WO2007021739A1 - Inflatable support system having thermoplastic polyurethane construction - Google Patents
Inflatable support system having thermoplastic polyurethane construction Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- WO2007021739A1 WO2007021739A1 PCT/US2006/031026 US2006031026W WO2007021739A1 WO 2007021739 A1 WO2007021739 A1 WO 2007021739A1 US 2006031026 W US2006031026 W US 2006031026W WO 2007021739 A1 WO2007021739 A1 WO 2007021739A1
- Authority
- WO
- WIPO (PCT)
- Prior art keywords
- flange
- support system
- thermoplastic polyurethane
- layer
- inflatable support
- Prior art date
Links
- 239000004433 Thermoplastic polyurethane Substances 0.000 title claims abstract description 85
- 229920002803 thermoplastic polyurethane Polymers 0.000 title claims abstract description 85
- 238000010276 construction Methods 0.000 title description 5
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 31
- 239000004744 fabric Substances 0.000 claims description 22
- 238000003466 welding Methods 0.000 claims description 21
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 claims description 19
- 239000007788 liquid Substances 0.000 claims description 10
- 238000002844 melting Methods 0.000 claims description 3
- 230000008018 melting Effects 0.000 claims description 3
- 239000008188 pellet Substances 0.000 claims description 3
- 229920000728 polyester Polymers 0.000 claims description 3
- 238000010438 heat treatment Methods 0.000 claims 3
- 238000001816 cooling Methods 0.000 claims 2
- 238000005520 cutting process Methods 0.000 claims 2
- 238000010030 laminating Methods 0.000 claims 2
- 238000004519 manufacturing process Methods 0.000 claims 1
- 239000004800 polyvinyl chloride Substances 0.000 description 9
- 229920000915 polyvinyl chloride Polymers 0.000 description 9
- 229920001971 elastomer Polymers 0.000 description 2
- 239000006260 foam Substances 0.000 description 2
- HGUFODBRKLSHSI-UHFFFAOYSA-N 2,3,7,8-tetrachloro-dibenzo-p-dioxin Chemical compound O1C2=CC(Cl)=C(Cl)C=C2OC2=C1C=C(Cl)C(Cl)=C2 HGUFODBRKLSHSI-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- VEXZGXHMUGYJMC-UHFFFAOYSA-M Chloride anion Chemical compound [Cl-] VEXZGXHMUGYJMC-UHFFFAOYSA-M 0.000 description 1
- 230000000052 comparative effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000003247 decreasing effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000001419 dependent effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000000694 effects Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000003292 glue Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000012856 packing Methods 0.000 description 1
- 229920002635 polyurethane Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 239000004814 polyurethane Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000000126 substance Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000005303 weighing Methods 0.000 description 1
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
- A47C27/087—Fluid mattresses or cushions with means for connecting opposite sides, e.g. internal ties or strips
-
- 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
Definitions
- the present invention relates to the field of inflatable support systems, particularly to an inflatable support system being constructed at least in part from thermoplastic polyurethane material.
- an inflatable support system being constructed at least in part from thermoplastic polyurethane material.
- Inflatable mattresses have been available for many years, and they are commonly used as both temporary and permanent sleeping arrangements. In addition, inflatable mattresses are often used outdoors on camping trips or other overnight trips. Because these mattresses are so often used while traveling, it is desirable to make them as light and portable as possible to minimize packing space and maximize convenience, while at the same time retaining the strength to resist punctures and leakage from the seams under normal use.
- thermoplastic polyurethane a recyclable material that is lighter than polyvinyl chloride (“PVC”) or rubber, materials that have been conventionally used to construct inflatable mattresses.
- PVC polyvinyl chloride
- TPU material has been used in self-inflating mattress pads, but such pads incorporated a foam internal structure that was glued to the TPU sheets.
- the foam structure while adding support to the pads, added a significant amount of weight.
- Such pads were much smaller than conventional inflatable mattresses, usually having a height of no more than two inches. Such a pad in the size of a conventional inflatable mattress would weigh ten pounds or more.
- an inflatable support system comprised of at least one inflatable chamber that is defined by at least a top and a bottom layer of material. At least one of these layers of material is comprised of thermoplastic polyurethane.
- the inflatable support system includes at least one support structure that is also comprised of thermoplastic polyurethane. This support structure is attached to at least one of the layers of material that define the inflatable chamber.
- Also disclosed herein is a method for constructing an inflatable support system by forming a first layer comprised of thermoplastic polyurethane and a second layer comprised of thermoplastic polyurethane. At least one coil is formed from thermoplastic polyurethane and a first end of the coil is attached to the first layer. A second end of the coil is attached to the second layer.
- FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the present invention
- FIG. 2 is an external view of the flange of the present invention
- FIG. 3 is an internal view of the flange of FIG. 2;
- FIG. 4 is an external view of the flange of FIG. 2 with a valve attached;
- FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of the present invention showing the internal coils
- FIG. 6 is an enlarged view of the coils of FIG. 5;
- FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of a coil of FIG. 5 showing the fabric layer and the TPU layer.
- TPU Thermoplastic polyurethane
- PVC polyvinyl chloride
- a mattress constructed from TPU will not leach harmful chemicals such as chloride and dioxin into the environment upon disposal.
- TPU Thermoplastic polyurethane
- the embodiment shown is a double-size inflatable mattress. Other sizes are envisioned, as well as thicker mattresses that incorporate more than one inflatable chamber, such as the raised mattress shown in U.S. Pat. No. 6,704,559.
- the present invention has at least one inflatable substantially airtight chamber 12.
- This inflatable chamber 12 has a top 14 and a bottom 16 layer, each layer 14, 16 being formed from a thin sheet of TPU material 10.
- the TPU material 10 preferably has a thickness of no more than .2mm, and is cut to form the desired mattress size. Greater thicknesses of TPU could also be used if increased strength is needed, but this would also increase the weight of the mattress 12.
- Another piece of TPU material is cut to form a side gusset 18 for the mattress 12.
