Inflatable product, method for producing same, and method for producing tensioning assembly

Abstract

The inflatable product comprises a first wall and a second wall which are opposite to each other, and further comprises a plurality of tensioning assemblies, each tensioning assembly comprises a tensioning component and a connecting component, the connecting components are connected with the first wall in a welding mode and connected with the tensioning components in a sewing mode, and the tensioning components are connected with the second wall in a sewing mode. Wherein the connecting component comprises a connecting strip, a plurality of wires and a first high polymer material, and the first high polymer material fixes a plurality of strands of fibers of each wire on the connecting strip. The invention further discloses a production method of the inflatable product and a production method of the tensioning assembly.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to inflatable products. Specifically, this application relates to an inflatable product including a tensioning component and a method for manufacturing the same, as well as a method for manufacturing the tensioning component of such an inflatable product. Background Technology

[0002] With advancements in materials and technology, and increasing societal demands, people are increasingly using various portable devices in diverse settings, such as moving devices from indoor to outdoor use. Inflatable products, being lightweight, easy to pack and store, are a prime example and have gained widespread popularity in daily life.

[0003] Most inflatable products are shaped to their intended form through internal structures, so that after inflation, the internal air pressure brings the product to its predetermined final shape. For example, an inflatable product may have a tensioning structure inside its inflation chamber, which is connected to the inner wall of the inflation chamber, so that the inflatable product takes on the desired shape after being pressurized.

[0004] Some inflatable products require high air pressure in their inflation chambers to meet usage requirements. Therefore, the connection between the tensioning member and the inner wall of the inflation chamber must be highly reliable, and the tensioning member itself should also have high tensile strength.

[0005] U.S. Patent Application 17 / 876,241 (claiming priority to Chinese Patent Applications CN 202210458848.3 and CN202221006772.2) discloses a tensioning member with high reliability and tensile strength, and its installation method. The tensioning member, made of fabric, is connected to a connecting member by sewing. The connecting member has a multi-layered structure, with fiber layers attached between two weldable covering layers to form a laminated structure; the connecting member is then connected to the wall of the inflatable product. In this way, the tensioning member made of fabric is connected to the wall of the inflatable product. During long-term use of the inflatable product, due to the tensioning member applying tension to the fiber layers in the connecting member, the threads in the fiber layers may gradually be pulled out, causing a decrease in the connection strength between the tensioning member and the connecting member. Correspondingly, the connection strength between the tensioning member and the inner wall of the inflation chamber also decreases. Once the connection strength between the tensioning member and the inflation chamber no longer meets the requirements for the normal operation of the inflatable product, the inflatable product will fail. Summary of the Invention

[0006] This application provides an inflatable product having an improved tensioning member and a method for installing the tensioning member.

[0007] According to one aspect of this application, an inflatable product is disclosed, comprising:

[0008] First wall;

[0009] The second wall, opposite to the first wall, and together with the first wall, defines an inflatable chamber; and

[0010] Multiple tensioning components are disposed within the inflatable chamber, each tensioning component comprising:

[0011] Tensioning components, including fabric materials;

[0012] A first connecting member is welded to the first wall and sewn to the tensioning member, the first connecting member comprising:

[0013] The first connecting strip has a first surface facing the first wall and a second surface facing the tensioning member;

[0014] Multiple first threads, parallel to each other, are disposed on the first surface of the first connecting strip, each first thread comprising multiple strands of first fibers; and

[0015] A first polymer material is used to fix the multiple strands of first fibers onto the first connecting strip.

[0016] In an alternative embodiment, the multiple strands of the first fiber are twisted together.

[0017] In an alternative embodiment, the first polymeric material includes a crosslinking agent that is compatible with the material used to make the multi-stranded fibers.

[0018] In an alternative embodiment, the multi-stranded fiber is made of polyester fiber, and the crosslinking agent is a polymer of 1,3-diisocyanate-2-toluene and 2,4-diisocyanate-1-toluene.

[0019] In one alternative embodiment, the first and second walls of the inflatable product are made of polyvinyl chloride; and...

[0020] The first polymeric material also includes polyvinyl chloride, which is obtained by curing polyvinyl chloride paste resin.

[0021] In an alternative embodiment, the first polymer material also covers the portion of the first surface of the first connecting strip that is not covered by the plurality of first lines.

[0022] In an optional embodiment, each of the tensioning members includes a plurality of first coating lines, each first coating line including a first thread and a first polymer material, the first polymer material wrapping the plurality of first fibers of each first thread;

[0023] Each of the first connecting members further includes a layer of second polymer material, which covers the portion of the first surface of the first connecting strip that is not covered by the plurality of first coating lines, and fixes the plurality of first coating lines between the first surface of the first connecting strip and the second polymer material.

[0024] In one alternative embodiment, the second polymer material and the first polymer material have the same composition.

[0025] In one alternative embodiment, the second polymer material and the first polymer material have different compositions.

[0026] In an optional embodiment, each of the first connecting members includes a plurality of first coated lines, each first coated line including a first thread and a first polymer material, the first polymer material wrapping the plurality of first fibers of each first thread;

[0027] Each of the first connecting members further includes:

[0028] A second layer of polymer material; and

[0029] A third polymer material is located between the first coating line and the first surface of the first connecting strip;

[0030] The second polymer material covers the portion of the third polymer material not covered by the plurality of first coating lines, and the plurality of first coating lines are sandwiched between the second polymer material and the third polymer material.

[0031] In one alternative embodiment, the second polymer material and the first polymer material have the same composition.

[0032] In one alternative embodiment, the second polymer material and the first polymer material have different compositions.

[0033] In an optional embodiment, the third polymer material has the same composition as the first polymer material.

[0034] In one alternative embodiment, the third polymer material has a different composition from the first polymer material.

[0035] In one alternative embodiment, the inflatable product is an inflatable water tank.

[0036] In an optional embodiment, each of the tensioning components further includes:

[0037] A second connecting member is welded to the second wall and sewn to the tensioning member, the second connecting member comprising:

[0038] The second connecting strip has a first surface facing the second wall and a second surface facing the tensioning member;

[0039] Multiple second threads, parallel to each other, are disposed on the first surface of the second connecting strip, each second thread comprising multiple strands of second fibers; and

[0040] A first polymer material is used to fix the multiple strands of the second fiber onto the second connecting strip.

[0041] In an alternative embodiment, the multiple strands of the second fiber are twisted together.

[0042] In an alternative embodiment, the first polymer material also covers the portion of the first surface of the second connector that is not covered by the plurality of second lines.

[0043] In an optional embodiment, each of the second connecting members includes a plurality of second coating lines, each second coating line including a second line and the first polymer material, the first polymer material wrapping the plurality of second fibers of each second line;

[0044] Each of the second connecting members further includes a layer of second polymer material that covers the portion of the first surface of the second connecting strip that is not covered by the plurality of second coating lines, and fixes the plurality of second coating lines between the first surface of the second connecting strip and the second polymer material.

[0045] In an optional embodiment, each of the second connecting members includes a plurality of second coating lines, each second coating line including a second line and the first polymer material, the first polymer material wrapping the plurality of second fibers of each second line;

[0046] Each of the second connecting members further includes:

[0047] A second layer of polymer material; and

[0048] A third polymer material is located between the second coating line and the first surface of the second connecting strip;

[0049] The second polymer material covers the portion of the third polymer material not covered by the plurality of second coating lines, and the plurality of second coating lines are sandwiched between the second polymer material and the third polymer material.

[0050] According to another aspect of this application, a method for producing an inflatable product is disclosed, the method comprising the following steps:

[0051] Prepare the first and second walls of the inflatable product;

[0052] Prepare a tensioning component, which includes a fabric material;

[0053] Multiple wires are fixed to multiple sheets using a first polymer material to obtain multiple connecting pieces. Each wire includes multiple strands of fiber, and the first polymer material wraps the multiple strands of fiber of each wire.

[0054] Each of the connecting pieces is cut to obtain a plurality of first connecting members and a plurality of second connecting members, each of the first connecting members including a first connecting strip and each of the second connecting members including a second connecting strip;

[0055] The tensioning member is sewn to at least one of the first connecting members, wherein the first connecting strip is located between the plurality of first lines and the tensioning member;

[0056] The tensioning member is sewn to at least one second connecting member, wherein the second connecting strip is located between the plurality of second lines and the tensioning member;

[0057] The first wall is welded to the first connecting member, wherein the plurality of first lines are located between the first wall and the first connecting strip; and

[0058] The second wall is welded to the second connecting member, wherein the plurality of second lines are located between the second wall and the second connecting strip.

[0059] In an optional embodiment, the step of fixing multiple wires to multiple sheets using a first polymer material to obtain multiple connecting pieces includes:

[0060] Multiple wires are fixed to each of multiple sheets using a first polymer material to obtain multiple connecting pieces. Each wire includes multiple strands of fiber, and the first polymer material wraps around the multiple strands of fiber in each wire.

