1. Field of Invention
The application is directed to methods and apparatus to facilitate inflation and/or deflation of inflatable devices.
2. Discussion of Related Art
U.S. Pat. No. 5,367,726, (hereinafter the '726 patent) owned by applicant discloses an inflatable support system that includes an inflatable mattress including a dual valve assembly 12 as illustrated in
The portable inflation device also comprises control circuitry 23 that controls the DC motor 25, and a sensing device 24 for sensing when the mouth of portable inflation device is engaged with the inflation input of the dual valve assembly. The sensing device is located internally to the mouth region of the portable inflation device such that it is inaccessible to a user. The control circuitry is connected to the batteries over lines 231 and 233, to the DC motor 25 over line to 232, and to the sensing device over line 234. The '726 patent discloses that the sensing device may be, for example, a simple contact switch, mounted in the mouth 28 of the portable inflation device, that is contacted by the inflation input of the dual valve assembly when it is engaged with the mouth of the portable inflation device. The control circuitry is configured to deliver power to the motor 25 from the batteries when the sensing device is contacted, or in other words when the sensing device has detected engagement of the portable inflation device with the input of the dual valve assembly. Thus, pumping of air into an inflatable device, such as an air mattress, begins after, and as soon as, the portable inflation device has been properly engaged with the dual valve assembly.
The '726 patent also discloses that the portable inflation device ceases delivering power when the portable inflation device is no longer engaged with inflation input of the dual valve assembly, so that engaging and disengaging of the portable inflation device with the dual valve assembly provides power to the portable inflation device and disconnects power to the portable inflation device, respectively.
This valve assembly includes structure that corresponds to the dual-valve assembly described above, which provides for using the self-sealing valve in a similar manner. For example, the self-sealing valve includes a single port, that provides for inflation, deflation and comfort control of the inflatable device in which the self-sealing valve is integrated. The self-sealing valve 16 self-opens upon inflation of the device by a portable inflation device, for example, by engaging the self-sealing valve with the portable inflation device, and self-seals upon cessation of inflation. This self-sealing valve is also configured so that inflation through the valve can be effected for example, by blowing into the valve. The self-sealing valve 16 further allows fine tuning of pressure adjustment, as described below. In one embodiment, the single fluid port may have an unobstructed fluid path that is greater than approximately 0.25 inches in diameter. However, it is to be appreciated that the single fluid port may have other diameters to accommodate different inflatable devices sizes and fluid flow parameters.
Referring to
According to one embodiment of the self-sealing valve, the hanger arm 610 flares outward towards the inner wall 618 of the air inlet 614 creating a “paddle” surface 622 which occupies some of the air inlet 614. The paddle surface 622 of the hanger arm 610 provides stability to the flexible diaphragm 602 as it rotates with the hanger arm 610 from the closed position to the open position. The paddle surface 622 of the hanger arm 610 also facilitates manipulation of the hanger arm 610 by, for example, a fingertip of a user to, for example, control a firmness of the inflatable device in which the self-sealing valve is integrated. The paddle surface 622 projects outward to a point 626, extending the length of the hanger arm 610. This projection bears upon the flexible diaphragm 602, thereby preventing it from flexing upward when the hanger arm 610 is pressed downward for firmness control or deflation.
The hanger arm 610 may be secured within the air inlet 614 with, for example, a pair of hinge pins 634. In one example, there is a contoured section 648 between the hinge pins 634 of the inner wall of at least one of the brackets and the inner wall 618 of the air inlet 614. The contoured section 648 interfaces with a contoured end 650 of the projecting tabs to provide a plurality of distinct interaction possibilities. A first possibility exists when surface 651 on the projecting tabs bears on surface 652 of the inner wall, restricting rotation of the arm above a horizontal position, thereby securing the valve diaphragm in a substantially closed position.
A second possibility exists when a beveled surface 655 on the projecting tab bears on counter-beveled surface 656 on the wall. An inclined angle of this counter-beveled surface 656 causes the projecting tab to increasingly compress inward as the hanger arm 610 is pressed downward into the valve housing 606. This may occur both during inflation (by air pressure) and deflation (by manual deflection of the hanger arm to unseat the valve from the valve seat). The compression of the projecting tab also results in a counter action, so that, with removal of the downward pressure the tab “springs back” to its original position and forces the hanger arm 610 and diaphragm 602 to return to the closed position. When the hanger arm 610 is depressed fully, the projecting tabs rotate slightly beyond the counter-beveled surface 656 and lock the rotating arm in a locked open position. This locked open position maximizes airflow through the valve housing and will, under certain conditions improve efficiency of both inflation and deflation.
A first aspect of the invention is direct to an inflation system assembly, comprising: an inflation device comprising a contact surface defining a fluid passage; and a valve assembly comprising a valve and a contact surface adapted to engage with the contact surface of the inflation device. A seal is formed around the fluid passage when a user applies a manual force to engage the contact surface of the inflation device with the contact surface of the valve assembly.
