US20060179577A1 - Body support comfort device - Google Patents
Body support comfort device Download PDFInfo
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- US20060179577A1 US20060179577A1 US11/313,570 US31357005A US2006179577A1 US 20060179577 A1 US20060179577 A1 US 20060179577A1 US 31357005 A US31357005 A US 31357005A US 2006179577 A1 US2006179577 A1 US 2006179577A1
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- Prior art keywords
- comfort
- comfort device
- inflatable
- resilient layer
- body support
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47C—CHAIRS; SOFAS; BEDS
- A47C20/00—Head -, foot -, or like rests for beds, sofas or the like
- A47C20/02—Head -, foot -, or like rests for beds, sofas or the like of detachable or loose type
- A47C20/021—Foot or leg supports
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47C—CHAIRS; SOFAS; BEDS
- A47C20/00—Head -, foot -, or like rests for beds, sofas or the like
- A47C20/02—Head -, foot -, or like rests for beds, sofas or the like of detachable or loose type
- A47C20/023—Arm supports
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- 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
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47C—CHAIRS; SOFAS; BEDS
- A47C4/00—Foldable, collapsible or dismountable chairs
- A47C4/54—Inflatable chairs
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47C—CHAIRS; SOFAS; BEDS
- A47C7/00—Parts, details, or accessories of chairs or stools
- A47C7/36—Support for the head or the back
- A47C7/40—Support for the head or the back for the back
- A47C7/42—Support for the head or the back for the back of detachable or loose type
- A47C7/425—Supplementary back-rests to be positioned on a back-rest or the like
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47G—HOUSEHOLD OR TABLE EQUIPMENT
- A47G9/00—Bed-covers; Counterpanes; Travelling rugs; Sleeping rugs; Sleeping bags; Pillows
- A47G9/10—Pillows
- A47G9/1027—Details of inflatable pillows
Definitions
- Some of these devices comprise a layer of foam which can be placed over the body support structure or device to provide a layer of comfort.
- the layer of foam may have a contour and may be surrounded or covered, for example, by an outer protective layer of plastic, fabric, or any other covering layer known to those of skill in the art.
- foam layer devices One problem with these foam layer devices is that the foam layer must be thin to accommodate shaped devices, and foam is a compressible material which compacts at a point where pressure is applied. For example, by applying pressure to the thin foam layer, for example by sitting on the thin foam layer, a pressure point results from where the foam is compacted to the underlying body support device.
- the thin layer of foam typically does not equally distribute the applied pressure or weight and typically provides at least one pressure point and discomfort point to the user of the thin foam device.
- Another problem with foam devices is that the performance of foam degrades over time and can vary with environmental conditions.
- FIGS. 9A-9B illustrate a side view and a top view of an embodiment of a body pillow according to the invention.
- the surface comfort device 10 , 20 of the invention is usually inflated with air
- any type of fluid for example, water, nitrogen, or other liquids or gases, may be used to inflate the surface comfort device.
- the surface comfort device 10 , 20 is provided with an adjustment mechanism for any of inflating the surface comfort device, deflating the surface comfort device, or adjusting an amount of fluid within the surface comfort device.
- one adjustment mechanism might be a manual pump (not illustrated) that, for example, can be manually squeezed to add fluid to the surface comfort device.
- other inflation adjusting mechanisms can also be used, such as an electrically powered pump, or other fluid moving pumps know to those with skill in the art.
- the self-sealing valve may be adapted such that it also mates with the body support device and may be provided at a convenient location of the chair, such that it can be accessed to inflate or deflate the surface comfort device.
- the surface comfort device of the invention can be a stand alone device or a device integrated within a body support device.
- the surface comfort device of the invention may be provided in a number of different shapes and sizes, adapted to be used with a number of different sized and shaped body support devices, to accommodate different sized chairs, bedding, office and home furniture, etc.
- the surface comfort device of the invention may be provided with at least one or more additional cover layers, for example, a quilted or textured layer, to enhance comfort, to provide a protective layer, to reduce noise, and the like.
- a variety of attachable cover layers may be provided with the surface comfort device.
- an outer layer of the surface comfort device may further be provided in a variety of different colors.
