Inflatable drop stitch platform

Abstract

An inflatable support platform featuring an inflatable cushion constructed using drop-stitch technology. In some embodiments, the support platform further includes additional cushions and bladders. The platform provides an adjustable, portable, and lightweight surface for supporting objects or body parts at a desired height and angular orientation. The disclosure also covers other aspects, such as wrist supports, pumps, valves and straps for adjusting platform configuration.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to inflatable support platforms and, more particularly, to inflatable platforms constructed using drop-stitch technology that provide an adjustable, portable, and lightweight surface for supporting objects or body parts at a desired height and angular orientation. While particularly suited for use as a laptop computer support platform, the invention is broadly applicable to medical, therapeutic, ergonomic, recreational, and assistive technology applications.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Laptop use has grown in recent years throughout the world. Laptops have largely supplanted desktop computers and have become the instrument of choice, especially for today's remote workers and digital nomads. However, laptops are not very ergonomic, and their use creates a host of health issues. Many of these issues stem from the poor posture users necessarily assume when using them. These problems are exacerbated when laptops are used without a desk—when the laptop is placed on top of the user's lap, which gave rise to the name “laptop”. Such mode of use requires the user to assume a slouched position resulting in a host of issues including shoulder, back, neck, chest, arm and wrist pains. This is a consequence of the laptop being positioned too low and at an inconvenient angle thereby requiring the user to slouch.

[0003] Current solutions for this problem usually involve a platform to raise the laptop, typically consisting of a hard plastic surface with a foam cushion underneath. This solution is bulky and somewhat heavy, which makes it difficult to transport.

[0004] More broadly, there exists a need across many fields for a support platform that is lightweight, portable, adjustable in height and angular orientation, and capable of being compactly stored when not in use. In medical and rehabilitation settings, patients require adjustable platforms for body positioning, limb elevation, and post-surgical recovery, yet current foam and rigid plastic wedges are bulky, fixed in angle, and difficult to transport. There also exists a need for a seat platform, for example an airplane seat tray. Existing rigid or fixed-angle solutions fail to meet these diverse needs. The present invention addresses these shortcomings across all such applications.SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0005] The present disclosure describes an inflatable adjustable support platform featuring an inflatable cushion constructed using drop-stitch technology. The platform provides a rigid, substantially flat support surface when inflated, and deflates to a compact, lightweight form for storage and transport. In some embodiments, the platform further includes a second inflatable cushion and one or more inflatable bladders positioned between the cushions to establish and adjust the angular orientation of one cushion relative to the other. Adjustable straps may be used to further regulate both the height and angular orientation of the platform components. The disclosure also covers wrist and limb supports, pumps and valves for inflation and deflation, fluid communication between platform components, mouse and accessory platforms, straps for securing objects to the platform, and methods of manufacturing the platform. The inventions disclosed herein are suitable for a wide range of applications including, but not limited to: laptop and tablet computer support, medical patient positioning and body part elevation, physical therapy and rehabilitation, trays, reading and writing surfaces, infant and child care positioning, and outdoor and recreational use.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0006] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of one embodiment.

[0007] FIG. 2 is a front view of the FIG. 1 embodiment.

[0008] FIG. 3 is a back view of the FIG. 1 embodiment.

[0009] FIG. 4 is a bottom view of the FIG. 1 embodiment.

[0010] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of another embodiment.

[0011] FIG. 6 is a cross section of the perspective view of the embodiment in FIG. 5.

[0012] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the FIG. 5 embodiment, viewed from the back.

[0013] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of another embodiment.

[0014] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of an embodiment with adjustable straps.

[0015] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of the FIG. 9 embodiment, viewed from the back.

[0016] FIG. 11 is a perspective view of an embodiment with adjustable straps on both sides.

[0017] FIG. 12 is a perspective view of the FIG. 11 embodiment, viewed from the back.

[0018] FIG. 13 is a cross section of the perspective view of the FIG. 11 embodiment.

[0019] FIG. 14 is a perspective view of the FIG. 11 embodiment with a laptop and a mouse.

[0020] FIG. 15 is a perspective view of yet another embodiment.