[0061] In an optional embodiment, the step of fixing multiple wires to multiple sheets using a first polymer material to obtain multiple connecting pieces includes:

[0062] Heating one of the sheets softens the sheet;

[0063] Multiple threads are placed on the first surface of the softened sheet, each thread comprising multiple strands of fiber;

[0064] Pressure is applied to the plurality of lines and the first surface of the sheet;

[0065] A first mixture is coated onto a first surface of the sheet, allowing the first mixture to penetrate between the multiple strands of each of the threads, and between the multiple threads and the sheet; and

[0066] The first mixture is heated to solidify it and generate a first polymer material.

[0067] In an optional embodiment, the step of fixing multiple wires to multiple sheets using a first polymer material to obtain multiple connecting pieces includes:

[0068] Multiple threads are immersed in a first mixture, allowing the first mixture to penetrate between the multiple strands of fibers in each thread;

[0069] Heating the first mixture causes it to solidify and form a first polymer material, thereby obtaining multiple coating lines;

[0070] Heating a sheet of material softens it.

[0071] The plurality of coating lines are placed on the first surface of the softened sheet; and

[0072] Pressure is applied to the multiple coating lines and the first surface of the sheet to bond the multiple coating lines and the sheet together.

[0073] In an optional embodiment, the step of fixing multiple wires to multiple sheets using a first polymer material to obtain multiple connecting pieces includes:

[0074] A first mixture is coated on a first surface of a sheet;

[0075] The first mixture is heated to solidify it and generate a first polymer material, thereby forming a first polymer material layer on the first surface of the sheet;

[0076] Heating the sheet and the first polymer material layer softens the sheet and the first polymer material layer.

[0077] Multiple lines were placed on the surface of the softened first polymer material layer; and

[0078] Pressure is applied to the multiple lines and the first polymer material layer, causing the first polymer material to permeate between the multiple fibers of each line.

[0079] In an optional embodiment, the step of fixing multiple wires to multiple sheets using a first polymer material to obtain multiple connecting pieces includes:

[0080] Multiple threads are immersed in a first mixture, allowing the first mixture to penetrate between the multiple strands of fibers in each thread;

[0081] Heating the first mixture causes it to solidify and form a first polymer material, thereby obtaining multiple coating lines;

[0082] Heating a sheet of material softens it.

[0083] The multiple coating lines are placed on the first surface of the softened sheet;

[0084] Pressure is applied to the multiple coating lines and the first surface of the sheet.

[0085] A continuous second mixture is applied to the first surface of the sheet and along the plurality of coating lines; and

[0086] The second mixture is heated to solidify it and generate a second polymer material.

[0087] In an optional embodiment, the step of fixing multiple wires to multiple sheets using a first polymer material to obtain multiple connecting pieces includes:

[0088] A third mixture is coated on a first surface of a sheet;

[0089] Heating the third mixture causes it to solidify and generate a third polymer material, thereby forming a third polymer material layer on the first surface of the sheet;

[0090] The multiple threads are immersed in a first mixture, allowing the first mixture to penetrate between the multiple fibers of each thread;

[0091] Heating the first mixture causes it to solidify and form a first polymer material, thereby obtaining multiple coating lines;

[0092] The third polymer material layer is heated to soften it.

[0093] The multiple coating lines are placed on the surface of the softened third polymer material layer;

[0094] Pressure is applied to the multiple coating lines and the third polymer material layer;

[0095] A continuous second mixture is coated onto the surface of the third polymer material layer and along the multiple coating lines; and

[0096] The second mixture is heated to solidify it and generate a second polymer material.

[0097] In an optional embodiment, the step of fixing multiple wires to multiple sheets using a first polymer material to obtain multiple connecting pieces includes:

[0098] The multiple strands of fibers in each of the multiple strands of wire are twisted together;

[0099] The multiple wires are fixed to multiple sheets using a first polymer material to obtain multiple connecting pieces, wherein multiple strands of fibers of each wire are twisted together.

[0100] According to another aspect of this application, a method for manufacturing a tensioning component for an inflatable product is disclosed, the method comprising the following steps:

[0101] Prepare a tensioning component, which includes a fabric material;

[0102] Multiple wires are fixed to multiple sheets using a first polymer material to obtain multiple connecting pieces. Each wire includes multiple strands of fiber, and the first polymer material wraps the multiple strands of fiber of each wire.

[0103] Each of the connecting pieces is cut to obtain a plurality of first connecting members and a plurality of second connecting members, each of the first connecting members including a first connecting strip and each of the second connecting members including a second connecting strip;

[0104] The tensioning member is sewn to at least one of the first connecting members, wherein the first connecting strip is located between the plurality of first lines and the tensioning member; and

[0105] The tensioning member is sewn to at least one second connecting member, wherein the second connecting strip is located between the plurality of second lines and the tensioning member.

[0106] Compared with the prior art, the inflatable product proposed in this application adopts an improved tensioning member and the installation method of the tensioning member, which can provide a reliable connection between the tensioning member and the inner wall of the inflation chamber. Attached Figure Description

[0107] Other features, objects, and advantages of this application will become more apparent from the following detailed description of non-limiting embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0108] Figure 1A The structure of an inflatable water tank in one embodiment is shown;

[0109] Figure 1B The structure of the tensioning assembly of an inflatable water tank is shown in one embodiment;

[0110] Figure 1C The structure of an air mattress in one embodiment is shown;

[0111] Figure 1D and Figure 1E The structure of a standing water ski is shown in one embodiment;

[0112] Figure 2A A tensioning assembly for an inflatable pool is shown in one embodiment, which is connected to the inner wall of the inflatable pool.

[0113] Figure 2B A tensioning member for an inflatable water tank is shown in one embodiment;

[0114] Figure 2C A connecting component of an inflatable water tank is shown in one embodiment;

[0115] Figure 2D A tensioning assembly for an inflatable pool is shown in one embodiment, which is connected to the inner wall of the inflatable pool.

[0116] Figure 2E A connecting component of an inflatable water tank is shown in one embodiment;

[0117] Figure 3A A line is shown in one embodiment;

[0118] Figure 3B , Figure 3C and Figure 3D A line is shown in one embodiment, which is wrapped in a first polymer material;

[0119] Figure 4 A connecting piece is shown in one embodiment;

[0120] Figures 5A to 5C The fabrication process of the connecting piece in one embodiment is shown;

[0121] Figures 6A to 6C The fabrication process of the connecting piece in one embodiment is shown;

[0122] Figures 7A to 7C The fabrication process of the connecting piece in one embodiment is shown;

[0123] Figures 8A to 8D The fabrication process of the connecting piece in one embodiment is shown;

[0124] Figures 9A to 9E The fabrication process of the connecting piece in one embodiment is shown;

[0125] Figure 10 A tensioning assembly for an inflatable pool is shown in one embodiment, which is connected to the inner wall of the inflatable pool.

[0126] Figure 11A A tensioning assembly for an inflatable pool is shown in one embodiment, which is connected to the inner wall of the inflatable pool.

[0127] Figure 11B A connecting component of an inflatable water tank is shown in one embodiment;

[0128] Figure 12 A tensioning assembly for an inflatable pool is shown in one embodiment, which is connected to the inner wall of the inflatable pool.

[0129] Figures 13 to 15 The connecting components of the inflatable water tank in one embodiment are shown respectively;

[0130] Figure 16 A portion of the manufacturing steps of an inflatable product is shown in one embodiment;

[0131] Figures 17 to 22 The steps for manufacturing the connecting piece in one embodiment are shown;

[0132] Figure 23 The manufacturing steps of the tensioning component for an inflatable product are shown in one embodiment.

[0133] The same or similar reference numerals in the accompanying drawings represent the same or similar parts. Detailed Implementation

[0134] The present application will now be described in further detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0135] In the description of this application, it should be understood that the terms "center," "longitudinal," "lateral," "length," "width," "thickness," "upper," "lower," "front," "rear," "left," "right," "vertical," "horizontal," "top," "bottom," "inner," "outer," "clockwise," and "counterclockwise," etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are used only for the convenience of describing this application and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on this application.

[0136] Furthermore, the terms "first," "second," etc., are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Therefore, a feature defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of that feature. In the description of this application, "multiple" means two or more, unless otherwise explicitly specified.

[0137] In this application, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," "linking," and "fixing," etc., should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this application according to the specific circumstances.

[0138] In this application, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, "above" or "below" the second feature can include direct contact between the first and second features, or contact between the first and second features through another feature between them. Furthermore, "above," "over," and "on top" of the second feature includes the first feature being directly above or diagonally above the second feature, or simply indicates that the first feature is at a higher horizontal level than the second feature. "Below," "below," and "under" the second feature includes the first feature being directly above or diagonally above the second feature, or simply indicates that the first feature is at a lower horizontal level than the second feature.