- the side gusset 18 is welded via sonic or heat welding to the outside edges 20 of the top 14 and the bottom 16 layers.
- the top 14 and bottom 16 layers can be welded to each other at their outer edges 20, thereby eliminating the need for a separate side gusset 18.
- support structures in the form of internal coils shown in Figures 5- 7, are provided.
- TPU is cut into belts, which are then welded via sonic or heat welding to the internal sides 22 of the top 14 and bottom 16 sheets of TPU 10.
- the coils 24 in the illustrated embodiment are welded in a four-sided shape having slightly concave sides, but they could be welded to the top 14 and bottom 16 layers using a more conventional oval shape, or any other shape desired.
- the coils 24 are preferably aligned in parallel rows and have an elongated oval shape in cross-section. The overall effect of the coil shape and arrangement is to form a box-like construction, similar to a conventional mattress. This also adds support and strength to the inflatable mattress 12.
- an embodiment of the present invention includes a flange 26 constructed from TPU material designed to have a valve 28 attached to it for inflation and/or deflation of the inflatable mattress 12.
- a flange would be formed from heavy PVC, thus adding more weight to the mattress.
- the flange 26 is preferably formed by melting TPU material, which can be in the form of TPU pellets, into a liquid form. This liquid is then poured into a flange-shaped mold to Fill the entire mold cavity. The mold is then heated until the TPU material is set. At this point, the mold is opened and the TPU material is allowed to cool.
- the finished flange 26 is attached via heat or sonic welding to the internal wall 30 of the side gusset 18.
- the weld forms a substantially airtight seal around the flange 26.
- the flange 26 can be welded to the internal wall 22 of the top 14 or bottom 16 layer of TPU.
- the finished flange 26 may be designed to accept a valve 28 that allows both inflation and deflation of the inflatable mattress 12 such as that shown in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,627,363; 5,367,726; and 6,237,621.
- a second flange can be formed from TPU and defined on the side gusset 18 for receiving a pump.
- a fabric layer 32 is utilized to provide even more strength without significantly increasing the weight of the inflatable mattress 12.
- a top layer 14, bottom layer 16, and a side gusset 18, if desired, are formed from TPU 10.
- a thin layer of fabric or flocking is then laminated or applied to one side of the TPU sheets using polyurethane glue.
- the opposite side 34 of the TPU sheets is left bare, in order to allow welding of the TPU coils 24 to the internal sides 22 of the top 14 and bottom 16 layers.
- the fabric is 150 Denier polyester, but other types of thin fabric layers could also be utilized. This allows the design of different colored beds, beds having soft coverings or beds having a silk screened design on them.
- the beds can even have a clear construction.
- An example of a TPU layer laminated to a fabric layer 32 and incorporating a TPU coil 24 support structure is most clearly shown in Figures 2-4 and 7.
- the fabric layer 32 is shaded for clarity in these figures.
- the internal wall 30 of the side gusset 18 is shown.
- a double bed formed from TPU including a fabric layer and a TPU flange weighs only about eight pounds, nearly 1/3 less than a conventional PVC inflatable double bed.
- a bed constructed according to the present invention is also able to withstand a 650 pound dead weight test and a life roller test consisting of an octagon roller weighing 180 pounds rolled side to side over the mattress 12 30,000 times.
- Another embodiment of the present invention encompasses a method of constructing an inflatable mattress. First 14 and second 16 layers of TPU 10 are cut from a TPU sheet. If desired, a side gusset 18 is also cut from a TPU sheet. If desired, a layer of fabric 32 is laminated to one side of the TPU sheets 14, 16 as in the previous embodiments.
- TPU coil structures 24 are then formed from TPU material 10, and these coil structures 24 are welded via sonic or heat welding to the sides 22 of the top 14 and bottom 16 TPU sheets opposite the fabric covered sides.
- the side gusset 18 is then welded to the outside edges 20 of the top 14 and bottom 16 sheets in a manner such that TPU is welded to TPU.
- An additional step of forming a flange 24 from TPU may also be included in the method of the present invention.
- a flange mold is supplied and TPU pellets are heated until a liquid is formed. This liquid is poured or injected into the flange mold and the mold may be heated to set the material. Alternatively, the TPU may simply be allowed to cool in the mold until it sets. The fully-formed TPU flange 26 is then removed from the mold. An opening is formed in the side gusset 18, top sheet 14 or bottom sheet 16 to accept the flange 26.
- the flange 26 is then welded via sonic or heat welding in the opening of the side gusset 18 of the inflatable mattress, or to the opening in the top 14 or bottom 16 layer of the inflatable mattress 12 if a side gusset 18 is not provided.
- the flange 26 is welded to the internal wall 30 of the side gusset 18 or the internal wall 22 of the top 14 or bottom 16 sheet of TPU such that TPU is welded to TPU, creating a substantially airtight weld.
- a valve 28 such as the valve 28 shown in Figure 4 can then be attached to the flange 26.
- the entire mattress could also be constructed in any number of shapes and sizes. Furthermore, other methods known in the art can be used to weld the top and bottom layers and side gusset together, as well as attaching the coils and the flange. Additionally, the flange could take any number of shapes, dependent on the type of valve that it is designed for.
- the coils could also be replaced by other structural supports formed from TPU, such as TPU strips that are attached to the top and bottom layers to prevent the top and bottom layers from ballooning out upon inflation.
- the TPU material used to form the top and bottom layers of the bed and the flange can be any type of TPU known to one of skill in the art.
- the TPU can also be mixed with other materials, such as conventional PVC or rubber, before being formed into sheets.
- the TPU used to mold the flange can also contain other materials. Additional layers of material other than fabric could also be incorporated, such as PVC layers which could be laminated or otherwise attached to the TPU layers.
- an inflatable mattress could be formed from conventional PVC material and incorporate a TPU flange.