Abstract
An adjustable, inflatable surface comfort device to be used with shaped body support devices or as a stand alone comfort device such as a mattress. The surface comfort device comprises an inflatable bladder having a shape and size to substantially cover at least one support surface of a shaped body support device so as to conform to and provide a comfort layer to the body support device. According to one embodiment, a self-sealing valve is coupled to a port of the inflatable bladder, and is constructed and arranged to enable all of inflation, deflation, and comfort control of the surface comfort device.
Description
- This application is a continuation and claims priority under 35 U.S.C. §120 to commonly-owned, co-pending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/412,075 which claims priority under 35 U.S.C. §119(e), to provisional application Ser. No. 60/371,960, filed Apr. 11, 2002, and provisional application Ser. No. 60/374,878, filed Apr. 23, 2002, the contents of which are all hereby incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.
- The present invention relates to an inflatable surface comfort device which may be used with body support devices or as a stand alone comfort device, for example, a mattress.
- It is to be understood that a body support structure or body support device, as used herein, includes, for example, a chair seat, a chair back, a head rest, a leg or foot support device, or any other structure or device that is used for, for example, sitting, reclining, lying down, or supporting a person. A body support structure or device typically may be beveled, contoured, angled, or some how shaped for, for example, sitting, reclining and the like. Such body support devices or structures may comprise a solid surface, a padded surface, an upholstered surface, and may also comprise any number of types of support structure, such as foam, springs, suspension straps, and the like.
- It is often desirable to provide comfort and/or support layers to existing body support structures, such as chairs, car seats, mattresses, and the like. There have been a number of different products offered and sold in the marketplace that attempt to provide such comfort and support. For example, there are contoured foam and foam covered structures that can be used with a car seat. There are also wooden beaded structures that can be attached to the back of a car seat and purportedly provide support or comfort to a person sitting in the car seat. As another example, there are sporting event seats made of foam and other synthetic materials and typically encased in a flexible plastic covering, which can be, for example, placed on top of metal or wooden benches at a sporting activity. As another example, many automobiles are provided with a lumbar support that is built into a base of a back of the car seat, that can be adjusted, typically by moving a lever or rotating a knob, to vary the amount of support and/or comfort provided by the lumbar support. These are just some examples of comfort or support devices that have been used in the marketplace.
- Some of these devices comprise a layer of foam which can be placed over the body support structure or device to provide a layer of comfort. The layer of foam may have a contour and may be surrounded or covered, for example, by an outer protective layer of plastic, fabric, or any other covering layer known to those of skill in the art. One problem with these foam layer devices is that the foam layer must be thin to accommodate shaped devices, and foam is a compressible material which compacts at a point where pressure is applied. For example, by applying pressure to the thin foam layer, for example by sitting on the thin foam layer, a pressure point results from where the foam is compacted to the underlying body support device. Thus, the thin layer of foam typically does not equally distribute the applied pressure or weight and typically provides at least one pressure point and discomfort point to the user of the thin foam device. Another problem with foam devices is that the performance of foam degrades over time and can vary with environmental conditions.
- Referring to
FIG. 1 , there is illustrated athin foam device 100 may have in a thickness t of less than 2 inches and asurface 102 providing pressure on the thin foam device, which results inpressure points FIG. 1 , thepressure point 104 has a magnitude A which a represents pressure point of most pressure andpressure point 110 has a magnitude D which represents a pressure point of least pressure in a range A-D of magnitudes of pressure experienced with the thin foam layer. As can be seen fromFIG. 1 , the thin foam layer does not equally distribute the applied pressure and compacts to provide at least onearea 111 with apressure point 104 that may be uncomfortable. In addition, thethin foam device 100 does not supportively conform to a surface or subject applying pressure to the thin foam device. Further, the thin foam device may not typically conform to the body support device that it is used with. - Another example of surface comfort devices includes inflatable devices, including, inflatable pillows, inflatable rafts, inflatable mattresses, and the like. However, one problem with some inflatable devices is that they may not be self-sealing, thus requiring a user to fumble with a valve when inflating the device. For example, many inflatable devices comprise stem-type valves, that require removing a cover or mating piece to inflate the inflatable device, and then inserting the cover or mating piece to maintain the fluid within the inflatable device. These valves are clumsy, are not self-sealing and thus are difficult to adjust an amount of fluid in the device. For example, a user must blow into the stem valve, then quickly insert the mating piece to maintain the fluid pressure. Another problem with some inflatable devices is that the inflatable devices are not intended to be used with shaped or cushioned surfaces, and instead are intended to be used on a flat surface. For example, an inflatable mattress is used as a body support device itself, and is typically used on a floor or a flat surface. However, an inflatable mattress would not work well with and would not conform with a shaped surface.