[0139] In the description of this application, "multiple" means two or more, unless otherwise expressly and specifically defined.

[0140] In the description of this application, the inflatable product 10 includes at least one first wall 110, a second wall 130, and an inflation chamber 500 defined by the first wall 110 and the second wall 130 for inflation. When the pressure of the gas (e.g., air) within the inflation chamber 500 reaches a desired value, the inflatable product 10 is inflated and maintains a preset shape; and when the gas in the inflation chamber 500 is expelled, the inflatable product 10 is deflated, and the volume of the inflatable product 10 is significantly reduced compared to its inflated state, thereby facilitating the storage of the inflatable product 10.

[0141] A plurality of tensioning members 410 are provided in the inflation chamber 500 of the inflatable product 10, and each tensioning member 410 is connected to the first wall 110 and the second wall 130. After being tensioned, the tensioning members 410 provide tension to the first wall 110 and the second wall 130 to limit the deformation of the inflatable product 10, so that the inflatable product 10 can maintain a preset shape after being inflated.

[0142] Reference Figure 1AIn one exemplary embodiment of this application, the inflatable product 10 is an inflatable pool, which includes a pool wall 100 and a pool bottom 200. The pool wall 100 is connected to the pool bottom 200 and defines a water cavity 300. The pool wall 100 includes an inner wall (also referred to as a first wall) 110, an outer wall (also referred to as a second wall) 130, and an inflatable chamber 500, wherein the inflatable chamber 500 is defined between the inner wall 110 and the outer wall 130. For example, the pool wall 100 also includes a top wall 150 and a bottom wall 170, wherein the top wall 150 is connected to the upper end of the inner wall 110 and the upper end of the outer wall 130, respectively, and the bottom wall 170 is connected to the lower end of the inner wall 110 and the lower end of the outer wall 130, respectively. The inner wall 110, the outer wall 130, the top wall 150, and the bottom wall 170 define the inflatable chamber 500. Outside air enters the inflation chamber 500 through a gas inlet (not shown) located on the pool wall 100, thereby inflating the inflation chamber 500. Several tensioning components 400 are disposed within the inflation chamber 500, each with one end connected to the inner wall 110 and the other end connected to the outer wall 130. The inner wall 110 and the outer wall 130 are pulled towards the inflation chamber 500 by the tensioning components 400, thereby maintaining the desired shape of the pool wall 100 and the inflation chamber 500.

[0143] Figure 1A Each tensioning assembly 400 of the inflatable pool 10 is disposed vertically or substantially vertically within the inflatable chamber 500, and these tensioning assemblies 400 are arranged in an array within the inflatable chamber 500. It is understood that the arrangement of the tensioning assemblies 400 vertically or substantially vertically is merely illustrative of specific embodiments of this application. For example, in another embodiment, the tensioning assembly 400 forms an acute angle with the horizontal plane (e.g., but not limited to, approximately 5 degrees, approximately 10 degrees, approximately 15 degrees, approximately 20 degrees, approximately 25 degrees, approximately 30 degrees, approximately 35 degrees, approximately 40 degrees, approximately 45 degrees, approximately 50 degrees, approximately 55 degrees, approximately 60 degrees, approximately 65 degrees, approximately 70 degrees, approximately 75 degrees, approximately 80 degrees, or approximately 85 degrees). In another alternative embodiment, the tensioning assembly 400 is arranged horizontally or substantially horizontally. Except for the difference in the angle between the tensioning assembly 400 and the horizontal plane, these embodiments are the same as or substantially the same as embodiments in which the tensioning assembly 400 is arranged in a vertical or substantially vertical direction.

[0144] Reference Figure 1BThe tensioning assembly 400 includes a tensioning member 410 and two connecting members 430. The connecting members 430 are optionally elongated strips. The connecting members 430 are connected to the tensioning member 410 by sewing. One connecting member (also called the first connecting member) 430 is connected to the inner wall 110 of the inflatable pool, and the other connecting member (also called the second connecting member) 430 is connected to the outer wall 130 of the inflatable pool. Optionally, the two connecting members 430 are connected to the inner wall 110 and the outer wall 130 of the inflatable pool by welding.

[0145] To improve production efficiency, in some embodiments, the tensioning assembly 400 may optionally be mass-produced by a production department. After being transported to another production department, the mass-produced tensioning assemblies are then attached to the inner wall 110 and outer wall 130 of the inflatable pool.

[0146] The tensioning assembly 400 mentioned above is not limited to inflatable pools, but also applicable to other inflatable products, including, but not limited to, inflatable toys, inflatable sofas, inflatable mattresses, and inflatable stand-up paddleboards (SUP boards). The inflatable product 10 has two opposing walls that define an air chamber between them. Two tensioning members of a plurality of tensioning assemblies are respectively connected to these two opposing walls. When the inflatable product 10 is inflated, these tensioning assemblies are tensioned and provide tension to limit the deformation of the two opposing walls, thus maintaining the shape of the inflatable product 10. After the inflatable product is inflated, the tensioning assembly 400 is tensioned and provides tension to limit the deformation of the inflatable product 10, thus maintaining the shape of the inflatable product 10.

[0147] For example, refer to Figure 1C In another exemplary embodiment, the inflatable product 10 is an inflatable mattress, which includes a top wall 110, a bottom wall 130, and side walls 120. The upper end of the side wall 120 is connected to the outer periphery of the top wall 110, and the lower end of the side wall 120 is connected to the outer periphery of the bottom wall 130, thereby defining an inflatable chamber 500. A plurality of tensioning components 400 are disposed within the inflatable chamber 500, with both ends of the tensioning components 400 connected to the top wall 110 and the bottom wall 130, respectively. The tensioning components 400 may optionally be arranged in an array. After the inflatable mattress 10 is inflated, the tensioning components 400 are tensioned and provide tension to limit the deformation of the top wall 110 and the bottom wall 130, so that the inflatable mattress 10 maintains a certain shape.

[0148] For example, refer to Figure 1D and Figure 1EIn another exemplary embodiment, the inflatable product 10 is an inflatable stand-up paddleboard (SUP board), which includes a top wall 110, a bottom wall 130, and side walls 120. The upper end of the side wall 120 is connected to the outer periphery of the top wall 110, and the lower end of the side wall 120 is connected to the outer periphery of the bottom wall 130, thereby defining an inflation chamber 500. A plurality of tensioning components 400 are disposed within the inflation chamber 500, with both ends of the tensioning components 400 connected to the top wall 110 and the bottom wall 130, respectively. The tensioning components 400 may optionally be arranged in an array. After the inflatable stand-up paddleboard 10 is inflated, the tensioning components 400 are tensioned and provide tension to limit the deformation of the top wall 110 and the bottom wall 130, so that the stand-up paddleboard 10 maintains a certain shape.

[0149] The following uses inflatable product 10 as an example. Figure 1A The following describes in detail the various specific embodiments of the tensioning component of this application, using the inflatable water tank as an example.

[0150] First Embodiment

[0151] Figure 2A This diagram illustrates a schematic structure for connecting the tensioning assembly 400 and the pool wall 100 of the inflatable pool 10 in one embodiment. Figure 16 This is the corresponding manufacturing process flow diagram. The tensioning member 410 is connected to the inner wall 110 of the inflatable water tank 10 via the connecting member 430. For example, the tensioning member 410 is connected to the connecting member 430, and the connecting member 430 is connected to the inner wall 110, thus the tensioning member 410 is indirectly connected to the inner wall 110 through the connecting member 430. Understandably, the connection method between the tensioning member 410 and the outer wall 130 is the same as the connection method between the tensioning member 410 and the inner wall 110. For ease of explanation, the following is based on... Figure 2A Taking the connection between the tensioning member 410 and the inner wall 110 as an example, the connection between the tensioning member 410 and the inner wall 110 and the outer wall 130 is described in detail.

[0152] The tensioning member 410 is made of a high tensile strength material with an elastic modulus that allows it to undergo only minor deformation when subjected to enormous tensile forces. In a preferred embodiment, the tensioning member 410 is made of woven fabric, and the tensioning member 410 is connected to the connecting member 430 by sewing.

[0153] The fabric material is either a flat or three-dimensional fabric, made of one or more fibers (e.g., natural or synthetic fibers). For example, the one or more fibers are selected from, but not limited to, the following materials:

[0154] - Cotton fibers

[0155] - Linen fibers

[0156] -Silk fibers

[0157] - Nylon fibers

[0158] - Polyester fiber

[0159] -Polyethylene fiber

[0160] - Polyacrylonitrile fibers (PAN fibers)

[0161] -Ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene fiber (UHMWPEF)

[0162] It should be understood that there are many types of natural or chemical fibers, and for the sake of simplicity, they will not be listed one by one here, but only some common examples are provided. These examples do not constitute a limitation on the specific embodiments of this application. Specific embodiments based on these fibers are all included within the protection scope of this application.

