RECONFIGURED SEATING AND CARGO SYSTEMS WITH INFLATABLE PLATES

Abstract

Inflatable system (158), comprising: a first bladder (164) configured to contain gas, comprising the first bladder (164), an upper wall (178), a lower wall (180) opposite the upper wall (178), a side wall (182) extending between and connected to circumferential edges (184) of the upper and lower walls (178, 180), and several retaining straps (112) extending between and connected to the inner surfaces of the upper and lower walls (178, 180); a second bladder (166) configured to contain gas, the second bladder (166) comprising an upper wall (178), a lower wall (180) opposite its upper wall (178), a side wall (182) extending between and connected to the circumferential edges (184) of its upper and lower walls (178, 180), and several retaining straps (112) extending between and connected to the inner surfaces of its upper and lower walls (178, 180), the lower wall (180) of the first bladder (164) being secured to the upper wall (178) of the second bladder (166); and a membrane (172) arranged between the first and second bladders (164, 166), wherein the lower wall (180) of the first bladder (164) is attached to an upper surface (186) of the membrane (172), and the upper wall (178) of the second bladder (166) is attached to the lower surface (188) of the membrane (172), so that the lower wall (180) of the first bladder (164) is secured to the upper wall (178) of the second bladder (166) by the membrane (172); characterized by the fact that The inflatable system (158) further comprises a third bladder (168) configured to contain gas, the third bladder (168) comprising an upper wall (178), a lower wall (180) opposite its upper wall (178), a side wall (182) extending between and connected to the circumferential edges (184) of its upper and lower walls (178, 180), and several retaining straps (112) extending between and connected to the inner surfaces of its upper and lower walls (178, 180), wherein: the upper wall (178) of the third bladder (168) is attached to the lower surface (188) of the membrane (172), or the lower wall (180) of the third bladder (168) is attached to the upper surface (186) of the membrane (172).

Description

INTRODUCTION

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an inflatable system according to the preamble of claim 1, as is known essentially from US 7 254 853 B1.

[0002] Regarding the further state of the art, reference is made to publications US 7 509 699 B1, US 2013 / 0 133 138 A1 and US 2018 / 0 311 089 A1.

[0003] Some vehicles include seating and cargo systems that can be adjusted from one configuration to another. For example, some vehicles include seats that can be adjusted from an upright to a reclined position. In another example, some vehicles include seats that can be folded and stored beneath the floor of a passenger cabin. In yet another example, some vehicles include a cargo area floor that can be raised or lowered to adjust the height of a cargo area.

[0004] The invention is based on the objective of providing an inflatable system for use in a passenger cabin that can be individually redesigned to adapt the passenger cabin to different conditions. SUMMARY

[0005] This problem is solved with an inflatable system characterized by the features of claim 1.

[0006] In one example, the first bladder can be inflated and emptied independently of the inflation and deflation of the second bladder, and the second bladder can be inflated and emptied independently of the inflation and deflation of the first bladder.

[0007] In one example, the lower wall of the third bubble is one that is attached to and formed by the upper surface of the membrane, and when the first and third bubbles are inflated, the side wall of the third bubble abuts the side wall of the first bubble.

[0008] In one example, the upper wall of the third bubble is one that is attached to and formed by the lower surface of the membrane, and, when the second and third bubbles are inflated, the side wall of the third bubble abuts the side wall of the first bubble.

[0009] In one example, the inflatable system can be reconfigured by at least one of the following steps: inflating the third bladder, deflating the third bladder, and adjusting the tension of the retaining straps in at least one of the first, second, and third bladders.

[0010] In one example, the inflatable system further includes a fourth bladder configured to contain gas. The fourth bladder comprises an upper wall, a lower wall opposite its upper wall, a side wall extending between and connected to the circumferential edges of its upper and lower walls, and several tether straps extending between and connected to the inner surfaces of its upper and lower walls. The lower wall of the third bladder is one that is attached to and formed by the upper surface of the membrane. The upper wall of the fourth bladder is one that is attached to and formed by the lower surface of the membrane. When the first and third bladders are inflated, the side wall of the third bladder abuts the side wall of the first bladder at a first location along a length of the membrane.When the second and fourth bubbles are inflated, the side wall of the fourth bubble abuts the side wall of the second bubble at a second location along the length of the membrane.

[0011] In one example, the second location is the same as the first location, and an interface between the adjacent side walls of the first and third bubbles is arranged over an interface between the adjacent side walls of the second and fourth bubbles.

[0012] In one example, the second location is different from the first location, and the third bubble is positioned above an interface between the adjoining side walls of the second and fourth bubbles.

[0013] In one example, the first, second, third, and fourth bladders are configured to form at least part of a vehicle seat cushion, and the inflatable system further includes a plate control module configured to deflate the third bladder so that the second and fourth bladders fold towards each other and around an occupant on the vehicle seat cushion under the weight of the occupant.

[0014] An unclaimed example of an inflatable system comprises a first bladder configured to contain gas and a second bladder configured to contain gas. The first bladder includes an upper wall, a lower wall opposite the upper wall, a side wall extending between and connected to the circumferential edges of the upper and lower walls, and several tethering straps extending between and connected to the inner surfaces of the upper and lower walls. The second bladder includes an upper wall, a lower wall opposite its upper wall, a side wall extending between and connected to the circumferential edges of its upper and lower walls, and several tethering straps extending between and connected to the inner surfaces of its upper and lower walls. The second bladder is detachably attached to the first bladder.

[0015] In one example, the unclaimed inflatable system further comprises at least one releasable fastening mechanism that releasably attaches the second bladder to the first bladder.

[0016] In one example, when the first and second bubbles are inflated, the side wall of the second bubble abuts the side wall of the first bubble, and the at least one releasable fastening mechanism comprises a first releasable fastening mechanism that releasably fastens one side wall of the second bubble to one side wall of the first bubble.

[0017] In one example, the unclaimed inflatable system further comprises a third bladder configured to contain gas. The third bladder includes an upper wall, a lower wall opposite its upper wall, a side wall extending between and connected to the circumferential edges of its upper and lower walls, and several tethering straps extending between and connected to the inner surfaces of its upper and lower walls. Either the lower wall of the first bladder is secured to the upper wall of the third bladder, or the upper wall of the first bladder is secured to the lower wall of the third bladder.

[0018] In one example, the unclaimed inflatable system further comprises a fourth bladder configured to contain gas. The fourth bladder includes an upper wall, a lower wall opposite its upper wall, a side wall extending between and connected to the circumferential edges of its upper and lower walls, and several tether straps extending between and connected to the inner surfaces of its upper and lower walls. The lower wall of the first bladder is secured to the upper wall of the third bladder. The lower wall of the second bladder is secured to the upper wall of the fourth bladder. When the third and fourth bladders are inflated, the side wall of the fourth bladder abuts the side wall of the third bladder.The at least one releasable fastening mechanism comprises a second releasable fastening mechanism that releasably fastens one side wall of the fourth bladder to one side wall of the third bladder.

