Air storage tank bodies, air storage device and vehicle seat

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to the technical field of vehicles, and provides a flexible air storage tank body, an air storage tank body having a stable-pressure air supply characteristic, an air storage device and a vehicle seat. In respect of the flexible air storage tank body, the air storage tank body having a stable-pressure air supply characteristic, the air storage device and the vehicle seat provided in the present disclosure, the air storage tank bodies and the air storage device are bendable and deformable in shape and size, and thus can adapt to limited installation space in vehicle seats while meeting air usage requirements of vehicle seats, thereby solving the problems that existing air storage tanks require large installation space and cannot adapt to effective installation space in vehicle seats.

Description

A gas storage tank, a gas storage device, and a vehicle seat

[0001] Cross-references to related applications

[0002] This disclosure claims Chinese patent applications filed on January 11, 2025, with application number 2025100443135, entitled "A Novel Gas Storage Device with Constant Pressure Gas Supply Function"; Chinese patent applications filed on January 11, 2025, with application number 2025100443050, entitled "A Gas Storage Device"; Chinese patent applications filed on March 17, 2025, with application number 2025103095393, entitled "A Gas Storage Device and Vehicle Seat"; and Chinese patent applications filed on May 26, 2025. The priority of Chinese patent applications filed on May 26, 2025, with application number 2025106817989 entitled "A Gas Storage Tank with Stable Gas Supply Characteristics", Chinese patent applications filed on May 26, 2025, with application number 2025106818163 entitled "A Gas Storage Tank with Flexible Features", and Chinese patent applications filed on May 26, 2025, with application number 2025210444411 entitled "A Gas Storage Device and Vehicle Seat", the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] This disclosure relates to the field of automotive technology, and in particular to a gas storage tank with pressure-stabilized gas supply characteristics, a gas storage tank with flexible features, a gas storage device, and a vehicle seat. Background Technology

[0004] With the advancement of technology in the field of vehicle transportation, people have increasingly higher requirements for vehicle ride comfort and safety assistance functions. Features such as lumbar and back adjustment, massage devices, and active side wings in seats have emerged, effectively solving the problem of lumbar and back fatigue caused by long-distance driving, as well as the poor lateral support provided by seats without active side wings when the vehicle makes sharp turns.

[0005] The air tank is an essential component of the aforementioned pneumatic adjustment system. It stores air by compressing internal air to supply gas and enable the pneumatic adjustment function of the vehicle seat.

[0006] In related technologies, since the traditional gas storage tank manufacturing process is mostly blow molding or metal tank, it can be regarded as a rigid shell with its external dimensions fixed by the mold and cannot be changed after forming. Because its external dimensions are limited by the forming mold, the volume cannot be adjusted during the installation design process, it occupies a lot of space, and is inconvenient to use.

[0007] Public content

[0008] In the first aspect, in order to solve some or all of the above-mentioned technical problems, this disclosure provides a gas storage tank with pressure-stabilized gas supply characteristics.

[0009] Secondly, in order to solve some or all of the above-mentioned technical problems, this disclosure provides a gas storage tank with flexible features.

[0010] Thirdly, in order to solve some or all of the above-mentioned technical problems, this disclosure provides an air storage device and a vehicle seat.

[0011] In a first aspect, this disclosure provides a flexible gas storage tank for use in a vehicle gas supply system. The tank includes a storage tank body and an airflow connector. The storage tank body is configured to store gas and is configured as a flexible tubular gas storage device. The tubular gas storage device can be freely coiled within the vehicle seat. One end of the tubular gas storage device is sealed, and the other end is connected to the airflow connector. The airflow connector is configured to connect to the gas pipe assembly of the gas-using component to achieve gas path communication between the tubular gas storage device and the gas-using component.

[0012] Optionally, the tubular gas storage tube is configured as a flexible gas storage tube, with one end connected to a sealing structure and the other end connected to the gas flow connector.

[0013] Optionally, the tubular gas storage is configured as a flexible toothed tube, with multiple connecting ribs integrally formed on the outer peripheral wall of the flexible toothed tube along its own length direction. The multiple connecting ribs are distributed circumferentially along the outer peripheral wall of the flexible toothed tube. One end of the flexible toothed tube is connected to a sealing structure, and the other end is connected to the airflow connector.

[0014] Optionally, the tubular gas storage tube is configured as a fabric-reinforced rubber-plastic tube, with a sealing structure connected to one end and the other end connected to the airflow connector.

[0015] Optionally, the tubular gas storage is configured as a flexible corrugated pipe, with one end connected to a sealing structure and the other end connected to the gas flow connector.

[0016] Optionally, when the tubular gas storage is configured as a common cylindrical structure, the airflow connector is configured as a sealing plug, one end of which is inserted into the tubular gas storage and pressurized to fit the tubular gas storage, and the other end is connected to a gas nozzle to enable gas flow communication with the gas-using component.

[0017] Optionally, when the tubular gas storage is configured as a cylindrical structure with an outwardly flanged edge, the airflow connector includes a connecting sleeve and a locking sleeve. The locking sleeve is inserted into the connecting sleeve, and an axial gap is provided between the locking sleeve and the connecting sleeve to allow the locking sleeve to move along the axial direction of the connecting sleeve. The locking sleeve is provided with at least two radially elastically deformable claws around its outer circumference, configured to be engaged in the corresponding grooves on the outer periphery of the flexible corrugated pipe. The connecting sleeve has mounting grooves on its outer wall corresponding to each of the claws, allowing the claws to be radially elastically deformed, and the claws are confined in the mounting grooves. The end of the connecting sleeve is also connected to a gas nozzle to allow the airflow connector to communicate with the gas-using component.

[0018] Optionally, the gas storage tank can be configured to be formed by combining multiple tubular gas storage tanks in series, in parallel, or in a combination of series and parallel connections.

[0019] Optionally, the tubular gas storage tank is further provided with at least one protective sheath layer with leak-proof and leak-stopping properties.

[0020] Optionally, a pressure sensor is provided at one end of the tubular gas storage device near the airflow connector. The pressure sensor is configured to detect the flow rate and real-time gas pressure value when the airflow enters and exits the tubular gas storage device.

[0021] Secondly, this disclosure provides a gas storage tank with stable gas supply characteristics, applied to a vehicle pneumatic system. It includes: a gas storage tank carrier and internal stored gas. The gas storage tank carrier is configured as a flexible tubular support, which can be freely coiled within the vehicle seat. One end of the tubular support is sealed, and the other end is provided with an airflow connector for connection to the gas-using component. The internal stored gas is disposed within the tubular support and is configured as a soft elastic gas with expansion and contraction functions. One end of the soft elastic gas is sealed, and the other end is connected to the airflow connector. During gas storage, gas is introduced into the soft elastic gas, causing it to expand until it reaches a full state. The gas is then compressed and stored within the soft elastic gas, and the tubular support also constrains the soft elastic gas to prevent excessive expansion. When supplying gas externally, based on the elastic self-contraction function of the soft elastic gas, the gas is released from the soft elastic gas at a stable pressure, achieving stable gas supply to the gas-using component.

[0022] Optionally, an elastic body is provided between the gas storage tank carrier and the internal gas. When gas is stored in the internal gas, the internal gas pressure increases, and the elastic body is squeezed by the internal gas to store elastic force. When the internal gas is supplied to the outside, the internal gas pressure decreases, and the elastic body releases its elastic force to squeeze the internal gas. The elastic body is used to supplement the pressure of the internal gas, ensuring that the gas is released from the internal gas at a stable pressure.

[0023] Optionally, the tubular support body is configured as a flexible support tube, one end of which is connected to a sealing structure, and the other end is connected to the airflow connector.

[0024] Optionally, the tubular support is configured as a flexible toothed tube, with multiple connecting ribs integrally formed on the outer peripheral wall of the flexible toothed tube along its own length direction. The multiple connecting ribs are distributed circumferentially along the outer peripheral wall of the flexible toothed tube. One end of the flexible toothed tube is connected to a sealing structure, and the other end is connected to the airflow connector.

[0025] Optionally, the tubular carrier is configured as a fabric-reinforced rubber-plastic tube, with a sealing structure connected to one end and the other end connected to the airflow connector.

[0026] Optionally, the tubular carrier is configured as a flexible corrugated pipe, one end of which is connected to a sealing structure, and the other end is connected to the airflow connector.

[0027] Optionally, the soft elastic gas storage is configured as a soft gas storage tube, which has an expansion and contraction function. When the soft gas storage tube is in its natural state without gas storage, the diameter at the widest position of the soft gas storage tube is smaller than the diameter at the narrowest position of the tubular support.

[0028] Optionally, when the tubular support is configured as a common cylindrical structure, the airflow connector is configured as a sealing plug, one end of which is inserted into the tubular support and pressurized to fit the tubular support, and the other end is provided with an air nozzle, and the soft elastic gas storage device is connected to the air nozzle.

[0029] Optionally, when the tubular support is configured as a cylindrical structure with an outwardly flanged edge, the airflow connector is configured to include: a connecting sleeve and a locking sleeve, the locking sleeve being inserted into the connecting sleeve, and an axial gap being provided between the locking sleeve and the connecting sleeve for the locking sleeve to move axially along the connecting sleeve; the locking sleeve is provided with at least two radially elastically deformable claws around its outer circumference, configured to be engaged in the corresponding outer circumferential grooves of the flexible corrugated pipe; the connecting sleeve has mounting grooves on its outer wall corresponding to each of the claws, allowing the claws to be radially elastically deformed, and the claws are confined in the mounting grooves; the connecting sleeve also has an air nozzle at its end, and the flexible elastic gas storage gas is connected to the air nozzle.