Landscapes
- Laminated Bodies (AREA)
- Mattresses And Other Support Structures For Chairs And Beds (AREA)
Abstract
An inflatable support system comprised of at least one inflatable chamber that is defined by at least a top and a bottom layer of material. At least one of these layers of material is comprised of thermoplastic polyurethane. The inflatable support system includes at least one support structure that is also comprised of thermoplastic polyurethane. This support structure is attached to at least one of the layers of material that define the inflatable chamber.
Description
"INFLATABLE SUPPORT SYSTEM HAVING THERMOPLASTIC POLYURETHANE CONSTRUCTION"
BACKGROUND
[0001] 1. Field of the Invention
[0002] The present invention relates to the field of inflatable support systems, particularly to an inflatable support system being constructed at least in part from thermoplastic polyurethane material. [0003] 2. Related Art
[0004] Inflatable mattresses have been available for many years, and they are commonly used as both temporary and permanent sleeping arrangements. In addition, inflatable mattresses are often used outdoors on camping trips or other overnight trips. Because these mattresses are so often used while traveling, it is desirable to make them as light and portable as possible to minimize packing space and maximize convenience, while at the same time retaining the strength to resist punctures and leakage from the seams under normal use.
[0005] Furthermore, new inflatable mattresses that more closely resemble conventional mattresses are often very large, sometimes even having multiple chambers. A king-size conventional inflatable mattress that inflates to a height of almost three feet can weigh nearly 125 pounds when deflated. This weight may severely limit its portability.
[0006] These shortcomings are addressed by constructing a mattress from thermoplastic polyurethane ("TPU"), a recyclable material that is lighter than polyvinyl chloride ("PVC") or rubber, materials that have been conventionally used to construct inflatable mattresses. In the past, it has been prohibitively expensive to work with TPU, and as it is very thin, it has been difficult to weld to form the material into inflatable objects that require a rigid structure.
[0007] In the past, TPU material has been used in self-inflating mattress pads, but such pads incorporated a foam internal structure that was glued to the TPU sheets. The foam structure, while adding support to the pads, added a significant amount of weight. Such pads were much smaller than conventional inflatable mattresses, usually having a height of no more than two inches. Such a pad in the size of a conventional inflatable mattress would weigh ten pounds or more.
BRIEF SUMMARY
[0008] Disclosed herein is an inflatable support system comprised of at least one inflatable chamber that is defined by at least a top and a bottom layer of material. At least one of these layers of material is comprised of thermoplastic polyurethane. The inflatable support system includes at least one support structure that is also comprised of thermoplastic polyurethane. This support structure is attached to at least one of the layers of material that define the inflatable chamber.
[0009] Also disclosed herein is a method for constructing an inflatable support system by forming a first layer comprised of thermoplastic polyurethane and a second layer comprised of thermoplastic polyurethane. At least one coil is formed from thermoplastic polyurethane and a first end of the coil is attached to the first layer. A second end of the coil is attached to the second layer.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0010] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the present invention;
[0011] FIG. 2 is an external view of the flange of the present invention;
[0012] FIG. 3 is an internal view of the flange of FIG. 2;
[0013] FIG. 4 is an external view of the flange of FIG. 2 with a valve attached;
[0014] FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of the present invention showing the internal coils;
[0015] FIG. 6 is an enlarged view of the coils of FIG. 5; and
[0016] FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of a coil of FIG. 5 showing the fabric layer and the TPU layer.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS AND THE PRESENTLY PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0017] Referring in combination to Figures 1-6, an embodiment of the present invention is shown. Thermoplastic polyurethane ("TPU") 10, is utilized to create a lighter inflatable mattress that still retains the strength of a heavier, conventional polyvinyl chloride ("PVC") mattress. At the same time, a mattress constructed from TPU will not leach harmful chemicals such as chloride and dioxin into the environment upon disposal.
[0018] While any shape or size mattress or inflatable object can be formed using TPU, the embodiment shown is a double-size inflatable mattress. Other sizes are envisioned, as well as thicker mattresses that incorporate more than one inflatable chamber, such as the raised mattress shown in U.S. Pat. No. 6,704,559. [0019] In the illustrated embodiment, the present invention has at least one inflatable substantially airtight chamber 12. This inflatable chamber 12 has a top 14 and a bottom 16 layer, each layer 14, 16 being formed from a thin sheet of TPU material 10. The TPU material 10 preferably has a thickness of no more than .2mm, and is cut to form the desired mattress size. Greater thicknesses of TPU could also be used if increased strength is needed, but this would also increase the weight of the mattress 12. Another piece of TPU material is cut to form a side gusset 18 for the mattress 12. The side gusset 18 is welded via sonic or heat welding to the outside edges 20 of the top 14 and the bottom 16 layers. Alternatively, the top 14 and bottom 16 layers can be welded to each other at their outer edges 20, thereby eliminating the need for a separate side gusset 18.
[0020] In order to prevent the inflatable mattress 12 from ballooning out on its top and bottom sides, support structures in the form of internal coils, shown in Figures 5- 7, are provided. To create the internal coil construction, TPU is cut into belts, which are then welded via sonic or heat welding to the internal sides 22 of the top 14 and bottom 16 sheets of TPU 10. The coils 24 in the illustrated embodiment are welded in a four-sided shape having slightly concave sides, but they could be welded to the top 14 and bottom 16 layers using a more conventional oval shape, or any other shape desired. The coils 24 are preferably aligned in parallel rows and have an elongated oval shape in cross-section. The overall effect of the coil shape and arrangement is to form a box-like construction, similar to a conventional mattress. This also adds support and strength to the inflatable mattress 12.
[0021] Referring to Figures 1-4, an embodiment of the present invention includes a flange 26 constructed from TPU material designed to have a valve 28 attached to it for inflation and/or deflation of the inflatable mattress 12. On conventional inflatable mattresses, such a flange would be formed from heavy PVC, thus adding more weight to the mattress. In the present embodiment, the flange 26 is preferably formed by melting TPU material, which can be in the form of TPU pellets, into a liquid form.