[0163] Figure 2B An exemplary fabric material for fabricating tension member 410 is shown. This fabric material is woven from multiple strands 411 and 413 arranged side-by-side. Strands 411 and 413 are either single-ply or multi-ply, and each is made of one or more fibers (e.g., the natural or chemical fibers described above). Strands 411 and 413 define a series of meshes 415. It is understood that the fabric material used to fabricate tension member 410 may have other weave structures; fabric materials with known weave structures can be used to fabricate tension member 410.

[0164] The fabric materials used to make the tensioning components can be cotton, linen, wool, silk, or synthetic fibers (such as Oxford cloth). These fabrics generally possess the ability to retain their properties in humid environments and can be directly exposed within the air chambers of the inflatable product without the need for surface coating during manufacturing. The manufacturing cost and weight of fabric materials are generally lower than those of elastic chemical film of the same area and thickness. This significantly reduces the manufacturing cost and weight of inflatable products made from tensioning components. Furthermore, the use of biodegradable materials such as cotton or linen yarns makes the inflatable products more environmentally friendly.

[0165] The connecting member 430 is roughly elongated, and its local structure is as follows: Figure 2C As shown. The connecting member 430 includes a connecting strip 431 and a plurality of strands 433. The connecting strip 431 has a first surface 4311 and a second surface 4313, and the strands 433 are fixed to one of the surfaces of the connecting strip 431 (e.g., the first surface 4311). The strands 433 are parallel or substantially parallel to each other. In this embodiment, the strands 433 may optionally be perpendicular or substantially perpendicular to the length direction L of the tensioning member 410 (e.g., ...). Figure 2A (As shown) extension.

[0166] The tensioning member 410 and the connecting member 430 are connected to each other by at least one thread 450. In this embodiment, the thread 450 forms a row of stitches 451 on the surface of the tensioning member 410. The stitches 451 extend parallel to or substantially parallel to the length direction L of the tensioning member 410. In other words, the extension direction of the thread 433 in the connecting member 430 may optionally be perpendicular to or substantially perpendicular to the extension direction of the stitches 451. Understandably, in alternative embodiments, the surface of the tensioning member 410 has two (or more) rows of stitches 451 that are parallel or substantially parallel, each row of stitches 451 being parallel to or substantially parallel to the length direction L of the tensioning member 410.

[0167] Figure 2D yes Figure 2A Another schematic diagram of the structure shown, viewed from along... Figure 2A The direction of arrow P in the diagram. The suture 450 extends back and forth through the connecting member 430, thus forming a stitch 451 on the connecting member 430. The connecting strip 431 is located between the thread 433 and the tensioning member 410. The suture 450 originates from one side (or the first side, for example...) of the connecting strip 431. Figure 2D The right side of the connecting strip 431 (as shown in the orientation) passes through the connecting strip 431, and on the other side of the connecting strip 431 (or referred to as the second side, for example) Figure 2DThe connecting strip 431 (left side, as shown in the orientation below) and the connecting strip 431 together form a series of hoops 453. Some or all of the wires 433 pass through these hoops 453. In one embodiment, one or more wires 433 pass through each hoop 453. In another embodiment, one or more wires 433 pass through one hoop 453, while no wires 433 pass through another hoop 453. In this way, when an external force causes the tensioning member 410 and the connecting member 430 to tend to separate from each other, each wire 433 passing through a corresponding hoop will prevent the tensioning member 410 from leaving the connecting member 430 through the corresponding hoop 453, thereby ensuring a secure connection between the tensioning member 410 and the connecting member 430.

[0168] Tensioning members made of fabric materials are difficult to directly fix to the wall of an inflatable product by means of hot pressing, welding (e.g., hot welding or high-frequency welding). Although these tensioning members can be fixed to the wall of the inflatable product by adhesive, if the adhesive strength is insufficient, the adhesive may sometimes separate when the inflation pressure of the inflatable product is high. In this embodiment, a connecting member 430 is used to connect the tensioning member 410 and the inner wall 110 of the inflatable pool 10 to each other, thereby solving the problem of unreliable connection between the tensioning member 410 and the inner wall 110. The connecting strip 431 in the connecting member 430 is optionally made of polyvinyl chloride (PVC), and the inner wall 110 of the inflatable pool 10 is optionally also made of (or mainly made of) PVC. Thus, the connecting member 430 and the inner wall 110 of the inflatable pool 10 can be easily connected by high-frequency welding, wherein the wire 433 of the connecting member 430 is sandwiched between the connecting strip 431 and the inner wall 110. For example, in some embodiments, the inner wall of the inflatable pool 10 may optionally be made of a laminated material comprising two layers of PVC connecting strips and a fabric mesh sandwiched therebetween.

[0169] Understandably, the connecting member 430 and the inner wall 110 of the inflatable pool 10 can also be connected to each other by other means (e.g., but not limited to, hot pressing or adhesive bonding). It is also understood that the connecting strip 431 and the inner wall 110 of the inflatable pool 10 can also be made of other materials.

[0170] In this way, the tensioning member 410 and the connecting member 430 are fixedly connected, and the connecting member 430 is fixedly connected to the inner wall 110 of the inflatable water tank 10, so that the tensioning member 410 is fixedly connected to the inner wall 110 of the inflatable water tank 10 through the connecting member 430.

[0171] The wire 433 of the connecting member 430 is fixed to the first surface 4311 of the connecting strip 431 (i.e. Figure 2CThe upper surface of the connecting strip 431 in the indicated orientation.

[0172] The inventors discovered that when the inflatable pool 10 is inflated, the tensioning member 410 is subjected to tension, and each hoop 453 applies tension to the middle of one or more of the threads 433 passing through it. The stressed thread 433 may be pulled out from the needle hole of the thread 450 passing through the connecting strip 431, causing a decrease in the strength of the connection between the tensioning member 410 and the connecting member 430 or even failure, thereby reducing the reliability and safety of the inflatable pool 10.

[0173] Reference Figure 3A To enhance the strength of the connection between the tensioning member 410 and the connecting member 430, the thread 433 of the connecting member 430 comprises multiple strands of fiber 4331. Furthermore, before the connecting member 430 is sewn to the tensioning member 410, these fibers 4331 are wrapped with a first polymer material. The first polymer material simultaneously fixes to both the fibers 4331 and the connecting strip 431, thereby securing the fibers 4331 to the connecting strip 431. The first polymer material distributes the tension on each thread 433 across the connecting strip 431 along its length, preventing the thread 433 from being pulled out through the needle hole of the connecting strip 431 from the sewing thread 450. Therefore, distributing the fibers 4331 within the first polymer material significantly enhances the strength of the connection between the tensioning member 410 and the connecting member 430.

[0174] Optionally, these fibers 4331 are twisted together in a spiral manner to form a thread 433. Compared to the case where the fibers 4331 are distributed in parallel (or substantially parallel) in the first polymer material, the spirally twisted fibers 4331 have a larger surface area for contacting the first polymer material, which can further enhance the strength of the connection between the tensioning member 410 and the connecting member 430.

[0175] The following description of the fabrication process of the connecting member 430 is based on the scenario where the fibers 4331 are twisted together in a spiral manner. Understandably, in alternative embodiments, the fibers 4331 may also be arranged in parallel without being twisted together, in which case the first polymer material still prevents the thread 433 from being pulled out from the needle hole of the connecting strip 431 through the sewing thread 450.

[0176] refer to Figure 3B , Figure 3C and Figure 3DThe fiber 4331 is fixed by a first polymer material 435. The first polymer material 435 may optionally be generally formed as a column and have cavities 4351 extending therein along its length. The fiber 4331 is enclosed within these cavities 4351. It is understood that, in alternative embodiments, the first polymer material 435 may have other structures. For example, the first polymer material 435 may have a sheet-like, block-like, or other desired shape structure and have helical cavities 4351 extending therein.

[0177] Figures 3A to 3D The thread 433 shown may optionally comprise four strands of fiber 4331, each strand of fiber 4331 comprising a filament or a cluster of filaments. Understandably, in alternative embodiments, the thread 433 may comprise more or fewer strands of fiber 4331.

[0178] Reference Figure 4 and Figure 17 In this embodiment, the wire 433 is fixed to the sheet 421 by the first polymer material 435.

[0179] Reference Figure 18 Specifically, the wire 433 is first embedded into the first surface 4211 of the sheet 421 by hot pressing. The sheet 421 is partially or entirely heated to soften.

[0180] Reference Figure 5A and combined Figure 4 Several lines 433 are placed side by side on the first surface 4211 of the sheet 421 (corresponding to Figure 2C and Figure 2D The first surface 4311 of the connecting strip 431. The sheet 421 is made of a polymer material and is placed on a table surface (e.g., the surface of a heated metal plate) that can be used to heat it and is heated as a whole until softened.