- As another example, referring to
FIGS. 2 and 3 , there is illustrated aninflatable device 10 that is intended to be used on a flat surface such as a floor or a bench-type seat as a seat cushion. However, the problem withdevice 10 is that it is not shaped to be used with a shaped surface. In addition, thedevice 10 is typically not sized to be compatible with the body support structure. For example, the size of the device is not typically large enough to cover theentire surface 12 of theseat 13 of thechair 9. In addition, thedevice 10 is typically thick, such as for example greater than 2 inches in thickness, since it is intended to be used with a flat surface and to provide cushioning to a subject sitting on thedevice 10 placed on the flat surface. However, the thickness of the device and the size of the device make it impractical to be used with a shaped surface such as thesurface 12 of theseat 13. In particular, thedevice 10 does not over spread theentire surface 12 and does not conform to the shape of thesurface 12. In addition, when the device is not fully inflated, it tends to move around thesurface 12 and provide an unbalanced cushioning. Thus, thedevice 10 is ergonomically incompatible with a shaped surface such as thesurface 12 and, does not overspread theentire surface 12, and can be unstable to use with a shaped surface. Further, thedevice 10 may not have a mechanism for adjusting an amount of fluid within thedevice 10, to adjust an amount of support or comfort that thedevice 10 provides. For example, the device may have a stem valve as discussed above which requires fumbling with the valve and the mating cover in order to inflate or adjust the amount of fluid indevice 10, and therefore there is no easy adjustment mechanism to adjust the amount of fluid in thedevice 10. - In view of the problems and disadvantageous of the above described structures, there is a need to find an alternative to the thin foam surface comfort devices as well as the inflatable devices described above. In particular, there is a need for a device that can conform to a shaped surface, a beveled surface, a contoured surface, a cushioned surface and the like, and that can equally distribute pressure applied to the device, for example, when one sits on a device that is overlaying a shaped surface. In addition, there is a need to provide a device that can easily be adjusted to vary the level of comfort and support provided by the device, and that can be adaptable for use by a variety of users of different body types and sizes, in a variety of user settings (used over a variety of body support devices, in a variety of locations). Further, there is a need for a device that conforms to a surface that applies pressure to the device.
- According to one aspect, an inflatable comfort device includes an upper resilient layer, an inflatable bladder disposed below the upper resilient layer, and a covering layer enclosing the upper resilient layer and the inflatable bladder. In one embodiment, the upper resilient layer, the inflatable bladder, and the covering layer configured as an integral device. In another embodiment, the comfort device further includes a lower resilient layer which is also enclosed by the covering layer. In yet another embodiment, the comfort device includes an adjustment device coupled to the inflatable bladder and adapted to adjust an amount of fluid in the inflatable bladder.
- In one embodiment, both the upper resilient layer and the lower resilient layer include compressible synthetic material. In a further embodiment, the inflatable device is a mattress, and in a version of this embodiment the inflatable bladder is disposed below the upper resilient layer and above the lower resilient layer.
- According to one embodiment of the invention, there is provided a self-sealing, inflatable, comfort device that comprises an inflatable bladder having a single port through which inflation and deflation of the inflatable bladder is accomplished. The inflatable bladder is sized and shaped to conform to a shaped body support device and to provide a comfort layer to be used with the body support device. The surface comfort device also comprises a self-sealing valve coupled to the single port of the inflatable bladder, that is constructed and arranged to enable all of inflation, deflation and comfort control of the surface comfort device with the self-sealing valve.
- Some examples of this embodiment of the surface comfort device include a seat cushion, a pillow, a lumbar support, a cylindrical tube, and a body pillow.
- Another embodiment of an adjustable, inflatable, surface comfort device comprises an inflatable bladder having a shape and a size such that the surface comfort device substantially covers and conforms to substantially all of at least one body support surface of a shaped body support device. In addition, the surface comfort device comprises an adjustment mechanism that provides for inflation, deflation, and adjustment of an amount of fluid within the inflatable bladder, to adjust a comfort and support provided by the surface comfort device.
