Inflatable Bed

What is this patent about?

’880 is related to the field of inflatable beds, specifically addressing the problem of edge collapse and inefficient manufacturing processes associated with existing multi-chamber inflatable beds. Traditional designs often involve cumbersome processes for creating communication channels between air chambers, weakening the structural integrity of the internal supports.

The underlying idea behind ’880 is to simplify the manufacturing process and improve the structural integrity of inflatable beds by using a closed annular pull strap within the main air chamber. This strap is welded to the bed's walls, creating separate air chambers, but with intentional breaks in the weld seams to allow air to flow between them. This eliminates the need for separate hole-drilling steps and maintains the strap's strength.

The claims of ’880 focus on an inflatable bed comprising a bed body with a main air chamber and at least one closed annular pull strap. The pull strap has two annular edges, a first and second, and resides within the main air chamber. The bed body includes a top, surrounding, and bottom wall, with the surrounding wall having two openings sealed by the top and bottom walls. The first annular edge is welded to either the top or bottom wall, while the second annular edge is welded to the surrounding wall. This arrangement divides the main air chamber into central and edge air chambers. Crucially, the weld seam of the first annular edge has at least one broken portion forming a channel for air communication, while the second annular edge is fully welded to the surrounding wall.

In practice, the inflatable bed is constructed by welding the annular pull strap inside the bed body. The key is that the weld between one edge of the strap and the top or bottom wall is intentionally incomplete, leaving gaps. When the bed is inflated, air flows from the central chamber through these gaps to the edge chamber, ensuring even inflation. The fully welded connection of the other edge to the surrounding wall provides a secure anchor point for the strap, enhancing the bed's overall stability.

This design differentiates itself from prior approaches by integrating the air communication channel directly into the welding process. Instead of creating separate holes in the pull straps, the incomplete weld serves as the channel. This simplifies manufacturing, reduces costs, and maintains the structural integrity of the pull strap, leading to a more durable and comfortable inflatable bed. The use of rounded corners on the annular edges further reduces stress concentration, preventing premature failure.