[0019] In one example, the unclaimed inflatable system further comprises a first membrane arranged between the first and third bladders, and a second membrane arranged between the second and fourth bladders. The lower wall of the first bladder is one that is attached to and formed by an upper surface of the first membrane, and the upper wall of the third bladder is one that is attached to and formed by a lower surface of the first membrane. The lower wall of the second bladder is one that is attached to and formed by an upper surface of the second membrane, and the upper wall of the fourth bladder is one that is attached to and formed by a lower surface of the second membrane. The at least one releasable fastening mechanism comprises a third releasable fastening mechanism that releasably fastens the second membrane to the first membrane.

[0020] An example of an unclaimed vehicle seating and cargo system comprises a first bladder configured to contain gas and a second bladder configured to contain gas. The first bladder comprises an upper wall, a lower wall opposite the upper wall, a side wall extending between and connected to the circumferential edges of its upper and lower walls, and several restraint straps extending between and connected to the inner surfaces of the upper and lower walls. The second bladder comprises an upper wall, a lower wall opposite its upper wall, a side wall extending between and connected to the circumferential edges of its upper and lower walls, and several restraint straps extending between and connected to the inner surfaces of its upper and lower walls.The lower wall of the first bladder is secured to the upper wall of the second bladder and / or the second bladder is detachably attached to the first bladder.

[0021] In one example, the unclaimed vehicle seating and cargo system further comprises a third bladder configured to contain gas and a fourth bladder configured to contain gas. The third bladder comprises an upper wall, a lower wall opposite its upper wall, a side wall extending between and connected to the circumferential edges of its upper and lower walls, and several restraint straps extending between and connected to the inner surfaces of its upper and lower walls. The fourth bladder comprises an upper wall, a lower wall opposite its upper wall, a side wall extending between and connected to the circumferential edges of its upper and lower walls, and several restraint straps extending between and connected to the inner surfaces of its upper and lower walls.At least one membrane is positioned between the first and second bladders and between the third and fourth bladders. The lower walls of the first and third bladders are secured to an upper surface of the at least one membrane. The upper walls of the second and fourth bladders are secured to a lower surface of the at least one membrane. The first bladder is aligned with the second bladder along a length of the at least one membrane. The third bladder is aligned with the fourth bladder along a length of the at least one membrane.

[0022] In one example, the at least one membrane comprises a first membrane arranged between the first and second bladders, and a second membrane arranged between the third and fourth bladders, and the vehicle seating and cargo system further comprises a first releasable fastening mechanism that releasably attaches the third bladder to the first bladder, a second releasable fastening mechanism that releasably attaches the fourth bladder to the second bladder, and a third releasable fastening mechanism that releasably attaches the second membrane to the first membrane.

[0023] Further areas of applicability of the present disclosure will become apparent from the detailed description, the claims, and the drawings. The detailed description and the specific examples are intended for illustrative purposes only. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0024] The present revelation will be more fully understood from the detailed description and accompanying drawings, whereby: Fig. 1-4 Perspective views of an example of a reconfigurable seating and cargo system according to the present disclosure are; Fig. 5 and Fig. 6 Perspective views of another example of a reconfigurable seating and cargo system according to the present disclosure are; Fig. 7 is a perspective view of an exemplary membrane according to the present disclosure; Fig. 8A is a perspective view of an exemplary bubble according to the present disclosure; Fig. 8B a sectional view of part of the bubble of Fig. 8A is; Fig. 9A is a perspective view of an exemplary plate according to the present disclosure; Fig. 9B a sectional view of part of the plate of Fig. 9A is; Fig. 10 is a perspective view of an exemplary plate arrangement according to the present disclosure, wherein the plate arrangement is shown in a rolled-up position; Fig. 11 a perspective view of the plate arrangement of Fig. Figure 10 shows the plate arrangement in a rolled-up position and an uninflated state; Fig. 12 a perspective view of the plate arrangement of Fig. Figure 10 shows the plate arrangement in the unrolled position and in an inflated state; Fig. 13 a perspective view of part of the plate arrangement of Fig. 10 within one in Fig. 12 shown rectangle 13 is; Fig. 14 a sectional view of part of the plate arrangement of Fig. 10 within one in Fig. 13 shown rectangle 14 is; Fig. 15A is a perspective view of another exemplary plate arrangement according to the present disclosure; Fig. 15B a side view of part of the plate arrangement of Fig. 15A is shown in a rolled-up position and an uninflated state; Fig. 15C a side view of part of the plate arrangement of Fig. Figure 15A is shown in the uninflated state and in a rolled-up position; Fig. 16A a perspective view of the plate arrangement of Fig. 15A is where one upper bubble in the plate arrangement is shown uninflated and the other bubbles in the plate arrangement are shown inflated; Fig. 16B a sectional view of the plate arrangement of Fig. 15A in the Fig. 16A shows the inflated state and an unfolded position; Fig. 16C a sectional view of the plate arrangement of Fig. 15A in the Fig. 16A is the inflated state, wherein one plate in the plate arrangement is folded towards the other plate in the plate arrangement; Fig. 17A a perspective view of the plate arrangement of Fig. 15A is shown with all plates inflated in the plate arrangement; Fig. 17B a sectional view of part of the plate arrangement of Fig. 15A in one in Fig. The inflated state shown in 17A is; Fig. 18A a perspective view of the plate arrangement of Fig. 15A is where one upper bubble and one lower bubble in the plate arrangement are shown uninflated and the other two bubbles in the plate arrangement are shown inflated; Fig. 18B a side view of the plate arrangement of Fig. 15A in the Fig. 18A shows the inflated state, with each plate in the plate arrangement shown unfolded and folded towards the other plate in the plate arrangement; Fig. 19A a perspective view of the plate arrangement of Fig. 15A is shown where the upper bubbles in the plate arrangement are not inflated and the lower bubbles in the plate arrangement are shown inflated; Fig. 19B a side view of the plate arrangement of Fig. 15A in the Fig. 19A shows the inflated state, wherein one plate in the plate arrangement is shown unfolded and folded towards the other plate in the plate arrangement; Fig. 20A a perspective view of the plate arrangement of Fig. 15A is where one upper bubble in the plate arrangement is shown uninflated and the other bubbles in the plate arrangement are shown inflated; Fig. 20B a side view of the plate arrangement of Fig. 15A in the Fig. 20A shows the inflated state, with one plate in the plate arrangement shown unfolded and the other plate in the plate arrangement shown folded towards the other plate; Fig. 21A a perspective view of the plate arrangement of Fig. 15A is shown where the upper and lower bubbles of one plate in the plate arrangement are shown uninflated and the other bubbles in the plate arrangement are shown inflated; Fig. 21B a side view of the plate arrangement of Fig. 15A in the Fig. 21A shows the inflated state, with the uninflated plate shown unrolled and rolled up; Fig. 22A a perspective view of the plate arrangement of Fig. 15A is shown where all bubbles in the plate arrangement are not inflated; Fig. 22B a side view of the plate arrangement of Fig. 15A in the Fig. 22A shows the inflated state, with the plate arrangement shown rolled up; Fig. 23 a perspective view of another exemplary plate arrangement according to the present disclosure; Fig. 24 a view of the plate arrangement of Fig. 23, where one upper bubble of the plate arrangement is shown uninflated and all other bubbles of the plate arrangement are shown inflated; Fig. 25 a perspective view of the plate arrangement of Fig. 23 in the Fig. 24 is the inflated state shown, in which the plates of the plate arrangement are folded towards each other; Fig. 26A is a perspective view of an exemplary plate arrangement according to the present disclosure, comprising rectangular plates that are detachably attached to one another; Fig. 26B a perspective view of the plate arrangement of Fig. Figure 26A illustrates a configuration in which the plates are detachably attached to each other; Fig. 26C a perspective view of the plate arrangement of Fig. Figure 26A illustrates a different configuration in which the plates are detachably attached to each other; Fig. 27A and Fig. 27B Perspective views of an exemplary plate arrangement according to the disclosure, comprising rectangular and non-rectangular plates detachably attached to one another; Fig. 27C a perspective view of the plate arrangement of Fig. 27A and Fig. 27B is where the plates are detachably attached to each other; Fig. 28A is a perspective view of an exemplary plate arrangement according to the present disclosure, comprising rectangular plates detachably attached to one another; Fig. 28B a perspective view of part of the plate arrangement of Fig. 28A within a Fig. 28A shows rectangle 28B; and Fig. 29 and Fig. 30 perspective views of another example of a reconfigurable seating and cargo system according to the present disclosure are shown.