[0030] Optionally, a fastener is also provided between the soft elastic gas storage device and the gas nozzle to strengthen the connection between the soft elastic gas storage device and the gas nozzle, and to prevent the soft elastic gas storage device from falling off abnormally.

[0031] Optionally, the outer peripheral wall of the tubular support body is further provided with a reinforcing layer that has protective wear resistance, isolation and noise reduction functions.

[0032] Optionally, a pressure sensor is provided at one end of the tubular support near the airflow connector. The pressure sensor is configured to detect the flow rate and real-time air pressure value when the airflow enters and exits the soft elastic gas storage device.

[0033] Thirdly, according to the first aspect of this disclosure, a gas storage device is provided, which is installed in a vehicle seat, the vehicle seat having an installation space, and the gas storage device includes a plurality of tubular gas storage units.

[0034] At least one of the tubular gas storage units is provided with a flexible part, the bending angle of which is adjustable to adapt to a portion of the installation space. Each of the tubular gas storage units is provided with a gas storage chamber, and the gas storage chambers of the plurality of tubular gas storage units are connected to form a through cavity adapted to the installation space.

[0035] At least one of the tubular gas storage units is provided with a gas supply port, which is connected to the through cavity.

[0036] Optionally, the gas storage device further includes a connecting assembly, which has a first connecting end, a second connecting end, and an intermediate cavity located between the first connecting end and the second connecting end;

[0037] The first connecting end and the second connecting end are respectively connected to two adjacent tubular gas storage units to connect the intermediate cavity and the gas storage cavity.

[0038] Understandably, by connecting multiple tubular gas storage units to form a through cavity through the connecting components, the gas storage capacity of the gas storage device is further increased. Each tubular gas storage unit can be designed individually to adapt to a part of the vehicle seat, thereby making better use of the irregular installation space in the vehicle seat.

[0039] Optionally, in a plane perpendicular to the extending direction of the tubular gas storage unit, the diameters of the gas storage chambers of the plurality of tubular gas storage units may be the same or different.

[0040] It is understandable that the diameter of the tubular air storage unit can be set to be the same or different. For example, a smaller diameter can be arranged in a small space, and a larger diameter tubular air storage unit can be arranged in the possible installation space. Alternatively, the tubular air storage unit can be set to a continuous gradient diameter to adapt to the installation space inside the vehicle seat.

[0041] Optionally, the external shape of the intermediate cavity region is circular, elliptical, or polygonal; and / or,

[0042] In a plane perpendicular to the extending direction of the tubular gas storage unit, the external shape of the tubular gas storage unit is circular, elliptical, or polygonal.

[0043] It is understandable that the intermediate cavity of the airflow connector and the outer dimensions of the tubular air storage unit are set to different shapes to adapt to the installation space inside the vehicle seat and match the shape of different components.

[0044] Optionally, the plurality of tubular gas storage units are connected in series or in parallel to form the through cavity.

[0045] Understandably, in order to increase the gas storage capacity of the gas storage device, multiple tubular gas storage units can be connected in series or in parallel to form a larger through cavity. The advantage of this setup is that it facilitates later maintenance, making it easy to replace one of the tubular gas storage units while the other tubular gas storage units continue to be used.

[0046] Optionally, the tubular gas storage unit includes a flexible support tube and a flexible gas storage tube. The flexible support tube is sleeved on the outside of the flexible gas storage tube, and the minimum outer diameter of the flexible support tube is greater than the maximum outer diameter of the flexible gas storage tube. The flexible support tube is configured to limit the deformation of the flexible gas storage tube.

[0047] It is understood that the internal flexible air storage tube adjusts the air storage volume through elastic deformation, while the external flexible support tube can limit the arbitrary expansion of the deformation of the flexible air storage tube, thus protecting it. Therefore, the air storage device provided in this disclosure can adapt to vehicle seats with various air storage needs.

[0048] Optionally, the flexible gas storage tube is made of an elastic material, the outer wall of the flexible gas storage tube expands to increase the volume of the gas storage cavity, and the outer wall of the flexible gas storage tube contracts to achieve stable pressure output of the gas storage cavity.

[0049] It is understandable that the flexible gas storage unit achieves stable output by elastic deformation, keeping the gas output pressure within the required range to meet the needs of different gas-using components in the vehicle seat. It can also keep the gas output pressure near a certain pressure value to meet the rated gas demand of one of the components.

[0050] Optionally, the gas storage device further includes an airflow connector, which is sealed to the flexible bearing tube. The airflow connector is also provided with an air nozzle, which is connected to the air outlet of the flexible gas storage tube.

[0051] Understandably, the gas in the through cavity can be delivered to the gas-using components in the vehicle seat through the air nozzle of the airflow connector, ensuring a stable gas output while maintaining a good seal between the airflow connector and the tubular gas storage unit.

[0052] Optionally, the gas storage device further includes a detachable connection structure, wherein the first connection end, the second connection end, or the gas flow connector is provided with the detachable connection structure, and the detachable connection structure includes:

[0053] A connecting sleeve, wherein at least one spring claw extends outwardly from the outer wall of the connecting sleeve, and the elastic deformation of the spring claw has a stroke at least in the radial direction of the connecting sleeve.

[0054] A locking sleeve is provided, in which a portion of the connecting sleeve is inserted. The locking sleeve has a mounting groove, and the spring claw is constrained in the mounting groove after elastic deformation.

[0055] It is understandable that the detachable connection between the connecting sleeve and the locking sleeve improves the ease of installation and disassembly of various components in the gas storage device. Specifically, this is achieved through the snap-fit ​​between the spring claw and the mounting groove, as well as the elastic deformation of the spring claw.

[0056] This disclosure also provides a vehicle seat, characterized in that the vehicle seat has an air storage device as described in any of the preceding claims.

[0057] As can be seen from the above technical solution, this disclosure has the following beneficial effects:

[0058] Firstly, this disclosure provides a gas storage tank with stable gas supply characteristics. During gas storage, gas is introduced into the soft elastic gas storage tank, which then expands until it reaches a full state. The gas is compressed and stored within the soft elastic gas storage tank, and the tubular support also constrains the soft elastic gas storage tank to prevent excessive expansion. When supplying gas externally, based on the elastic self-contraction function of the soft elastic gas storage tank, the gas is released from the soft elastic gas storage tank at a stable pressure, thereby achieving stable gas supply to the gas-using component. In addition, the gas storage tank of this disclosure also has the following advantages: 1. Shape-adaptive: its external dimensions are not fixed by a mold; 2. Flexible arrangement: it can be bent at any angle according to the required shape and arranged in the vehicle seat, making the arrangement more flexible and convenient; 3. Easy volume adjustment: its volume depends on its own length, so the volume is easy to adjust; 4. Lightweight, easy to form, and more convenient to install.

[0059] Secondly, the gas storage tank disclosed herein possesses the following advantages: 1. Shape adaptability: its external dimensions are not fixed by molds; 2. Flexible arrangement: it can be bent at any angle according to the required shape and arranged in vehicle seats, making the arrangement more flexible and convenient; 3. Easy volume adjustment: its volume depends on its own length, thus the volume is easy to adjust; 4. Lightweight, easy to mold, and more convenient to install. Furthermore, the gas storage tank also has the advantages of simple structure, easy assembly, and safe and reliable use, facilitating its implementation and widespread application.

[0060] Thirdly, the gas storage device provided in this disclosure can be installed in the narrow installation space of a vehicle seat. By providing a flexible part, it can adapt to the limited installation space inside the vehicle seat. Therefore, the gas storage device provided in this disclosure solves the problem that existing gas tanks require a large installation space and cannot be adapted to the effective installation space inside the vehicle seat.

[0061] The gas storage device contains multiple tubular gas storage units, each with its own storage chamber. These units are interconnected to increase the overall gas storage capacity of the device. Furthermore, the interconnected chamber formed by the multiple tubular gas storage units continuously outputs gas through a supply port, improving the stability of the gas supply to the vehicle seats.

[0062] The gas storage device disclosed herein provides a flexible part in part or all of the tubular gas storage unit to improve the adaptability of the entire gas storage device within the limited space of the vehicle seat. The flexible part can adapt to the external dimensions of other components in the vehicle seat by setting different bending angles and multiple consecutive bends.

[0063] Under extreme conditions, the flexible part of the tubular air storage unit can also adapt to the limited space inside the vehicle seat by adjusting its external dimensions. For example, the circular tubular air storage unit of the flexible part can be adjusted to an elliptical tubular air storage unit, and the size in a certain direction can be reduced to improve the avoidance of other components inside the vehicle seat.

[0064] Meanwhile, the vehicle seat disclosed herein utilizes the installation space effectively by incorporating an air storage device to meet the air demand within the vehicle seat. Attached Figure Description

[0065] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the specific embodiments or prior art of this disclosure, the accompanying drawings used in the description of the specific embodiments or prior art will be briefly introduced below. In all the drawings, similar elements or parts are generally identified by similar reference numerals. In the drawings, the elements or parts are not necessarily drawn to scale.

