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Expandable Structure

a technology of expanding structure and expanding support, which is applied in the direction of thin material handling, chairs, stools, etc., can solve the problems of exacerbated problems, ineffectiveness, and most of the items that cannot maintain their structural integrity, and achieve the effects of expanding the structure, unique feel, and superior support capability

Inactive Publication Date: 2015-11-12
MARZ KEITH
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  • Summary
  • Abstract
  • Description
  • Claims
  • Application Information

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The invention provides an expandable structure that can be filled with fluid, which gives it a unique feel and superior support capability. The structure can be used to enhance an individual's motions while on it. It can also be provided with a fitted cover for a more gentle surface.

Problems solved by technology

Unfortunately, when many of these items are utilized for body support they are not that effective.
The reason for this is that most of these items are not able to maintain their structural integrity when a weight, such as a person's body, is placed upon them.
The problem results from an item being filled with a material or substance that does not possess any inherent strength.
As an item ages this problem is exacerbated, until there is literally no support provided whatsoever.
An additional problem is that many of these items which are typically used for support are shaped as a rectangle or square.

Method used

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Examples

Experimental program
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Effect test

Embodiment Construction

[0030]The best mode for carrying out the invention is presented in terms that disclose a preferred embodiment of an expandable structure 10. A fluid is inserted into the expandable structure 10, thereby causing the structure to increase in size and provide resilient support for a person sitting or lying on the structure 120. When filled with a fluid the expandable structure 10 is similar to a mini water bed that is portable and can be utilized for a variety of therapeutic and comfort purposes. The amount of support provided and firmness of the structure expandable 10 can vary, depending on the amount of fluid that is utilized to fill the structure 10.

[0031]The various types of support provided by the expandable structure 10, along with the structure's 10 unique shape, create an expandable structure that is significantly superior to conventional feather or polyester filled pillows or cushions, or other inflatable structures. The expandable structure 10 is especially useful for person...

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Abstract

An expandable structure (10) having a first chamber (12) and a second chamber (52). Each chamber has an upper layer (14,54), a lower layer (16,56), a right edge (18,58), a left edge (22,62), an upper edge (26,66) and a lower edge (30,68). The first chamber (12) is integrally attached to the second chamber (52), with the first chamber's lower edge (30) attached to the second chamber's upper edge (66). Separating the first chamber (12) from the second chamber (52) is a transverse seal (86). Located on the upper or lower layer of the first or second chamber (12,52) is at least one valve (76) that allows a fluid to be inserted into the chambers. Side conduits (88) can be added at each end of the transverse seal (86) to allow the fluid to pass from the first chamber (12) to the second chamber (52).

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD[0001]The invention generally pertains to expandable structures, and more particularly to an expandable structure that is filled with a fluid and that provides improved supportive as well as therapeutic benefits.BACKGROUND ART[0002]Pillows, cushions and expandable structures have long been used for decorative purposes and to provide body support. When used for decorative purposes, most of these items, if chosen wisely, can accentuate an area or a piece of furniture. Unfortunately, when many of these items are utilized for body support they are not that effective. The reason for this is that most of these items are not able to maintain their structural integrity when a weight, such as a person's body, is placed upon them. The problem results from an item being filled with a material or substance that does not possess any inherent strength. As an item ages this problem is exacerbated, until there is literally no support provided whatsoever.[0003]An additional problem is...

Claims

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Application Information

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Patent Type & Authority Applications(United States)
IPC IPC(8): A47C27/00
CPCY10T428/1345A47C27/001A47C7/021
Inventor MARZ, KEITH
Owner MARZ KEITH