[0025] Reference symbols can be reused in the drawings to identify similar and / or identical elements. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0026] As explained above, some vehicles include reconfigurable seating and cargo systems that can be switched from one configuration to another. Most reconfigurable seating and cargo systems involve panels and joints that can be heavy, bulky, and difficult to articulate. Furthermore, most reconfigurable seating and cargo systems are limited in the number of potential configurations.

[0027] In contrast, the seating and cargo systems according to the present disclosure comprise soft, textile surfaces with an array of integrated inflatable panels that allow or restrict folding in preferred locations and directions. For example, the panels can be inflated to provide load-bearing capacity and rigidity, and the panels can be deflated to allow the deflated panels to be rolled up or to allow inflated panels to be folded adjacent to the deflated panels. The soft, textile nature of the systems allows for efficient stowage, as the panels can be folded and / or rolled up when not in use. Furthermore, the inflatable panels can be reversibly or detachably attached to one another and / or deflated or repurposed for efficient stowage.Furthermore, the plate array can be attached to a frame using multiple sets of mounting points to further define the system configuration and to appropriately transfer loads to the frame. The frame can be attached to or be part of an inner side wall of a vehicle.

[0028] The present disclosures provide examples where the systems are incorporated into the internal structures of a vehicle, such as a vehicle seat or cargo rack. However, the soft structural systems according to the present disclosure can also be used to form external surfaces and shells. For example, the systems can be integrated into the external structures of a recreational vehicle, such as a protective roof or tent structure. Furthermore, the systems can be integrated into other structural applications where reconfigurability is desired, such as residential furniture, lawn furniture, or recreational equipment.

[0029] Referring now to Fig. 1-4 comprises a reconfigurable seating and cargo system 10, an inflatable panel assembly 12, a frame 14, straps 16 connecting the inflatable panel assembly 12 to the frame 14, and a pump 18. The straps 16 connect the inflatable panel assembly 12 to the frame 14 at one or more attachment points 20. The frame 14 is made of a rigid material, such as plastic or metal. The straps 16 are made of a flexible material, such as nylon. In the example shown, the reconfigurable seating and cargo system 10 further comprises a panel control module 22, a user interface device 24, an actuator 26, and light strips 28.

[0030] The inflatable panel assembly 12 comprises inflatable panels 30, fold lines 32, one or more releasable fastening mechanisms 34 between adjacent panels 30, and a valve 36 located in one or more (e.g., each) of the panels 30. Each inflatable panel 30 comprises one or more bladders configured to contain gas (e.g., compressed air). In an example, each inflatable panel 30 comprises two bladders configured to contain gas and a membrane located between the bladders. The inflatable panels 30 can be folded toward or away from each other around the fold lines 32. The fold lines 32 are represented by solid lines when at least one panel 30 is folded around them, and by dashed lines when no panel 30 is folded around them.The inflatable panels 30 can be attached to and separated from each other using the releasable fastening mechanisms 34. The releasable fastening mechanisms 34 can include zippers, hook-and-loop fasteners and / or J-shaped structures that hook together.

[0031] The inflatable panel assembly 12 can be arranged in different configurations by inflating or deflating various inflatable panels 30, folding or unfolding the panels 30 around various fold lines 32, and / or attaching or detaching the panels 30 to / from each other using the releasable fastening mechanisms 34. For example, some of the inflatable panels 30 can be deflated or inflated to allow or restrict folding in preferred locations (e.g., around the fold lines 32) and directions. In another example, one or more (e.g., all) of the inflatable panels 30 can be deflated for efficient storage or repurposing. In the Fig. In the configuration shown in Figure 1, the inflatable plate arrangement 12 forms two seats 38, each configured to support an occupant 40 seated therein. In the configuration shown in Fig. In the configuration shown, the inflatable plate arrangement 12 forms a loading platform 42, which is configured to support a human occupant 44 lying thereon. In the example shown, the loading platform 42 has no side walls.

[0032] In the Fig. In the configuration shown in Figure 3, the inflatable plate arrangement 12 forms a loading platform 46 configured to support an animal occupant 48 lying therein. In the example shown, the loading platform 46 has side walls 49 that can help to restrain the animal occupant 48. In the configuration shown in Fig. In the configuration shown in 4, the inflatable plate arrangement 12 forms a loading platform 50, which is configured to support cargo (not shown) arranged on it. In each of the in Fig. In configurations 1-4 shown, the inflatable panel assembly 12 can be located inside a vehicle cabin and the frame 14 can be attached to an inner side wall of the vehicle. Thus, the seats 38 of Fig. 1. For example, vehicle seats.

[0033] The pump 18 can be operated to inflate the inflatable plates 30. For example, the pump 18 sends gas to the inflatable plates 30 when the pump 18 is activated (e.g., switched on). The pump 18 supplies gas to the inflatable plates 30 through a gas supply line 52. The valve 36 can be operated to deflate the inflatable plates 30. For example, the valve 36 can be opened to release gas from the inflatable plates 30, and the valve 36 can be closed to prevent the flow of gas from the inflatable plates 30.

[0034] In various implementations, the gas supply line 52 can be connected to the inflatable plates 30 via the valve 36. In these implementations, the inflatable plates 30 can be inflated when the valve 36 is open and the pump 18 is activated, and the inflatable plates 30 can be deflated when the valve 36 is open and the pump 18 is deactivated (i.e., off). Additionally, the pump 18 can include a valve that releases air to the atmosphere when the pump 18 is deactivated.

[0035] The plate control module 22 inflates and deflates the inflatable plates 30 by controlling the pump 18 and / or the valve 36. For example, the plate control module 22 inflates the inflatable plates 30 by activating the pump 18 and deflates them by opening the valve 36. The plate control module 22 can also close the valve 36 while inflating the inflatable plates 30 and deactivate the pump 18 while deflating them.

[0036] The plate control module 22 can decide which of the inflatable plates 30 are to be inflated and which are to be deflated based on a target configuration of the inflatable plate assembly 12. The plate control module 22 can receive the target configuration of the inflatable plate assembly 12 from the user interface device 24. In one example, the user interface device 24 is a touchscreen that displays possible configurations of the inflatable plate assembly 12 and outputs the target configuration when the occupants 40 select one of the possible configurations.