This liquid is then poured into a flange-shaped mold to Fill the entire mold cavity. The mold is then heated until the TPU material is set. At this point, the mold is opened and the TPU material is allowed to cool. An opening is defined in the side gusset 18, and the finished flange 26 is attached via heat or sonic welding to the internal wall 30 of the side gusset 18. The weld forms a substantially airtight seal around the flange 26. Alternatively, if a side gusset 18 is not used, the flange 26 can be welded to the internal wall 22 of the top 14 or bottom 16 layer of TPU. [0022] The finished flange 26 may be designed to accept a valve 28 that allows both inflation and deflation of the inflatable mattress 12 such as that shown in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,627,363; 5,367,726; and 6,237,621. Alternatively, other types of valves could be used as well as different flange shapes adapted to the specific valves. [0023] In an alternative embodiment of the present invention (not shown), a second flange can be formed from TPU and defined on the side gusset 18 for receiving a pump.
[0024] In another embodiment of the present invention, a fabric layer 32 is utilized to provide even more strength without significantly increasing the weight of the inflatable mattress 12. As in the previous embodiment, a top layer 14, bottom layer 16, and a side gusset 18, if desired, are formed from TPU 10. A thin layer of fabric or flocking is then laminated or applied to one side of the TPU sheets using polyurethane glue. The opposite side 34 of the TPU sheets is left bare, in order to allow welding of the TPU coils 24 to the internal sides 22 of the top 14 and bottom 16 layers. In a preferred embodiment, the fabric is 150 Denier polyester, but other types of thin fabric layers could also be utilized. This allows the design of different colored beds, beds having soft coverings or beds having a silk screened design on them. If no fabric is used, the beds can even have a clear construction. An example of a TPU layer laminated to a fabric layer 32 and incorporating a TPU coil 24 support structure is most clearly shown in Figures 2-4 and 7. The fabric layer 32 is shaded for clarity in these figures. In Figure 2, the internal wall 30 of the side gusset 18 is shown. [0025] As a comparative example of the decreased weight of this inflatable mattress, a double bed formed from TPU including a fabric layer and a TPU flange weighs only about eight pounds, nearly 1/3 less than a conventional PVC inflatable double bed. A bed constructed according to the present invention is also able to
withstand a 650 pound dead weight test and a life roller test consisting of an octagon roller weighing 180 pounds rolled side to side over the mattress 12 30,000 times. [0026] Another embodiment of the present invention encompasses a method of constructing an inflatable mattress. First 14 and second 16 layers of TPU 10 are cut from a TPU sheet. If desired, a side gusset 18 is also cut from a TPU sheet. If desired, a layer of fabric 32 is laminated to one side of the TPU sheets 14, 16 as in the previous embodiments. TPU coil structures 24 are then formed from TPU material 10, and these coil structures 24 are welded via sonic or heat welding to the sides 22 of the top 14 and bottom 16 TPU sheets opposite the fabric covered sides. The side gusset 18 is then welded to the outside edges 20 of the top 14 and bottom 16 sheets in a manner such that TPU is welded to TPU.
[0027] An additional step of forming a flange 24 from TPU may also be included in the method of the present invention. A flange mold is supplied and TPU pellets are heated until a liquid is formed. This liquid is poured or injected into the flange mold and the mold may be heated to set the material. Alternatively, the TPU may simply be allowed to cool in the mold until it sets. The fully-formed TPU flange 26 is then removed from the mold. An opening is formed in the side gusset 18, top sheet 14 or bottom sheet 16 to accept the flange 26. The flange 26 is then welded via sonic or heat welding in the opening of the side gusset 18 of the inflatable mattress, or to the opening in the top 14 or bottom 16 layer of the inflatable mattress 12 if a side gusset 18 is not provided. The flange 26 is welded to the internal wall 30 of the side gusset 18 or the internal wall 22 of the top 14 or bottom 16 sheet of TPU such that TPU is welded to TPU, creating a substantially airtight weld. A valve 28 such as the valve 28 shown in Figure 4 can then be attached to the flange 26. [0028] It should be noted that a wide range of changes could be made to the present embodiments without departing from the scope of the claimed invention. As noted, the welding pattern could take different forms. The entire mattress could also be constructed in any number of shapes and sizes. Furthermore, other methods known in the art can be used to weld the top and bottom layers and side gusset together, as well as attaching the coils and the flange. Additionally, the flange could take any number of shapes, dependent on the type of valve that it is designed for. The coils could also be replaced by other structural supports formed from TPU, such as
TPU strips that are attached to the top and bottom layers to prevent the top and bottom layers from ballooning out upon inflation.
[0029] The TPU material used to form the top and bottom layers of the bed and the flange can be any type of TPU known to one of skill in the art. The TPU can also be mixed with other materials, such as conventional PVC or rubber, before being formed into sheets. The TPU used to mold the flange can also contain other materials. Additional layers of material other than fabric could also be incorporated, such as PVC layers which could be laminated or otherwise attached to the TPU layers. If desired, an inflatable mattress could be formed from conventional PVC material and incorporate a TPU flange.
[0030] It is therefore intended that the foregoing detailed description be regarded as illustrative rather than limiting, and that it be understood that it is the following claims, including all equivalents, that are intended to define the spirit and scope of this invention.
Claims
1. An inflatable support system, said system comprising: at least one inflatable chamber, said inflatable chamber defined by at least a top and a bottom layer of material, at least one of said top and said bottom layers of material comprised of thermoplastic polyurethane; and said inflatable chamber having at least one support structure comprised of thermoplastic polyurethane and being attached to at least one of said top and said bottom layers.
2. The inflatable support system of claim 1 , wherein both said top and said bottom layers are comprised of thermoplastic polyurethane.
3. The inflatable support system of claim 2, wherein said at least one support structure is a coil.
4. The inflatable support system of claim 3, wherein said coil is attached to at least one of said top and said bottom layers by welding.