[0181] Reference Figure 5B and combined Figure 4 While the sheet 421 is still in a softened state, pressure is applied to the first surface 4211 and the thread 433 placed thereon (e.g., by a rubber roller), causing the thread 433 to sink into the softened first surface 4211 of the sheet 421. The fibers 4331 in the thread 433 are partially embedded in the first surface 4211 of the sheet 421, and the thread 433 is initially fixed to the first surface 4211 of the sheet 421.

[0182] Understandably, the sheet 421 can also be heated in other ways. For example, in one alternative embodiment, the sheet 421 is heated by passing over the surface of a heated metal roller. In another alternative embodiment, the first surface 4211 of the sheet 421, together with the thread 433 placed thereon, is heated and pressed by a hot press; the hot press softens the surface portion of the sheet 421 and causes the thread 433 to sink into the softened first surface 4211 of the sheet 421.

[0183] Reference Figure 5C and combined Figure 4 After the thread 433 is initially fixed to the first surface 4211 of the sheet 421, a first mixture for generating a first polymer material is coated on the first surface 4211 of the sheet 421. The first mixture is fluid and permeates between the thread 433 and the sheet 421, as well as between the fibers 4331 of each thread 433. The sheet 421 (along with the thread 433 attached thereto and the first mixture) is transferred to an oven for heating, causing the first mixture to solidify and generate a first polymer material 435, thereby firmly fixing the thread 433 to the sheet 421. The first polymer material 435 not only wraps around the thread 433 but also covers the remaining portion of the first surface 4211 of the sheet 421 not covered by the thread 433.

[0184] At this point, the connecting piece 420 is complete. The connecting piece 420 includes a sheet 421 and a wire 433 fixed thereon.

[0185] Reference Figure 4 The connecting piece 420 is cut along the direction shown by the dotted line to obtain a plurality of connecting members 430. Each connecting member 430 includes a connecting strip 431.

[0186] Understandably, the two connecting members 430 of the same tensioning assembly 400 can come from the same connecting piece 420 or from different connecting pieces 420.

[0187] Figure 4 In this embodiment, the connecting piece 420 is exemplarily divided into four connecting members. It will be understood that, in alternative embodiments, the connecting piece 420 may be divided into more or fewer connecting members.

[0188] Since the main component of the first polymer material 435 is PVC, the connecting member 430 can be easily welded to the surface of other PVC products (e.g., the inner wall 110 of the inflatable pool 10).

[0189] In this embodiment, the connecting strip 431 is optionally made of PVC material, and the thread 433 is optionally made of polyester fiber. The connecting strip 431 may also optionally contain other components, such as plasticizers. The first mixture is optionally a mixture of polyvinyl chloride paste resin (PVC paste resin), plasticizer, and crosslinking agent. After a curing operation (e.g., heating the first mixture), the PVC paste resin solidifies from a suspension state to a solid state, thereby transforming the first mixture from a flowable state into a solid polymer material (i.e., the first polymer material) whose main component (e.g., a weight percentage exceeding 50%) is PVC, and it is tightly bonded to the connecting strip 431. The first polymer material mainly comprises PVC, plasticizer, and crosslinking agent. The crosslinking agent in the first polymer material matches the material used to make the fiber 4331, increasing the bonding strength between the first polymer material and the fiber 4331 in the thread 433. In this way, the thread 433 is firmly fixed to the connecting strip 431. The plasticizer increases the plasticity of the first polymer material, preventing it from breaking when folded. This is especially advantageous for inflatable products, which often need to be deflated before storage or transportation.

[0190] The plasticizer may optionally be phenyl alkyl sulfonate, and the crosslinking agent may optionally be a polymer of 1,3-diisocyanato-2-methyl- and 2,4-diisocyanato-1-methylbenz. It is understood that, in alternative embodiments, the connecting strip 431 may be made of other polymeric materials, and the thread 433 may be made of other fibers. It is also understood that any other available plasticizer and crosslinking agent may be used, for example, dioctyl terephthalate (DOTP) may be used as the plasticizer, and triallyl isocyanurate (TAIC) may be used as the crosslinking agent.

[0191] In alternative embodiments, the connecting strip 431 may also be made of other polymeric materials, provided that the polymeric material is weldable relative to the wall of the inflatable pool 10.

[0192] Understandably, line 433 may also be disposed obliquely on connecting strip 431 in other embodiments. For example, see reference... Figure 2E An acute angle α is formed between the extension direction of line 433 and the length direction L of connecting strip 431.

[0193] Similarly, it is understood that in alternative embodiments, each connecting member 430 may be individually manufactured using the same method as that used to manufacture the connecting piece 420 as described above.

[0194] Second Embodiment

[0195] The structure of the inflatable water tank 10 in this embodiment is basically the same as that of the inflatable water tank in the first embodiment. (Refer to...) Figure 19 The difference is that before fixing the wire 433 to the connecting strip 431, coated strips are first made based on the wire 433, and then the coated strips are fixed to the connecting strip 431, thereby fixing the wire 433 to the connecting strip 431.

[0196] Reference Figure 6A First, the wires that need to be fixed to the first surface 4311 of the connecting strip 431 are immersed in a first mixture for generating a first polymer material. The first mixture is fluid and permeates between the fibers 4331 of each wire 433. The wires 433 (along with the first mixture attached thereto) are moved to an oven for heating, causing the first mixture to solidify, thereby coating the fibers 4331 of the wires 433 with the first polymer material 435, resulting in coated wires 4333.

[0197] The connecting strip 431 is made of a polymer material and is placed on a surface that can be heated (such as the surface of a heated metal plate) and heated as a whole until softened.

[0198] Subsequently, referring to Figure 6B The coating lines 4333 are placed side by side on the first surface 4311 of the connecting strip 431. Figure 2C and Figure 2D While the connecting strip 431 is still in a softened state, pressure is applied (e.g., by a rubber roller) to the first surface 4311 and the coating line 4333 placed thereon, causing the coating line 433 to sink into the softened first surface 4311 of the connecting strip 431. The first polymer material 435 of the coating line 4333 in contact with the first surface 4311 also softens, thereby achieving full contact and fusion with the softened first surface 4311 of the connecting strip 431.

[0199] Reference Figure 6C The coating line 4333 is partially embedded in the first surface 4311 of the connecting strip 431, thereby firmly fixing the coating line 4333 to the connecting strip 431. In other words, the first polymer material 435 firmly fixes the line 433 to the connecting strip 431.

[0200] Understandably, the connecting strip 431 can also be heated in other ways. For example, in one alternative embodiment, the connecting strip 431 is heated by passing over the surface of a heated metal roller. In another alternative embodiment, the first surface 4311 of the connecting strip 431, together with the coating line 4333 placed thereon, is heated and pressed by a hot press; the hot press softens the surface portion of the connecting strip 431 and causes the coating line 4333 to sink into the softened first surface 4311 of the connecting strip 431.

[0201] Then, the connecting strip 431, which is fixed with wire 433 (and the first polymer material), is cut to the required size to obtain the required connecting member 430. Since the main components of the connecting strip 431 and the first polymer material 435 are both PVC, the connecting member 430 can be easily welded to the surface of other PVC products (e.g., the inner wall 110 of the inflatable pool 10).

[0202] The composition of the connecting strip 431, the line 433, the first mixture, and the first polymer material in this embodiment can be referred to the foregoing embodiments.

[0203] Third Embodiment

[0204] The structure of the inflatable water tank 10 in this embodiment is basically the same as that of the inflatable water tank in the first embodiment. (Refer to...) Figure 20 The difference is that before fixing the wire 433 to the connecting strip 431, a layer of polymer material for fixing the wire 433 is first formed on the surface of the connecting strip 431.

[0205] Reference Figure 7A First, a first mixture for generating a first polymer material is coated onto the first surface 4311 of the connecting strip 431. The connecting strip 431 coated with the first mixture is then moved to an oven for heating, causing the first mixture to solidify and form a first polymer material 435. The first polymer material 435 then covers the first surface 4311 of the connecting strip 431 and forms a first polymer material layer 4353.

[0206] The connecting strip 431, made of a polymer material, is placed on a surface that can be heated (e.g., the surface of a heated metal plate) and heated as a whole. The first polymer material layer 4353 softens.

[0207] Optionally, both the connecting strip 431 and the first polymer material layer 4353 are softened, wherein the first polymer material 435 forming the first polymer material layer 4353 has stronger fluidity than the polymer material used to form the connecting strip 431. The fibers 4331 in the thread 433 are partially embedded in the first surface 4311 of the connecting strip 431.

[0208] Subsequently, referring to Figure 7B Several threads 433 are placed side by side on a first polymer material layer 4353. While the first polymer material layer 4353 is still in a softened state, pressure is applied to the first polymer material layer 4353 and the threads 433 placed thereon (e.g., by a rubber roller), so that the threads 433 sink into the softened first polymer material layer 4353.