[0037] The plate control module 22 can fold the inflatable plates 30 towards each other or away from each other around the fold lines 32 by controlling the actuator 26. In the example shown, the actuator 26 is a linear actuator. Furthermore, the actuator 26 is extended in an upward direction 54 to fold a first plate 56 of the inflatable plates 30 towards a second plate 58 of the inflatable plates 30 around the fold line 32, which is located between the first and second plates 56 and 58. The actuator 26 is also retracted in a downward direction 60 to unfold the first plate 56 away from the second plate 58.

[0038] In various implementations, the inflatable panels 30 can be folded towards or away from each other around the fold lines 32 manually (i.e., by hand). Additionally or alternatively, the inflatable panels 30 can be attached to each other or separated from each other by manually manipulating the releasable fastening mechanisms 34. In these implementations, the panel control module 22 can activate or deactivate the light strips 28 to indicate when edges of the inflatable panels 30 are to be joined together to achieve the target configuration. For example, the light strips 28 can illuminate in one of several colors, and each light strip 28 can be attached to one of the inflatable panels 30 along one of its edges. Furthermore, the panel control module 22 can illuminate two of the light strips 28 using the same color to indicate that the corresponding edges on the inflatable panels 30 are to be joined together.

[0039] Referring now to Fig. 5 and Fig. The vehicle 62 comprises an inner side wall 64, a floor 66, a passenger cabin 68 enclosed by the inner side wall 64, and a reconfigurable seating and cargo system 70 located within the passenger cabin 68. The reconfigurable seating and cargo system 70 includes an inflatable panel assembly 72, a frame 74, and headrests 76. Each of the frames 74 and headrests 76 can include a rigid structure and cushion material surrounding the rigid structure.

[0040] The inflatable panel assembly 72 comprises inflatable panels 78 and fold lines 80 between adjacent inflatable panels 78. Each inflatable panel 78 comprises one or more bladders configured to contain gas (e.g., compressed air). In one example, each inflatable panel 78 comprises two bladders configured to contain gas and a membrane positioned between the bladders. The inflatable panels 78 can be folded toward or away from each other around the fold lines 80.

[0041] The inflatable plate arrangement 72 can be arranged in different configurations by inflating or deflating various of the inflatable plates 78 and / or by folding or unfolding the inflatable plates 78 around various of the fold lines 80. In the Fig. In the configuration shown in Figure 5, the inflatable plate arrangement 72 forms two seats 82, each configured to support a human occupant (not shown) seated therein. Each seat 82 includes a leg rest 84 configured to support the occupant's legs. In the configuration shown in Fig. In the configuration shown in Figure 6, the inflatable plate assembly 72 forms a loading platform 86, which is configured to support and contain an animal occupant 88 or cargo (not shown). The loading platform 86 includes a front wall 90, which prevents the animal occupant 88 or the cargo from moving forward in the vehicle 62 if, for example, the vehicle 62 stops suddenly.

[0042] To get from the in Fig. 5 configuration shown in the Fig. To switch the configuration shown in Figure 6, a first plate 92 of the inflatable plates 78 is folded in a first direction 94 towards a second plate 96 of the inflatable plates 78. In the configuration shown in Figure 6, the first plate 92 of the inflatable plates 78 is folded in a first direction 94 towards a second plate 96 of the inflatable plates 78. Fig. In the configuration shown in 6, the first plate 92 forms the front wall 90. To be removed from the in Fig. 6 configuration shown in the Fig. To switch to the configuration shown in step 5, the first plate 92 is folded in a second direction opposite to the first direction. In the Fig. In the configuration shown in Figure 6, the first plate 92 forms the leg support 84.

[0043] Referring now to Fig. In Figure 7, an example of a membrane that may be included in the inflatable plates 30 is designated as 98. The membrane 98 is a flexible sheet of material that can be folded or rolled up. In one example, the membrane 98 is made of a textile material and / or a rubber material.

[0044] Referring now to Fig. 8A and Fig. 8B is an example of a bladder that may be contained in inflatable plates 30 and 78, designated as 100. Bladder 100 is configured to contain gas (e.g., compressed air). Bladder 100 may be made from a thin layer of material, such as thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) or silicone-coated fabric (e.g., nylon, polyester, Kevlar, etc.). The thickness of bladder 100 can vary from 0.1 millimeters (mm) to 10 mm, depending on the pressure range of bladder 100.

[0045] The bladder 100 comprises an upper wall 102, a lower wall 104 opposite the upper wall 102, side walls 106 extending between and connected to the circumferential edges 108 of the upper and lower walls 102 and 104, and a valve 110 extending through the upper wall 102. The valve 110 allows gas to enter and exit the bladder 100 when it is open. When closed, the valve 110 prevents gas from flowing into and out of the bladder 100. Although the valve 110 is shown to extend through the upper wall 102 of the bladder 100, it can also extend through the lower wall 104 or through one of the side walls 106 of the bladder 100.

[0046] The bladder 100 further comprises several retaining straps 112 that extend between and are connected to the inner surfaces 114 of the upper and lower walls 102 and 104 of the bladder 100. The retaining straps 112 limit the expansion of the bladder 100 when it is inflated. Furthermore, the retaining straps 112 increase the amount of compressive force that the bladder 100 can withstand before it deforms in response to the compressive force. Additionally, the retaining straps 112 can cause the bladder 100 to have a curved surface contour when it is inflated.

[0047] The retaining straps 112 can be connected to the upper and lower walls 102 and 104 using three-dimensional (3D) knitting, weft knitting, hand stitching, an embroidery machine, and / or a garment identification installation device. The retaining straps 112 can comprise monofilament threads, such as wires, and / or multifilament threads, such as yarn. Additionally or alternatively, the retaining straps 112 can comprise cables and / or ribbons (or tapes). The retaining straps 112 can have cross-sectional shapes that are circular, star-shaped, and / or rectangular. The retaining straps 112 can be made of a material, such as artificial muscle or a shape memory alloy (SMA), such that the retaining straps 112 contract or expand to influence the fold of the bladder 100.

[0048] Referring now to Fig. 9A and Fig. 9B will be an example of each of the inflatable plates 30, 78 of Fig. 1-6 labeled 116. The inflatable plate 116 comprises a first bladder 118, a second bladder 120, and a membrane 122 arranged between the first and second bladders 118 and 120. Each of the first and second bladders 118 and 120 is similar to or identical with bladder 100 of Fig. 8A and Fig. 8B.

[0049] The first bladder 118 is inflatable and deflated independently of the inflation and deflation of the second bladder 120. The second bladder 120 is inflatable and deflation independently of the inflation and deflation of the first bladder 118. Since the upper wall 102 of the second bladder 120 is attached to the lower surface 126 of the membrane 122, the valve 110 cannot extend through the upper wall 102 of the second bladder 120. Instead, the valve 110 can extend through the lower wall 104 of the second bladder 120 or through one of the side walls 106 of the second bladder 120. The second bladder 120 can otherwise be connected to the bladder 100 by Fig. 8A and Fig. 8B should be identical.