5. The inflatable support system of claim 1, further comprising at least one thermoplastic polyurethane flange.
6. The inflatable support system of claim 5, further comprising a side gusset connecting said top and bottom layers.
7. The inflatable support system of claim 6, wherein said flange is disposed on said side gusset.
8. The inflatable support system of claim 7, wherein said side gusset is comprised of thermoplastic polyurethane.
9. The inflatable support system of claim 8, wherein said flange is adapted to receive a valve.
10. The inflatable support system of claim 9, wherein a second flange is disposed on said side gusset.
1 1. The inflatable support system of claim 10, wherein said second flange is adapted to receive a pump.
12. The inflatable support system of claim 1 , wherein said thermoplastic polyurethane has a thickness of not more than .2mm.
13. The inflatable support system of claim 1 , wherein a layer of fabric is laminated to at least one side of at least one of said top and said bottom layers.
14. The inflatable support system of claim 13, wherein said fabric is a polyester fabric.
15. The inflatable support system of claim 1, wherein a layer of flocking is applied to at least one side of at least one of said top and said bottom layers.
16. An inflatable support system, said system comprising: a substantially airtight chamber; said substantially airtight chamber defined by a top and a bottom sheet comprised at least partially of thermoplastic polyurethane; said top sheet being laminated on at least one side to a fabric sheet; said bottom sheet being laminated on at least one side to a fabric sheet; and at least one coil attached to said top and said bottom sheets.
17. The inflatable support system of claim 16, further comprising a side gusset, said side gusset being connected to said top and said bottom layers.
18. The inflatable support system of claim 17, further comprising at least one flange comprised of thermoplastic polyurethane defined on said side gusset.
19. The inflatable support system of claim 18, wherein said at least one flange is attached to said side gusset on the inside of said substantially airtight chamber.
20. The inflatable support system of claim 19 further comprising a valve attached to said flange.
21. A method for constructing an inflatable support system, said method comprising the steps of: forming a first layer comprised of thermoplastic polyurethane; forming a second layer comprised of thermoplastic polyurethane; forming at least one coil comprised of thermoplastic polyurethane; attaching a first end of said coil to said first layer; and attaching a second end of said coil to said second layer.
22. The method of claim 21 , further comprising the step of forming a side gusset comprised of thermoplastic polyurethane and attaching said side gusset to said first layer and said second layer.
23. The method of claim 22, further comprising the steps of supplying a flange mold; heating thermoplastic polyurethane pellets until they are in a liquid state; injecting said liquid into said flange mold to form a flange; removing said flange from said mold; and welding said flange to said side gusset.
24. The method of claim 22, further comprising the step of laminating a fabric layer to at least one side of at least one of said first and said second , layers.
25. The method of claim 22, further comprising the step of applying a layer of flocking to at least one side of at least one of said first and said second layers.
26. A method of constructing an inflatable support system, said method comprising the steps of: laminating a fabric layer to a layer of thermoplastic polyurethane to form a sheet; cutting said sheet to form at least a top and a bottom layer; cutting said sheet to form a side gusset; forming at least one coil from a sheet of thermoplastic polyurethane; welding a first end of said coil to said top layer on a side opposite said fabric layer; welding a second end of said coil to said bottom layer on a side opposite said fabric layer; and welding one edge of said side gusset to said top sheet and welding the opposite edge of said side gusset to said bottom sheet to form an inflatable chamber.
27. The method of claim 26, further comprising the steps of: supplying a mold for a flange; melting thermoplastic polyurethane material to form a liquid; injecting said liquid into said mold; heating said mold until said thermoplastic polyurethane is permanently set; opening said mold and cooling said flange; defining an opening in said side gusset; and welding said flange to said side gusset at said opening.
28. The method of claim 27, further comprising the step of attaching a valve to said flange.
29. The method of claim 26, wherein said sheets of thermoplastic polyurethane are not thicker than .2mm.
30. The method of claim 27, wherein said welding steps are performed by sonic welding.
31. The method of claim 27, wherein said welding steps are performed by heat welding.
32. The method of claim 26, wherein said fabric is polyester.
33. A method of manufacturing an inflatable support system, said method comprising the steps of: forming a top and a bottom layer from a flexible, substantially airtight material; forming a side gusset from a flexible, substantially airtight material; welding one edge of said side gusset to said top layer and welding the opposite edge of said side gusset to said bottom layer; supplying a mold for a flange; melting thermoplastic polyurethane material to form a liquid; injecting said liquid into said mold; heating said mold until said thermoplastic polyurethane is set; opening said mold and cooling said flange; defining an opening in said side gusset; and welding said flange to said side gusset at said opening.