[0066] Figure 1 is a structural schematic diagram of the gas storage tank according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0067] Figure 2 is an exploded schematic diagram showing the flexible corrugated pipe and the airflow connection;

[0068] Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view showing the flexible bellows and the airflow connection;

[0069] Figure 4 is a schematic diagram showing the explosion of the flexible bellows and the airflow connection in another direction;

[0070] Figure 5 is a structural schematic diagram showing another embodiment of the gas storage tank;

[0071] Figure 6 is an explosion diagram showing the soft gas storage pipe and gas flow connection in Figure 16;

[0072] Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view showing the flexible gas storage pipe and the gas flow connection in Figure 16;

[0073] Figure 8 is a structural schematic diagram showing another embodiment of the gas storage tank;

[0074] Figure 9 is an exploded schematic diagram showing the soft toothed tube and the airflow connection in Figure 19;

[0075] Figure 10 is a schematic diagram showing the installation of a gas storage tank in a vehicle seat according to one embodiment;

[0076] Figure 11 is a structural schematic diagram of the gas storage tank of another embodiment shown in Figure 5;

[0077] Figure 12 is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of the gas storage tank according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0078] Figure 13 is a cross-sectional view showing the gas storage tank in Figure 12 when it is not storing gas.

[0079] Figure 14 is a schematic diagram showing the explosion of the gas storage tank in Figure 12;

[0080] Figure 15 is a schematic diagram showing the structure of the gas storage tank in Figure 12;

[0081] Figure 16 is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of the gas storage state after an elastomer is applied to the gas storage tank in Figure 12.

[0082] Figure 17 is a cross-sectional view of the gas storage tank in Figure 12 when no gas is stored after an elastomer is applied inside the tank.

[0083] Figure 18 is a schematic diagram showing the explosion of the gas storage tank in another direction as shown in Figure 12;

[0084] Figure 19 is a structural schematic diagram showing a gas storage tank according to another embodiment;

[0085] Figure 20 is a cross-sectional view showing the gas storage tank in Figure 19;

[0086] Figure 21 is a schematic diagram showing the explosion of the gas storage tank in Figure 19;

[0087] Figure 22 is a structural schematic diagram showing a gas storage tank according to another embodiment;

[0088] Figure 23 is a schematic diagram showing the explosion of the gas storage tank in Figure 22;

[0089] Figure 24 is a schematic diagram showing the installation of the gas storage tank on the vehicle seat;

[0090] Figure 25 is a schematic diagram of the structure of a gas storage device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0091] Figure 26 is a structural schematic diagram of a gas storage device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure from another perspective;

[0092] Figure 27 is a structural schematic diagram of a gas storage device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure from another perspective;

[0093] Figure 28 is a cross-sectional view at point AA in Figure 27;

[0094] Figure 29 is a cross-sectional view at point BB in Figure 27;

[0095] Figure 30 is a schematic diagram of another structure at the cross-section of Figure 27;

[0096] Figure 31 is an exploded view of a gas storage device according to another embodiment of this disclosure;

[0097] Figure 32 is an exploded view of the gas flow connection component of the gas storage device of this disclosure;

[0098] Figure 33 is a cross-sectional view of a gas storage device according to another embodiment of the present disclosure, showing the internal structure of the gas storage device;

[0099] Figure 34 is a structural schematic diagram of the vehicle seat disclosed herein, wherein an air storage device is installed inside the vehicle seat;

[0100] Figure 35 is a structural schematic diagram of the vehicle seat of this disclosure, showing the internal installation space.

[0101] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached drawings: 41. Gas tank body; 411. Tubular gas storage; 412. Flexible gas storage pipe; 413. Sealing structure; 4131. Sealing cover; 414. Flexible toothed pipe; 4141. Connecting rib; 415. Flexible corrugated pipe; 416. Outer circumferential groove; 417. Fabric-reinforced rubber-plastic pipe; 418. Protective sleeve; 42. Airflow connector; 421. Sealing plug; 422. Air nozzle; 423. Connecting sleeve; 424. Locking sleeve; 425. Spring claw; 426. Mounting groove; 427. Sealing top cover; 43. Seat; 44. Gas supply assembly; 441. Gas pipe assembly; 45. Reinforcing layer; 451. Sound-absorbing felt; 452. Velcro tape; 46. Pressure sensor; 47. Pneumatic system; 471. Controller; 472. Gas tank body; 48. Vehicle; 1. Gas tank carrier; 10. Elastomer; 11. Tubular carrier; 12. Soft carrier tube; 13. Sealing structure; 131. Sealing cover; 14. Soft toothed tube; 141. Connecting rib; 15. Soft corrugated tube; 16. Outer groove; 17. Fabric-reinforced rubber and plastic tube; 18. Sponge; 181. High-resilience sponge; 2. Internal gas storage; 21. Soft elastic gas storage; 22. Soft gas storage tube; 23. Fastener; 3. Airflow connector; 31. Sealing plug; 32. Air nozzle; 33. Connecting sleeve; 34. Locking sleeve; 35. Spring claw; 36. Mounting groove; 37. Sealing top cover; 4. Seat; 5. Gas supply component; 6. Reinforcing layer; 61. Sound-absorbing felt; 62. Fleece tape; 7. Pressure sensor; 8. Pneumatic system; 81. Controller; 82. Gas tank body; 9. Vehicle; 100. Gas storage device; 110. Tubular gas storage unit; 111. Flexible support pipe; 112. Flexible gas storage pipe; 113. Gas storage chamber; 114. Gas supply port; 120. Connecting assembly; 121. First connecting end; 122. Second connecting end; 123. Intermediate cavity; 130. Airflow connector; 131. Air nozzle; 132. Connecting sleeve; 133. Spring claw; 134. Locking sleeve; 135. Mounting groove; 136. Seal; 140. Restraint component; 150. Pressure detection component; 200. Vehicle seat; 210. Installation space; 220. Seating area; 230. Backrest area; 240. Air pump. Detailed Implementation

[0102] As mentioned in the background section, in view of the problems in the prior art, this disclosure provides a gas storage tank with stable gas supply characteristics, a gas storage tank with flexible characteristics, a gas storage device, and a vehicle seat.

[0103] The technical solutions in the embodiments of this disclosure will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0104] Firstly, this disclosure provides a flexible gas storage tank 472, which is applied in the pneumatic system 47 of a vehicle 48, and its external dimensions are not fixed by a mold; 2. Flexible arrangement: it can be bent at any angle according to the required shape and arranged in the vehicle seat 43, making the arrangement more flexible and convenient.

[0105] As shown in Figures 1-21, the flexible gas storage tank 472 provided in this disclosure includes:

[0106] The gas storage tank body 41 and the airflow connection component 42,

[0107] The gas storage tank body 41 is configured to store gas. The gas storage tank body 41 is configured as a flexible tubular gas storage 4211. The tubular gas storage 4211 can be freely coiled in the vehicle seat 43. One end of the tubular gas storage 4211 is sealed, and the other end is connected to the airflow connector 42.

[0108] The airflow connector 42 is configured to connect with the gas pipe assembly 441 of the gas-using assembly 44 to achieve gas path communication between the tubular gas storage 4211 and the gas-using assembly 44.

[0109] In the case of flexible tubular gas storage 4211, "flexible" specifically means that it can be bent or twisted.

[0110] It is understood that the gas storage tank 472 has the following characteristics: 1. Shape-dependent: its external dimensions are not fixed by the mold; 2. Flexible arrangement: it can be bent at any angle according to the required shape and arranged in the vehicle seat 43, making the arrangement more flexible and convenient; 3. Volume is easy to adjust: its volume depends on its own length, so the volume is easy to adjust; 4. Lightweight, easy to form, and more convenient to install; by filling the gas storage tank 472 with gas to store gas and adapting it to the vehicle pneumatic system 47, it is convenient to supply gas to the gas-using components 44 in a timely and appropriate manner, which has better applicability than traditional rigid gas storage tanks.

[0111] In an optional embodiment, the tubular gas storage 4211 is configured as a flexible gas storage tube 412 made of rubber, TPU, or a composite material. Optionally, the tubular gas storage 4211 is a flexible gas storage tube 412 made of TPU material, wherein TPU material has excellent wear resistance, impact resistance, deformation resistance, and excellent waterproof and moisture-proof properties. To further explain, in this embodiment, the flexible gas storage tube 412 can be regarded as a general flexible gas tube with a relatively large diameter.

[0112] Optionally, as shown in Figures 5 and 11, a sealing structure 413 is connected to one end of the flexible gas storage tube 412, and the other end is connected to the airflow connector 42. The sealing structure 413 is configured as a sealing cover plate 4131. The connection between the sealing cover plate 4131 and the flexible gas storage tube 412 can be adhesive, snap-fit, or interference fit, but is not limited to these. Optionally, the sealing cover plate 4131 is a plastic part.

[0113] It is worth mentioning that, as shown in Figures 5 and 11, the flexible gas storage pipe 412 can be a pipe with a uniform diameter. Of course, at least a portion of the flexible gas storage pipe 412 can be reduced or expanded in diameter to adapt the flexible gas storage pipe 412 to different spatial structures.

[0114] In an optional embodiment, the tubular gas storage 4211 is configured as a flexible toothed tube 414 made of rubber, TPU, or a composite material. Optionally, the tubular gas storage 4211 is a flexible toothed tube 414 made of TPU material, wherein TPU material has excellent wear resistance, impact resistance, deformation resistance, and excellent waterproof and moisture-proof properties. To further explain, in this embodiment, the flexible gas storage tube 412 can be regarded as a general flexible toothed gas tube with a larger diameter.