In some embodiments, the inflation system includes an interface device. The interface device can be moveably coupled between the fluid passage and the valve assembly. In one embodiment, the inflation device includes an activation switch and the interface device is configured to selectively actuate the activation switch upon a movement of the interface device.
In some embodiments the valve assembly is coupled to an inflatable device. The valve assembly may be integrated into an inflatable device. In some embodiments, a first portion of the interface device is configured to mate with a portion of the port. The interface device may be adapted to mate with the portion of the port by one of a threaded interface device and a bayonet mount. In some embodiments, a first portion of the interface device is configured to mate with a portion of the valve assembly. In some embodiments, the interface device is integral with the pump. The valve may be a self-sealing valve.
Another aspect of the invention is directed to an interface device configured to movably couple between a valve assembly comprising a valve, and a port for air flow of an inflation device having an activation switch, and configured to selectively actuate the activation switch, upon movement, with reference to the exhaust port, when coupled between the valve assembly and the port.
Another aspect of the invention is directed to a method of inflation, comprising: placing a contact surface of an inflation device in contact with a contact surface of a valve assembly; and applying a manual force to maintain a seal around a fluid passage between the inflation device and the valve assembly. In some embodiments, the inflation system includes an interface device and the interface device is adapted to provide the contact surface of the inflation device. In a version of this embodiment, the method further comprises the act of attaching the interface device to the inflation device. In one embodiment, the inflation system includes an activation switch and the method further comprises the act of actuating the activation switch by moving the interface device, with reference to the inflation device.
Yet another aspect of the invention is directed to an inflation device for inflating an inflatable device, the inflatable device having a valve assembly, comprising: a port for air flow; and a sealing member configured and arranged to couple to the valve assembly and to form a substantially sealed interface with the valve assembly, such that air that flows between the port and the valve assembly travels through the sealed interface.
Another aspect of the invention is directed to a cover arrangement sized and shaped for use with an inflatable device, the cover arrangement having a first region comprising a material having a first resistance to air flow and a second region having a second resistance to air flow, the first resistance being different than the second resistance. In some embodiments, the resistance to air flow of the second region is less than the resistance to air flow of the first region, and the cover arrangement is configured such that the second region aligns with an air passageway of the inflatable device when the cover arrangement is disposed on the inflatable device. In some embodiments, the thread count of the first region is less than the thread count of the first region.
Still another aspect of the invention is directed to an inflatable device comprising an inflatable bladder, at least one covering layer and a conduit sized and arranged to define a passageway from the inflatable bladder through the at least one covering layer to an outer surface of the inflatable device. In some embodiments, the inflatable device further comprises a valve fluidly coupled to the inflatable bladder and the conduit, the conduit extending from the valve to the outer surface of the inflatable device. The valve may be accessible to a user through the conduit. The valve may be disposed substantially flush with the outer surface of the bladder or the outer surface of the inflatable device. In various embodiments, the conduit may extend from the valve to the outer surface of the inflatable device or from the valve to the outer surface of the inflatable bladder. The inflatable device may be a mattress.
Another aspect of the invention is directed to a covering arrangement for a device having an inflatable bladder and a valve that is fluidly coupled to the inflatable bladder, the covering arrangement having an access opening, the covering arrangement being configured such that the access opening is aligned with the valve when the covering arrangement is disposed on the device. The device may be a mattress.
Another aspect of the invention is directed to an inflatable device comprising an inflatable bladder having a port through which air enters and exits the bladder, a flexible conduit coupled to the port, and a valve remotely located from the outlet, the valve being fluidly coupled to the port though the conduit and comprising an automatic closing structure adapted to control the release of air from the bladder.
Yet another aspect of the invention is directed to a manual inflation device adapted to couple to a valve of an inflatable device. In one embodiment, the manual inflation device includes an air chamber adapted to discharge air under pressure through a port, a fitting connected to the port and adapted to couple to the valve. In a version of this embodiment, the fitting includes an operating element.
The accompanying drawings, are not intended to be drawn to scale. In the drawings, each identical or nearly identical component that is illustrated in various figures is represented by a like numeral. For purposes of clarity, not every component may be labeled in every drawing. In the drawings:
This invention is not limited in its application to the details of construction and the arrangement of components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the drawings. The invention is capable of other embodiments and of being practiced or of being carried out in various ways. Also, the phraseology and terminology used herein is for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting. Use herein of the terms “including,” “comprising,” or “having,” “containing,” “involving,” and variations thereof, is meant to encompass the items listed thereafter and equivalents thereof as well as additional items.
