Internal tensioning structure useable with inflatable devices
AssigneeIntex Marketing Ltd.
InventorsHua Hsiang Lin, Yaw Yuan Hsu
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Abstract
An internal tensioning structure for use in an inflatable product fulfills the basic function of maintaining two adjacent inflatable surfaces in a desired geometric arrangement when the inflatable product is pressurized. The tensioning structure is formed by connecting a pair of plastic strips sheets via spaced-apart strands, such as strings or wires. When pulled taut, the strands provide a high tensile strength between the two opposed plastic strips. At the same time, the plastic strips facilitate a strong, long-lasting weld between the tensioning structure and the inflatable product.
Claims9
An inflatable product comprising:
- a first sheet;
- a second sheet disposed opposite the first sheet, the first and second sheets spaced apart when the product is inflated to define a gap;
- a tensioning structure spanning the gap between the first sheet and the second sheet, the tensioning structure comprising:
- a plurality of strands uniformly spaced apart and arranged substantially parallel to one another;
- and
- a first weld sheet having the plurality of strands uniformly affixed to a surface of the first weld sheet;
- and
- a second weld sheet disposed opposite the first weld sheet, the plurality of strands captured between the first and second weld sheets when the first and second weld sheets are welded to one another.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.