[0050] Membrane 122 is similar to or identical to membrane 98 from Fig. 7. The membrane 122 has an upper surface 124 and a lower surface 126. The lower wall 104 of the first bladder 118 is attached (e.g., glued) to the upper surface 124 of the membrane 122. The upper wall 102 of the second bladder 120 is attached (e.g., glued) to the lower surface 126 of the membrane 122. Thus, the lower wall 104 of the first bladder 118 is secured to the upper wall 102 of the second bladder 120 by the membrane 122.

[0051] Referring now to Fig. 10-14 will be an example of each of the inflatable plate arrangements 12, 70 of Fig. 1-6, designated 128. The inflatable plate arrangement 128 comprises several of the inflatable plates 116 arranged side by side with a single membrane 130 positioned between the first and second bladders 118 and 120 of all inflatable plates 116. In the example shown, the inflatable plate arrangement 128 comprises three inflatable plates 116 across its width and four inflatable plates 116 across its length.

[0052] In Fig. 10. The first and second bladders 118 and 120 of all inflatable plates 116 in the inflatable plate assembly 128 are deflated, and the inflatable plate assembly 128 is rolled up. In Fig. 11. The first and second bladders 118 and 120 of all inflatable plates 116 in the inflatable plate assembly 128 are deflated and the inflatable plate assembly 128 is unrolled. In Fig. 12-14 are the first and second bubbles 118 and 120 of all inflatable plates 116 in the inflatable plate assembly 128 inflated and the inflatable plate assembly 128 is unrolled. Fig. Figure 13 shows only two of the inflatable plate 116 in the inflatable plate arrangement 128 and Fig. Figure 14 shows a sectional view of part of these two inflatable plates 116.

[0053] In various implementations, one or more of the first and second bladders 118 and 120 can include a section with additional surface area. In the respective bladder 118 or 120, this section would in turn create a bladder or rib. This rib could function as a localization feature for use in locating the inflatable plate assembly 128 within the vehicle. Furthermore, if the restraint straps in this section are fastened before inflation (e.g., using artificial muscles or SMA), the section can act as a hinge, causing the respective bladder 118 or 120 to fold at that location.

[0054] The diaphragm 130 can be used with the diaphragm 98 of the Fig. 7. The membranes are identical except that the width and length of the membrane 130 may be greater than the width and length of the membrane 98, so that the membrane 130 extends over the entire width and length of the inflatable plate assembly 128. For example, the width and length of the membrane 98 may be equal to the width and length of each inflatable plate 116. In contrast, the width of the membrane 130 may be three times greater than the width of each inflatable plate 116, and the length of the membrane 130 may be four times greater than the length of the inflatable plate 116.

[0055] The membrane 130 has an upper surface 132 and a lower surface 134. The lower wall 104 of the first bladder 118 of each inflatable panel 116 is attached (e.g., glued) to or formed by the upper surface 132 of the membrane 130. The upper wall 102 of the second bladder 120 of each inflatable panel 116 is attached (e.g., glued) to or formed by the lower surface 134 of the membrane 130. Thus, the lower wall 104 of the first bladder 118 of each inflatable panel 116 is secured to the upper wall 102 of the second bladder 120 of the same inflatable panel 116 by the membrane 130. Furthermore, all inflatable panels 116 in the inflatable panel assembly 128 are secured to one another by the membrane 130.

[0056] In one example, a first plate 136 of the inflatable plates 116 is secured to a second plate 138 of the inflatable plates 116 by the membrane 130, and the first and second plates 136 and 138 are adjacent to each other. Thus, when the first and second bladders 118 and 120 of the first and second plates 136 and 138 are inflated, one of the side walls 106 of the first bladder 118 in the first plate 136 abuts one of the side walls 106 of the first bladder 118 in the second plate 138 at a first location along the length of the membrane 130. Furthermore, one of the side walls 106 of the second bladder 120 in the first plate 136 abuts one of the side walls 106 of the second bladder 120 in the second plate 138 at a second location along the length of the membrane 130. The second location is the same as the first location.Furthermore, an interface 137 is arranged between the abutting side walls 106 of the first bubble 118 in the first and second plates 136 and 138 over an interface 139 between the abutting side walls 106 of the second bubbles 120 in the first and second plates 136 and 138.

[0057] This contact between adjacent inflatable plates 116 in the inflatable plate assembly 128 restricts the relative movement of the inflatable plates 116 when the first and second bladders 118 and 120 of the inflatable plates 116 are inflated. For example, the inflation state of the first and second bladders 118 and 120 of the inflatable plates 116 (i.e., whether the inflatable plates 116 are inflated or deflated) affects whether the inflatable plates 116 can be rolled up or folded relative to each other. The following with reference to Fig. The examples described in 15A-25 illustrate this point.

[0058] Referring now to Fig. Figures 15A-15C show an inflatable plate arrangement 140 comprising a first inflatable plate 142 arranged adjacent to a second inflatable plate 144. Each of the first and second inflatable plates 142 and 144 can be connected to the inflatable plate 116 of Fig. 9A and Fig. 9B similar or identical. The first and second inflatable plates 142 and 144 are secured to each other by a membrane 146. The membrane 146 is arranged between the first and second bladders 118 and 120 of the first inflatable plate 142 and between the first and second bladders 118 and 120 of the second inflatable plate 144. The membrane 146 can be connected to the membrane 98 of Fig. 7, with the exception that the membrane 146 may be similar or identical to the membrane 98, so that the membrane 146 spans the entire length of the inflatable plate assembly 140.

[0059] The membrane 146 has an upper surface 148 and a lower surface 150. The lower wall 104 of the first bladder 118 of each inflatable panel 142, 144 is attached (e.g., glued) to or formed by the upper surface 148 of the membrane 146. The upper wall 102 of the second bladder 120 of each inflatable panel 142, 144 is attached (e.g., glued) to or formed by the lower surface 150 of the membrane 146. Thus, the first and second inflatable panels 142 and 144 are secured to each other by the membrane 146.

[0060] In Fig. 15A-15C, the first and second bladders 118 and 120 of the first and second inflatable plates 142 and 144 are deflated. Furthermore, in Fig. 15A and Fig. 15B the inflatable plate arrangement 140 unrolled. In Fig. However, in 15C the inflatable plate arrangement 140 will be in a Fig. The inflatable plate assembly 140 is rolled up in the direction shown in 15B. Deflating the first and second bladders 118 and 120 of the first and second inflatable plates 142 and 144 allows the inflatable plate assembly 140 to be rolled up.

[0061] Referring now to Fig. Figures 16A-16C show the inflatable plate arrangement 140, in which the first bladder 118 of the first inflatable plate 142 is deflated and the second bladder 120 of the first inflatable plate 142 is inflated. Furthermore, the first and second bladders 118 and 120 of the second inflatable plate 144 are inflated. Fig. 16A and Fig. In 16B, the first and second inflatable plates 142 and 144 are unfolded relative to each other. Fig. 16C is the first inflatable plate 142 folded in one direction 154 towards the second inflatable plate 144. Deflating the first bladder 118 of the first inflatable plate 142 allows the first inflatable plate 142 to be folded towards the second inflatable plate 144.