[0209] Reference Figure 7C The softened first polymer material penetrates between the fibers 4331 of each thread 433, thereby encapsulating each fiber 4331 with the first polymer material 435. In this way, the first polymer material 435 firmly fixes the thread 433 to the connecting strip 431.

[0210] In other words, the wire 433 is sealed into the first polymer material layer 4353 by hot pressing.

[0211] Understandably, the connecting strip 431 and the first polymer layer 4353 can also be heated by other means. For example, in one alternative embodiment, the connecting strip 431 and the first polymer layer 4353 are heated by passing over the surface of a heated metal roller. In another alternative embodiment, the connecting strip 431 and the first polymer layer 4353, together with the thread 433 placed thereon, are heated and pressed by a hot press; the hot press softens the first polymer layer 4353 (optionally together with the surface portion of the connecting strip 431), thereby causing the thread 433 to sink into the softened first polymer layer 4353 and the softened first surface 4311 of the connecting strip 431.

[0212] Then, the connecting strip 431, which is fixed with wire 433 (and the first polymer material), is cut to the required size to obtain the required connecting member 430. Since the main component of the first polymer material 435 is PVC, the connecting member 430 can be easily welded to the surface of other PVC products (e.g., the inner wall 110 of the inflatable pool 10).

[0213] The composition of the connecting strip 431, line 433, first mixture, and first polymer material in this embodiment can be referred to the foregoing embodiments.

[0214] Fourth embodiment

[0215] The structure of the inflatable water tank 10 in this embodiment is basically the same as that of the inflatable water tank in the first embodiment. (Refer to...) Figure 21 The difference is that before fixing the line 433 to the connecting strip 431, a coating line is first made based on the line 433; after fixing the coating line to the connecting strip 431, a polymer material layer is used to strengthen the connection between the coating line and the connecting strip 431.

[0216] Reference Figure 8A First, the wires that need to be fixed to the first surface 4311 of the connecting strip 431 are immersed in a first mixture for generating a first polymer material. The first mixture is fluid and permeates between the fibers 4331 of each wire 433. The wires 433 (along with the first mixture attached thereto) are moved to an oven for heating, causing the first mixture to solidify, thereby coating the fibers 4331 of the wires 433 with the first polymer material 435, resulting in coated wires 4333.

[0217] The connecting strip 431 is made of a polymer material and is placed on a surface that can be heated (such as the surface of a heated metal plate) and heated as a whole until softened.

[0218] Subsequently, referring to Figure 8B The coating lines 4333 are placed side by side on the first surface 4311 of the connecting strip 431. Figure 2C and Figure 2D While the connecting strip 431 is still in a softened state, pressure is applied (e.g., by a rubber roller) to the first surface 4311 and the coating line 4333 placed thereon, causing the coating line 433 to sink into the softened first surface 4311 of the connecting strip 431. The first polymer material 435 of the coating line 4333 in contact with the first surface 4311 also softens, thereby achieving full contact and fusion with the softened first surface 4311 of the connecting strip 431.

[0219] Reference Figure 8C The coating line 4333 is partially embedded in the first surface 4311 of the connecting strip 431, thereby firmly fixing the coating line 4333 to the connecting strip 431. In other words, the first polymer material 435 firmly fixes the line 433 to the connecting strip 431.

[0220] Understandably, the connecting strip 431 can also be heated in other ways. For example, in one alternative embodiment, the connecting strip 431 is heated by passing over the surface of a heated metal roller. In another alternative embodiment, the first surface 4311 of the connecting strip 431, together with the coating line 4333 placed thereon, is heated and pressed by a hot press; the hot press softens the surface portion of the connecting strip 431 and causes the coating line 4333 to sink into the softened first surface 4311 of the connecting strip 431.

[0221] Next, refer to Figure 8DA continuous layer of a second mixture for generating a second polymer material is coated onto the first surface 4311 of the connecting strip 431 and the coating line 4333. The connecting strip 431 coated with the second mixture (along with the coating line 4333 attached thereto) is then placed in an oven for heating, causing the second mixture to solidify and form a second polymer material 437, thereby forming a continuous second polymer material layer 4373. The portions of the coating line 4333 and the first surface 4311 of the connecting strip 431 that are not in contact with each other are covered and connected by the second polymer material layer 4373, thereby strengthening the connection between the coating line 4333 and the connecting strip 431.

[0222] The second mixture may optionally be a mixture of polyvinyl chloride paste resin and plasticizer. Upon heating, the polyvinyl chloride paste resin solidifies from a suspension state to a solid state, thereby transforming the second mixture from a flowable state into a solid polymer material (i.e., the second polymer material) whose main component (e.g., by weight, exceeding 50%) is PVC, and it is tightly bonded to the connecting strip 431 and the coating line 4333, wherein the second polymer material mainly comprises PVC and plasticizer. The second mixture and the second polymer material may also optionally contain a crosslinking agent. The composition of the second mixture may be the same as or different from that of the first mixture; correspondingly, the composition of the second polymer material may be the same as or different from that of the first polymer material.

[0223] Then, the connecting strip 431, which is fixed with wire 433 (and the first polymer material), is cut to the required size to obtain the required connecting member 430. Since the main component of the second polymer material 437 is PVC, the connecting member 430 can be easily welded to the surface of other PVC products (e.g., the inner wall 110 of the inflatable pool 10).

[0224] The composition of the connecting strip 431, the line 433, the first mixture, and the first polymer material in this embodiment can be referred to the foregoing embodiments.

[0225] Fifth Embodiment

[0226] The structure of the inflatable water tank 10 in this embodiment is basically the same as that of the inflatable water tank in the fourth embodiment. (Refer to...) Figure 22 The difference is that a layer of polymer material is first formed on the surface of the connecting strip 431 before the coating line is fixed to the connecting strip 431.

[0227] Reference Figure 9AFirst, a third mixture for generating a third polymer material is coated onto the first surface 4311 of the connecting strip 431. The connecting strip 431 coated with the third mixture is then moved to an oven for heating, causing the third mixture to solidify and form a third polymer material 439. The third polymer material 439 then covers the first surface 4311 of the connecting strip 431 and forms a third polymer material layer 4393.

[0228] Reference Figure 9B The thread to be fixed to the first surface 4311 of the connecting strip 431 is immersed in a first mixture for generating a first polymer material. The first mixture is fluid and permeates between the fibers 4331 of each thread 433. The thread 433 (along with the first mixture attached thereto) is transferred to an oven for heating, causing the first mixture to solidify, thereby coating the fibers 4331 of the thread 433 with the first polymer material 435, resulting in coated strands 4333.

[0229] Figure 9A and Figure 9B The corresponding operation steps can be rearranged.

[0230] The connecting strip 431, made of a polymer material, is placed on a surface that can be heated (e.g., the surface of a heated metal plate) and heated as a whole. The third polymer material layer 4393 softens.

[0231] Understandably, the connecting strip 431 can also be heated in other ways. For example, in one alternative embodiment, the connecting strip 431 is heated by passing over the surface of a heated metal roller. In another alternative embodiment, the first surface 4311 of the connecting strip 431, together with the coating line 4333 placed thereon, is heated and pressed by a hot press; the hot press softens the surface portion of the connecting strip 431 and causes the coating line 4333 to sink into the softened first surface 4311 of the connecting strip 431.

[0232] Subsequently, referring to Figure 9C The coating lines 4333 are placed side-by-side on the third polymer material layer 4393. While the third polymer material layer 4393 is still in a softened state, pressure is applied to the third polymer material layer 4393 and the coating lines 4333 placed thereon (e.g., by a rubber roller), causing the coating lines 433 to sink into the softened third polymer material layer 4393. The first polymer material 435 of the coating lines 4333, which contacts the first surface 4311, also softens, thereby achieving full contact and fusion with the softened first surface 4311 of the connecting strip 431.

[0233] Reference Figure 9DThe coating line 4333 is partially embedded in the first surface 4311 of the connecting strip 431, thereby firmly fixing the coating line 4333 to the connecting strip 431. In other words, the first polymer material 435 firmly fixes the line 433 to the connecting strip 431.

[0234] Optionally, both the connecting strip 431 and the third polymer material layer 4393 are softened, wherein the third polymer material 439 forming the third polymer material layer 4393 has stronger fluidity than the polymer material used to form the connecting strip 431. The fibers 4331 in the line 433 are partially embedded in the first surface 4311 of the connecting strip 431.

[0235] Next, refer to Figure 9E A continuous second mixture for generating a second polymer material is coated onto the first surface 4311 of the connecting strip 431 and the coating line 4333. The connecting strip 431 coated with the second mixture (along with the coating line 4333 attached thereto) is moved to an oven for heating, causing the second mixture to solidify and form a second polymer material 437, thereby forming a continuous second polymer material layer 4373. The portions of the surfaces of the coating line 4333 and the third polymer material layer 4393 that are not in contact with each other are covered and connected by the second polymer material layer 4373, thereby strengthening the connection between the coating line 4333 and the third polymer material layer 4393, i.e., between the coating line 4333 and the connecting strip 431.