Priority Applications (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
EP06801028A EP1924171A1 (en) | 2005-08-12 | 2006-08-09 | Inflatable support system having thermoplastic polyurethane construction |
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US11/202,769 | 2005-08-12 | ||
US11/202,769 US20070033739A1 (en) | 2005-08-12 | 2005-08-12 | Inflatable support system having thermoplastic polyurethane construction |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
WO2007021739A1 true WO2007021739A1 (en) | 2007-02-22 |
Family
ID=37441482
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
PCT/US2006/031026 WO2007021739A1 (en) | 2005-08-12 | 2006-08-09 | Inflatable support system having thermoplastic polyurethane construction |
Country Status (3)
Country | Link |
---|---|
US (2) | US20070033739A1 (en) |
EP (1) | EP1924171A1 (en) |
WO (1) | WO2007021739A1 (en) |
Families Citing this family (8)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US20070056114A1 (en) * | 2005-09-09 | 2007-03-15 | Corey Lewison | Multi-zone coil construction airbed |
US8225443B2 (en) * | 2008-11-26 | 2012-07-24 | Sandra Stefano | Bedpan system |
CN105615393A (en) * | 2016-02-23 | 2016-06-01 | 浙江大自然旅游用品有限公司 | Air inflation product and air inflation product welding process |
US20180326641A1 (en) * | 2016-07-15 | 2018-11-15 | Swo-Chung Chai | Method for manufacturing inflatable mattress and inflatable mattress |
US20190069691A1 (en) * | 2017-09-06 | 2019-03-07 | Tsung Hsi LIU | Inflatable bed |
CN209807775U (en) * | 2018-12-18 | 2019-12-20 | 贝尔格莱维亚伍德有限公司 | Inflatable air cushion |
US20220273116A1 (en) * | 2018-12-18 | 2022-09-01 | Belgravia Wood Limited | Internal support system for an inflatable air mattress |
USD1002241S1 (en) * | 2022-12-12 | 2023-10-24 | Zhejiang Natural Outdoor Goods Inc. | Air mattress |
Citations (7)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US5852839A (en) * | 1993-01-21 | 1998-12-29 | Gancy; Alan Brian | Inflatable devices with flexible walls having spring-like couplings externally of and/or forming part of the walls |
DE19815578C1 (en) * | 1998-04-07 | 1999-08-26 | Heberlein Fasertech Ag | Friction disk for false twisting textile yarns |
EP0982332A1 (en) * | 1998-08-26 | 2000-03-01 | Bayer Corporation | Composition and process for preparation of thermoplastic polyurethanes (tpu based on a polybutadiene soft segment) |
US20020138912A1 (en) * | 2001-04-03 | 2002-10-03 | Luca Minurri | Inflatable air support surface and support element |
US20030066193A1 (en) * | 2001-10-05 | 2003-04-10 | Hsu Chin Cheng | Gel composition that displays changes in temperature through color change and the manufacturing method thereof |
US20050112968A1 (en) * | 2003-11-26 | 2005-05-26 | Panse Dattatreya R. | Patch repair system for collapsible fuel and water tanks |
EP1561880A1 (en) * | 2004-02-09 | 2005-08-10 | Forbo-Giubiasco Sa | Flat covering material comprising filled thermoplastic polyurethane elastomer |
Family Cites Families (96)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US388037A (en) * | 1887-07-23 | 1888-08-21 | Air mattress | |
US539621A (en) * | 1895-02-15 | 1895-05-21 | Thirds to john w | |
US918391A (en) * | 1907-10-29 | 1909-04-13 | Charles Taarud | Pillow. |
US1576211A (en) * | 1925-05-15 | 1926-03-09 | Walter C O'kane | Mattress |
US1944466A (en) * | 1931-01-07 | 1934-01-23 | Rubin Benjamin Charles | Pneumatic mattress |
US2372218A (en) * | 1941-07-25 | 1945-03-27 | Frank G Manson | Pneumatic mattress |
US2369736A (en) * | 1942-12-29 | 1945-02-20 | Us Rubber Co | Pneumatic mattress |
US2415150A (en) * | 1945-06-08 | 1947-02-04 | Stein Michael Russell | Pneumatic mattress |
US2434641A (en) * | 1946-02-20 | 1948-01-20 | Henry L Burns | Resilient seat cushion |
US2604641A (en) * | 1947-02-11 | 1952-07-29 | Stanley F Reed | Inflatable mattress |
US2672628A (en) * | 1947-10-30 | 1954-03-23 | Abraham N Spanel | Utility device for infants |
US2549597A (en) * | 1948-03-10 | 1951-04-17 | New York Rubber Corp | Inflatable mattress for cribs and the like |
US2703770A (en) * | 1952-04-15 | 1955-03-08 | Melzer Jean | Manufacture of flat inflatable objects |
US2741780A (en) * | 1953-03-31 | 1956-04-17 | Kimbrig Louis | Inflatable mattress core |
US2842783A (en) * | 1956-02-27 | 1958-07-15 | Plastimayd Products Corp | Air mattress |
US2853720A (en) * | 1956-05-04 | 1958-09-30 | Davis Products Inc | Inflatable mattress |
US3042941A (en) * | 1959-01-20 | 1962-07-10 | Hampshire Mfg Corp | Inflatable mattress |
US3251075A (en) * | 1962-06-27 | 1966-05-17 | Better Living Inv S | Inflatable pillow |
US3128480A (en) * | 1962-11-09 | 1964-04-14 | Thomas J Lineback | Inflatable mattress or the like |
US3274624A (en) * | 1964-04-28 | 1966-09-27 | Claude J Noerdinger | Inflatable air mattress |
US3600726A (en) * | 1969-03-17 | 1971-08-24 | Harry Albert Williams | Support force distribution apparatus |
FR2082500A5 (en) * | 1970-03-18 | 1971-12-10 | Hutchinson Cie Ets | |
US3798686A (en) * | 1971-06-09 | 1974-03-26 | Gaiser Enterprises Inc | Self inflatable air mattress, and sleeping bag |
US4025974A (en) * | 1972-01-10 | 1977-05-31 | Lea James M | Air mattress and method of making the same |
US3813716A (en) * | 1972-07-31 | 1974-06-04 | J Francis | Lightweight, compact air mattress |
US3864766A (en) * | 1973-10-01 | 1975-02-11 | Ancra Corp | Self-adjusting contour pillow |