- Some examples of this embodiment of the surface comfort device also include a seat cushion, a pillow, a lumbar support, a cylindrical tube, and a body pillow.
- Various features and aspects of embodiments of the invention will be apparent from the following non-limiting discussion, with reference to the accompanying figures. In the figures, in which like reference numerals represent like elements throughout the different figures,
-
FIG. 1 illustrates a thin foam layer of related art surface comfort devices and their inability to equally distribute applied pressure; -
FIG. 2 is a side perspective view of an inflatable surface comfort device typically used with a flat surface, such as a floor or bench type seat; -
FIG. 3 is a top perspective view of the surface comfort device ofFIG. 2 ; -
FIG. 4 illustrates how a surface comfort device of the invention comprising an inflatable device can equally distribute applied pressure; -
FIG. 5 is a side perspective view of one embodiment of a surface comfort device according to the invention; -
FIG. 6 is a top perspective view of the embodiment of surface comfort device ofFIG. 5 ; -
FIG. 7 illustrates another embodiment of a surface comfort device according to the invention; -
FIGS. 8A-8F are top views of other exemplary embodiments of inflatable surface comfort devices according to the invention; -
FIGS. 9A-9B illustrate a side view and a top view of an embodiment of a body pillow according to the invention; -
FIG. 10 is an enlarged top view of an embodiment of a self-sealing valve that can be used with various embodiments of the surface comfort device of the invention; -
FIG. 11 is a top view of the exemplary embodiment of the self-sealing valve ofFIG. 10 ; -
FIGS. 12-14 are cross-sectional side views of the self-sealing valve ofFIG. 10 ; and -
FIG. 15 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a surface comfort device according to the invention. - It is to be understood that a body support structure or a body support device, as used herein, includes, for example, a chair seat, a chair back, a head rest, a leg or foot support device, or any other structure or device that is used for, for example, sitting, reclining, lying down, or supporting a person. A body support structure or device typically may be beveled, contoured, angled, or some how shaped for, for example, sitting, reclining, and the like. Such body support devices or structures may comprise a solid surface, a padded surface, an upholstered surface, and may also comprise any number of types of support structure, such as foam, springs, suspension straps, and the like.
- Referring to
FIGS. 5-6 there is illustrated one embodiment of a self-sealing, inflatablesurface comfort device 20 according to the invention. Thesurface comfort device 20 is an inflatable device that when at least partially inflated provides a conformable, flexible cushioning layer that may be used in combination with a shaped or cushioned body support device, such as for example, the shapedseat 13 ofchair 9 as illustrated inFIGS. 5-6 , so as to improve the comfort and/or support of the chair. - It is to be appreciated that this embodiment of the self-sealing, inflatable surface comfort device of the invention comprises a fluid impervious bladder having a cross-section, such as illustrated in
FIG. 4 . In particular, this embodiment of the fluidimpervious bladder 11 has a thickness t of less than 2 inches. In addition, this embodiment of the fluidimpervious bladder 11 comprises a total volume of no more than 0.5 cubic feet of fluid, when fully inflated. - One advantage of the
surface comfort device 20 comprising thefluid containing bladder 11, is that the surface comfort device can have the thickness t of less than 2 inches which may be similar to, for example, the thin foam layer discussed above, but the surface comfort device will equally spread the pressure from thepressure applying surface 102, such as one sitting on the surface comfort layer, over an even area thereby eliminating the uncomfortable pressure point that results with the thin foam layer (discussed above). In particular, thebladder 11 compresses and conforms to thepressure applying surface 102 and the underlying surface such as the shapedsurface 12 of theseat 13. In addition, the bladder provides an equal amount of comfort and pressure along the entirepressure applying surface 102 in contact with the bladder, as illustrated bypressure points surface comfort device 20 of the invention expands the comfort surface area between the body and the body support device, conforms to the shape of the body support device and the pressure applying surface, and eliminates any pressure points that cause discomfort and negatively impact health and wellness. - It is to be appreciated that the surface comfort device of the invention may be used with all kinds of conventional body support devices such as, for example, a shaped