[0062] In various implementations, the inflatable plate assembly 140 can include a third bladder 155 located between the first bladders 118 of the first and second inflatable plates 142 and 144, and / or between the second bladders 120 of the first and second inflatable plates 142 and 144. The third bladder 155 can act as the activation force to change the shape or position of the inflatable plate assembly 140. In the example shown, the third bladder 155 is located between the second bladders 120 of the first and second inflatable plates 142 and 144. The third bladder 155 can be inflated to fold the first inflatable plate 142 toward the second inflatable plate 144, as shown in Fig. 16C shown, and the third bladder 155 can be deflated to allow the first inflatable plate 142 to unfold, as shown in Fig. 16A and Fig. 16B shown.

[0063] Instead of or in addition to using the third bladder 155 as the activation force, the change in shape or position of the inflatable plate assembly 140 can be activated by the shape of one or more of the first and second bladders 118 and 120. For example, a wedge-shaped bladder can be placed next to a rectangular-shaped bladder so that, when the bladders are inflated, the interaction between the wedge- and rectangular-shaped bladders causes movement in a third dimension. In another example, the second bladder 120 of the first inflatable plate 146 has a rectangular shape, and the second bladder 120 of the second inflatable plate 144 has a wedge shape. The wedge-shaped bladder 120 can be inflated to fold the first inflatable plate 142 toward the second inflatable plate 144, as shown in Fig. 16C shown, and the wedge-shaped bladder 120 can be deflated to allow the first inflatable plate 142 to unfold, as shown in Fig. 16A and Fig. 16B shown.

[0064] Referring now to Fig. 17A and Fig. Figure 17B shows the inflatable plate arrangement 140 in which the first and second bladders 118 and 120 of the first and second inflatable plates 142 and 144 are inflated. In this inflated state, one of the side walls 106 of the first bladder 118 in the first inflatable plate 142 abuts one of the side walls 106 of the first bladder 118 in the second inflatable plate 144. Furthermore, one of the side walls 106 of the second bladder 120 in the first inflatable plate 142 abuts one of the side walls 106 of the second bladder 120 in the second inflatable plate 144. The interlock between the side walls 106 of the first bladders 118 and between the side walls 106 of the second bladders 120 prevents the first inflatable plate 142 from folding towards the second inflatable plate 144 or vice versa.

[0065] Referring now to Fig. 18A and Fig. Figure 18B shows the inflatable plate arrangement 140, in which the first bladder 118 of the first inflatable plate 142 is deflated and the second bladder 120 of the first inflatable plate 142 is inflated. Also shown is the first bladder 118 of the second inflatable plate 144, which is inflated and the second bladder 120 of the second inflatable plate 144, which is deflated. Fig. 18A are the first and second inflatable plates 142 and 144 unfolded relative to each other.

[0066] In Fig. In 18B, the first inflatable panel 142 is folded 90 degrees in the direction 154 towards the second inflatable panel 144, and the second inflatable panel 144 is folded 90 degrees in the direction 154 towards the first inflatable panel 142. Deflating the first bladder 118 of the first inflatable panel 142 allows the first inflatable panel 142 to be folded 90 degrees towards the second inflatable panel 144. Deflating the second bladder 120 of the second inflatable panel 144 allows the second inflatable panel 144 to be folded 90 degrees towards the first inflatable panel 142.

[0067] The first and second bladders 118 and 120 of the inflatable plate assembly 140 can be inflated and deflated as shown in Fig. 18A shown to illustrate the in Fig. 5 and Fig. 6 to achieve the mobility shown. For example, the first inflatable plate 142 can be used as the first plate 92 in the inflatable plate arrangement 72, and the second inflatable plate 144 can be used as the second plate 96 of the inflatable plate arrangement 72. Relative to the one shown in Fig. In the position shown in 18A, the first inflatable plate 142 can be rotated 90 degrees relative to the second inflatable plate 144 in a direction 156 opposite to the direction 154, in order to achieve the Fig. To achieve the configuration shown in Figure 5, the first inflatable plate 142 can then be rotated 180 degrees in the direction 154 to the second inflatable plate 144. Fig. To achieve the configuration shown in section 6.

[0068] Referring now to Fig. 19A and Fig. Figure 19B shows the inflatable plate arrangement 140, in which the first bladders 118 of the first and second inflatable plates 142 and 144 are deflated and the second bladders 120 of the inflatable plates 142, 144 are inflated. Fig. In 19A, the first and second inflatable plates 142 and 144 are unfolded relative to each other. Fig. 19B, the first inflatable plate 142 is folded 180 degrees in the direction 154 towards the second inflatable plate 144. Deflating the first bladder 118 of the first and second inflatable plates 142 and 144 allows the first inflatable plate 142 to be folded 180 degrees towards the first inflatable plate 144.

[0069] Referring now to Fig. 20A and Fig. Figure 20B shows the inflatable plate arrangement 140, in which the first bladder 118 of the first inflatable plate 142 is deflated and the second bladder 120 of the first inflatable plate 142 is inflated. Furthermore, the first and second bladders 118 and 120 of the second inflatable plate 144 are inflated. Fig. In 20A, the first and second inflatable plates 142 and 144 are unfolded relative to each other. Fig. 20B is the first inflatable plate 142 folded by 90 degrees in the direction 154 towards the second inflatable plate 144. Deflating the first bladder 118 of the first inflatable plate 142 allows the first inflatable plate 142 to be folded by 90 degrees towards the second inflatable plate 144.

[0070] Referring now to Fig. 21A and Fig. Figure 21B shows the inflatable plate arrangement 140, in which the first and second bladders 118 and 120 of the first inflatable plate 142 are deflated and the first and second bladders 118 and 120 of the second inflatable plate 144 are inflated. Fig. 21A each of the first and second inflatable plates 142 and 144 is unrolled. In Fig. 21B shows the first inflatable panel 142 rolled up in direction 152, while the second inflatable panel 144 is unrolled. Deflating the first and second bladders 118 and 120 of the first inflatable panel 142 allows the first inflatable panel 142 to be rolled up.

[0071] Referring now to Fig. 22A and Fig. Figure 22B shows the inflatable plate arrangement 140, in which the first and second bladders 118 and 120 of the first and second inflatable plates 142 and 144 are deflated. Fig. 22A each of the first and second inflatable plates 142 and 144 is unrolled. In Fig. 22B shows the entire inflatable plate assembly 140 rolled up in direction 152. Deflating the first and second bladders 118 and 120 of the first and second inflatable plates 142 and 144 allows the entire inflatable plate assembly 140 to be rolled up.

[0072] Referring now to Fig. Figures 23-25 ​​show an inflatable plate arrangement 158 ​​comprising a first inflatable plate 160 and a second inflatable plate 162. The first inflatable plate 160 comprises a first bladder 164, the second bladder 166, the portion of a third bladder 168 located to the left of a fold line 170, and the portion of a membrane 172 located to the left of the fold line 170. The second inflatable plate 162 comprises a fourth bladder 174, a fifth bladder 176, the portion of the third bladder 168 located to the right of the fold line 170, and the portion of the membrane 172 located to the right of the fold line 170.