US3877092A (en) * | 1974-05-02 | 1975-04-15 | Gaiser Enterprises Inc | Self inflatable air mattress, and sleeping bag with air pressure control |
GB1535316A (en) * | 1975-02-12 | 1978-12-13 | Ca Minister Nat Defence | Heat-insulating material and inflatable sleeping bag including same |
US3995653A (en) * | 1975-08-01 | 1976-12-07 | Mackal Glenn H | Inflation device |
FR2370626A1 (en) * | 1976-11-15 | 1978-06-09 | Sevylor | INFLATABLE BOAT |
US4099773A (en) * | 1977-05-31 | 1978-07-11 | Chang James F | Couples chair |
US4149285A (en) * | 1978-01-03 | 1979-04-17 | Stanton Austin N | Air support mattress |
FR2456893A1 (en) * | 1979-05-17 | 1980-12-12 | Pont A Mousson | DUCTILE CAST IRON PIPE |
US4405129A (en) * | 1980-04-17 | 1983-09-20 | Stuckey John | Therapeutic exercise device |
US4371999A (en) * | 1980-11-18 | 1983-02-08 | Keith Reid | Air mattresses |
US4424600A (en) * | 1981-06-22 | 1984-01-10 | Simmons U.S.A. Corporation | Adjustable firmness mattress pillow top |
JPS58159551U (en) * | 1982-04-20 | 1983-10-24 | オリンパス光学工業株式会社 | Toner concentration detection device |
US4644597A (en) * | 1983-05-09 | 1987-02-24 | Dynatech, Inc. | Air mattress with pressure relief valve |
US4594743A (en) * | 1984-07-10 | 1986-06-17 | Siesta Corp. | Air support bed |
JPS62176408A (en) * | 1986-01-30 | 1987-08-03 | 株式会社三幸ポライト | Suspension structure and its production |
US5079785A (en) * | 1986-09-26 | 1992-01-14 | Garcia Luis A | Automated inflatable ring cushion device |
US4737999A (en) * | 1987-02-02 | 1988-04-19 | Jabiru Incorporated | Maternity mattress |
US4807554A (en) * | 1987-02-27 | 1989-02-28 | Intex Recreation Corp. | Inflatable boat for high speed applications |
GB8802474D0 (en) * | 1988-02-04 | 1988-03-02 | Wang T C C | Inflatable article |
US4860395A (en) * | 1988-05-24 | 1989-08-29 | Smith Michael G | Water-cooled lounging pad |
US4896389A (en) * | 1988-06-10 | 1990-01-30 | S.S.I. Medical Services Of Canada Inc. | Inflatable air mattress |
US4982466A (en) * | 1988-10-12 | 1991-01-08 | Leggett & Platt, Incorporated | Body support system |
US5027454A (en) * | 1990-01-31 | 1991-07-02 | Peng Jung Ching | Combined bed structure |
US5237712A (en) * | 1990-08-01 | 1993-08-24 | Ramsay Keith R | Maternity mattress with inflatible portion |
US5117517A (en) * | 1991-08-13 | 1992-06-02 | Su Ping Hung | Self inflating camping mattress |
US5329656A (en) * | 1992-12-03 | 1994-07-19 | Dennis V. Leggett | Insulated puncture resistant inflatable mattress |
US5423094A (en) * | 1992-12-07 | 1995-06-13 | Michael J. Arsenault | Pneumatic furniture |
US5421044A (en) * | 1993-08-27 | 1995-06-06 | Steensen; Steen W. | Air bed |
US5406661A (en) * | 1993-09-15 | 1995-04-18 | Reebok International Ltd. | Preloaded fluid bladder with integral pump |
US5658324A (en) * | 1994-04-14 | 1997-08-19 | Promdx Technology Inc. | System and method for the reduction of secondary trauma |
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 |
US5493742A (en) * | 1994-05-10 | 1996-02-27 | Lake Medical Products, Inc. | Ventilating air mattress with an inflating quilted pad |
US5425147A (en) * | 1994-07-29 | 1995-06-20 | Supplee; Ronald L. | Adjustable air cushion maternity mattress |
US5598593A (en) * | 1995-02-10 | 1997-02-04 | Aqua-Leisure Industries, Inc. | Inflatable air bed |
US5638565A (en) * | 1995-04-07 | 1997-06-17 | Dielectrics Industries | Inflatable cushion |
DE19516744C2 (en) * | 1995-05-06 | 1998-01-29 | Helmut Lopau | Decubitus prophylaxis mattress |
AU6046896A (en) * | 1995-06-09 | 1997-01-09 | Herman Miller, Inc. | Office chair and adjustable lumbar support therefor |
US5815865A (en) * | 1995-11-30 | 1998-10-06 | Sleep Options, Inc. | Mattress structure |
US6115861A (en) * | 1997-10-09 | 2000-09-12 | Patmark Company, Inc. | Mattress structure |
NL1004183C2 (en) * | 1996-09-02 | 1997-05-27 | Martinus Anthonius Maria Van T | Inflatable beach attribute. |
FR2753221B3 (en) * | 1996-09-09 | 1998-08-28 | Bulton Entpr Co Ltd | INFLATABLE ARTICLE |
US6073291A (en) * | 1997-02-21 | 2000-06-13 | Davis; David T. | Inflatable medical patient transfer apparatus |
US5740573A (en) * | 1997-07-15 | 1998-04-21 | Boyd; Dennis | Air bed with circumferential belt |
US6190486B1 (en) * | 1997-11-06 | 2001-02-20 | Switlik Parchute Co., Inc. | Method for making self-inflatable mattresses and cushions |
US6102759A (en) * | 1998-03-11 | 2000-08-15 | Sevylor U.S.A., Inc. | Inflatable raft with accordion container |
USD405636S (en) * | 1998-06-26 | 1999-02-16 | Dennis Stewart | Inflatable mattress pad |
US6016582A (en) * | 1998-07-17 | 2000-01-25 | Larson; Lynn D. | Air support pillow top assembly |
US6189166B1 (en) * | 1998-07-29 | 2001-02-20 | Kimberly Braine | Baby blanket |
US6076214A (en) * | 1998-08-11 | 2000-06-20 | Sevylor U.S.A., Inc. | Inflatable mattress assemblies |
JP2002534140A (en) * | 1999-01-08 | 2002-10-15 | ヒル−ロム,インコーポレイティド | Mattress assembly |
US6224444B1 (en) * | 1999-10-01 | 2001-05-01 | Sevylor U.S.A., Inc. | Inflatable chair or other structure adapted for certain types of use in water |
AU2002211456A1 (en) * | 2000-10-04 | 2002-04-15 | North Pole Ltd. | Sleeping bag with replaceable air mattress |
DE10050495B4 (en) * | 2000-10-11 | 2004-11-18 | Carl Freudenberg Kg | Thermoplastic processable polyurethane molding compound |
JP4641093B2 (en) * | 2000-10-31 | 2011-03-02 | 株式会社モルテン | Air mat |
