Abstract:
An inflatable structure may be formed from a single piece of flexible film. inflatable structure may include quilting seals which divide the inflatable chamber. The inflatable structure may include a one-way valve including an internal valve opening, a channel, and an external valve opening. A locator aperture positioned in the channel may be surrounded by a valve position-retention seal. A corresponding inflation device fills the inflatable structure with air and may do so without requiring heat sealing or insertion into the one-way valve. The inflation device may include a mechanical registration device configured to engage the locator aperture and position the one-way valve at a desired position with respect to an outlet of a source of pressurized air. The inflation device may detect when the inflatable structure is filled with a desired amount of air and automatically shut off the source of pressurized air.
Abstract:
An inflatable structure may be formed from a single piece of flexible film using a provided method of manufacturing. The inflatable structure may include quilting seals which divide the inflatable chamber. The inflatable structure may also include an external valve opening extending through multiple layers of the flexible film The external valve opening may further be partially defined by edge portions of the flexible film formed by folding the flexible film. The external valve opening may be configured to align with an opening in a container or an inflation aperture in a pouch so that the inflatable structure can be inflated while inside the container / pouch. A corresponding inflation device fills the inflatable structure with air and may do so without requiring heat sealing or contact between the inflatable structure and outlet of the inflation device. A hinged plate apparatus may assist in directing air into the external valve opening.