balfour Richie Gordon A | Mattress cover for an inflatable air mattress |
US5040555A (en) * | 1987-09-15 | 1991-08-20 | Cheng Chung Wang | Inflatable umbrella |
US4862533A (en) * | 1987-09-18 | 1989-09-05 | Adams Iii Mark H | Sleeping bag and an air mattress |
US4911405A (en) * | 1988-02-13 | 1990-03-27 | Hewlett-Packard Co. | Valve unit |
US4768247A (en) * | 1988-03-14 | 1988-09-06 | Beier John K | Travel Pillow |
US5052894A (en) * | 1988-09-28 | 1991-10-01 | Mangar Aids Limited | Portable compressed air supply with remote control |
US4982466A (en) * | 1988-10-12 | 1991-01-08 | Leggett & Platt, Incorporated | Body support system |
US5037062A (en) * | 1988-10-20 | 1991-08-06 | Deutsche Forschungsanstalt Fur Luft- Und Raumfahrt E.V | Quick acting ball valve |
US4891855A (en) * | 1988-11-14 | 1990-01-09 | Team Worldwide Corporation | Inflatable suntanner with speedy and homogeneous suntan effect |
US5051060A (en) * | 1989-07-20 | 1991-09-24 | Leybold Aktiengesellschaft | Gas friction pump having an outlet-side helical stage |
US5178523A (en) * | 1989-09-11 | 1993-01-12 | Team Worldwide Corporation | Auxiliary package for a bath-pool |
USD328324S (en) * | 1990-02-26 | 1992-07-28 | Team Worldwide Corporation | Inflatable pool lounge |
US4948092A (en) * | 1990-03-07 | 1990-08-14 | Royce Medical Company | Combined check valve and fluid pressure relief valve |
US5060324A (en) * | 1990-07-23 | 1991-10-29 | Marinberg Boris V | Inflatable apparatus for immobilizing and changing positions of a patient |
US5085214A (en) * | 1990-10-18 | 1992-02-04 | Twenty-First Century Products, Incorporated | Inflatable cushion for supporting an extremity |
US5102365A (en) * | 1991-04-08 | 1992-04-07 | Team Worldwide Corp. | Inflatable article |
US5186667A (en) * | 1991-09-03 | 1993-02-16 | Team Worldwide Corporation | Floating hammock |
US5288286A (en) * | 1992-02-25 | 1994-02-22 | Davis Albert D | Adjustable pressure cast for orthopedic injuries |
US5450858A (en) * | 1993-02-02 | 1995-09-19 | Zablotsky; Theodore J. | Lumbosacral belt |
US5494258A (en) * | 1993-05-28 | 1996-02-27 | Hewlett-Packard Company | Valve |
US5511942A (en) * | 1993-11-04 | 1996-04-30 | Micronel Ag | Axial mini ventilator with parabolic guide vanes |
US6098000A (en) * | 1994-06-24 | 2000-08-01 | Mccord Winn Textron Inc. | Interactive, individually controlled, multiple bladder seating comfort adjustment system and method |
US5606756A (en) * | 1994-07-14 | 1997-03-04 | Price Manufacturing, Inc. | Air bedding system with diaphragm pump |
US5503618A (en) * | 1994-10-06 | 1996-04-02 | Rey; Rafael R. | Hydromassage pillow |
US5652484A (en) * | 1994-11-01 | 1997-07-29 | Select Comfort Corporation | Air control system for an air bed |
US6037723A (en) * | 1994-11-01 | 2000-03-14 | Select Comfort Corporation | Air control system for an air bed |
US5535849A (en) * | 1995-03-13 | 1996-07-16 | Flo-Dynamics, Inc. | Hand held transmission fluid changer |
US6032080A (en) * | 1995-05-11 | 2000-02-29 | Automated Air Structures, Inc. | Method and apparatus for maintaining an air-supported structure |
US5970545A (en) * | 1995-05-26 | 1999-10-26 | Mangar International Limited | Support apparatus for use on beds |
US5962159A (en) * | 1996-04-26 | 1999-10-05 | Sanyo Electric Co., Ltd. | Battery pack which can be attached independent of orientation |
US6237621B1 (en) * | 1996-07-19 | 2001-05-29 | Robert B. Chaffee | Valve for inflatable objects |
US5941272A (en) * | 1996-12-04 | 1999-08-24 | Imaginair, Inc. | Three way universal valve |
US5890882A (en) * | 1997-01-06 | 1999-04-06 | Innovative Air Products, Inc. | Inflator with drop-in batteries and universal adapters |
US6439264B1 (en) * | 1997-08-25 | 2002-08-27 | Hill-Rom Services, Inc. | Valve assembly |
US6302145B1 (en) * | 1997-08-25 | 2001-10-16 | Hill-Rom Services, Inc. | Valve assembly |
US6073289A (en) * | 1997-12-18 | 2000-06-13 | Hill-Rom, Inc. | Air fluidized bed |
US6085555A (en) * | 1998-10-29 | 2000-07-11 | China Textile Institute | Palm-top fabric leading edge detector |
US6397419B1 (en) * | 1999-03-10 | 2002-06-04 | Select Comfort Corporation | System and method for sleep surface adjustment |
US6206654B1 (en) * | 1999-04-15 | 2001-03-27 | Dlm Plastics Corporation | Air mattress inflation apparatus |