[0115] Optionally, multiple connecting ribs 4141 are integrally formed on the outer peripheral wall of the flexible toothed tube 414 along its own length direction. The multiple connecting ribs 4141 are distributed circumferentially along the outer peripheral wall of the flexible toothed tube 414. The flexible toothed tube 414 can avoid abnormal phenomena such as reduced gas flow or even abnormal noise caused by bending and coiling of the trachea body.

[0116] Optionally, one end of the flexible toothed tube 414 is connected to a sealing structure 413, and the other end is connected to an airflow connector 42. The sealing structure 413 is configured as a sealing cover plate 4131. The connection between the sealing cover plate 4131 and the flexible toothed tube 414 can be adhesive, snap-fit, or interference fit, but is not limited to these. Optionally, the sealing cover plate 4131 can be a plastic part.

[0117] In an optional embodiment, the tubular gas storage 4211 is configured as a fabric-reinforced rubber-plastic tube 417 made of rubber or composite material. The fabric-reinforced rubber-plastic tube 417 has properties such as wear resistance, pressure resistance, heat resistance, corrosion resistance, and aging resistance. It should be noted that the fabric-reinforced rubber-plastic tube 417 is a well-known technology in the art, and no accompanying drawings are provided here.

[0118] Optionally, one end of the fabric-reinforced rubber tube 417 is connected to a sealing structure 413, and the other end is connected to an airflow connector 42. The sealing structure 413 is configured as a sealing cover plate 4131. The connection between the sealing cover plate 4131 and the fabric-reinforced rubber tube 417 can be adhesive, snap-fit, or interference fit, but is not limited to these. Optionally, the sealing cover plate 4131 can be a plastic part.

[0119] In an optional embodiment, when the tubular gas storage 4211 is configured as a common cylindrical structure (Note: Here, the common cylindrical structure refers to the soft gas storage tube 412, soft toothed tube 414, and fabric-reinforced rubber-plastic tube 417 mentioned in the previous embodiments), the airflow connector 42 is configured as a sealing plug 421. One end of the sealing plug 421 is inserted into the tubular gas storage 4211 and is press-fitted with it, while the other end is connected to a gas nozzle 422 to allow it to communicate with the gas pipe assembly 441 of the gas-using component 44. Optionally, the sealing plug 421 is made of plastic.

[0120] In an optional embodiment, the tubular gas storage 4211 is configured via a flexible corrugated tube 415 made of plastic, rubber, or composite material, which is flexible, lightweight, and has a high degree of freedom of expansion and contraction.

[0121] Optionally, one end of the flexible corrugated pipe 415 is connected to a sealing structure 413, and the other end is connected to an airflow connector 42. The sealing structure 413 is configured as a sealing cover plate 4131. The connection between the sealing cover plate 4131 and the flexible corrugated pipe 415 can be adhesive, snap-fit, or interference fit, but is not limited to these. Optionally, the sealing cover plate 4131 is a plastic part.

[0122] In an optional embodiment, when the tubular gas storage 4211 is configured as a cylindrical structure with an outwardly flanged edge (Note: the cylindrical structure with an outwardly flanged edge here refers to the soft corrugated pipe 415 mentioned in the previous embodiment), the airflow connector 42 is configured to include a connecting sleeve 423 and a locking sleeve 424, the locking sleeve 424 being inserted into the connecting sleeve 423, and an axial gap being provided between the locking sleeve 424 and the connecting sleeve 423, allowing the locking sleeve 424 to move axially along the connecting sleeve 423.

[0123] Optionally, the locking sleeve 424 is provided with at least two radially elastically deformable spring claws 425 around its outer circumference, configured to be engaged in the corresponding soft corrugated pipe 415 outer circumferential groove 416; the connecting sleeve 423 is provided with a mounting groove 426 at a position corresponding to each spring claw 425 on its outer wall, allowing the spring claw 425 to be radially elastically deformed, and the spring claw 425 is confined in the mounting groove 426; the end of the connecting sleeve 423 is also connected to an air nozzle 422 to allow air passage communication between the soft corrugated pipe 415 and the air-using component 44 via the airflow connector 42.

[0124] Understandably, when the locking sleeve 424 is inserted into the connecting sleeve 423, the spring claw 425 is confined in the mounting groove 426, thereby confining the locking sleeve 424 within the connecting sleeve 423, and thus confining the flexible bellows 415, which is fixed by the spring claw 425, within the connecting sleeve 423. Simultaneously, a sealing cap 427 is provided at the end of the connecting sleeve 423, which is threadedly connected to the connecting sleeve 423. An air nozzle 422 is connected to the center of the sealing cap 427 to allow airflow connection between the flexible bellows 415 and the air-using assembly 44 via the airflow connector 42.

[0125] In an optional embodiment, the gas storage tank 472 can be configured to be formed by a combination of multiple tubular gas storage tanks 4211 connected in series, in parallel, or in a combination of series and parallel connections, so as to flexibly adapt to the surrounding installation environment and design requirements.

[0126] In an optional embodiment, at least one protective sleeve 418 with leak-proof and leak-stopping properties is provided outside the tubular gas storage 4211. The protective sleeve 418 is fitted over the tubular gas storage 4211, with one end sealed and the other end also used for gas supply (use scenario: if the tubular gas storage 4211 leaks, the leaked gas will be blocked by the protective sleeve 418. At this time, the protective sleeve 418 can serve as a backup gas supply source to continue supplying gas to the gas-using component 44). The protective sleeve 418 can be a braided tube made of polymer materials such as polyurethane. Specifically, the protective sleeve 418 can be considered similar to the structure of a fire hose, but is not limited to it.

[0127] In an optional embodiment, a reinforcing layer 45 is also provided on the outer peripheral wall of the tubular gas storage 4211, which can play a protective and wear-resistant role, extending the service life of the tubular gas storage 4211, and can also play a role in isolation and noise reduction.

[0128] In an optional embodiment, the reinforcing layer 45 can be configured as a sound-absorbing felt cloth 451 or a fleece tape 452 uniformly wound around the outer peripheral wall of the tubular gas storage 4211. The sound-absorbing felt cloth 451 or the fleece tape 452 have good wear resistance to better protect the tubular gas storage 4211 and extend the service life of the tubular gas storage 4211; and the sound-absorbing felt cloth 451 or the fleece tape 452 can also play a role in noise isolation and reduction.

[0129] In an optional embodiment, a pressure sensor 46 is provided at one end of the tubular gas storage 4211 near the airflow connector 42. The pressure sensor 46 is configured to detect the flow rate and real-time gas pressure value when the airflow enters and exits the tubular gas storage 4211, so as to replenish gas or prevent explosion as needed.

[0130] Based on the flexible gas storage tank provided in the foregoing embodiments, this disclosure also provides a pneumatic system 47.

[0131] The present disclosure discloses a pneumatic system 47, including an air-using component 44, a controller 471, and an air storage tank 472 as described in the foregoing embodiments. The air storage tank 472 is configured to store gas for supplying gas to the air-using component 44. In addition, the air storage tank 472 can also be applied to adaptive adjustment systems and other occasions that require compressed air storage.

[0132] Based on the pneumatic system 47 provided in the foregoing embodiments, this disclosure proposes a vehicle 48 that includes the pneumatic system 47 of the foregoing embodiments.

[0133] In summary, the flexible gas storage tank provided in this disclosure has the following characteristics: 1. Shape adaptability: its external dimensions are not fixed by a mold; 2. Flexible arrangement: it can be bent at any angle according to the required shape and arranged in the vehicle seat 43, making the arrangement more flexible and convenient; 3. Easy volume adjustment: its volume depends on its own length, so the volume is easy to adjust; 4. Lightweight, easy to form, and more convenient to install; by filling the gas storage tank 472 with gas to store gas and adapting it to the vehicle pneumatic system 47, it is convenient to supply gas to the gas-using components 44 in a timely and appropriate manner, which has better applicability than traditional rigid gas storage tanks.

[0134] Secondly, this disclosure provides an air storage tank with stable air supply characteristics, which is applied to the vehicle pneumatic system. Its external dimensions are not fixed by the mold, and it can be bent at any angle according to the required shape and arranged in the vehicle seat 4, making the arrangement more flexible and convenient.

[0135] As shown in Figures 12-24, the gas storage tank proposed in this disclosure includes:

[0136] Gas storage tank carrier 1 and internal gas storage 2,

[0137] The gas tank carrier 1 is configured as a flexible tubular carrier 11, which can be freely coiled in the vehicle seat 4. One end of the tubular carrier 11 is sealed, and the other end is provided with an airflow connection 3 that connects to the gas-using component 5.

[0138] The internal gas storage 2 is disposed inside the tubular support 11. The internal gas storage 2 is configured as a soft elastic gas storage 21 with expansion and contraction function. One end of the soft elastic gas storage 21 is sealed, and the other end is connected to the airflow connector 3.

[0139] During gas storage, gas is introduced into the soft elastic gas storage gas 21, and the soft elastic gas storage gas 21 expands until it reaches a full state. The gas is compressed and stored in the soft elastic gas storage gas 21. The tubular support body 11 also constrains the soft elastic gas storage gas 21 to prevent it from over-expanding.

[0140] When supplying gas to the outside, based on the elastic self-contraction function of the soft elastic gas storage 21, the gas will be released from the soft elastic gas storage 21 at a stable pressure, thereby supplying gas to the gas-using component 5 at a stable pressure.