surface 12 of aseat 13 of achair 9, for adding comfort to an existing seat, as illustrated inFIGS. 5-6 . In addition, thesurface comfort device 20 may be used with other body support devices such as, but not limited to, home and office furniture, car seats and the like. It is to further be appreciated that the surface comfort device may also be used as a stand-alone comfort device, such as a portable cushion or pillow, and with flat body support devices such as a mattress, a floor and the like. Nevertheless, it is to be understood that one aspect of the surface comfort device of the invention is that it is purposely shaped and sized to substantially cover a body support surface such as, a seat chair or seat back, so that it can be used with the body support device. Accordingly, the surface comfort device may be provided in many shapes and sizes to substantially cover and accommodate a plurality of differently sized and shaped body support devices. It should also be appreciated that thesurface comfort device 20 may be provided and used with or without additional layers of various materials to improve comfort and utility of the surface comfort device such as, for example, a textured or quilted cover layer, which can be added for additional comfort, support, protection and the like. - For example, referring to
FIG. 7 there is illustrated anotherembodiment 88 of a surface comfort device according to the invention. According to this embodiment the surface comfort device comprises afirst layer 82, which may be for example a compressible foam or cushioning fabric. The surface comfort device also comprises asecond layer 84, which in one embodiment may be aninflatable bladder 11 of the surface comfort device as described herein. The surface comfort device also comprises athird layer 86, which may be, for example, a quilted fabric or a synthetic material, which may include a foam or a textured or contoured cushioning material, or may be fabric sewn with a batting, or a quilted material. An exterior covering layer (not illustrated) of, for example, leather, plastic, or a woven material may also be provided to surround and protect these other layers. It is to be appreciated that thisembodiment 88 of the surface comfort device may also include an adjustment device, such as a self-sealingvalve 16 to enable inflation and deflation of the bladder, as will be described in further detail herein. It is also to be appreciated that although the self-sealingvalve 16 is illustrated as mating with atop layer 86 of the device, it can be provided at any surface of the device. It is further to be appreciated that this embodiment of a multilayer surface comfort device provides additional comfort and support as well as the ability to conform to a shaped body support surface. Moreover, it is to be appreciated that although theembodiment 88 for the surface comfort device illustrated inFIG. 7 is a stand alone device, it may also be integrated into an existing body support device or a surface of a body support device. - For example, many body support devices may include a comfort layer hierarchy (not illustrated), including a lower layer, which may have a rigid support member and, for example, any one or more of straps, webbing (either elastic or non-elastic), springs, straps in combinations with springs, or stretched cloth overlaying a frame of the body support device. The comfort layer hierarchy may also include a middle layer, which may be, for example, a foam or cotton batting, and an upper layer which may include a fabric, for example, leather or a synthetic material, etc., over foam or another textured or contoured cushioning material, or may be a fabric sewed with a batting, or one of various quilted materials. It is to be appreciated that the surface comfort device of the invention may be provided, for example, between the middle layer and the upper layer, or may serve as one of the uppermost layers of such a comfort layer hierarchy, at or near the surface of the body support device and in contact with the body.