There is a need to turn off and turn on portable inflation devices configured with the sensing device disposed in a location inaccessible to a user (e.g., see the inflation device of
Referring to
In addition, the interface device includes a protrusion 734 at the lower portion of the interface device 730 that, in one embodiment, can bias a support arm and diaphragm of the self-sealing valve to an open position, when the interface device is moved into engagement with the corresponding structure of the self-sealing valve. However, it is to be appreciated that the interface device 730 need not include protrusion 734 as the inflation pressure of the portable inflation device 710, as well as the pressure within the inflatable device in which the self-sealing valve 720 can be integrated, can provide sufficient pressure to bias open and to maintain the self-sealing valve 720 in a closed position, respectively. According to one embodiment, the interface device 730 is configured to be moved by a user using a handle 739 such that the interface device 730 rotates, for example, about the outer housing of the portable inflation device. According to one embodiment, the handle 739 includes a region 741 that is substantially flat. In another embodiment, the region 741 includes a cylindrical shape or a portion of a cylindrical shape. That is, the region 741 of the handle 739 is a knob in one embodiment.
According to one embodiment, upon rotation of the interface device 730, a protrusion 733, (e.g., a bayonet contact) engages the sensing device located in the mouth of the inflation device to activate and deactivate the fluid moving capability of the portable inflation device when, at least the interface device 730 and the portable inflation device 710 are coupled together, and also when all of the three elements are combined as illustrated in
That is in one embodiment, the interface device 730 is configured so that as it is rotated about the outer housing of the portable inflation device 710 in a first direction (e.g., counterclockwise when the inflation device 710 is viewed from the end opposite the interface device 730), the protrusion is rotated so that it contacts a contact of a switch to bias-on the portable inflation device. Similarly, the interface device 730 is configured so that when it is rotated in an opposite direction (e.g., clockwise), it can disengage from contacting the contact of the switch so that the portable inflation device 710 is biased-off. With this arrangement, the interface device 730 can be rotated about the outer housing of the portable inflation device to bias-on (and in some embodiments to bias-off) the portable inflation device. In some embodiments, the device may turn off when it is not biased-on.
The portable inflation device can be powered by an AC power source. For example, the device may also comprise an AC motor instead of the DC motor described above, or may comprise an AC to DC converter (e.g., a rectifier) that converts the AC line voltage to a suitable DC voltage to operate the DC motor described above.
According to one embodiment, the portable inflation device 810 includes a switch 740 and switch contact 735 that are used in an electrical circuit to turn on and turn off the portable inflation device 810. The interface device 830 provides the advantage that the portable inflation device 810 need not be moved into and out of engagement with the self-sealing valve 820 to turn on and to turn off the portable inflation device 810. One advantage of the interface device 830 is that it provides for the portable inflation device 810 to remain connected to the self-sealing valve 820 of the inflatable device and to be maintained in an off state, and also provides structure to turn on the portable inflation device 810 to inflate the inflatable device to a desired pressure without the need to connect or disconnect the portable inflation device 810. It is to be appreciated that the interface device 830 may function to couple a self-sealing valve 820 and an inflation device 810 that would otherwise not couple together (i.e., the interface device may operate as an adapter in addition to providing a structure to turn on and off the inflation device). As described above, in instances where the inflation device 810 and the self-sealing valve 820 would fit together absent the interface device 830, the interface device 830 may simply provide a structure to turn on and turn off the inflatable device.
In other embodiments, the structure provided by the interface device 830 is included as an integral part of the portable inflation device 810. For example, the structure provided by the interface device 830 can be included in the portable inflation device 810 as originally manufactured. Embodiments of the interface device 830 may also be incorporated into inflation devices regardless of the structure utilized to turn the pump on and off. Further, in alternate embodiments, the structure provided by the interface device 830 may be included as an integral part of the valve of an inflatable device.
In the embodiment illustrated in
According to one embodiment, the valve 820 includes a rim that provides a contact surface 746 that is adapted to engage the contact surface 745 provided by the interface device 830. A seal between the portable inflation device 810 and the self-sealing valve 820 is formed by the o-ring 829 when the contact surface 745 is pressed into engagement with the contact surface 746. According to one embodiment, the interface device 830 is pressed into engagement with the valve 820 by manual force supplied by the user. According to one embodiment, the seal formed when manual pressure is applied to engage the contact surfaces 745, 746 is weakened and/or broken when the manual pressure is removed. In other embodiments, mechanical force presses the interface device 830 into engagement with the valve 820. For example, a bayonet type connection may secure the interface device 830 in engagement with the valve 820 after a user engages the interface device 830 and the valve 820 and rotates the interface device 830 into a “locked” position. Screws, bolts and other types of fasteners provide additional examples of devices and structure that can be used to provide pressure to the engagement of the contact surface 745 and the contact surface 746 as a result of a mechanical force.
According to one embodiment, the o-ring 829 is adapted to engage the self-sealing valve 820 in a manner such that a seal of adequate quality is formed between the inflation device 810 and the self-sealing valve 820 assembly while the inflation device 810 is held in position by a user, so as to permit pressurized air from the inflation device to be provided to an inflatable device to which the self-sealing valve 820 is attached (not shown). In some embodiments, the o-ring is made of a compliant material, such as a soft silicone material, so that a substantially air-tight seal is formed with the valve. According to one embodiment, the seal is substantially leak-free when the inflation device 810 is held in position by the user. In another embodiment, where the interface device 830 is not used, the o-ring 829 is located at an air outlet of the inflation device 810, e.g., around a periphery of the air outlet. In one version, a seal can be formed using this embodiment by pressing the inflation device 810 into contact with the self-sealing valve 820 with manual force.