[0141] It is understood that the gas storage tank provided in this disclosure has the following characteristics: 1. Shape-dependent: its external dimensions are not fixed by the mold; 2. Flexible arrangement: it can be bent at any angle according to the required shape and arranged in the vehicle seat 4, making the arrangement more flexible and convenient; 3. Volume is easy to adjust: its volume depends on its own length, so the volume is easy to adjust; 4. Lightweight, easy to form, and more convenient to install, and has better applicability compared to traditional rigid gas storage tanks.

[0142] In an optional embodiment, an elastic body 10 is provided between the gas storage tank carrier 1 and the internal gas storage 2. When gas is stored in the internal gas storage 2, the internal gas pressure of the internal gas storage 2 increases, and the elastic body 10 is squeezed by the internal gas storage 2 to store elastic force. When the internal gas storage 2 supplies gas to the outside, the internal gas pressure of the internal gas storage 2 decreases, and the elastic body 10 releases elastic force to squeeze the internal gas storage 2. The elastic body 10 is used to assist in pressurizing the internal gas storage 2 to ensure that the gas is released from the internal gas storage 2 at a stable pressure.

[0143] In an optional embodiment, the elastomer 10 is configured as a sponge 18, but it is not limited to this. In principle, any compressible and expandable elastic material can be used, with the sponge 18 covering the outer peripheral wall of the inner gas storage 2. Optionally, the sponge 18 can completely cover the outer peripheral wall of the inner gas storage 2.

[0144] Understandably, when gas is stored in the internal gas storage 2, the internal gas pressure of the internal gas storage 2 increases, and the sponge 18 is squeezed by the internal gas storage 2 to store elasticity; when the internal gas storage 2 supplies gas to the outside, the internal gas pressure of the internal gas storage 2 decreases, and the sponge 18 releases its elasticity to squeeze the internal gas storage 2. The elasticity of the sponge 18 is used to supplement the pressure of the internal gas storage 2, ensuring that the gas is released from the internal gas storage 2 at a stable pressure.

[0145] In an optional embodiment, the sponge 18 can be a high-resilience sponge 181, which has high elasticity and high compressibility, making it very suitable as a tool for supplementing the internal gas 2 with additional pressure. The sponge 18 also has the function of sound absorption and noise reduction.

[0146] In an alternative embodiment, the tubular carrier 11 is configured as a smooth, soft carrier tube 12 made of rubber, TPU, or a composite material.

[0147] Specifically, the tubular carrier 11 is made of a smooth, soft carrier tube 12 made of TPU material, which has excellent wear resistance, impact resistance, deformation resistance, and excellent waterproof and moisture-proof properties.

[0148] In an optional embodiment, one end of the flexible carrier tube 12 is connected to a sealing structure 13, and the other end is connected to an airflow connector 3. The sealing structure 13 is configured as a sealing cover plate 131. The connection between the sealing cover plate 131 and the flexible carrier tube 12 can be adhesive, snap-fit, or interference fit, but is not limited to these. Optionally, the sealing cover plate 131 is a plastic part.

[0149] It is worth mentioning that the soft bearing pipe 12 can be a pipe with a uniform diameter. Of course, at least a portion of the soft bearing pipe 12 can be reduced or expanded in diameter to adapt the soft bearing pipe 12 to different spatial structures.

[0150] In an alternative embodiment, the tubular carrier 11 is configured as a soft toothed tube 14 made of rubber, TPU, or a composite material.

[0151] Specifically, the tubular carrier 11 is made of a soft toothed tube 14 made of TPU material, which has excellent wear resistance, impact resistance, deformation resistance and excellent waterproof and moisture-proof performance.

[0152] In this embodiment, multiple connecting ribs 141 are integrally formed on the outer peripheral wall of the flexible toothed tube 14 along its own length direction. The multiple connecting ribs 141 are distributed circumferentially along the outer peripheral wall of the flexible toothed tube 14. The flexible toothed tube 14 can avoid abnormal phenomena such as reduced gas flow or even abnormal noise caused by bending and coiling of the trachea body.

[0153] In an optional embodiment, one end of the flexible toothed tube 14 is connected to a sealing structure 13, and the other end is connected to an airflow connector 3. The sealing structure 13 is configured as a sealing cover 131. The connection between the sealing cover 131 and the flexible toothed tube 14 can be adhesive, snap-fit, or interference fit, but is not limited to these. Optionally, the sealing cover 131 is a plastic part.

[0154] In an optional embodiment, the tubular carrier 11 is configured as a fabric-reinforced rubber tube 17 made of rubber or composite material, with one end of the fabric-reinforced rubber tube 17 connected to a sealing structure 13 and the other end connected to an airflow connector 3.

[0155] In an optional embodiment, one end of the fabric-reinforced rubber tube 17 is connected to a sealing structure 13, and the other end is connected to an airflow connector 3. The sealing structure 13 is configured as a sealing cover 131. The connection between the sealing cover 131 and the fabric-reinforced rubber tube 17 can be adhesive, snap-fit, or interference fit, but is not limited to these. Optionally, the sealing cover 131 is a plastic part.

[0156] In an optional embodiment, when the tubular support 11 is configured as a common cylindrical structure (Note: the common cylindrical structure here refers to the soft support tube 12, soft toothed tube 14, and fabric-reinforced rubber and plastic tube 17 mentioned in the previous embodiments), the airflow connector 3 is configured as a sealing plug 31. One end of the sealing plug 31 is inserted into the tubular support 11 and is press-fitted with the tubular support 11, and the other end is provided with an air nozzle 32. The soft elastic gas storage 21 is connected to the air nozzle 32. Optionally, the sealing plug 31 is a plastic part.

[0157] In an optional embodiment, the tubular support 11 is configured as a flexible corrugated pipe 15 made of plastic, rubber, or composite material, which is flexible, lightweight, and has a high degree of freedom of expansion and contraction.

[0158] In an optional embodiment, one end of the flexible corrugated pipe 15 is connected to a sealing structure 13, and the other end is connected to an airflow connector 3. The sealing structure 13 is configured as a sealing cover 131. The connection between the sealing cover 131 and the flexible corrugated pipe 15 can be adhesive, snap-fit, or interference fit, but is not limited to these. Optionally, the sealing cover 131 is made of plastic.

[0159] In an optional embodiment, when the tubular carrier 11 is configured as a cylindrical structure with an outwardly flanged edge (Note: the cylindrical structure with an outwardly flanged edge here refers to the soft corrugated pipe 15 mentioned in the previous embodiment), the airflow connector 3 is configured to include: a connecting sleeve 33 and a locking sleeve 34, the locking sleeve 34 being inserted into the connecting sleeve 33, and an axial gap being provided between the locking sleeve 34 and the connecting sleeve 33, allowing the locking sleeve 34 to move axially along the connecting sleeve 33.

[0160] In an optional embodiment, the locking sleeve 34 is provided with at least two radially elastically deformable spring claws 35 around its outer circumference and configured to be snapped into the corresponding soft corrugated pipe 15 outer peripheral groove 16; the connecting sleeve 33 is provided with a mounting groove 36 at a position corresponding to each spring claw 35 on its outer wall for radially elastic deformation of the spring claw 35. When the locking sleeve 34 is inserted into the connecting sleeve 33, the spring claws 35 are restricted in the mounting groove 36, thereby restricting the locking sleeve 34 in the connecting sleeve 33, which in turn restricts the soft corrugated pipe 15, which is fixed by the spring claws 35, in the connecting sleeve 33.

[0161] The end of the connecting sleeve 33 is also provided with a sealing cover 37, which is threadedly connected to the connecting sleeve 33. A gas nozzle 32 is provided in the middle of the sealing cover 37, and the soft elastic gas storage 21 is connected to the gas nozzle 32.

[0162] In an optional embodiment, the soft elastic gas storage 21 is configured via a soft gas storage tube 22 made of rubber material. The soft gas storage tube 22 has an expansion and contraction function. When the soft gas storage tube 22 is in its natural state without gas storage, the diameter at the widest position of the soft gas storage tube 22 is smaller than the diameter at the narrowest position of the tubular support 11. One end of the soft gas storage tube 22 is sealed, and the other end is connected to the airflow connector 3, specifically to the air nozzle 32 of the airflow connector 3.

[0163] In an optional embodiment, a fastener 23 is further provided between the flexible gas storage 21 and the nozzle 32. Optionally, the fastener 23 can be a clamp, which can strengthen the connection between the flexible gas storage 21 and the nozzle 32 and prevent the flexible gas storage 21 from falling off abnormally.

[0164] In an optional embodiment, a reinforcing layer 6 is also provided on the outer peripheral wall of the tubular support 11, which can play a protective and wear-resistant role, extending the service life of the tubular support 11, and can also play a role in isolation and noise reduction.

[0165] In an optional embodiment, the reinforcing layer 6 is configured as a sound-absorbing felt cloth 61 or a fleece tape 62 uniformly wound around the outer peripheral wall of the tubular support 11. The sound-absorbing felt cloth 61 or the fleece tape 62 have good wear resistance to better protect the tubular support 11 and extend the service life of the tubular support 11; and the sound-absorbing felt cloth 61 or the fleece tape 62 can also play a role in noise isolation and reduction.

[0166] In an optional embodiment, a pressure sensor 7 is provided at one end of the tubular carrier 11 near the airflow connector 3. The pressure sensor 7 is configured to detect the flow rate and real-time air pressure value when the airflow enters and exits the soft elastic gas storage 21, so as to replenish the gas or prevent explosion as needed.