[0021] FIG. 16 is a top view of a portion of the side rail strap.

[0022] FIG. 17 is a cross section of an adjustable wedge.

[0023] FIG. 18 is a perspective view of the FIG. 17 wedge.

[0024] FIG. 19 is a perspective view of a platform suitable for leg elevation.

[0025] FIG. 20 is a cross section of the FIG. 19 elevation platform.

[0026] FIG. 20A is a cross section of the embodiment of FIG. 19 in a different configuration

[0027] FIG. 21 is a cross section of the same FIG. 19 elevation platform configured for smaller height.

[0028] FIG. 22 is a cross section of another embodiment of a platform suitable for leg elevation.

[0029] FIG. 23 is a perspective view of an adjustable bed.

[0030] FIG. 23A is a cross section view of the adjustable bed 500 in a flat configuration

[0031] FIG. 24 is a cross section of an adjustable bed with drop stitch adjustable bladders.

[0032] FIG. 25 is a cross section of another embodiment of an adjustable bed with an adjustable platform underneath.

[0033] FIG. 26 is a perspective view of an airplane seat tray.

[0034] FIG. 27 is a cross section of the airplane seat tray of FIG. 26.

[0035] FIG. 28 is a perspective view of the airplane seat tray when folded.

[0036] FIG. 29 is yet another perspective view of the airplane seat tray of FIG. 26.

[0037] FIG. 30 is a top view of a support wedge for the airplane seat tray.

[0038] FIG. 31 is a perspective cross section view of the support wedge of FIG. 30.DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0039] In reference to the disclosure herein, for purposes of convenience and clarity only, directional terms such as top, bottom, left, right, upper, lower, front, back, rear, vertical and horizontal are used from the reference viewpoint of a user using the platform. Such directional terms are not to be construed as limiting the scope of the invention in any manner. The terms angle and inclination are used interchangeably.

[0040] FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of one embodiment. A cushion, 110, forms the base of the laptop platform 100. The top side of the cushion 110 (162) is substantially parallel to the bottom side 163 of the cushion (shown in FIG. 4). Another cushion, 120, is positioned on the top of cushion 110 and serves as a platform upon which the user laptop is placed. Similarly to the cushion 110, cushion 120 also has a substantially flat form with its top and bottom sides being substantially parallel. These cushions retain their shape thanks to the drop-stitch technology, best known as the technology used for stand-up paddle boards (SUPs).

[0041] Bladder 150, when inflated, serves to incline cushion 120 in relation to cushion 110. This bladder encloses the volume between the two cushions and does not need to utilize the drop-stitch technology itself. In this embodiment, the angle between cushions 110 and 120 is not user adjustable. For ease of illustration, the bladder is shown with flat sides, even though the sides are likely to bulge out due to air pressure which should not affect the function of the bladder.

[0042] A laptop wrist support (140) is provided to prevent the laptop from sliding down the incline and to offer additional comfort for user's wrists. Additionally, another wrist support (130) is included for the user's wrist when using a mouse. For added comfort, the wrist supports can be clad with softer material such as memory foam, gel, rubber or similar materials.

[0043] In the preferred embodiment, cushion 110 is 7 cm thick, 45 cm wide and 25 cm deep. Other dimensions are possible ranging from 1 cm to 30 cm in thickness, 20 cm to 60 cm in width and 15 cm to 40 cm in depth. Cushion 120 can be of similar thickness to cushion 110, but this is not necessary. In this variant, it needs to be less wide than cushion 110 to provide for the mouse platform. However, some other variants in this disclosure do not require this.

[0044] In the preferred embodiment, the angle between the cushions 110 and 120 is around 20 degrees, but can range from 0 to 45 degrees.

[0045] When not in use, the laptop platform can be deflated and packed—either rolled or folded. Light weight and small volume are major advantages compared to previous laptop platform solutions. Another significant advantage is that the platform can be made thicker (providing a higher platform) and be more ergonomically suited without the added bulk when packed.