[0236] The second mixture may optionally be a mixture of polyvinyl chloride paste resin and plasticizer. Upon heating, the polyvinyl chloride paste resin solidifies from a suspension state to a solid state, thereby transforming the second mixture from a flowable state into a solid polymer material (i.e., the second polymer material) whose main component (e.g., by weight, exceeding 50%) is PVC, and it is tightly bonded to the connecting strip 431 and the coating line 4333, wherein the second polymer material mainly comprises PVC and plasticizer. The second mixture and the second polymer material may also optionally contain a crosslinking agent. The composition of the second mixture may be the same as or different from that of the first mixture; correspondingly, the composition of the second polymer material may be the same as or different from that of the first polymer material.

[0237] The third mixture may optionally be a mixture of polyvinyl chloride paste resin and plasticizer. Upon heating, the polyvinyl chloride paste resin solidifies from a suspension state to a solid state, thereby transforming the third mixture from a flowable state into a solid polymer material (i.e., the third polymer material) whose main component (e.g., by weight, exceeding 50%) is PVC, and it is tightly bonded to the connecting strip 431 and the coating line 4333, wherein the third polymer material mainly comprises PVC and plasticizer. The third mixture and the third polymer material may also optionally contain a crosslinking agent. The composition of the third mixture may be the same as or different from that of the first mixture; correspondingly, the composition of the third polymer material may be the same as or different from that of the first polymer material.

[0238] Then, the connecting strip 431, which is fixed with wire 433 (and the first polymer material), is cut to the required size to obtain the required connecting member 430. Since the main component of the second polymer material 437 is PVC, the connecting member 430 can be easily welded to the surface of other PVC products (e.g., the inner wall 110 of the inflatable pool 10).

[0239] The composition of the connecting strip 431, line 433, first mixture, and first polymer material in this embodiment can be referred to the foregoing embodiments.

[0240] Sixth Embodiment

[0241] Reference Figure 10 The structure of the inflatable water tank 10 in this embodiment is basically the same as that of the inflatable water tank in any of the aforementioned embodiments. The difference is that the tensioning member 410 and the connecting member 430 are connected to each other by two stitches 450, and each stitch 450 forms a row of stitches 451 on the surface of the tensioning member 410. These two rows of stitches 451 are parallel or substantially parallel to each other, and each row of stitches 451 is parallel or substantially parallel to the length direction L of the tensioning member 410.

[0242] Seventh Embodiment

[0243] Reference Figure 11A and Figure 11B The structure of the inflatable water tank 10 in this embodiment is basically the same as that of the inflatable water tank in any of the aforementioned embodiments. The difference is that the lines 433 extend parallel to or approximately parallel to the length direction L of the tensioning member 410.

[0244] Optionally, the stitch 450 extends in a zigzag pattern, thereby forming a series of parallel short segments on the tensioning member. In this manner, similar to the first embodiment, the stitch 450 extends from one side (or the first side, for example) of the connecting strip 431. Figure 2DThe connecting strip 431 passes through the right side of the connecting strip 431 in the indicated orientation, and on the other side of the connecting strip 431 (or referred to as the second side, for example...) Figure 2D (As shown in the orientation below, on the left side of connecting strip 431) and connecting strip 431 together form a series of hoops. Some or all of the wires 433 pass through these hoops. When an external force causes the tensioning member 410 and the connecting member 430 to tend to separate from each other, each wire 433 passing through a corresponding hoop will prevent the tensioning member 410 from leaving the connecting member 430 through the corresponding hoop, thereby ensuring that the tensioning member 410 and the connecting member 430 are firmly connected.

[0245] Eighth embodiment

[0246] Reference Figure 12 and Figure 13 The structure of the inflatable pool 10 in this embodiment is basically the same as that of the inflatable pool in any of the aforementioned embodiments. The difference is that the connecting member 430 also includes a plurality of parallel lines 433'. Each line 433' is perpendicular to or substantially perpendicular to line 433, thereby forming a mesh structure with lines 433 and 433'. Lines 433 and 433' can optionally be stacked or interwoven, and lines 433 and 433' can be fixed to the connecting strip 431 simultaneously or sequentially.

[0247] Line 433' is fixed to the connecting strip 431 in the same way as the method of fixing line 433 in any of the above embodiments, so as to further strengthen the connection between line 433 and connecting strip 431.

[0248] Ninth Embodiment

[0249] Reference Figure 14 The structure of the inflatable water tank 10 in this embodiment is basically the same as that of the inflatable water tank in the eighth embodiment. The difference is that the connecting member 430 further includes binding strands 434.

[0250] The binding thread 434 extends along the length direction L parallel or approximately parallel to the tensioning member 410, alternately wrapping around two adjacent threads 433, and binding the corresponding threads 433' to these two adjacent threads 433. Because the threads 433 and 433' are fixed to each other by the binding thread 434, the stability of the mesh structure formed by the threads 433 and 433' is increased. During the process of being fixed to the connecting strip 431, the binding thread 434 restricts the relative sliding between the threads 433 and 433', ensuring that the distance between the threads 433 and the distance between the threads 433' in the final connecting member 430 remain substantially equal, thereby effectively distributing the tension force of the tensioning member 410 on the threads 433 throughout the connecting member 430, which enhances the tensile strength of the connecting member 430.

[0251] Tenth Embodiment

[0252] Reference Figure 15 The structure of the inflatable water tank 10 in this embodiment is basically the same as that of the inflatable water tank in any of the aforementioned embodiments. The difference is that the parallel lines 433 in the connecting member 430 are replaced with a honeycomb mesh structure.

[0253] The mesh structure comprises multiple hexagonal frames 436, each defined by one or more fibers. The hexagonal frames 436 are staggered and evenly distributed, giving the mesh structure a substantially constant tensile strength in different directions. This effectively distributes the tension of the tension member 410 throughout the connecting member 430, thereby enhancing the tensile strength of the connecting member 430.

[0254] Reference Figure 23 As mentioned above, for any of the above embodiments, they can optionally be mass-produced. Subsequently, the mass-produced tensioning components 400 are individually attached to the walls of the inflatable product.

[0255] Thus, this application satisfactorily discloses several schemes for connecting tensioning structures to the inner wall of an inflatable product via connecting members, enabling the connecting members to be securely attached to the inner wall of the inflation cavity.

[0256] It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that this application is not limited to the details of the exemplary embodiments described above, and that this application can be implemented in other specific forms without departing from the spirit or essential characteristics of this application. Therefore, the embodiments should be considered exemplary and non-limiting in all respects, and the scope of this application is defined by the appended claims rather than the foregoing description. Thus, all variations falling within the meaning and scope of equivalents of the claims are intended to be embraced within this application. No reference numerals in the claims should be construed as limiting the scope of the claims. Furthermore, it is clear that the word "comprising" does not exclude other units or steps, and the singular does not exclude the plural. Multiple units or devices recited in the apparatus claims may also be implemented by a single unit or device in software or hardware. The terms "first," "second," etc., are used to indicate names and do not indicate any particular order.

Claims

1. An inflatable product, characterized in that, include: First wall; The second wall is opposite to the first wall and together with the first wall defines an air-filled chamber; as well as Multiple tensioning components are disposed within the inflatable chamber, each tensioning component comprising: Tensioning components, including fabric materials; A first connecting member is welded to the first wall and sewn to the tensioning member, the first connecting member comprising: The first connecting strip has a first surface facing the first wall and a second surface facing the tensioning member; Multiple first lines, parallel to each other, are disposed on the first surface of the first connecting strip. Each first thread comprises multiple strands of first fibers; and A first polymer material is used to fix the multiple strands of first fibers onto the first connecting strip.

2. The inflatable product according to claim 1, wherein, The multiple strands of the first fiber are twisted together.

3. The inflatable product according to claim 1, wherein, The first polymeric material includes a crosslinking agent that is compatible with the material used to make the multi-stranded fibers.

4. The inflatable product according to claim 3, wherein, The multi-stranded fibers are made of polyester fibers, and the crosslinking agent is a polymer of 1,3-diisocyanate-2-toluene and 2,4-diisocyanate-1-toluene.

5. The inflatable product according to claim 4, wherein, The first and second walls of the inflatable product are made of polyvinyl chloride; and... The first polymeric material also includes polyvinyl chloride, which is obtained by curing polyvinyl chloride paste resin.

6. The inflatable product according to claim 1, wherein, The first polymer material also covers the portion of the first surface of the first connecting strip that is not covered by the plurality of first lines.