[0167] Based on the gas storage tank with stable gas supply characteristics provided in the aforementioned embodiments, this disclosure proposes a pneumatic system 8, including a gas-using component 5, a controller 81, and a gas storage tank 82 as described in the aforementioned embodiments. The gas storage tank 82 is configured to store gas and can supply gas to the gas-using component 5 under stable pressure. In addition, the gas storage tank 82 can also be configured as an adaptive adjustment system and in other occasions where compressed air storage is required.

[0168] Based on the pneumatic system 8 provided in the foregoing embodiments, this disclosure proposes a vehicle 9 that includes the pneumatic system 8 of the foregoing embodiments.

[0169] In summary, the gas storage tank with pressure-stabilized gas supply characteristics provided in this disclosure can be filled with gas into the soft elastic gas storage 21 during gas storage. The soft elastic gas storage 21 expands until it reaches a full state, and the gas is compressed and stored in the soft elastic gas storage 21. The tubular support body 11 also constrains the soft elastic gas storage 21 to prevent it from over-expanding. At the same time, when supplying gas to the outside, based on the elastic self-contraction function of the soft elastic gas storage 21, the gas is released from the soft elastic gas storage 21 at a stable pressure, thereby achieving a stable pressure for supplying gas to the gas-using component 5.

[0170] Therefore, this gas storage tank has the following characteristics: 1. Shape-dependent: its external dimensions are not fixed by the mold; 2. Flexible arrangement: it can be bent at any angle according to the required shape and arranged in the vehicle seat 4, making the arrangement more flexible and convenient; 3. Volume is easy to adjust: its volume depends on its own length, so the volume is easy to adjust; 4. Lightweight, easy to form, and more convenient to install, with better applicability compared to traditional rigid gas storage tanks.

[0171] Thirdly, this disclosure provides a gas storage device 100 and a vehicle seat 200 for use in a vehicle, which are adapted to the limited installation space 210 within the vehicle seat 200.

[0172] As shown in Figures 25 and 26, Figure 25 is a structural schematic diagram of a gas storage device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, and Figure 26 is a structural schematic diagram of a gas storage device according to another embodiment of the present disclosure from another perspective.

[0173] This disclosure provides an air storage device 100, which is installed in a vehicle seat 200. The vehicle seat 200 has an installation space 210. The air storage device 100 includes two tubular air storage units 110. At least one tubular air storage unit 110 has a flexible part. The bending angle of the flexible part can be adjusted to adapt to a part of the installation space 210. Each tubular air storage unit 110 has an air storage chamber. The air storage chambers of multiple tubular air storage units 110 are connected to form a through cavity adapted to the installation space 210.

[0174] It is understood that the gas storage device 100 provided in this disclosure can be installed in the narrow installation space 210 of the vehicle seat 200. By providing a flexible part, it can adapt to the limited installation space 210 inside the vehicle seat 200. Therefore, the gas storage device provided in this disclosure solves the problem that the existing gas storage tanks require a large installation space and cannot be adapted to the effective installation space inside the vehicle seat.

[0175] Referring again to Figures 25 and 26, the gas storage device 100 includes a connecting assembly 120 disposed between two tubular gas storage units 110.

[0176] The connecting component 120 is provided with a first connecting end 121, a second connecting end 122, and an intermediate cavity 123 located between the first connecting end 121 and the second connecting end 122. The first connecting end 121 and the second connecting end 122 are respectively connected to two adjacent tubular gas storage units 110 to pass through the intermediate cavity 123 and the gas storage cavity.

[0177] Multiple tubular air storage units 110 are connected by connecting component 120 to form a through cavity, which further increases the air storage capacity of air storage device 100. Each tubular air storage unit 110 can be designed individually to adapt to a part of the interior of vehicle seat 200, thereby making better use of the irregular installation space 210 in vehicle seat 200.

[0178] Optionally, multiple tubular gas storage units 110 and connecting components 120 can be connected to form a through cavity with a larger gas storage capacity. One of the connecting components 120 is disposed between two adjacent tubular gas storage units 110.

[0179] Referring to Figures 25 and 26, an airflow connector 130 is provided at one end of the gas storage device 100, and a plug 136 is provided at the other end of the gas storage device 100, so that the gas in the through cavity of the gas storage device 100 is transported to the gas-using component through the airflow connector 130.

[0180] It should be noted that the connection between the airflow connector 130 and the tubular gas storage unit 110, the connection between the first connection end 121 and the tubular gas storage unit 110, the connection between the second connection end 122 and the tubular gas storage unit 110, and the connection of the sealing 136 of the tubular gas storage unit 110 should all be sealed. The entire through cavity only supplies gas to the gas-using components through the airflow connector 130.

[0181] The gas storage device 100 disclosed herein may also be provided with an air inlet, through which a gas source, such as an air pump, inputs more gas into the through cavity to supplement the total gas storage volume in the through cavity.

[0182] In an optional embodiment, the gas storage device 100 has a gas supply port on at least one tubular gas storage unit 110, the gas supply port being connected to a through cavity, and the through cavity supplying gas to the gas-using component through the gas supply port, such as the airflow connector 130.

[0183] The gas storage device 100 disclosed herein can be equipped with multiple tubular gas storage units 110, each of which has a gas storage chamber. The multiple tubular gas storage units 110 are interconnected to increase the overall gas storage capacity of the gas storage device 100. Furthermore, the through-cavity formed by the interconnected multiple tubular gas storage units 110 continuously outputs gas through a gas supply port, improving the stability of the gas supply from the gas storage device 100 to the vehicle seat 200.

[0184] The gas storage device 100 provided in this disclosure has a flexible part provided in part or all of the tubular gas storage unit 110 to improve the adaptability of the entire gas storage device 100 within the limited space of the vehicle seat 200. The flexible part can adapt to the external dimensions of other components in the vehicle seat 200 by setting different bending angles and multiple consecutive bends.

[0185] Under extreme conditions, the flexible part of the tubular air storage unit 110 can also adapt to the limited space inside the vehicle seat 200 by adjusting its external dimensions. For example, the circular tubular air storage unit 110 of the flexible part can be adjusted to an elliptical tubular air storage unit 110, and the size in a certain direction can be reduced to improve the avoidance of other components inside the vehicle seat 200.

[0186] As shown in Figures 27, 28, and 29, Figure 27 is a structural schematic diagram of the gas storage device of one embodiment of the present disclosure from another perspective, Figure 28 is a cross-sectional view at point AA in Figure 27, and Figure 29 is a cross-sectional view at point BB in Figure 27. Referring to Figures 27, 28, and 29, the outer shape of the intermediate cavity 123 region is circular, and the outer shape of the tubular gas storage unit 110 is polygonal in a plane perpendicular to the extending direction of the tubular gas storage unit 110. The outer dimensions of the intermediate cavity 123 of the airflow connector 130 and the tubular gas storage unit 110 are set to different shapes to adapt to the installation space 210 within the vehicle seat 200 and to match the shapes of different components.

[0187] Figure 30 is another structural schematic diagram of the cross section in Figure 27. Continuing with Figure 30, the outer shape of the intermediate cavity 123 region can also be set as elliptical or polygonal. In the plane perpendicular to the extension direction of the tubular gas storage unit 110, the outer shape of the tubular gas storage unit 110 is circular or elliptical.

[0188] By utilizing the flexible characteristics of the tubular air storage unit 110, the shape of a local area of ​​the air storage device 100 is adjusted within the limited space of the vehicle seat 200 to adapt it to the installation space 210 of the vehicle seat 200.

[0189] In an optional embodiment, in a plane perpendicular to the extending direction of the tubular gas storage unit 110, the gas storage chambers of the plurality of tubular gas storage units 110 may have the same or different diameters.

[0190] The diameter of the tubular air storage unit 110 can be set to be the same or different. For example, a smaller diameter can be arranged in a small space, and a larger diameter tubular air storage unit 110 can be arranged in the possible installation space 210. Alternatively, the tubular air storage unit 110 can be set to a continuous gradient diameter to adapt to the installation space 210 in the vehicle seat 200.

[0191] Figure 31 is an exploded view of an air storage device according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in Figure 31, the tubular air storage unit 110 in the air storage device 100 of this embodiment is flexible, and the entire tubular air storage unit 110 can be bent at any position to adapt to the installation space 210 inside the vehicle seat 200.

[0192] Within a small, limited space, the shape of the flexible tubular air storage unit 110 can be adjusted. For example, the shape of the regular tubular air storage unit 110 can be adjusted to an irregular tubular air storage unit 110. For example, some areas of the tubular air storage unit 110 can be made to have an inward concave tendency to adapt to the installation space 210 inside the vehicle seat 200.

[0193] As shown in Figure 31, the gas storage device 100 includes a flexible support tube 111 and a flexible gas storage tube 112. The flexible support tube 111 is sleeved on the outside of the flexible gas storage tube 112, and the minimum outer diameter of the flexible support tube 111 is greater than the maximum outer diameter of the flexible gas storage tube 112. The flexible support tube 111 is configured to limit the deformation of the flexible gas storage tube 112.

[0194] In an optional embodiment, the flexible carrier tube 111 is configured as a smooth, soft gas storage tube made of rubber, TPU, or a composite material. TPU material has excellent wear resistance, impact resistance, deformation resistance, and excellent waterproof and moisture-proof properties.