[0046] FIG. 5 shows a perspective view of a variant embodiment. Here, inflatable cushion 120 is inclined in relation to inflatable cushion 110 thanks to a cylinder-shaped bladder 180. In addition, this variant has two semi-cylindrical bottom bladders 170 and 171 providing additional comfort for user's knees and additional height. This embodiment doesn't show the wrist supports 130 and 140, but these can be added as well. For ease of illustration, bladders 180, 170 and 171 are shown with flat sides, even though the sides are likely to bulge out due to air pressure which should not affect the function of the bladder. Bladder 180 also may have a tendency to bulge around its longitudinal middle which is mitigated by the fact that it is attached to cushions 110 and 120 on both sides. To avoid the issue altogether, it is possible to replace bladder 180 with two bladders positioned at the ends. Another way to fix the issue is to utilize drop-stitch for the bladder 180 as well to prevent its bulging.

[0047] FIG. 6 is a cross section of the perspective view of the embodiment in FIG. 5. This view shows the internal structure of the cushions 110 and 120. They are created using drop-stitch technology. For the cushion 110, the top and bottom sides retain their mostly parallel shape thanks to the threads 190. The purpose of these threads is to prevent the cushion from bulging. The density and the spacing of the threads need to be such as to provide a substantially flat surface and to prevent formation of noticeable bumps, especially for the top surface of the cushion 120 which is in contact with the laptop and the surface 162 which serves as a mouse platform. Larger bumps and uneven surface may cause the laptop to wobble and may negatively affect mouse operation. Please note that the embodiment shown in FIG. 1 has the same internal structure for cushions 110 and 120, whereas bladder 150 is simply empty and has no threads190.

[0048] Referring again to FIG. 6, holes 210 serve to allow air to circulate into all cushions and bladders. In this manner, all the cushions and bladders are in fluid communication and only one inflation / deflation valve (not shown in FIG. 6) is needed to inflate all the parts. The size of these holes should be large enough to allow for fast ingress and egress of air, yet small enough to not cause deformations of the cushions. Generally, holes of radius of 3 mm to 30 mm should suffice. To allow for even faster ingress / egress, more than one hole per cushion / bladder can be formed. While not shown in FIG. 6, the same manner of achieving fluid communication is applied for the wrist rests too.

[0049] FIG. 7 shows the same embodiment from the rear side. Air inflation pump 300 serves to inflate the laptop platform and release button 301 serves to deflate it. Similar pumps and release buttons can be commonly found in inflatable foot and leg orthopedic braces. Repeatedly pressing and releasing pump 300 inflates the platform whereas pressing and holding the release button deflates it. The pump can be detachable from the platform. Other ways of inflating and deflating are possible and even vents using breath.

[0050] FIG. 8 shows a simplified embodiment of the FIG. 1 embodiment, without a mouse platform. This is suitable for users who do not use a mouse.

[0051] FIG. 9 and FIG. 10 show an embodiment that allows for adjusting inclination angle of cushion 120. Bladder 180 is shown compressed into an oval shape due to being restricted with straps 350. Adjusting the straps regulates the angle between the cushions 110 and 120. The straps can utilize various suitable fasteners, like hook and loop, belt buckle, buttons, etc. This feature can be incorporated into other embodiments as well.

[0052] FIG. 11 and FIG. 12 show yet another embodiment that allows for adjusting both the overall height of the platform as well as the angle of the top cushion. This embodiment is equipped with straps on the front (360) as well as straps on the back (350). This embodiment utilizes thinner cushions 410 and 420 when compared to cushions 110 and 120. The thinner cushions allow for a greater range of adjustable positions. In the example shown the cushions can be 4 cm thick, 55 cm wide and 30 cm deep. When all the straps are fully tightened, the overall platform height is around 9 cm which accounts for the two cushions, plus about 1 cm due to the fully collapsed bladder 155. This embodiment shows another variation of the inflation mechanism using a hand bladder pump 310. Such pumps are commonly found in inflatable foot and leg orthopedic braces.

[0053] This embodiment is wide enough to accommodate a mouse as well, but the mouse rests on the same angle as the laptop, as shown in FIG. 14. A variant of this embodiment is possible where the top cushion (410) is less wide than the bottom cushion 420 in order to provide a non-angled platform for the mouse, similar to the embodiment shown in FIG. 1. Yet another variation is possible where the bottom cushion 420 has a thickness similar to cushion 110 from the FIG. 1 embodiment.