- Referring again to the
embodiment 20 of the surface comfort device illustrated inFIGS. 5-6 , it is to be appreciated that thesurface comfort device 20 may include an inflatable bladder comprising a plurality ofparallel tubes 15. For example, the inflatable surface comfort device may be fabricated with tubes formed by sealing one layer of an air-impervious film directly to another opposing layer of air-impervious film with a number ofparallel seams 14, thereby forming a plurality ofparallel tubes 15. One advantage of this structure is that it can be easily constructed and is inexpensive. According to this embodiment, thesurface comfort device 20 may comprise one or more inflatable bladders formed from at least two layers of air-impervious film, sealed at aperimeter 17 and sealed internally at regular intervals byinternal seams 14. Upon inflation, the bladder will comprise a plurality ofplural tubes 15 having a generally circular cross-section. It is to be appreciated that theinternal seams 14 may be substantially shorter than an overall width w of the bladder to allow for fluid passage between the tubes. - It is also to be appreciated that another embodiment of the surface comfort device, such as the
device 20 illustrated inFIGS. 5-6 , may comprise the bladder attached to a planar membrane at controlled intervals (not illustrated) to provide additional stability to the bladder. For example, the parallel tube structure can be provided in combination with a material that has a stable length to width ratio, such as illustrated in co-pending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/192,757, herein incorporated by reference. An advantage to this embodiment is that the surface comfort device may provide a more uniform and stable cushioning surface. - It is to be appreciated that while the
surface comfort device surface comfort device valve 16 illustrated herein and discussed below. The self-sealing valve provides for the firmness/softness of thesurface comfort device valve 16 will be described in more detail below. However, it is to be appreciated that many self-sealing valve structures, such as disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 6,237,621 herein incorporated by reference, can be used with the surface comfort device of the invention. - The
surface comfort device surface comfort device 10 to the body support device. However, it should be appreciated that the surface comfort device of the invention need not be provided as a separate device to be used with a body support device, and instead may be integrated into a body support device as one layer for a multi-layered body support device (as discussed above). For example, a chair may be provided with a surface comfort device integrated into the seat portion of the chair or substantially the entire back portion of the chair, to provide an additional comfort layer. For this embodiment, the self-sealing valve may be adapted such that it also mates with the body support device and may be provided at a convenient location of the chair, such that it can be accessed to inflate or deflate the surface comfort device. Accordingly, the surface comfort device of the invention can be a stand alone device or a device integrated within a body support device. - As stated above, the
surface comfort device parallel tubes 15, as illustrated inFIGS. 5-6 . In one embodiment, each tube may have a diameter of approximately 1¼ inches, and a center-to-center spacing between adjacent tubes of approximately 1½ inches. In this embodiment, the surface comfort device may have a total volume of approximately 0.15 cubic feet of fluid at full inflation. This embodiment of the surface comfort device also includes a self-sealingvalve 16 to enable inflation and deflation of the bladder. The firmness of the surface comfort device may be adjusted, by controlling the volume of fluid within the bladder with the self-sealing valve, to provide desired comfort and support. In addition when deflated, the surface comfort device is compactable for easy storage. - Referring to FIGS. 8A-F, there are illustrated various embodiments of self-sealing, inflatable surface comfort devices according to the invention.
FIG. 8A illustrates onedevice 110 that is sized and shaped to be used as a seat cushion. It is to be appreciated that thesurface comfort device 110 may have a smooth or contoured surface, and includes an inflatable bladder. Thesurface comfort device 110 also includes a self-sealingvalve 16 to allow for manual inflation and deflation of the inflatable bladder. In one example, thedevice 110 may be a low volume device, having less than approximately 0.2 cubic feet of fluid volume when fully inflated. Other examples of low-volume, surface comfort devices include a travel pillow 112 (FIG. 8B ), a headrest pillow 114 (FIG. 8C ), a lumbar cushion 116 (FIG. 8D ), aback support pillow 120 as illustrated (in phantom) inFIG. 8E andFIG. 8F , and abody pillow 118 as illustrated inFIGS. 9A-9B . Each of thesesurface comfort devices valve 16, as illustrated, to enable inflation and deflation, and to also control firmness of the device. Use of these different embodiments of the surface comfort devices as illustrated inFIGS. 8A-8D and 9A-9B should be readily apparent. For example, each of thetravel pillow 112 and thehead rest pillow 114 can be used as a pillow for example, when traveling on an airplane, in a car, when camping, and the like. In addition, thelumbar cushion 116 can be used for lower back support with a car seat, office chair, with home furniture, and the like. In addition, theback support pillow 120 illustrated inFIG. 8E andFIG. 8F can be used with a car seat, an office chair and home furniture to provide arch to the back for correct posture and comfort. - Referring to