As mentioned above, the interface device 830 is illustrated in a second position in
As shown in
The portable inflation device 910 can include a switch 940 and a switch contact 935 that are used to turn on the portable inflation device 910 when the portable inflation device 910 is rotated such that a protrusion included in the interface device 930 (e.g., the protrusion 733) is engaged with the switch contact 935.
In the embodiment illustrated in
Similarly, the inflation device 910 is secured to the interface device 930 in one embodiment of the invention such that the inflation device 910 is pressed into engagement with the interface device 930 where the inflation device 910 can be rotated in at least two positions relative to the interface device 930. In a first position, the inflation device 910 is in a position whereby the switch contact 935 is not engaged by any of the protrusions included in the interface device 930. In the second position, as illustrated in
In alternate embodiments, the contact mating surface 927 and the application of a mechanical force to secure the inflation device 910 to the valve 920 are provided regardless of the structure used to turn the inflation device 910 on or off (i.e., the switch 940 may not be used with one or more embodiments). Further, in one or more embodiments, an interface device 930 may be used where a combination of manual force is applied to a contact surface and mechanical force results from an interlock (e.g., a bayonet type connection) between the interface device 930 and the valve 920.
As illustrated in
In addition, in one embodiment, the portable inflation device 810 shown in
Referring again to
As illustrated in
In some embodiments, the region 842 is resilient such that as force is removed from the o-ring 829 (i.e., the o-ring 829 is disengaged from the valve assembly 820), the region 842 returns to its shape prior to engagement with the self-sealing valve 820, and the inflation device 810 is turned off. For example, the region 842 may include a molded spring. In some embodiments, the molded spring may be constructed of ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene). It is to be appreciated that an inflation device 810 constructed as described here provides an embodiment of the inflation device 810 with an automatic on-off system.
One example of an inflation device that can be configured as described herein is an axial pump as described in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/113,836 to Chaffee, filed Apr. 1, 2002, titled PUMP WITH AXIAL CONDUIT, which may be modified to include an o-ring 829 (or other sealing member) and a region 842 as described above. The content of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/113,836 is herein incorporated by reference.
According to one embodiment, the inflation device 810 can be displaced when it is engaged with the self-sealing valve assembly 820 because the interface device 830 allows some freedom of movement in a direction parallel with the arrow 841. In one embodiment, the interface device 830 includes an outer section 867 (e.g., an outer cylindrical shaped section) and an inner section 857 (e.g., an outer cylindrical shaped section). In a version of this embodiment, the outer section 867 and the inner section 857 engage a radially inner and a radially outer section, respectively, of the o-ring 829. According to one embodiment, the outer section 867 and the inner section 857 are connected at a location that extends less than 360° about the opening 823 that appears in
Referring again to
While the above embodiment of an inflation device includes an automatic on-off system, it is to be appreciated that advantages of an o-ring (e.g., the ability to form a seal with a valve assembly) may be achieved without an automatic system. In such a system, a switch may be provided in a location on the inflation device that is accessible to a user of the inflation system. It is also to be appreciated that in a non-automatic system, a fixed mount (rather than a displaceable mount) will typically be used to maintain the o-ring in contact with the valve.
As illustrated in
The second region 914 is selected such that an inflation device, configured as described above, can be engaged through the second region 914 to a self-sealing valve (e.g., the self-sealing valve 720) so that pressurized air from an inflation device, such as an inflation device discussed above, can be injected into the mattress (e.g., using an inflation device or by a user blowing air from his/her mouth through the self-sealing valve) through the second region 914 as illustrated in
It is to be appreciated that the herein-described inflation devices including an o-ring coupling mechanism as discussed above are particularly suited for inflation through a sheet. When the o-ring of an inflation device is aligned with a suitably sized and arranged valve assembly of the air mattress and pressed thereagainst, air can be injected through the sheet to inflate the mattress. The inflation device may be an automatic system or may have a user operated switch as discussed herein. It is to be appreciated that the capability to inflate through the sheet eliminates the need to remove the sheet when inflating or deflating the mattress.
In some embodiments, as illustrated in
In some conventional inflatable apparatus, it is necessary to remove cushioning and/or topper layers of the mattress to reach the access point and inflate the bladder. In other conventional mattresses, a hose of sufficient length is coupled to the air bladder such that a pump and valve combination may be remotely located, for example, the pump and'valve may be located on a floor next to the mattress. In such embodiments, the hose may be cumbersome and unsightly. According to aspects of the present invention, the self-sealing valve and/or access point are flush with an outer surface of the mattress to facilitate coupling of the air pump to the inflatable bladder.