[0054] FIG. 15 shows an embodiment with only one cushion. This embodiment is more suitable for desktop use, but if the thickness of the cushion is increased, it may be comfortably used on the user's lap as well.

[0055] One feature not shown in the figures is laptop straps which can be added to secure the laptop to platform 100. For example, in the FIG. 1 embodiment, a strap can be added to the rear side of cushion 120. When the laptop is in an open position, this strap can be wrapped over the crook of the laptop, where the laptop body meets the laptop display. The strap should be sized and positioned so that it doesn't obstruct the bottom part of the laptop display or interfere with laptop keys and buttons.

[0056] Yet another feature, not shown in the figures, is an additional corner fasteners for the laptop. Such fasteners can be added, for example to the embodiment shown in FIG. 1, in the form of two smaller straps placed over the two front corners of the laptop. Together with the aforementioned laptop strap, these three straps would fully secure the laptop to the platform, allowing for easy transport and preventing the laptop from being knocked off the platform.

[0057] Another feature, not shown in the figures, is a pocket which can be used to store the mouse when not in use, or to hold other items, such as a cellphone.

[0058] Yet another feature, not shown in the figures, is a cellphone holder which can be added for example to the FIG. 11 embodiment, for instance in the vicinity of the place denoted by 510. The cellphone holder would cradle the bottom and the back sides of the phone, enabling the user to view and manipulate the phone screen.

[0059] Compared to the materials used for the SUPs, cushions in the present invention do not need to be as rigid since they are much smaller than the SUPs and they are not subjected to the same high loads, wet and harsh conditions as the SUPs. Therefore, the pressure that the cushions need to be inflated can be well below the 8 to 25 PSI customary used for SUPs. This enables using less expensive drop-stitch materials. For example, a single layer PVC construction can be used instead of the double / triple or quadruple layer PVC which is in use in some SUPs. The cushions can be manufactured using either the less expensive knitted drop-stitch materials or the more expensive woven materials, with the knitted version suiting most designs. Similarly, due to the lower loads and pressures, the adhesives used do not need to be of the same high standard as the ones used for SUPs. Besides the PVC, the cushions can be formed from vinyl, vulcanized rubber or other suitable materials. Lower pressure also allows for use of smaller, inexpensive hand-pumps or even breath.

[0060] Manufacturing the cushions can be done by first cutting a rectangle shape with rounded corners. The next step is forming the edges or rails (160 in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2). This can be accomplished, for example in one of these three ways: 1. Simply folding the top and the bottom layers at the edges until they meet and overlap one another, then gluing them. This method allows for the stiffest manufacture but is not easy to utilize because it requires additional material to cover the resulting slits on the corners. 2. Another method is bringing the top and bottom layers closer but leaving a gap of about 2 cm to 10 cm. An additional strap of PVC material is glued to cover the gap and form the rail. However, this method is still not easy to achieve due to the resulting wrinkles on the corners. 3. The easiest and the most inexpensive way is to glue a strap across the whole circumference of the cushion, without bringing the top and the bottom layers closer at all. This results in the least rounded rail shape which has an added advantage of offering the largest top and bottom flat space for the amount of material used. The thicker the strap material is, the more rounded the corners must be to avoid forming wrinkles on the corners. FIG. 16 shows a portion of such a strap with V shaped cut outs at the corners to further mitigate the problem of forming wrinkles on the corners. The distance between the tips of the V cutouts must be greater than the gap between the top and bottom layers.

[0061] FIG. 1 shows the side laptop wrist support 130. One method to form the half cylinder shape of the wrist support is to start with a full cylinder shape and glue only one portion of the cylinder circumference to the cushion underneath thereby creating a half cylinder shape. Another method is to simply use a strip of pvc, fold the long edges and glue the folded sides so that the free middle part forms a half cylinder when inflated.

[0062] FIG. 1 shows ends of the laptop wrist as semicircles (131). To achieve this shape, additional material for the semicircles would need to be added, which is possible but increases cost. An easier method is to simply press and glue the ends of the cylinder together which results in a more irregular shape but should not impede the functionality or the aesthetics of the end product. The same method of gluing the ends can be utilized for the bladder 180.