FIGS. 9A-9B , thebody pillow 118 can be used, for example, for sleeping on a mattress, when camping, etc . . . to provide comfort, support, and correct posture for sleeping. It is to be appreciated that the volume of fluid within the body support pillow can be varied to accommodate a particular size or shape, for example, of a subject using the body support pillow. It is also to be appreciated that the body support pillow can be used in a number of configurations. For example, the body support pillow may be rolled up into a bolster-like shape to elevate, for example, a lower body of the subject 119. In addition, thebody support pillow 118 can be configured to run length wise such that the subject 119 resting on its side can hug the pillow to support the subjects upper-body limbs, providing a layer of cushioning between theupper leg 123 andupper arm 121 that will rest on the body support pillow and thelower leg 124 andlower arm 122 that will rest directly upon, for example, the mattress. It is to be appreciated that as the body support pillow is filled with additional fluid, the body support pillow will further provide cushioning and distance between the upper arm and leg and the lower arm and leg, which can serve both to reduce pressure at points where the upper and lower limbs may come in contact with each other, and provide a more stable body position for sleeping. It is also to be appreciated that the body support pillow also provides improved comfort and well being and improves sleeping posture when used in an appropriate manner. It is further to be appreciated that the body support pillow can be sized and shaped to accommodate a variety of body shapes and sizes. In addition, the body support pillow can comprise one as well as a plurality of inflatable bladders. Further, the body support pillow can be provided with any of a plurality of covering layers and covering layer combinations to provide comfort, temperature control, ventilation and the like. In addition, the body support pillow can be shaped and sized to accommodate a plurality of sleeping positions. - It is to be appreciated that each of these surface comfort devices discussed above with respect to
FIGS. 8A-8E and 9A-9B includes a single port, coupled to the self-sealingvalve 16, for inflation, deflation and comfort control of the surface comfort device through the single port. The self-sealingvalve 16 self-opens upon inflation of the device and self-seals upon cessation of inflation. Inflation can be effected for example, by blowing into the valve or using a pump configured to mate with the valve. The self-sealingvalve 16 further allows 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 surface comfort devices sizes and fluid flow parameters. - Referring to
FIGS. 10-14 , there is illustrated an exemplary embodiment of avalve 16 that may be used with the various embodiments of a surface comfort device of the invention. The self-sealingvalve 16 may include adiaphragm 30 positioned within avalve housing 32 by amovable hanger arm 34 which suspends the diaphragm from a mountingpoint 36 in the center of anair inlet 38. Thehanger arm 34 is a rotating diaphragm hanger that is removably contained within theair inlet 38 of thevalve housing 32, with one end secured adjacent to aninner wall 40 of theair inlet 38. A point of attachment of the one end of thehanger arm 34 to theinner wall 40 is configured to allow thehanger arm 34 to pivot downward into thevalve housing 32, a motion which unseats thediaphragm 30 from avalve seat 42, in a closed position, and opens an airpath, to an open position, into the bladder of the surface comfort layer device to allow for both inflation and deflation of the surface comfort layer device. - According to one example, the
hanger arm 34 flares outward towards theinner wall 40 of theair inlet 38 creating a “paddle”surface 44 which overspreads much of theair inlet 38. Thepaddle surface 44 of thehanger arm 34 provides stability to theflexible diaphragm 30 as it rotates with thehanger arm 34 from the closed position to the open position. The expandedpaddle surface 44 of thehanger arm 34 also enhances manipulation of thehanger arm 34 by, for example, a fingertip of a user to, for example, control a firmness of the surface comfort layer device. The paddle surface 44 projects outward to apoint 46, extending the length of thehanger arm 34. This projection bears upon theflexible diaphragm 30, thereby preventing it from flexing upward when thehanger arm 34 is pressed downward for firmness control or deflation. - The
hanger arm 34 may be secured within theair inlet 38 with a pair of hinge pins 48. In one example, there is a contouredsection 50 between the hinge pins 48 of the inner wall of at least one of the brackets and theinner wall 40 of theair inlet 38. The contouredsection 50 interfaces with acontoured end 52 of the projecting tabs to provide a plurality of distinct interaction possibilities. A first possibility exists whensurface 54 on the projecting tabs bears onsurface 56 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 58 on the projecting tab bears oncounter-beveled surface 60 on the wall. An inclined angel of thiscounter-beveled surface 60 causes the projecting tab to increasingly compress inward as thehanger arm 34 is pressed downward into thevalve housing 32. 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 thehanger arm 34 anddiaphragm 30 to return to the closed position. When thehanger arm 34 is depressed fully, the projecting tabs rotate slightly beyond thebeveled surface 60 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. These and other exemplary embodiments of thevalve 16 are described in more detail in U.S. Pat. No. 6,237,621, which is herein incorporated by reference. - Referring now to
FIG. 15 , there is illustrated another embodiment of asurface comfort device 70 adapted to be used as a comfort layer for covering substantially all of a seat and seat back of achair 72. It is to be appreciated that this embodiment of thesurface comfort device 70 may comprise more than one fluid impermeable bladder, such as for example, two fluidimpermeable bladders seat cushion 73 and one for substantially covering and conforming to the seat back 75. It is also to be appreciated that this embodiment of thesurface comfort device 70 may be provided with either asingle valve 16, or multiple self-sealingvalves 16, such as one for each fluid impermeable bladder, to allow for variable firmness in any of the seat and seat back portions of thesurface comfort device 70. - It is to be appreciated, in general, that in some applications, it is desirable that the surface comfort device overspread as much as possible of a body support device with which the surface comfort device is to be used. Therefore, the surface comfort device of the invention may be provided in a number of different shapes and sizes, adapted to be used with a number of different sized and shaped body support devices, to accommodate different sized chairs, bedding, office and home furniture, etc. In addition, the surface comfort device of the invention may be provided with at least one or more additional cover layers, for example, a quilted or textured layer, to enhance comfort, to provide a protective layer, to reduce noise, and the like. In one embodiment, a variety of attachable cover layers may be provided with the surface comfort device. It is further to be appreciated that an outer layer of the surface comfort device may further be provided in a variety of different colors.