In some embodiments, such as the embodiment illustrated in
Additionally, in such embodiments, it may be advantageous to include an activation device 1225 configured to enable a user to manipulate valve 1210 from the surface of the mattress. An enlarged view of activation device is illustrated in
In other embodiments, such as the embodiment illustrated in
For example, the covering device 1312 may be used with an inflatable mattress, and the access opening 1319 may be aligned with an access point coupled to a valve of an inflatable bladder of the mattress. The access point 1321 may be substantially flush with an outer surface of the mattress as discussed above with reference to
In some embodiments, the conduit 1420 is selected to have a length such that valve 1410 can be conveniently reached by a person using the inflatable device in an intended manner (e.g., in the instance of a mattress, the person may be lying on the mattress). In mattress embodiments, the conduit may be long enough such that valve 1410 may be disposed in a person's hand when he is lying on the mattress. In some embodiments, in which the inflatable device is a mattress, the mattress may comprise a topper layer 1470 and a cushioning layer 1480, and the mattress may be covered by a mattress sheet (not shown), such as a sheet as described above with reference to
Preferably, conduit 1420 is made of a material that is substantially air impermeable. Typically, the conduit is made of material that is flexible so that valve 1410 can be conveniently moved to a position that is convenient for operation by a person using the inflatable device.
The embodiment shown in
In one embodiment, the device 1457 includes an overall L shape formed by two sections that are substantially perpendicular to one another. In a version of this embodiment, a first section forms a lower flange that can be located beneath the inflatable device 1400. In this embodiment, a second section then extends perpendicular to the first section, for example, along a side of the inflatable device 1400 when the first section is located beneath the inflatable device 1400. In one embodiment, the hanger 1457 is adjustable and can be placed at a first location by a first user of the inflatable device 1400. A subsequent user may then relocate the hanger 1457 to a second location that they may prefer.
In the embodiment illustrated in
In the embodiment illustrated in
In various embodiments, the device 1457 need not include the arm 1458. Instead, in one or more alternate embodiments, other types of structure are used to provide a location at which the conduit or the valve 1410 itself can be secured. For example, the device 1457 may include a hook, a clasp or some type of fitting to which the conduit 1420 or the valve 1410 can be secured. In one or more alternate embodiments, structure is added to at least one of the conduit 1420 and the valve 1410 and the added structure assists in securing the conduit 1420 and the valve 1410, respectively, to the device 1457.
In general, a single conduit (e.g., 1420) and a single valve (e.g., 1410) are used with a single bladder, however, devices 1457 can be used with any number of conduits 1420 or valves 1410 regardless of the number of bladders in the inflatable device 1400. Also, where a multi-bladder inflatable device is used the devices 1457, 1457′ can be used to locate the valves 1410, 1410′ in separate locations that are each accessible to at least one of the users 1405. Further, where a single conduit 1420 and valve 1410 are employed, a first user may adjust the device 1457 position to locate the valve 1410 near their head, while a subsequent user may adjust the device 1457 position to locate the valve 1410 near their waist. In one embodiment, the conduit 1420 is of sufficient length that the valve 1410 may be located anywhere around the inflatable device 1400. It is envisioned that the hanger may be of any construction and be positioned at any location on the inflatable device or on any supporting structure (e.g., bed frame) that is suitable for use with the device.
The activation device 1525 includes a first end 1582 and a second end 1584. According to one embodiment with the activation device 1525 is located in the fluid conduit, the first end 1582 is located at an end of the fluid conduit 1530 that provides the access point 1550, and the second end 1584 is located at the end of the fluid conduit adjacent the self-sealing valve 1571. In one embodiment, the activation device 1525 travels substantially linearly within the fluid conduit 1530 in the directions indicated by the arrow 1581. In a version of this embodiment, the arrow 1581 represents an axis of travel coaxially located with a central axis 1583 of the fluid conduit 1530.
According to one embodiment, the fluid conduit 1530 includes a first region 1585 with a diameter D1 and a second region 1586 with a diameter D2. In one embodiment, the first region 1585 is located at the access point 1550 and the second region 1586 is located between the first region 1585 and the self-sealing valve 1571. In some embodiments, the fluid conduit includes a single region 1586, and the access point provides the a region 1585 with a diameter D1. That is, in some embodiments, the fluid conduit 1530 includes a single region 1586, and the access point provides a region 1585 with a diameter D1. In a version of this embodiment, the diameter D1 is less than the diameter D2. In a further version, the activation device 1525 has a maximum diameter D3 that is greater than the diameter D1 and less than the diameter D2. As a result, in one embodiment, the activation device 1525 is prevented from escaping the fluid conduit 1530 by the more narrow first region 1585 of the fluid conduit 1530.