[0063] While the present disclosure is mostly concerned with providing a platform for laptop support, the inventions disclosed herein are suitable for other purposes as well.

[0064] Various combinations of different features shown in different embodiments are possible. For example, the four adjustable straps and the bladder 155 of the FIG. 11 embodiment can be utilized in other embodiments as well. Such a hybrid embodiment can be further modified by utilizing a thinner top cushion 120. Or, the straps for securing the laptop to the platform, mentioned in relation to the FIG. 1 embodiment, can be added to other embodiments as well. Bottom bladders 170 and 171 can be added to any other embodiment.

[0065] Various variations of the embodiments shown are also possible. For example, bladders 150 and 180 can be replaced with different shaped bladders, different number of bladders or even with other objects which don't need to be inflatable.

[0066] It is also possible to create simpler and more inexpensive variants. In its simplest form, a variation utilizing only one drop-stitch cushion can be created.

[0067] While the foregoing description is directed primarily to use of the platform as a laptop computer support, the inventions disclosed herein are broadly applicable across numerous fields and use cases, as described below. The ability to deflate and compact the platform is especially advantageous in settings where storage space is limited.

[0068] The platform is particularly well-suited for use as a medical patient positioning wedge. In this application, one or more inflatable cushions provide a rigid, adjustable support surface for elevating a patient's upper body, legs, or individual limbs following surgery or during treatment.

[0069] For example, the embodiments shown in FIG. 8, FIG. 11 and FIG. 15 can be modified not to utilize the wrist support and / or to utilize different dimensions than what is needed for the laptop platform applications. The angular orientation between cushions 110 and 120 (or cushions 410 and 420 in different embodiments) can be adjusted via the bladder and strap mechanisms described herein to achieve a desired angle of elevation. The platform may also be used for limb elevation following orthopedic injury or surgery, such as elevation of a knee, ankle, or arm. In such embodiments, the semi-cylindrical bottom bladders 170 and 171 described in relation to FIG. 5, but applicable to other embodiments as well, can serve as contoured supports for the knee or calf, providing additional comfort compared to flat foam wedges.

[0070] The platform can be further modified not to have fluid communication between bladders and cushions. In this manner, cushions and bladders can be individually controlled to configure the platform as needed by, for example, adjusting softness, firmness, height or angle.

[0071] FIG. 17 is a cross section of an adjustable triangular wedge with two drop stitch cushions 751 and 752. The angle between them can be regulated using adjustable bladder 753. FIG. 18 shows the adjustable triangular wedge utilizing straps 760 to regulate the angle between cushions 751 and 752. The strap can be differently positioned, for example on the back side of the support platform denoted by 761. FIG. 18 shown the triangular wedge covered with a cover for easier maintenance.

[0072] The various embodiments in this instant application may be made with cushion materials selected to be antimicrobial or easily sanitized. The embodiments can further be clad with slips and covers which can be washed for easier maintenance. The embodiments may further be clad with a comfort layer made of softer materials like rubber, memory foam, sponge or gel. Other suitable materials for the comfort layer include, but are not limited to: open-cell polyurethane foam; closed-cell polyethylene foam; latex foam; neoprene; ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA) foam; thermoplastic rubber (TPR); thermoplastic elastomer (TPE); silicone gel; polyurethane gel; hydrogel; phase-change material gel; natural or synthetic sheepskin (such as Merino wool or polyester fleece); terry cloth; neoprene fabric; microfiber fabric; natural or synthetic leather; cork; and combinations or laminates thereof. The comfort layer may be bonded, stitched, welded, or removably attached to the underlying inflatable elements, for example by hook-and-loop fasteners, zippers, or snap fasteners, to permit washing or replacement.