- Having thus described various illustrative non-limiting embodiments, and aspects thereof, modifications and alterations will be apparent to those who have skill in the art. Such modifications and alterations are intended to be included in this disclosure, which is for the purpose of illustration and explanation, and not intended to define the limits of the invention. The scope of the invention should be determined from proper construction of the appended claims and their equivalents.
Claims (28)
1. An inflatable comfort device, comprising:
an upper resilient layer;
an inflatable bladder disposed below the upper resilient layer; and
a covering layer enclosing at least the upper resilient layer and the inflatable bladder,
wherein the upper resilient layer, the inflatable bladder, and the covering layer are included in an integral device.
2. The comfort device of claim 1 , wherein the upper resilient layer comprises a quilted fabric.
3. The comfort device of claim 1 , wherein the upper resilient layer comprises a foam.
4. The comfort device of claim 1 , wherein the upper resilient layer is textured.
5. The comfort device of claim 1 , wherein the upper resilient layer is contoured.
6. The comfort device of claim 1 , wherein the upper resilient layer comprises a batting.
7. The comfort device of claim 1 , wherein the upper resilient layer comprises a compressible synthetic material.
8. The comfort device of claim 1 , further comprising a lower resilient layer, wherein the lower resilient layer is also enclosed by the covering layer.
9. The comfort device of claim 8 , wherein the lower resilient layer comprises a foam.
10. The comfort device of claim 8 , wherein the lower resilient layer comprises a cushioning fabric.
11. The comfort device of claim 8 , wherein the lower resilient layer comprises a compressible synthetic material.
12. The comfort device of claim 1 , wherein the covering layer comprises leather.
13. The comfort device of claim 1 , wherein the covering layer comprises a plastic.
14. The comfort device of claim 1 , wherein the covering layer comprises a fabric.
15. The comfort device of claim 1 , further comprising an adjustment device coupled to the inflatable bladder and adapted to adjust an amount of fluid in the inflatable bladder.
16. The comfort device of claim 15 , wherein adjustment device comprises a self-sealing valve.
17. The comfort device of claim 15 , wherein the adjustment device is accessible through the upper resilient layer.
18. The comfort device of claim 1 , in a combination with a support device, external to the covering layer, that is adapted to maintain the comfort device above a floor.
19. The combination of claim 18 , wherein the support device comprises a foam.
20. The combination of claim 18 , wherein the support device comprises at least one strap.
21. The combination of claim 18 , wherein the support device comprises a webbing.
22. The combination of claim 18 , wherein the support device comprises at least one spring.
23. The inflatable comfort device of claim 1 , wherein the integral device is adapted to conform to a surface of a support device.
24. The inflatable comfort device of claim 1 , further comprising a mattress.
25. The inflatable comfort device of claim 8 , further comprising a mattress.
26. The inflatable comfort device of claim 25 , wherein at least one of the upper resilient layer and the lower resilient layer comprises a compressible synthetic material.
27. The inflatable comfort device of claim 8 , wherein the inflatable bladder is disposed below the upper resilient layer and above the lower resilient layer.
28. The inflatable comfort device of claim 27 , further comprising a mattress.
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Legal Events
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