[0073] Each of the bubbles 164, 166, 168, 174, 176 comprises an upper wall 178, a lower wall 180 opposite the upper wall 178, and side walls 182 that extend between and are connected to the circumferential edges 184 of the upper and lower walls 178 and 180. Furthermore, each of the bubbles 164, 166, 168, 174, 176 comprises retaining straps that extend between the surfaces of the upper and lower walls 178 and 180 and are connected to the interior. The retaining straps within each of the bubbles 164, 166, 168, 174, 176 are similar to or identical with the retaining straps 112 of Fig. 8A. Furthermore, one or more (e.g., each) of the bladders 164, 166, 168, 174, 176 may comprise a valve extending through the upper, lower, or side walls 178, 180, or 182 thereof.

[0074] Membrane 172 has an upper surface 186 and a lower surface 188. The lower walls 180 of the first, third, and fourth vesicles 164, 168, and 174 are attached (e.g., glued) to or formed by the upper surface 186 of membrane 172. The upper walls 178 of the second and fifth vesicles 166 and 176 are attached (e.g., glued) to or formed by the lower surface 188 of membrane 172. Thus, the first, second, third, fourth, and fifth vesicles 164, 166, 168, 174, and 176 are secured to one another by membrane 172.

[0075] In Fig. The first, second, third, fourth, and fifth bladders 164, 166, 168, 174, and 176 are inflated. As a result, one of the side walls 182 of the first bladder 164 abuts one of the side walls 182 of the third bladder 168 at a first location along the length of the membrane 172, one of the side walls 182 of the second bladder 166 abuts one of the side walls 182 of the fifth bladder 176 at a second location along the length of the membrane 172, and one of the side walls 182 of the third bladder 168 abuts one of the side walls 182 of the fourth bladder 174 at a third location along the length of the membrane 172. The second location is different from each of the first and third locations, and the third bladder 168 is located above an interface 190 between the abutting side walls 182 of the second and fifth bladders 166 and 176.

[0076] In Fig. 24 and Fig. 25. The first, second, fourth, and fifth bladders 164, 168, 174, and 176 are inflated, and the third bladder 168 is deflated. Furthermore, a downward force 192 is applied to the third bladder 168, causing the first and second inflatable plates 160 and 162 to move relative to each other around the fold line 170 from the in Fig. 24 shown position to the one in Fig. Fold to the position shown in Figure 25. Deflating the third bladder 168 allows the first and second inflatable plates 160 and 162 to be folded towards each other around the fold line 170.

[0077] Referring now to Fig. Figures 26A-26C show an inflatable plate arrangement 194 comprising a first inflatable plate 196, a second inflatable plate 198, and a third inflatable plate 200. Each of the first, second, and third inflatable plates 196, 198, and 200 can be used in Fig. 8A and Fig. 8B single bubble layer configuration or the one shown in Fig. 9A and Fig. The double-layer bubble configuration shown in Figure 9B is also present. Furthermore, each of the first, second, and third inflatable plates 196, 198, and 200 is detachably attachable to the other first, second, and third inflatable plates 196, 198, and 200.

[0078] Each of the first, second, and third inflatable panels 196, 198, and 200 has a first rim 202, a second rim 204, a third rim 206, and a fourth rim 208. Furthermore, each of the first, second, and third inflatable panels 196, 198, and 200 includes a releasable fastening mechanism (e.g., a zipper, a hook-and-loop fastener, interlocking J-shaped structures) arranged along one or more (e.g., each) of the first, second, third, and fourth rims 202, 204, 206, and 208. The releasable fastening mechanisms can be actuated to connect one of the first, second, and third inflatable panels 196, 198, and 200 to another of the first, second, and third inflatable panels 196, 198, and 200.

[0079] In Fig. 26A None of the first, second, or third inflatable plates 196, 198, and 200 are connected to each other. In Fig. 26B, the fourth edge 208 of the first inflatable plate 196 is connected to the third edge 206 of the second inflatable plate 198 using a first releasable fastening mechanism. Furthermore, the second edge 204 of the first inflatable plate 196 is connected to the first edge 202 of the third inflatable plate 200 using a second releasable fastening mechanism. Finally, the second edge 204 of the second inflatable plate 198 is connected to the fourth edge 208 of the third inflatable plate 200 using a third releasable fastening mechanism.

[0080] In Fig. 26C, the second edge 204 of the first inflatable panel 196 is connected to the third edge 206 of the third inflatable panel 200 using a fourth detachable fastening mechanism. Furthermore, the second edge 204 of the second inflatable panel 198 is connected to the fourth edge 208 of the third inflatable panel 200 using a fifth detachable fastening mechanism. The first, second, third, fourth, and fifth detachable fastening mechanisms can share components (e.g., zipper halves).

[0081] Referring now to Fig. Figures 27A-27C show an inflatable plate arrangement 210 comprising a rectangular inflatable plate 212 and a non-rectangular inflatable plate 214. In the example shown, the non-rectangular inflatable plate 214 has an oval shape. Each of the rectangular and non-rectangular plates 210 and 212 can be used in the Fig. 8A and Fig. 8B shown single bubble layer configuration or the one in Fig. 9A and Fig. The double bubble layer configuration shown in Figure 9B is present. Furthermore, the rectangular and non-rectangular plates 210 and 212 are detachably attached to one another.

[0082] The rectangular inflatable plate 212 comprises a first zipper half 216 arranged along a first edge, a second zipper half 218 arranged along a second edge, a third zipper half 220 arranged along a third edge, and a fourth zipper half 222 arranged along a fourth edge. The first and second zipper halves 216 and 218 form a first zipper. The non-rectangular inflatable plate 214 has a fifth zipper half 224 arranged along a first section of its outer circumference and a sixth zipper half 226 arranged along a second section of its outer circumference. The third and fifth zipper halves 220 and 224 form a second zipper. The fourth and sixth zipper halves 222 and 226 form a third zipper.

[0083] The rectangular and non-rectangular inflatable panels 212 and 214 can be attached to or detached from each other by opening or closing the second and third zippers. The first and second edges of the rectangular inflatable panel 212 can be attached to or detached from each other by opening or closing the first zipper. Fig. In 27A, the rectangular and non-rectangular inflatable plates 212 and 214 lie flat. Fig. 27B is the rectangular inflatable plate 212 perpendicular to the non-rectangular inflatable plate 214, with the first, second, and third zippers open. In Fig. 27C the first, second and third zippers are closed and the inflatable plate arrangement 194 has a rectangular cube shape with rounded corners.

[0084] Referring now to Fig. 28A and Fig. 28B is an inflatable plate assembly 228 with the inflatable plate assembly 128 of Fig. 10-14, except that the inflatable plates 116 in the inflatable plate assembly 228 are detachably attached to one another. Furthermore, the membrane 130 is replaced by several membranes 230, each membrane 230 having the same width and length as the respective inflatable plate 116. Detachable fastening mechanisms 232 are fixed to one or more (e.g., all) sides of each inflatable plate 116 and each membrane 130.

[0085] The detachable fastening mechanisms 232 comprise a first zipper 234, a second zipper 236, and a third zipper 238. The first zipper 234 detachably fastens the first bladders 118 of adjacent inflatable panels 116 to one another. The second zipper 236 detachably fastens the second bladders 120 of adjacent inflatable panels 116 to one another. The third zipper 238 detachably fastens the membranes 230 of adjacent inflatable panels 116 to one another.

