Patent GB-302425-A (GB)
Title: Improvements in or relating to saddles for motor cycles, bicycles and the like
IPC: B62J1/26
Filed: 1927-09-30
Abstract: 302,425. Mellano, A. V. Sept. 30, 1927. Matresses.-A pneumatic seat &c. comprises an air container which is provided with or found in conjunction with a support &c. of such a character that it permits of a part or parts of the container being expanded or distended from their points of support on, or their points of connection to the support when the seat is under load, so as to increase the air space of the container and prevent under compression of the air therein. The cushion 1 has a extensible part 2 which is supported on a wood or other support 3 having an opening 4 into which the part 2 can extend when the container is subjected to load. The part 2 may be of rubber, and the upper part of rubbered fabric or other inextensible material, or the container may all be of rubber and hair an inextensible covering 5 preventing any distension of the upper part of the container. The support may be corrugated, fluted, or otherwise formed to strengthen same, and the container may be a unit which may be removably fitted on the support. The container of Fig. 3 has reeds 6 of inextensible material serving to prevent undue distortion of the loaded container or and to reduce the tendency to roll. Bars 7 have inclined surfaces against which the container may expand, and bars 8 are provided beneath the reeds 6 which divide up the container. The inclined surfaces on the bars 7 are shaped to suit the container and may be adjustable, and the bars 8 also have rounded edges and may be adjustable according to the position of the reeds 6. The Specification describes and illustrates the application of the invention to the bottoms and backs of seats for motor vehicles. A motor cycle saddle, Figs. 10 and 12, comprises a support in the form of a pan 16 having a medial part 17 between two wells 18, and a rim against which the container bears. A restraining reed 19<b> above the part 17, and inflation valve 23 are provided, a leather top 21 being also secured to the rim by detachable fastenings, lacing, or spring bands. When loaded, the lower parts of the container extend into the wells and air is expelled therefrom by means of holes 22 in the pan. Instead of a medial part 17, transverse or other arrangements may be used, the bars being integral or separate from the frame. In another form, Fig. 22, a piece of flexible material 36 is secured to a metal plate 37 as by vulcanization, and an aperture in the plate is closed by an extensible diaphragm 40. In a modification, Fig. 23, restraining reeds 41 are provided and a number of apertures 39, each covered by a diaphragm 40, are formed in the plate, or alternatively, the top part of the container may be secured directly to the plate as by riveting in a number of places and a covering placed over the container. Where the different air spaces are in communication with one another, only one opening and diaphragm are provided, preferably in the middle compartment. Bands or strips of extensible material may be placed under the extensible part of the container so as to prevent under distortion on very heavy loads, the container itself extending when lightly loaded. As an alternative, the container may be made with thicker parts which serve the same purpose. Rubber strips may take the place of the rigid supporting bars.