[0073] FIG. 19 shows another platform suitable, for example, for leg elevation. The platform can be of a fixed configuration, or it can be manufactured as an adjustable version. This platform has three drop stitch cushions and a bladder which comprises the fourth wall 745 and the side walls. The top cushion 720 can have additional cradles for added comfort and support. The cradles can be constructed in a similar manner as the wrist support and bottom bladders. Alternatively, the cradles (as well as the wrist supports and bottom bladders) can be construed of a soft material like foam, sponge or gel. For the adjustable version, straps 760 can be used to regulate the height of the platform. FIG. 20 is and FIG. 21 show the elevation platform configured for different heights. FIG. 20A shows yet another configuration of the platform achievable by adjusting straps 760 where the top cushion bladder wall 745 is completely collapsed.

[0074] The various bladders in the instant application can be partially formed by the enclosing drop stitch cushions. Alternatively, the bladder walls can be formed independently from the drop stitch cushions where the whole bladder is positioned between the drop stitch cushions.

[0075] The thickness of the drop stitch cushions 710-730 can be from 1 cm to 50 cm. For other uses, the thickness of different dimensions can be utilized.

[0076] FIG. 22 illustrates a platform suitable for leg elevation utilizing a thicker drop stitch cushion 750 of thickness, for example, from 10 cm to 50 cm.

[0077] FIG. 23 shows a flat support platform 500 made of three drop stitch segments forming an adjustable bed which can be used on top of a regular bed. The flat platform has three drop stitch segments 510, 520 and 530. Inclination of the segments can be adjusted, for example, with cushions 580, 581, 582, bladders 570 and adjustable straps 590. The adjustable straps 590 require manual adjustment. However, segment inclination can be conveniently controlled with buttons and control mechanisms used in conventional adjustable beds.

[0078] FIG. 24 is a cross section of the adjustable bed 500. It illustrates two different examples of lifting bed sections. Inflatable bladders 550 and 551 serve to reduce the gap between segments. Segment elevation can be adjusted, for example, by using cushions of drop stitch material which reduces wobble, like 581 and 582. They can be controlled together or individually, as illustrated by showing 582 partially deflated. The adjustable elevation mechanism under the segment 520 shows another configuration. Cushion 580 is of drop stitch material which reduces wobble. When the bed is in use, this cushion is supposed to be fully inflated. Bladder 570 serves to adjust the relative angle between the cushion 580 and the segment 520. In the illustrated example, the cushion 580 is thinner than the bed segments 510, 520 and 530 and reaches only under the segment 520.

[0079] FIG. 25 shows another embodiment with a drop stitch mattress 585 which is of full regular bed length. This mattress can be made of varied thickness—from 2 cm to 150 cm. Thinner versions reduce overall height of the bed and takes less space when deflated and rolled. A thicker version can serve to increase the overall bed height. FIG. 25 shows additional drop stitch mattresses 586 and 587 which can serve to completely eliminate the need for a regular bed under the adjustable bed. These cushions are stacked on top of each other, allowing for greater bed height with less wobble. To reduce the wobble, those that are inflated would need to be fully inflated when in use. By deflating (or not inflating) individually ones, the overall height of the bed can be controlled, illustrated by showing cushion 587 completely deflated.

[0080] In order to prevent the top adjustable bed from sliding, it can be fastened or attached to the mattress 585, preferably at the point indicated with the numeral 503, between the segments 520 and 530. Similarly, mattresses 585-587 can be secured together to prevent sliding.

[0081] FIG. 25 also shows a mattress 595 which doesn't need to be an integral part of the bed and can be replaceable to achieve a particular level of comfort, softness or hardness as desired.

[0082] In the embodiment shown in FIG. 24 and FIG. 25, gaps are shown between the three segments 510, 520 and 530. Mattress 595 also serves to cover these gaps and mitigate the issue.

[0083] In order to mitigate the gaps further, inflatable bladders can be added, as the one indicated with the numeral 550. These bladders can be inflated at a smaller pressure than the segments 510-530 to prevent them from forming a bulge. In this configuration, segments 510 and 520 may be communicatively coupled via a hose 560 for common inflation / deflation.