US20110167564A1 (en) * | 2000-05-17 | 2011-07-14 | Chaffee Robert B | Inflatable device with recessed fluid controller and modified adjustment device |
US7644724B2 (en) * | 2000-05-17 | 2010-01-12 | Robert Chaffee | Valve with electromechanical device for actuating the valve |
US20060143832A1 (en) * | 2000-05-17 | 2006-07-06 | Chaffee Robert B | Inflatable device with recessed fluid controller and modified adjustment device |
US20060123549A1 (en) * | 2000-05-17 | 2006-06-15 | Chaffee Robert B | Inflatable device with recessed fluid controller and modified adjustment device |
US8016572B2 (en) * | 2001-03-30 | 2011-09-13 | Chaffee Robert B | Pump with axial conduit |
US7025576B2 (en) * | 2001-03-30 | 2006-04-11 | Chaffee Robert B | Pump with axial conduit |
US6719401B2 (en) * | 2001-04-17 | 2004-04-13 | Seiko Epson Corporation | Ink ejectability maintenance device and ink jet printer incorporating the same |
US7246394B2 (en) * | 2001-06-22 | 2007-07-24 | Team Worldwide Corporation | Inflatable product with built-in housing and switching pipe |
US7120955B2 (en) * | 2001-06-22 | 2006-10-17 | Team Worldwide Corporation | Inflatable product provided with electric air pump |
US7152265B2 (en) * | 2001-06-22 | 2006-12-26 | Team Worldwide Corporation | Inflatable product provided with electric air pump |
US7313837B2 (en) * | 2001-06-22 | 2008-01-01 | Team Worldwide Corporation | Inflatable product provided with electric air pump |
US20030028971A1 (en) * | 2001-07-10 | 2003-02-13 | Chaffee Robert B. | Configurable inflatable support devices |
US7475440B2 (en) * | 2001-07-10 | 2009-01-13 | Chaffee Robert B | Inflatable device forming mattresses and cushions |
US6543073B2 (en) * | 2001-08-27 | 2003-04-08 | Hsin-Tsai Wu | Inflation seat assembly for an inflatable article |
US20030115000A1 (en) * | 2001-12-13 | 2003-06-19 | Bodas Devadatta V. | Method to estimate power and cooling requirements of systems |
US6955527B2 (en) * | 2003-05-29 | 2005-10-18 | Stanley Yen | Two-way mounting air pump with an inflation mode and a deflation mode |
US6836914B1 (en) * | 2003-06-27 | 2005-01-04 | Lung-Po Tsai | Air-cushioned bed with built in air blower |
US20050044634A1 (en) * | 2003-08-25 | 2005-03-03 | Cheng-Chung Wang | Self inflatable mattress with at least two isolated chambers |
US7334274B2 (en) * | 2003-09-17 | 2008-02-26 | Cheng-Chung Wang | Swirling bathing tub |
US7284291B2 (en) * | 2005-03-25 | 2007-10-23 | Cheng-Chung Wang | Inflatable product with an integrated pump |
US7127762B1 (en) * | 2005-05-12 | 2006-10-31 | Ideal Time Consultants Limited | Inflatable product with stowable pump |
Cited By (8)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US8413674B2 (en) | 2000-05-17 | 2013-04-09 | Robert B. Chaffee | Valve with electromechanical device for actuating the valve |
US8826478B2 (en) | 2000-05-17 | 2014-09-09 | Robert B. Chaffee | Inflatable device forming mattresses and cushions |
US9279430B2 (en) | 2000-05-17 | 2016-03-08 | Robert B. Chaffee | Pump with axial conduit |
US9279510B2 (en) | 2000-05-17 | 2016-03-08 | Robert B. Chaffee | Valve with electromechanical device for actuating the valve |
US8776293B2 (en) | 2001-03-30 | 2014-07-15 | Robert B. Chaffee | Pump with axial conduit |
US9737153B2 (en) | 2001-07-10 | 2017-08-22 | Robert B. Chaffee | Configurable inflatable support devices |
US20120090698A1 (en) * | 2010-09-27 | 2012-04-19 | Giori Gualtiero G | Pressure control and feedback system for an adjustable foam support apparatus |
US9345335B2 (en) * | 2010-09-27 | 2016-05-24 | Gualtiero G. Giori | Pressure control and feedback system for an adjustable foam support apparatus |
Also Published As
Similar Documents
Publication | Publication Date | Title |
---|---|---|
US7039972B2 (en) | Inflatable device with recessed fluid controller and modified adjustment device | |
AU2001261673A1 (en) | Inflatable device with recessed fluid controller and modified adjustment device | |
US9803747B2 (en) | Inflatable device with recessed fluid controller and self-sealing valve | |
US8413674B2 (en) | Valve with electromechanical device for actuating the valve | |
RU2271129C2 (en) | Inflatable apparatus with deepened fluid control means and control panel |
Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
---|---|---|---|
STCB | Information on status: application discontinuation |
Free format text: ABANDONED -- FAILURE TO RESPOND TO AN OFFICE ACTION |