[0195] Multiple connecting ribs are integrally formed on the outer wall of the flexible bearing tube 111 along its own length direction. The multiple connecting ribs are distributed circumferentially along the outer wall of the flexible bearing tube 111. The flexible bearing tube 111 can avoid abnormal phenomena such as reduced gas flow or even abnormal noise caused by bending and coiling of the air tube body.

[0196] In an optional embodiment, the flexible support tube 111 is configured as a soft corrugated tube made of plastic, rubber, or composite material, which is flexible, lightweight, and has a high degree of freedom of expansion and contraction.

[0197] The flexible gas storage device 100 also includes a constraint member 140, which covers the outer wall of the flexible bearing pipe 111.

[0198] The constraint member 140 is configured as a piece of fleece tape evenly wrapped around the outer wall of the flexible bearing tube 111. The fleece tape has good wear resistance to better protect the flexible bearing tube 111 and extend its service life. Furthermore, wrapping the fleece tape around the outer wall of the flexible bearing tube 111 can also play a role in noise isolation.

[0199] Figure 33 is a cross-sectional view of a gas storage device according to another embodiment of the present disclosure, showing the internal structure of the gas storage device 100. As shown in Figure 33, in an optional embodiment, the flexible gas storage tube 112 is made of an elastic material. The outer wall of the flexible gas storage tube 112 expands to increase the capacity of the gas storage cavity, and the outer wall of the flexible gas storage tube 112 contracts to achieve stable pressure output of the gas storage cavity.

[0200] The flexible gas storage unit achieves stable output by elastic deformation, keeping the gas output pressure within the required range to meet the needs of different gas components in the vehicle seat 200. It can also keep the gas output pressure near a certain pressure value to meet the rated gas demand of one of the components.

[0201] In an alternative embodiment, the outer wall of the flexible gas storage pipe 112 outputs gas at a pressure of 100 kPa by contraction, or outputs gas in a pressure range between 70 kPa and 130 kPa.

[0202] The gas storage device 100 also includes a pressure detection element 150, the detection end of which is provided in a gas storage chamber or a through chamber, and is configured to detect the pressure value in the gas storage chamber or through chamber in real time.

[0203] Figure 32 is an exploded view of the airflow connection of the gas storage device of the present disclosure. The gas storage device 100 also includes an airflow connection 130, which is sealed to the flexible bearing pipe 111.

[0204] The airflow connector 130 is also equipped with an air nozzle 131, which is connected to the air outlet of the flexible air storage tube 112. The gas in the through cavity can be delivered to the air-using components in the vehicle seat 200 through the air nozzle 131 of the airflow connector 130, ensuring stable gas output under the condition that the airflow connector 130 and the tubular air storage unit 110 are well sealed.

[0205] Referring to Figures 32 and 31, as well as Figures 25, 26 and 27, in an optional embodiment, the gas storage device 100 further includes a detachable connection structure, wherein the first connection end 121, the second connection end 122 or the airflow connector 130 is provided with a detachable connection structure.

[0206] The detachable connection structure includes a connecting sleeve 132 and a locking sleeve 134. At least one spring claw 133 extends outward from the outer wall of the connecting sleeve 132. The elastic deformation of the spring claw 133 has a stroke at least in the radial direction of the connecting sleeve 132. A portion of the connecting sleeve 132 is inserted into the locking sleeve 134. The locking sleeve 134 is provided with a mounting groove 135. After elastic deformation, the spring claw 133 is confined in the mounting groove 135.

[0207] The ease of installation and disassembly of the various components in the gas storage device 100 is improved by the detachable connection between the connecting sleeve and the locking sleeve. Specifically, this is achieved through the snap-fit ​​between the spring claw 133 and the mounting groove 135, and the elastic deformation of the spring claw 133.

[0208] In an optional embodiment, multiple tubular gas storage units 110 are connected in series or in parallel to form a through cavity. To increase the gas storage capacity of the gas storage device 100, multiple tubular gas storage units 110 can be connected in series or in parallel to form a larger through cavity. This arrangement also facilitates later maintenance, allowing for easy replacement of one tubular gas storage unit 110 while the other tubular gas storage units 110 continue to be used.

[0209] The internal flexible air storage pipe 112 adjusts the air storage capacity through elastic deformation, while the external flexible support pipe 111 restricts the arbitrary expansion of the deformation of the flexible air storage pipe 112, thus protecting it. Therefore, the air storage device 100 provided in this disclosure can adapt to various vehicle seats 200 with different air storage needs.

[0210] Based on the air storage device 100 provided in the foregoing embodiments, this disclosure proposes a vehicle seat 200, which includes the pneumatic system 8 of the foregoing embodiments.

[0211] As shown in Figures 34 and 35, Figure 34 is a structural schematic diagram of the vehicle seat of the present disclosure, wherein an air storage device 100 is installed inside the vehicle seat 200; Figure 35 is a structural schematic diagram of the vehicle seat 200 of the present disclosure, wherein the internal installation space 210 is shown.

[0212] Referring to Figures 34 and 35, the present disclosure provides a vehicle seat 200, including a seating area 220 and a backrest area 230. An air storage device 100 is provided in the installation space 210 of the seating area 220 and the installation space 210 of the backrest area 230. The vehicle seat 200 of the present disclosure effectively utilizes the installation space 210 by providing the air storage device 100 therein to meet the air demand within the vehicle seat 200.

[0213] Figure 34 also shows the connection between the air storage device 100 of this disclosure and the air pump 240 in the vehicle seat 200.

[0214] In summary, the gas storage device 100 provided by this disclosure can be installed in the narrow installation space 210 of the vehicle seat 200. By providing a flexible part, it can adapt to the limited installation space 210 inside the vehicle seat 200. Therefore, the gas storage device provided by this disclosure solves the problem that the existing gas storage tanks require a large installation space and cannot be adapted to the effective installation space inside the vehicle seat 200.

[0215] This document uses specific examples to illustrate the principles and implementation methods of this disclosure. The descriptions of the above embodiments are only for the purpose of helping to understand the methods and core ideas of this disclosure. The above are only optional implementation methods of this disclosure. It should be noted that due to the limitations of textual expression, while there are objectively infinite specific structures, those skilled in the art can make several improvements, modifications, or changes without departing from the principles of this disclosure, and can also combine the above technical features in an appropriate manner. These improvements, modifications, changes, or combinations, or the direct application of the disclosed concepts and technical solutions to other situations without modification, should all be considered within the scope of protection of this disclosure. Industrial applicability

[0216] This disclosure discloses a gas storage tank with stable gas supply characteristics, a gas storage tank with flexible features, a gas storage device, and a vehicle seat. The external dimensions of the gas storage tank and the gas storage device can be bent and deformed to adapt to the limited installation space inside the vehicle seat, while meeting the gas demand inside the vehicle seat.

Claims

1. A flexible gas storage tank, used in a vehicle pneumatic system (47), characterized in that, include: The gas storage tank body (41) and the airflow connection component (42), The gas storage tank body (41) is configured to store gas. The gas storage tank body (41) is configured as a flexible tubular gas storage (4211). The tubular gas storage (4211) can be freely coiled in the vehicle seat (43). One end of the tubular gas storage (4211) is sealed, and the other end is connected to the airflow connector (42). The airflow connector (42) is configured to connect with the gas pipe assembly (441) of the gas-using component (44) to achieve gas path communication between the tubular gas storage (4211) and the gas-using component (44).

2. The gas storage tank according to claim 1, characterized in that, The tubular gas storage (4211) is configured as a flexible gas storage tube (412), one end of which is connected to a sealing structure (413), and the other end is connected to the gas flow connector (42). Alternatively, the tubular gas storage (4211) may be configured as a flexible toothed tube (414), on which multiple connecting ribs (4141) are integrally formed along their length on the outer peripheral wall. The multiple connecting ribs (4141) are distributed circumferentially along the outer peripheral wall of the flexible toothed tube (414). One end of the flexible toothed tube (414) is connected to a sealing structure (413), and the other end is connected to the airflow connector (42). Alternatively, the tubular gas storage (4211) may be configured as a fabric-reinforced rubber-plastic tube (417), one end of which is connected to a sealing structure (413), and the other end is connected to the airflow connector (42). Alternatively, the tubular gas storage (4211) may be configured as a flexible corrugated pipe (415), one end of which is connected to a sealing structure (413), and the other end is connected to the gas flow connector (42).

3. The gas storage tank according to claim 2, characterized in that, When the tubular gas storage device (4211) is configured as a common cylindrical structure, the airflow connector (42) is configured as a sealing plug (421). One end of the sealing plug (421) is inserted into the tubular gas storage device (4211) and is press-fitted with the tubular gas storage device (4211). The other end is connected to a gas nozzle (422) to enable gas flow communication between the nozzle and the gas-using component (44).

4. The gas storage tank according to claim 2, characterized in that, When the tubular gas storage (4211) is configured as a cylindrical structure with an outwardly flanged edge, the airflow connector (42) is configured to include a connecting sleeve (423) and a locking sleeve (424), the locking sleeve (424) being inserted into the connecting sleeve (423), and an axial gap being provided between the locking sleeve (424) and the connecting sleeve (423) for the locking sleeve (424) to move along the axial direction of the connecting sleeve (423); The locking sleeve (424) is provided with at least two radially elastically deformable spring claws (425) around its outer circumference, which are configured to be snapped into the outer circumferential grooves (416) of the corresponding soft corrugated pipe (415); the outer wall of the connecting sleeve (423) is provided with mounting grooves (426) for radial elastic deformation of the spring claws (425) at positions corresponding to each spring claw (425), and the spring claws (425) are confined in the mounting grooves (426); the end of the connecting sleeve (423) is also connected to an air nozzle (422) for air passage communication between the soft corrugated pipe (415) and the air-using assembly (44) via the airflow connector (42).

