Patent ID: 6190486
Filing Date: 2001-02-20
Classification: A47C,Y10T

Abstract:
A method of making a self-inflatable apparatus (10) from a core (20) of open pore foam having a predetermined shape, comprising the steps of:a. substantially surrounding said core (20) with a non-fabric containing, dual melting point film (22, 42) having a first surface (S1) that melts at a first temperature T1 and a second surface (S2) substantially adjacent to said first surface (S1) that melts at a second temperature T2 which is lower than T1 and such that the second surface (S2) substantially contacts the entire exterior surface (12) of said core of open pore foam (20); and,b. heating said first surface (S1)with a heating means (26, 36, 38) to a temperature TR that is lower than T1 but higher than T2 so that said second surface (S2) melts and adheres to substantially the entire exterior surface (12) of said core of open pore foam (20) and the first surface (S1) softens and conforms to the predetermined shape of said core (20),wherein after said self-inflatable apparatus (10) has cooled said first surface (S1) assumes said predetermined shape of said core (20) and stretches and moves with said foam core (20).