7. The inflatable product according to claim 1, wherein, Each of the tensioning members includes multiple first coating lines, each first coating line including a first thread and a first polymer material, the first polymer material wrapping the multiple strands of first fibers of each first thread; Each of the first connecting members further includes a layer of second polymer material, which covers the portion of the first surface of the first connecting strip that is not covered by the plurality of first coating lines, and fixes the plurality of first coating lines between the first surface of the first connecting strip and the second polymer material.

8. The inflatable product according to claim 7, wherein, The second polymer material has the same composition as the first polymer material.

9. The inflatable product according to claim 7, wherein, The second polymer material has a different composition from the first polymer material.

10. The inflatable product according to claim 1, wherein, Each of the first connecting members includes a plurality of first coated lines, each first coated line including a first thread and a first polymer material, the first polymer material wrapping the plurality of first fibers of each first thread; Each of the first connecting members further includes: A second layer of polymer material; and A third polymer material is located between the first coating line and the first surface of the first connecting strip; The second polymer material covers the portion of the third polymer material not covered by the plurality of first coating lines, and the plurality of first coating lines are sandwiched between the second polymer material and the third polymer material.

11. The inflatable product according to claim 10, wherein, The second polymer material has the same composition as the first polymer material.

12. The inflatable product according to claim 10, wherein, The second polymer material has a different composition from the first polymer material.

13. The inflatable product according to claim 10, wherein, The third polymer material has the same composition as the first polymer material.

14. The inflatable product according to claim 10, wherein, The third polymer material has a different composition from the first polymer material.

15. The inflatable product according to claim 1, wherein, The inflatable product is an inflatable water tank.

16. The inflatable product according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein, Each of the tensioning components also includes: A second connecting member is welded to the second wall and sewn to the tensioning member, the second connecting member comprising: The second connecting strip has a first surface facing the second wall and a second surface facing the tensioning member; Multiple second threads, parallel to each other, are disposed on the first surface of the second connecting strip, each second thread comprising multiple strands of second fibers; and A first polymer material is used to fix the multiple strands of the second fiber onto the second connecting strip.

17. The inflatable product according to claim 16, wherein, The multiple strands of the second fiber are twisted together.

18. The inflatable product according to claim 16, wherein, The first polymer material also covers the portion of the first surface of the second connecting strip that is not covered by the plurality of second lines.

19. The inflatable product according to claim 16, wherein, Each of the second connecting members includes a plurality of second coating lines, each second coating line including a second line and the first polymer material, the first polymer material wrapping the plurality of second fibers of each second line; Each of the second connecting members further includes a layer of second polymer material that covers the portion of the first surface of the second connecting strip that is not covered by the plurality of second coating lines, and fixes the plurality of second coating lines between the first surface of the second connecting strip and the second polymer material.

20. The inflatable product according to claim 16, wherein, Each of the second connecting members includes a plurality of second coating lines, each second coating line including a second line and the first polymer material, the first polymer material wrapping the plurality of second fibers of each second line; Each of the second connecting members further includes: A second layer of polymer material; and A third polymer material is located between the second coating line and the first surface of the second connecting strip; The second polymer material covers the portion of the third polymer material not covered by the plurality of second coating lines, and the plurality of second coating lines are sandwiched between the second polymer material and the third polymer material.

21. A method for producing an inflatable product, characterized in that, Includes the following steps: Prepare the first and second walls of the inflatable product; Prepare a tensioning component, which includes a fabric material; Multiple wires are fixed to multiple sheets using a first polymer material to obtain multiple connecting pieces. Each wire includes multiple strands of fiber, and the first polymer material wraps the multiple strands of fiber of each wire. Each connecting piece is cut to obtain a plurality of first connecting members and a plurality of second connecting members, each first connecting member including a first connecting strip and each second connecting member including a second connecting strip; The tensioning member is sewn to at least one of the first connecting members, wherein the first connecting strip is located between the plurality of first lines and the tensioning member; The tensioning member is sewn to at least one second connecting member, wherein the second connecting strip is located between the plurality of second lines and the tensioning member; The first wall is welded to the first connecting member, wherein the plurality of first lines are located between the first wall and the first connecting strip; as well as The second wall is welded to the second connecting member, wherein the plurality of second lines are located between the second wall and the second connecting strip.

22. The method for producing an inflatable product according to claim 21, wherein, The steps of fixing multiple wires to multiple sheets using a first polymer material to obtain multiple connecting pieces include: Multiple wires are fixed to each of multiple sheets using a first polymer material to obtain multiple connecting pieces. Each wire includes multiple strands of fiber, and the first polymer material wraps around the multiple strands of fiber in each wire.

23. The method for producing an inflatable product according to claim 22, wherein, The steps of fixing multiple wires to multiple sheets using a first polymer material to obtain multiple connecting pieces include: Heating one of the sheets softens the sheet; Multiple threads are placed on the first surface of the softened sheet, each thread comprising multiple strands of fiber; Pressure is applied to the plurality of lines and the first surface of the sheet; A first mixture is coated onto a first surface of the sheet, allowing the first mixture to penetrate between the multiple strands of each of the threads, and between the multiple threads and the sheet; and The first mixture is heated to solidify it and generate a first polymer material.

24. The method for producing an inflatable product according to claim 22, wherein, The steps of fixing multiple wires to multiple sheets using a first polymer material to obtain multiple connecting pieces include: Multiple threads are immersed in a first mixture, allowing the first mixture to penetrate between the multiple strands of fibers in each thread; Heating the first mixture causes it to solidify and form a first polymer material, thereby obtaining multiple coating lines; Heating a sheet of material to soften it; The plurality of coating lines are placed on the first surface of the softened sheet; and Pressure is applied to the multiple coating lines and the first surface of the sheet to bond the multiple coating lines and the sheet together.

25. The method for producing an inflatable product according to claim 22, wherein, The steps of fixing multiple wires to multiple sheets using a first polymer material to obtain multiple connecting pieces include: A first mixture is coated on a first surface of a sheet; The first mixture is heated to solidify it and generate a first polymer material, thereby forming a first polymer material layer on the first surface of the sheet; Heating the sheet and the first polymer material layer softens the sheet and the first polymer material layer. Multiple lines were placed on the surface of the softened first polymer material layer; and Pressure is applied to the multiple lines and the first polymer material layer, causing the first polymer material to permeate between the multiple fibers of each line.

26. The method for producing an inflatable product according to claim 22, wherein, The steps of fixing multiple wires to multiple sheets using a first polymer material to obtain multiple connecting pieces include: Multiple threads are immersed in a first mixture, allowing the first mixture to penetrate between the multiple strands of fibers in each thread; Heating the first mixture causes it to solidify and form a first polymer material, thereby obtaining multiple coating lines; Heating a sheet of material to soften it; The multiple coating lines are placed on the first surface of the softened sheet; Pressure is applied to the multiple coating lines and the first surface of the sheet. A continuous second mixture is applied to the first surface of the sheet and along the plurality of coating lines; and The second mixture is heated to solidify it and generate a second polymer material.

27. The method for producing an inflatable product according to claim 22, wherein, The steps of fixing multiple wires to multiple sheets using a first polymer material to obtain multiple connecting pieces include: A third mixture is coated on a first surface of a sheet; Heating the third mixture causes it to solidify and generate a third polymer material, thereby forming a third polymer material layer on the first surface of the sheet; The multiple threads are immersed in a first mixture, allowing the first mixture to penetrate between the multiple fibers of each thread; Heating the first mixture causes it to solidify and form a first polymer material, thereby obtaining multiple coating lines; The third polymer material layer is heated to soften it. The multiple coating lines are placed on the surface of the softened third polymer material layer; Pressure is applied to the multiple coating lines and the third polymer material layer; A continuous second mixture is coated onto the surface of the third polymer material layer and along the multiple coating lines; and The second mixture is heated to solidify it and generate a second polymer material.

28. The method for producing an inflatable product according to claim 21, wherein, The steps of fixing multiple wires to multiple sheets using a first polymer material to obtain multiple connecting pieces include: The multiple strands of fibers in each of the multiple strands of wire are twisted together; The multiple wires are fixed to multiple sheets using a first polymer material to obtain multiple connecting pieces, wherein multiple strands of fibers of each wire are twisted together.

29. A method for producing a tensioning component for an inflatable product, characterized in that, Includes the following steps: Prepare a tensioning component, which includes a fabric material; Multiple wires are fixed to multiple sheets using a first polymer material to obtain multiple connecting pieces. Each wire includes multiple strands of fiber, and the first polymer material wraps the multiple strands of fiber of each wire. Each connecting piece is cut to obtain a plurality of first connecting members and a plurality of second connecting members, each first connecting member including a first connecting strip and each second connecting member including a second connecting strip; The tensioning member is sewn to at least one of the first connecting members, wherein the first connecting strip is located between the plurality of first lines and the tensioning member; as well as The tensioning member is sewn to at least one second connecting member, wherein the second connecting strip is located between the plurality of second lines and the tensioning member.

Images