In one embodiment, the self-sealing valve 1571 includes a body 1588, an air inlet 1573, a flexible diaphragm 1572, a housing 1574, and a flange 1587. The flexible diaphragm 1572 is attached to a hanger arm 1578 which is attached to the body 1588 at a hinge pin 1576. The air inlet 1573 is formed within the body 1588. The flange 1587 extends from the body 1588 and provides a surface 1589 that can be employed to secure the self-sealing valve 1571 to the inflatable bladder 1520. In one embodiment, the flange 1587 extends radially outward from the body 1588. In a version of this embodiment, the flange 1587 is located around substantially all of a circumference of the body 1588.
The housing 1574 extends from the body 1588 inward within the bladder 1520. In one embodiment, the housing 1574 forms a substantially domed shape that extends from the body 1588 inward within the bladder 1520. The housing 1574 defines one or more ports 1591 that provide passageways for air that is supplied to or released from the bladder 1520 via the air inlet 1573. The body 1588 also provides a valve seat 1577 that in one embodiment engages the flexible diaphragm 1572 when the self-sealing valve is closed.
In
In a first state, where no pressure is applied to the activation device 1525 the self-sealing valve 1571 is closed, i.e., the flexible diaphragm 1572 is in contact with the valve seat 1577. In one embodiment, a substantially air tight seal is formed by the flexible diaphragm 1572 and the valve seat 1577. When pressure is applied to the activation device 1525, for example, at the first end 1582, the activation device 1525 moves in the direction of the self-sealing valve 1571. The activation device 1525 continues to travel and the second end 1584 engages the hanger arm 1578. The hanger arm 1578 pivots about the hinge pin 1576 and the flexible diaphragm 1572 disengages from the valve seat 1577. Continued pressure further opens the self-sealing valve 1571. In one embodiment, a diameter less than the diameter D3 (e.g., the diameter D1) is included in at least one of the fluid conduit 1530 and the body 1588 in a region where the fluid conduit 1530 and the body 1588 meet. The reduced diameter (relative to the diameter D3) provides an interference that limits the travel of the activation device 1525 in the direction of the bladder 1520.
According to one embodiment, an inflation device (e.g., a portable air pump) includes a protrusion that engages the first end 1582 of the activation device 1525 when the inflation device engages the fluid conduit 1530 at the access point 1550.
Referring now to
The self-sealing valve assembly 1610 includes a body 1688, a housing 1674, and a flexible diaphragm 1672. The housing 1674 includes a hollow stem 1692 which can, in one embodiment, include one or more ridges 1693A, 1693B or barbs that allow the self-sealing valve assembly 1610 to be secured to a conduit, for example, the conduit 1420. The self-sealing valve assembly 1610 includes a contact surface 1695 that provides a location to which pressure can be applied to open the valve.
According to one embodiment, an inflation device, for example, inflation device 710 may be engaged with an opening in the self-sealing valve assembly 1610. According to another embodiment, an inflation device, for example, inflation device 710 may be engaged with an opening in the self-sealing valve assembly 1610 via an interface device (e.g., interface device 730) to inflate the inflatable device to which the valve is connected. In a version of this embodiment, the inflation device (e.g., inflation device 710) in combination with an interface device (e.g., the interface device 730) can be attached to the self-sealing valve assembly 1610 via engaging one or more protrusions located on the interface device with corresponding structures of the self-sealing valve assembly 1610. In one embodiment, the corresponding structure of the self-sealing valve assembly 1610 includes one or more protrusions located on the body 1688. In another embodiment, one or more protrusions are located on the housing 1674. In alternative embodiments, inflation can be accomplished by pressing the inflation device 710 against the opening of the valve 1610. In a version of this embodiment, the interface device 730 is secured to the inflation device 710 and the assembled combination is pressed against the opening of the valve assembly 1610 to form a seal.
According to one embodiment, the air pressure provided by the inflation device 710 is sufficient to open the valve assembly 1610. In other embodiments, although the air pressure provided by the inflation device 710 may be sufficient to open the valve, the inflation device and/or an attached interface device include a protrusion (e.g., the protrusion 734) which extends into the opening of the valve 1610 when the inflation device or interface device is in contact with the self-sealing valve assembly 1610. The protrusion 734 engages the contact surface 1695 to bias open the self-sealing valve assembly 1610. Alternatively, air pressure for inflation may be provided manually by the user by mouth via a lipped coupling with the valve inlet.
Referring now to
According to one embodiment, the valve assembly 1710 includes the diaphragm 1772 attached to a hanger arm 1778 via a hinge pin 1776. In operation, the valve opens when pressure is applied to contact surface 1795 and/or air pressure is applied to the air inlet from the exterior of the self-sealing valve assembly.