[0086] The first zipper 234 can attach one of the circumferential edges 108 of the upper wall 102 of the first bladder 118 of one of the inflatable panels 116 to one of the circumferential edges 108 of the upper wall 102 of the first bladder 118 of an adjacent inflatable panel 116. Alternatively, the first zipper 234 can attach one of the side walls 106 of the first bladder 118 of one inflatable panel 116 to one of the side walls 106 of the first bladder 118 of an adjacent inflatable panel 116. The second zipper 236 can attach one of the circumferential edges 108 of the lower wall 104 of the second bladder 120 of one of the inflatable panels 116 to one of the circumferential edges 108 of the lower wall 104 of the second bladder 120 of an adjacent inflatable panel 116. Alternatively, the second zipper 236 can attach one of the side walls 106 of the second bladder 120 of the one inflatable plate 116 to one of the side walls 106 of the second bladder 120 of the adjacent inflatable plate 116.

[0087] Referring now to Fig. 29 and Fig. 30 comprises a reconfigurable seating and cargo system 240, an inflatable plate assembly 242 and a valve 244, as well as the pump 18, the plate control module 22 and the gas supply line 52 of Fig. 1. The inflatable plate assembly 242 can be rapidly reconfigured in response to a dynamic event or extreme conditions. Support fixings can be released or relocated, plates can be inflated or deflated, and / or plate interconnections can be disconnected or released to allow or force the inflatable plate assembly 242 to rapidly reposition itself in a different configuration. One or more of these actions can be taken to restrict or allow various movements or deformations of the inflatable plate assembly 242.

[0088] In the example shown, the inflatable plate arrangement 242 can be quickly transformed from a Fig. 29 shown open loading bed configuration in a Fig. The closed loading platform configuration shown in Figure 30 can be reconfigured. The inflatable panel assembly 242 comprises a lower wall 246 and side walls 248 extending upwards from opposite sides of the lower wall 246. The lower wall 246 comprises the inflatable panel assembly 158 of Fig. 23-25. The first, second, third, fourth and fifth bladders 164, 166, 168, 174 and 176 of the inflatable plate arrangement 158 ​​extend along the entire length of the lower wall 246. The valve 244 extends through the upper wall 178 of the third bladder 168.

[0089] In Fig. 29 The inflatable plate assembly 242 forms at least part of a seat cushion configured to support a vehicle occupant 250. When the vehicle is about to impact an object, the plate control module 22 opens the valve 244 to deflate the third bladder 168, causing the first and second plates 160 and 162 to fold towards each other and around the occupant 250 under the latter's weight. The inflatable plate assembly 242 then forms a shell around the occupant 250, protecting the occupant 250, as shown in Fig. 30 shown. The weight of the occupant 250 can be determined by the in Fig. The downward force shown in figure 192 is depicted in figure 24.

Claims

[1] Inflatable system (158) comprising: a first bladder (164) configured to contain gas, the first bladder (164) comprising a top wall (178), a bottom wall (180) opposite the top wall (178), a side wall (182) extending between and connected to peripheral edges (184) of the top and bottom walls (178, 180), and a plurality of tethers (112) extending between and connected to inner surfaces of the top and bottom walls (178, 180); a second bladder (166) configured to contain gas, the second bladder (166) comprising a top wall (178), a bottom wall (180) opposite its top wall (178), a side wall (182) extending between and connected to peripheral edges (184) of its top and bottom walls (178, 180), and a plurality of tethers (112) extending between and connected to inner surfaces of its top and bottom walls (178, 180), the bottom wall (180) of the first bladder (164) being secured to the top wall (178) of the second bladder (166); and a diaphragm (172) disposed between the first and second bladders (164, 166), the bottom wall (180) of the first bladder (164) being secured to an upper surface (186) of the diaphragm (172), and the top wall (178) of the second bladder (166) being secured to the bottom surface (188) of the diaphragm (172), such that the bottom wall (180) of the first bladder (164) is secured to the top wall (178) of the second bladder (166) by the diaphragm (172); characterized by , that the inflatable system (158) further comprises a third bladder (168) configured to contain gas, the third bladder (168) having a top wall (178), a bottom wall (180) opposite its top wall (178), a side wall (182) extending between and connected to peripheral edges (184) of its top and bottom walls (178, 180), and a plurality of tethers (112) extending between and connected to inner surfaces of its top and bottom walls (178, 180), wherein: the upper wall (178) of the third bladder (168) is attached to the lower surface (188) of the membrane (172), or the lower wall (180) of the third bladder (168) is attached to the upper surface (186) of the membrane (172). [2] Inflatable system (158) according to claim 1, wherein: the first bladder (164) is inflatable and deflated independently of the inflation and deflation of the second bladder (166); and the second bladder (166) is inflatable and deflated independently of the inflation and deflation of the first bladder (164). [3] Inflatable system (158) according to claim 1, wherein: the lower wall (180) of the third bladder (168) is attached to the upper surface (188) of the membrane (172); and when the first and third bladders (164, 168) are inflated, the sidewall (182) of the third bladder (168) abuts the sidewall (182) of the first bladder (164), the inflatable system (158) further comprising at least one releasable attachment mechanism that releasably attaches the third bladder (168) to the first bladder (164). [4] The inflatable system (158) of claim 1, wherein the inflatable system (158) is reconfigurable by at least one of inflating the third (168) bladder, deflating the third bladder (168), and adjusting the tension of the tether straps (112) in at least one of the first, second, and third bladders (164, 166, 168). [5] The inflatable system (158) of claim 1, further comprising a fourth bladder (176) configured to contain gas, the fourth bladder (176) having a top wall (178), a bottom wall (180) opposite its top wall (178), a side wall (182) extending between and connected to peripheral edges (184) of its top and bottom walls (178, 180), and a plurality of tethers (112) extending between and connected to inner surfaces of its top and bottom walls (178, 180), wherein: the lower wall (180) of the third bladder (168) is attached to or formed by the upper surface (186) of the membrane (172); the upper wall (178) of the fourth bladder (176) is attached to or formed by the lower surface (188) of the membrane (172); when the first and third bladders (164, 168) are inflated, the side wall (182) of the third bladder (168) abuts the side wall (182) of the first bladder (164) at a first location along a length of the membrane (172); and when the second and fourth bladders (166, 176) are inflated, the side wall (182) of the fourth bladder (176) abuts the side wall (182) of the second bladder (166) at a second location along the length of the membrane (172). [6] Inflatable system (158) according to claim 5, wherein: the second place is the same as the first place; and an interface between the abutting side walls (182) of the first and third bladders (164, 168) is disposed above an interface between the abutting side walls (182) of the second and fourth bladders (166, 176). [7] Inflatable system (158) according to claim 5, wherein: the second place is different from the first place; and the third bladder (168) is disposed over an interface between the abutting side walls (182) of the second and fourth bladders (166, 176). [8] The inflatable system (158) of claim 7, wherein the first, second, third, and fourth bladders (164, 166, 168, 176) are configured to form at least a portion of a vehicle seat cushion, the inflatable system (158) further comprising a panel control module (22) configured to deflate the third bladder (168) such that the second and fourth bladders (166, 176) fold toward each other and around an occupant on the vehicle seat cushion under a weight of the occupant.

Images