Patent ID: 6592184
Filing Date: 2003-07-15
Classification: A47C,F16K

Abstract:
A self-inflating device comprising:an envelope defining a closed space; a compressible material contained within the envelope; a normally closed valve adapted when opened to allow air into the envelope so that the compressed material can expand to enlarge the support device and to allow air out of the envelope when the material is compressed to reduce the support device in size, the valve including: a valve seat; and a valve member normally biased towards the valve seat to form a seal therebetween when the valve is closed in a closed position; a valve actuator for opening the valve, the valve actuator having: a body portion having an outer surface, the body portion being responsive to a depressive pressure on the outer surface for moving longitudinally toward or away from the valve member; and an outwardly projecting locking tab; and a movable locking arm adjacent the locking tab of the valve actuator, the locking arm having: a locking catch adapted to engage the locking tab of the valve actuator to hold the valve open; and a manually operable release tab which, when operated, releases the locking catch from the locking tab so that the valve returns to the closed position.