A user's finger 1794 is also shown in
Referring now to
Referring to
In one embodiment, the manual inflation device 1961 includes a chamber 1967, a neck 1966, a fitting 1962, and an operating element 1965. The chamber 1967 includes an inlet 1968 and an outlet 1969. The chamber 1967 may also include a check valve 1959. In a version of this embodiment, the neck 1966 is located at the outlet 1969, and the neck 1966 connects the chamber 1967 to the fitting 1962. The chamber 1967 may be manufactured from a resilient material to allow it to return to its original shape after being compressed by the user. That is, in one embodiment, the chamber 1967 can be operated in a manner similar to a bulb used with blood pressure sensing apparatus. Alternatively, the chamber may cooperate with a housing that combines with the chamber such that when the housing is manipulated by the user the chamber expands and contracts to provide the pumping action.
In one embodiment, the fitting 1962 is adapted to engage a valve or valve assembly. In the embodiment shown in
According to one embodiment, the manual inflation device 1961 can be used with valves located remotely from the inflatable device. According to another embodiment, the manual inflation device 1961 can be used with a valve located at an outer surface of an inflatable device, for example, the manual inflation device 1961 can be employed with the valve 1210 of
The fitting 1962 includes an opening 1963 in which the operating element 1965 is located. In one embodiment, the fitting 1962 includes a substantially circular outer diameter and the operating element 1965 is centrally located within the fitting 1962, that is, centrally located relative to the outer diameter of the fitting 1962. According to one embodiment, an end of the operating element 1965 attached to the neck 1966 operates as a hinge. In one embodiment, the operating element forms a substantially leak free seal with the fitting 1962. The operating element 1965 includes a contact surface 1964 by which it can be depressed to engage the hanger arm 1978 and move the diaphragm 1972 from the valve seat 1903. According to one embodiment, the operating element 1965 is manufactured entirely from resilient material. In a version of this embodiment, the operating element 1965 is manufactured from the same material as the diaphragm 1972. In one embodiment, the operating element 1965 is a paddle which may be comprised of both rigid and resilient material.
According to one embodiment, air is expelled from the chamber 1967 with sufficient pressure to force the hanger arm 1978 and the diaphragm 1972 into the housing 1974. As a result, the diaphragm 1972 moves off of the valve seat 1903 and the air expelled from the chamber 1967 travels into the self-sealing valve assembly 1910 through the hollow tube 1992 and into an inflatable device that may be attached to the valve assembly 1910 via a conduit.
As shown in phantom in
The manual inflation device 1961 can also be used for adjusting the inflation of an inflatable device by allowing a user to release air from the inflatable device via the self-sealing valve assembly 1910.
The manual inflation device 1967 of
In one embodiment, the manual inflation device 1961 includes the chamber 1967, a neck 1966, a fitting 1962, an operating element 1965 and the port 1969. In a version of this embodiment, the neck 1966 is located at the port 1969, and the neck 1966 fluidly couples the chamber 1967 to the fitting 1962. The chamber 1967 may be manufactured from a resilient material to allow it to return to its original shape after being compressed by the user. That is, in one embodiment, the chamber 1967 can be operated in a manner similar to a bulb used with blood pressure sensing apparatus.
In one embodiment, the fitting 1962 is adapted to engage an upper region 1906 of the self-sealing valve assembly 1910. According to one embodiment, a substantially air-tight seal is formed when the fitting 1962 is engaged with the self-sealing valve assembly 1910. Thus, air can be forced from the port 1969 of the chamber 1967 into an inflatable device via a self-sealing valve assembly 1910.
The fitting 1962 includes an opening 1963 in which the operating element 1965 is located. In one embodiment, the fitting 1962 includes a substantially circular outer diameter and the operating element 1965 is centrally located within the fitting 1962, that is, centrally located relative to the outer diameter of the fitting 1962. According to one embodiment, an end of the operating element 1965 attached to the neck 1966 operates as a hinge. In one embodiment, the operating element forms a substantially leak free seal with the fitting 1962. The operating element 1965 includes a contact surface 1964 by which it can be depressed to engage the hanger arm 1978 and move the diaphragm 1972 from the valve seat 1903. According to one embodiment, the operating element 1965 is manufactured entirely from resilient material. In a version of this embodiment, the operating element 1965 is manufactured from the same material as the diaphragm 1972. In one embodiment, the operating element 1965 is a paddle.
According to one embodiment, air is expelled from the chamber 1967 with sufficient pressure to force the hanger arm 1978 and the diaphragm 1972 into the housing 1974. As a result, the diaphragm 1972 moves off of the valve seat 1903 and the air expelled from the chamber 1967 travels into the self-sealing valve assembly 1910 through the hollow tube 1992 and into an inflatable device that may be attached to the valve assembly 1910 via a conduit.
After air is forced from the chamber, the chamber re-inflates as illustrated in
In addition, the manual inflation device 1961 illustrated in
As shown in
In other embodiments, the pressure indicator 2009 is included in a self-sealing valve assembly 2010 that is attached to an inflatable device. For example, the self-sealing valve assembly 2010 including the pressure indicator 2009 can be located at an access point to an inflatable device
The term “automatic closure apparatus” is defined herein to mean an apparatus that closes without requiring human activation to achieve closure. An automatic closure apparatus may include structure that biases the apparatus closed such as a conventional spring or suitable shaped molded plastic structure that tends to flex in manner to achieve closure. Alternatively, an automatic closure structure may be configured and arranged such that air pressure within an inflatable device, with which the automatic closure structure is used, operates on the automatic closure apparatus to achieve closure.