US6568011B2 (en) * | 2001-01-04 | 2003-05-27 | Intex Recreation Corp. | Inflatable mattress |
US20020116765A1 (en) * | 2001-02-27 | 2002-08-29 | Smith Kenneth D. | Inflatable cushioning device |
US6983502B2 (en) * | 2001-03-30 | 2006-01-10 | Boyd Flotation, Inc. | Air mattress with pillow top |
US6990700B2 (en) * | 2001-06-22 | 2006-01-31 | Team Worldwide Corporation | Inflatable product provided with electric air pump |
EP1688067B1 (en) * | 2001-07-10 | 2008-11-05 | CHAFFEE, Robert B. | Configurable inflatable support devices |
US6701559B2 (en) * | 2001-08-01 | 2004-03-09 | Aero Products International, Inc. | Increased height inflatable support system |
US6568012B2 (en) * | 2001-08-07 | 2003-05-27 | The Coleman Company, Inc. | Inflatable mattress with storage compartment |
US6671910B2 (en) * | 2001-12-05 | 2004-01-06 | Intex Recreation Corp. | Inflatable bed |
US7000276B2 (en) * | 2002-04-11 | 2006-02-21 | Chaffee Robert B | Body support surface comfort device |
AU2003252060A1 (en) * | 2002-07-17 | 2004-02-02 | Aero Products International, Inc. | Inflatable support system |
US20040107503A1 (en) * | 2002-12-09 | 2004-06-10 | Eezcare Medical Corp. | Inflation body structure for an air mattress |
US6966090B2 (en) * | 2003-05-01 | 2005-11-22 | The Coleman Company, Inc. | Air mattress with quilted pillow top |
US6981287B1 (en) * | 2004-06-15 | 2006-01-03 | Yuan-Chen Chen | Inflatable bed unit |
GB0415136D0 (en) * | 2004-07-06 | 2004-08-11 | Worlds Apart Ltd | Inflatable support apparatus |
US20060021139A1 (en) * | 2004-07-27 | 2006-02-02 | Lavigne William F | Sleeping bag with integrated air mattress |
US7107641B2 (en) * | 2004-07-28 | 2006-09-19 | Davis David T | Double chambered air mattress |
US7134158B2 (en) * | 2004-08-02 | 2006-11-14 | Marilyn Theresa Tokarz | Portable, adjustable, inflatable bed |
-
2005
- 2005-08-12 US US11/202,769 patent/US20070033739A1/en not_active Abandoned
-
2006
- 2006-08-09 WO PCT/US2006/031026 patent/WO2007021739A1/en active Application Filing
- 2006-08-09 EP EP06801028A patent/EP1924171A1/en not_active Withdrawn
-
2007
- 2007-05-08 US US11/800,930 patent/US20070214575A1/en not_active Abandoned
Patent Citations (7)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US5852839A (en) * | 1993-01-21 | 1998-12-29 | Gancy; Alan Brian | Inflatable devices with flexible walls having spring-like couplings externally of and/or forming part of the walls |
DE19815578C1 (en) * | 1998-04-07 | 1999-08-26 | Heberlein Fasertech Ag | Friction disk for false twisting textile yarns |
EP0982332A1 (en) * | 1998-08-26 | 2000-03-01 | Bayer Corporation | Composition and process for preparation of thermoplastic polyurethanes (tpu based on a polybutadiene soft segment) |
US20020138912A1 (en) * | 2001-04-03 | 2002-10-03 | Luca Minurri | Inflatable air support surface and support element |
US20030066193A1 (en) * | 2001-10-05 | 2003-04-10 | Hsu Chin Cheng | Gel composition that displays changes in temperature through color change and the manufacturing method thereof |
US20050112968A1 (en) * | 2003-11-26 | 2005-05-26 | Panse Dattatreya R. | Patch repair system for collapsible fuel and water tanks |
EP1561880A1 (en) * | 2004-02-09 | 2005-08-10 | Forbo-Giubiasco Sa | Flat covering material comprising filled thermoplastic polyurethane elastomer |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
US20070214575A1 (en) | 2007-09-20 |
EP1924171A1 (en) | 2008-05-28 |
US20070033739A1 (en) | 2007-02-15 |
Similar Documents
Publication | Publication Date | Title |
---|---|---|
US20070214575A1 (en) | Method of constructing an inflatable support system having thermoplastic polyurethane constuction | |
US8474078B2 (en) | Slow acting pocketed spring core having cushioning material | |
US8307523B2 (en) | Method of making slow acting pocketed spring core | |
US8266745B2 (en) | Slow acting pocketed spring core having fill material inside pockets | |
US6701559B2 (en) | Increased height inflatable support system | |
US5152018A (en) | Batting filled self inflatable body | |
EP1166684B1 (en) | Inflatable furniture having independent air chambers and method | |
US7478448B2 (en) | Inflatable reinforcing chamber | |
US8584287B2 (en) | Air mattresses | |
US7424757B2 (en) | Disposable sleeping bag | |
US20090085393A1 (en) | Inflatable Chair With Cushion Top | |
US11730279B2 (en) | Portable mattress with drop-stitch inflatable chamber | |
US7191481B2 (en) | Airbed | |
US4619007A (en) | Cellular waterbed component and method of manufacture | |
WO2015023932A1 (en) | Mesh beam structure for inflatable product | |
US3206776A (en) | Insulated air mattress | |
JP4017242B2 (en) | Cushion structure | |
US4569706A (en) | Cellular waterbed component and method of manufacture | |
GB2569281A (en) | Mattress interior, mattress and method of manufacturing a mattress | |
JPS608992Y2 (en) | Core material for bedding, etc. | |
EP3031363A1 (en) | Internal supports for inflatable products |
Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
---|---|---|---|
DPE2 | Request for preliminary examination filed before expiration of 19th month from priority date (pct application filed from 20040101) | ||
121 | Ep: the epo has been informed by wipo that ep was designated in this application | ||
WWE | Wipo information: entry into national phase |
Ref document number: 2006801028 Country of ref document: EP |
|
NENP | Non-entry into the national phase |
Ref country code: DE |