[0084] The three segments may be joined together as indicated in FIG. 24 by numeral 553. When so joined, they can have holes similar to holes 210 to allow air to couple them communicatively. FIG. 24 further shows another inflatable drop stitch cushion 567 whose function is to enclose part of the bladder 570 in order to reduce possible wobble of the bed. FIG. 23A shows vertical wall 515 of the segment 520 glued or otherwise joined to the vertical wall 516 of the segment 530. The same figure shows bladders and drop stitch cushions completely collapsed in order to configure the bed in the flat configuration. The collapsed bladders can result in an uneven top surface by creating a bulge. In order to mitigate the issue, the same figure shows additional elements 571 and 572 whose purpose is to counter this and achieve flat configuration of the bed.

[0085] FIG. 26 to FIG. 31 show an airplane seat tray 800 made of drop stitch material, attached to a seat 820. The tray can be supported by a triangular wedge 810 which can also be made of drop stitch material. Variants of this embodiment can be made with different means for supporting the tray, other than the wedge 810. While the figures do not show the means of folding and securing the tray, these can be implemented using various fasteners, for example hook and loop, belt buckle, buttons etc.

[0086] Note that the figures are illustrative and do not represent precise measurements. For example, illustrations of drop stitch threads in the perspective views are just representative, especially in FIG. 17 to FIG. 31.

[0087] While the illustrated embodiments show angle control using adjustable and non-adjustable bladders and cushions, other conventional mechanisms can be used like foam and other material wedges, ratchets, props with pin locks, and others.

Claims

1. A laptop support platform comprising a first inflatable cushion formed in a drop stitch construction.

2. The laptop support platform of claim 1 further comprising an inflatable bladder for inclining the first cushion, the bladder being in fluid communication with the first cushion.

3. The laptop support platform of claim 2 where the first cushion and the bladder are in fluid communication via at least one aperture.

4. The laptop support platform of claim 2 further comprising an inflatable wrist support.

5. The laptop support platform of claim 2 further comprising a second inflatable cushion wherein the inflatable bladder is positioned between the first cushion and the second cushion.

6. The laptop support platform of claim 5 further comprising a first adjustable strap for adjusting angle of the first cushion relative to the second cushion.

7. The laptop support platform of claim 5 further comprising a second adjustable strap attached to the platform on the side of the platform opposite from the side where the first strap is attached, the first and the second strap functioning together to adjust both height and angle of the first cushion relative to the second cushion.

8. The laptop support platform of claim 2 further comprising at least one bottom bladder attached to the first cushion.

9. The laptop support platform of claim 5 wherein the second cushion is wider than the first cushion to provide a platform for a computer mouse.

10. The laptop support platform of claim 2 comprising at least one inflatable wrist support and at least one bottom bladder whereby the cushion and the bladder the wrist support and the bottom bladder are in fluid communication via apertures providing ingress and egress of air.

11. A support platform comprising two inflatable drop stitch cushions and a bladder positioned between the two cushions for providing angular displacement between the cushions.

12. The support platform of claim 11 further comprising at least one adjustable strap for adjusting angular displacement between the cushions.

13. The support platform of claim 11 further comprising a third inflatable drop stitch cushion further partially enclosing the bladder.

14. The support platform of claim 13 further comprising at least one adjustable strap for changing distance and angle between the drop stitch cushions.

15. A configurable support platform comprising a first segment, a second segment and a third segment, the segments formed out of inflatable drop stitch material, the first segment coupled to the second segment on one side of the second segment, the second segment coupled to the third segment on the opposite side of the second segment side coupled to the first segment.

16. The configurable support platform of claim 15 further comprising a first inflatable bladder for adjusting angular displacement of the first and the second segment in relation to a substantially flat surface below the platform and further comprising a second inflatable bladder for adjusting angular displacement of the third segment in relation to the substantially flat surface.

17. The configurable support platform of claim 16 further comprising at least one inflatable drop stitch bladder to partially enclose the first inflatable bladder in order to reduce wobble.

18. The configurable support platform of claim 16 further comprising straps for adjusting the angular displacement of the segments.

19. The configurable support platform of claim 16 further comprising at least one inflatable drop stitch bladder of the length substantially equal to the total length of the three segments when configured in a flat configuration, the drop stitch bladder forming the substantially flat surface.

20. The configurable support platform of claim 16 of dimensions substantially similar to a regular sized single bed.

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