In some embodiments, any of the valves (e.g., the valve 1410, the self-sealing-valve 1571, and the self-sealing valve 1671) described herein may include a one-way valve (e.g., a self-sealing valve assembly as described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,237,621, which was incorporated by reference above). Alternatively, any of the valves (e.g., the valve 1410, the self-sealing valve 1571, and the self-sealing valve 1671) may include in a two-way valve through which inflation and deflation are accomplished. It is to be appreciated that a valve having an automatic closure apparatus may provide a complete seal, such that by itself it provides a seal that is able maintain air in the inflatable device for a substantial period of time. Alternatively, the automatic closure device may provide a partial seal, such that the automatic closure device may serve to slow the rate at which air exits the bladder, and a cover 1416 may be placed over the valve 1415 to provide a more complete seal to maintain air in the bladder. The cover may be snapped or otherwise secured over the valve using any suitable structure known in the art. It is to be appreciated that in embodiments where the valve provides a complete seal and in embodiments that provide a partial seal, automatic closure device reduces the amount of air that escapes from the inflatable device prior to sealing to prevent the escape of air. Such a feature may be particularly advantageous in embodiments such as mattresses where the user's body weight may cause rapid exiting of air from the mattress, thereby reducing control of the amount of air in the mattress (i.e., firmness control is reduced by air loss).
In some embodiments, the valve having an automatic closure apparatus is configured such that a user can operate it using a single hand. Such embodiments of the invention are to be contrasted with prior art apparatus where, among other differences with aspects of the present invention, a valve is provided that requires two hands to be efficiently operated (e.g., a threaded valve that must be rotated to be opened or closed). In such apparatus, operation of the valve may be inconvenient (e.g., the user may have to move his body to operate the valve) and may result in too much air exiting the inflatable device prior to sealing, thereby reducing firmness control. In embodiments of the invention including a cover over the valve, the cover may also be configured to be operated by a user using a single hand.
In some embodiments, valve 1410, or additional structure fluidly coupled to the valve, is sized and shaped such that air can be blown into the mattress through the valve and/or additional structure by a user using his mouth. In some embodiments of the invention including such a structure, the valve may include an automatically closing structure as described above (e.g., the valve may be a self-sealing valve assembly as described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,237,621). It is to be appreciated that, for an inflatable device having a valve that is so sized and shaped and including an automatic closing structure, the firmness of the inflatable device can be easily controlled. For example, in embodiments where the inflatable device is a mattress, a person lying on the mattress can grab conduit 1420 and/or valve 1415, and blow air into the mattress so as to achieve a selected firmness. In such a device, automatic closure structure 1415 can be configured to be a self-sealing valve, such as the self-sealing valve described above, so as to automatically close when the person ceases blowing air. Accordingly, the firmness of the mattress achieved by blowing air would thereby be maintained.
In some embodiments, it is desirable that the valve be inexpensive to manufacture and not include any electrical components. For example, the valve may be a simple mechanical valve (e.g., the valve may be a self-sealing valve assembly as described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,237,621). In other embodiments, one or more electromechanical components may be included that permit a user to control air escaping the inflatable device. For example, in such embodiments an activation device (e.g., a button or switch) capable of activating the valve is accessible to the user. Upon activation of the activation device by the person, air may be permitted to flow through the conduit and the valve to exit the bladder. In mattress embodiments, the conduit and valve can be configured such that the activation device is accessible to a person lying on the mattress).
In various embodiments described herein, a portable inflation device is a device that can be moved by a user to an inflatable device (e.g., carried). A portable inflation device may be battery operated. In addition, a portable inflation device may operate on AC power and include an attached cord that can be plugged into a source of AC power (e.g., an outlet).
Embodiments of all the valves described herein may be used for manual inflation by mouth. In addition, an inflatable device may include a valve with a mouthpiece located at the end of a flexible conduit to allow a user to more easily inflate the device by mouth. In one embodiment, the mouthpiece may rotate between an open position for inflation and a closed position for sealing the air in the inflatable device.
Having thus described several aspects of at least one embodiment of this invention, it is to be appreciated various alterations, modifications, and improvements will readily occur to those skilled in the art. Such alterations, modifications, and improvements are intended to be part of this disclosure, and are intended to be within the spirit and scope of the invention. Accordingly, the foregoing description and drawings are by way of example only.
This application claims benefit under U.S.C. §119(e) of U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 60/617,138, entitled “METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR INFLATION OF INFLATABLE DEVICES,” filed on Oct. 8, 2004, the content of which is herein incorporated by reference in its entirety.
Number | Date | Country | |
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60617138 | Oct 2004 | US |