5. The gas holder body according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized by, The gas storage tank (472) can be configured to be formed by a combination of multiple tubular gas storage tanks (4211) connected in series, in parallel, or in a combination of series and parallel connections. And / or, the tubular gas storage (4211) is further provided with at least one protective sleeve (418) with anti-leakage and leak-stopping properties; And / or, a pressure sensor (46) is provided at one end of the tubular gas storage (4211) near the airflow connector (42), the pressure sensor (46) being configured to detect the flow rate and real-time gas pressure value when the airflow enters and exits the tubular gas storage (4211).

6. A gas storage tank with pressure-stabilized gas supply characteristics, applied in a vehicle pneumatic system, characterized in that, include: The gas storage tank carrier (1) and the internal stored gas (2) The gas storage tank carrier (1) is configured as a flexible tubular carrier (11), which can be freely coiled in the vehicle seat (4). One end of the tubular carrier (11) is sealed, and the other end is provided with an airflow connector (3) that connects to the gas-using component (5). The internal gas storage (2) is disposed inside the tubular support (11). The internal gas storage (2) is configured as a soft elastic gas storage (21) with expansion and contraction function. One end of the soft elastic gas storage (21) is sealed, and the other end is connected to the airflow connector (3). During gas storage, gas is introduced into the soft elastic gas storage gas (21), and the soft elastic gas storage gas (21) expands until it reaches a full state. The gas is compressed and stored in the soft elastic gas storage gas (21). The tubular support body (11) also constrains the soft elastic gas storage gas (21) to prevent it from over-expanding. When supplying gas to the outside, based on the elastic self-contraction function of the soft elastic gas storage gas (21), the gas will be released from the soft elastic gas storage gas (21) at a stable pressure, thereby supplying gas to the gas-using component (5) at a stable pressure.

7. The gas storage tank according to claim 6, characterized in that: An elastomer (10) is provided between the gas storage tank carrier (1) and the internal gas storage (2). When gas is stored in the internal gas (2), the internal gas pressure of the internal gas (2) increases, and the elastic body (10) is squeezed by the internal gas (2) to store elasticity; When the internal gas (2) supplies gas to the outside, the internal gas pressure of the internal gas (2) decreases, and the elastic body (10) releases elastic force to squeeze the internal gas (2). The elastic body (10) assists in pressurizing the internal gas (2) to ensure that the gas is released from the internal gas (2) at a stable pressure.

8. The gas storage tank according to claim 6 or 7, characterized in that: The tubular support body (11) is configured as a soft support tube (12), one end of which is connected to a sealing structure (13), and the other end is connected to the airflow connector (3); Alternatively, the tubular support (11) may be configured as a soft toothed tube (14), on which multiple connecting ribs (141) are integrally formed along their length on the outer peripheral wall of the soft toothed tube (14), and the multiple connecting ribs (141) are distributed circumferentially along the outer peripheral wall of the soft toothed tube (14). One end of the soft toothed tube (14) is connected to a sealing structure (13), and the other end is connected to the airflow connector (3). Alternatively, the tubular support (11) may be configured as a fabric-reinforced rubber-plastic tube (17), one end of which is connected to a sealing structure (13), and the other end is connected to the airflow connector (3); Alternatively, the tubular support (11) may be configured as a soft corrugated pipe (15), one end of which is connected to a sealing structure (13), and the other end is connected to the airflow connector (3).

9. The gas storage tank according to claim 8, characterized in that: The soft elastic gas storage (21) is configured as a soft gas storage tube (22), which has its own expansion and contraction function. When the soft gas storage tube (22) is in its natural state without gas storage, the diameter at the widest position of the soft gas storage tube (22) is smaller than the diameter at the narrowest position of the tubular support (11).

10. The gas storage tank according to claim 8, characterized in that: When the tubular support (11) is configured as a common cylindrical structure, the airflow connector (3) is configured as a sealing plug (31). One end of the sealing plug (31) is inserted into the tubular support (11) and is press-fitted with the tubular support (11). The other end is provided with an air nozzle (32). The soft elastic gas storage (21) is connected to the air nozzle (32).

11. The gas storage tank according to claim 8, characterized in that: When the tubular support (11) is configured as a cylindrical structure with an outwardly flanged edge, the airflow connector (3) is configured to include: a connecting sleeve (33) and a locking sleeve (34), the locking sleeve (34) being inserted into the connecting sleeve (33), and an axial gap being provided between the locking sleeve (34) and the connecting sleeve (33) for the locking sleeve (34) to move along the axial direction of the connecting sleeve (33); The locking sleeve (34) is provided with at least two radially elastically deformable spring claws (35) around its outer circumference and configured to be engaged in the corresponding outer circumferential grooves (16) of the soft corrugated pipe (15); the outer wall of the connecting sleeve (33) is provided with mounting grooves (36) for radial elastic deformation of the spring claws (35) at positions corresponding to each spring claw (35), and the spring claws (35) are confined in the mounting grooves (36); the end of the connecting sleeve (33) is also provided with an air nozzle (32), and the soft elastic gas storage (21) is connected to the air nozzle (32).

12. The gas storage tank according to claim 8, characterized in that: A fastener (23) is also provided between the soft elastic gas storage (21) and the gas nozzle (32). The fastener (23) strengthens the connection between the soft elastic gas storage (21) and the gas nozzle (32) and prevents the soft elastic gas storage (21) from falling off abnormally.

13. The gas storage tank according to any one of claims 6-12, characterized in that: The outer peripheral wall of the tubular support (11) is also provided with a reinforcing layer (6) that has the functions of protection, wear resistance, isolation and noise reduction; And / or, a pressure sensor (7) is provided at one end of the tubular support (11) near the airflow connector (3), the pressure sensor (7) being configured to detect the flow rate and real-time air pressure value when the airflow enters and exits the soft elastic gas storage (21).

14. A gas storage device, characterized in that, The gas storage device (100) is installed in the vehicle seat (200), and the vehicle seat (200) has an installation space (210). The gas storage device (100) includes a plurality of tubular gas storage units (110). At least one of the tubular gas storage units (110) is provided with a flexible part, the bending angle of which is adjustable to adapt to a portion of the installation space (210). Each of the tubular gas storage units (110) is provided with a gas storage chamber (113). The gas storage chambers (113) of the plurality of tubular gas storage units (110) are connected to form a through cavity adapted to the installation space (210). At least one of the tubular gas storage units (110) is provided with a gas supply port (114), which is connected to the through cavity.

15. The gas storage device according to claim 14, characterized in that, The gas storage device further includes a connecting assembly (120), which has a first connecting end (121), a second connecting end (122), and an intermediate cavity (123) located between the first connecting end (121) and the second connecting end (122). The first connecting end (121) and the second connecting end (122) are respectively connected to two adjacent tubular gas storage units (110) to pass through the intermediate cavity (123) and the gas storage cavity (113).

16. The gas storage device according to claim 15, characterized in that, In a plane perpendicular to the extending direction of the tubular gas storage unit (110), the diameters of the gas storage chambers (113) of the plurality of tubular gas storage units (110) are the same or different. And / or, the plurality of tubular gas storage units (110) are connected in series or in parallel to form the through cavity.

17. The gas storage device according to claim 16, characterized in that, The external shape of the intermediate cavity (123) region is circular, elliptical, or polygonal; And / or, in a plane perpendicular to the extending direction of the tubular gas storage unit (110), the external shape of the tubular gas storage unit (110) is circular, elliptical or polygonal.

18. The gas storage device according to any one of claims 15-17, characterized in that, The tubular gas storage unit (110) includes a flexible support tube (111) and a flexible gas storage tube (112). The flexible support tube (111) is sleeved on the outside of the flexible gas storage tube (112), and the minimum outer diameter of the flexible support tube (111) is greater than the maximum outer diameter of the flexible gas storage tube (112). The flexible support tube (111) is configured to limit the deformation of the flexible gas storage tube (112). The flexible gas storage tube (112) is made of elastic material. The outer wall of the flexible gas storage tube (112) expands to increase the capacity of the gas storage cavity (113). The outer wall of the flexible gas storage tube (112) contracts to achieve stable pressure output of the gas storage cavity (113).

19. The gas storage device according to claim 18, characterized in that, The gas storage device (100) further includes an airflow connector (130), which is sealed to the flexible bearing pipe (111). The airflow connector (130) is also provided with a nozzle (131), which is connected to the outlet of the flexible gas storage pipe (112). And / or, the gas storage device (100) further includes a detachable connection structure, wherein the first connection end (121), the second connection end (122), or the airflow connector (130) is provided with the detachable connection structure, the detachable connection structure comprising: A connecting sleeve (132) is provided with at least one spring claw (133) extending outward from its outer wall. The elastic deformation of the spring claw (133) has a stroke at least in the radial direction of the connecting sleeve (132). A locking sleeve (134) is provided, in which a portion of the connecting sleeve (134) is inserted. The locking sleeve (134) is provided with a mounting groove (135), and the spring claw (133) is restricted in the mounting groove (135) after elastic deformation.

20. A vehicle seat, characterized in that, The vehicle seat (200) includes an air storage device (100) as described in any one of claims 14-19.

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