Patent Publication Number: US-2022232993-A1

Title: Air bed having an improved built-in air pump

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This application is a national stage application, filed under 35 U.S.C. § 371, of International Patent Application No. PCT/US2020/037516, filed on 12 Jun. 2020, which claims benefit under 35 U.S.C. § 119(a), of Chinese Patent App. No. 2019208776292, filed 12 Jun. 2019, the entire contents and substance of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. 
    
    
     FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
     The presently disclosed subject matter relates generally to airbed systems, particularly valves for airbed systems capable of fitting various pump sizes and/or reducing manual pumping. 
     BACKGROUND 
     Conventional airbeds, or air mattresses, as they are commonly referred, typically are used in lieu of traditional box-spring mattresses, memory foam mattresses, water beds, and other beds as temporary structures for sleeping. Generally, air mattresses comprise a soft and flexible material chamber with an air-tight seal that allows the air mattress to inflate during use and deflate after use. Typically, airbeds comprise an internal structure or tensioning structure that helps the airbed achieve its intended shape once the airbed is inflated. The internal structure also prevents the airbed from over-inflating. 
     Many air mattresses are inflated with external air pumps, including manual and electric air pumps. External manual air pumps inflate slowly and require varying amounts of manual labor. Meanwhile, external electric air pumps provide quick inflation and require little to no manual labor. Despite those benefits, all external air pumps require the user to own, borrow, or rent a pump to inflate an air mattress. This may not be ideal in situations where storage is an issue or where multiple air mattresses need to be inflated within the same time period. Air mattresses with built-in air pumps overcome the aforementioned disadvantages while having their own disadvantage, time consuming inflation periods. This occurs because when air mattresses are inflated with a built-in manual air pump, the user must step downward on the pump to inflate the air mattress, remove his foot from the pump, and repeat until the mattress is inflated. 
     Accordingly, there is a need for an improved air mattress with a built-in air pump capable of faster inflation. Embodiments of the present disclosure are directed to these and other considerations. 
     SUMMARY 
     Briefly described, embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter relate to airbed systems and, in particular, airbed systems having improved valves capable of receiving pumps of various sizes for inflation and/or a built-in air pump capable of easing manual pumping. 
     Aspects of the present disclosure relate to an air mattress with a built-in air pump capable of inflation without the pump being repeatedly stepped on. In particular, within an internal portion of the air mattress, a built-in manual air pump may be included. The built-in manual air pump may include a tube-like construction having an inner cavity, a compression spring located within the inner cavity of the tube-like construction, a top end cap attached to a top portion of the compression spring, a bottom end cap attached to a bottom portion of the compression spring, and a bellow connected to a side surface of the tube-like construction. The built-in air pump may be connected to a valve assembly. The valve assembly may be attached to a top surface of the air mattress. The valve assembly may include a valve body, a diaphragm valve, a valve cap, and a cap gasket. The diaphragm valve may be positioned at a bottom portion of the valve body. The valve cap may be configured to attach to the valve body. Further, the valve cap may have a hook-like portion. The cap gasket may be positioned within the valve cap. 
     The valve body may include a flat flange, a wavy top surface, and a cap strap. The flat flange may be connected to the top surface of the air mattress device. The wavy surface may have a side surface providing a connection to the flat flange. The cap strap may be configured to attach to the valve cap at the hook-like portion of the valve cap. 
     In some embodiments, the tube-like construction may be constructed of flexible plastic sheets. The tube-like construction may be configured to allow air to flow from the bellow to the main air chamber of the mattress. As the air pressure within the air chamber increases, the tube-like construction may be squeezed by the air pressure which allows the tube-like construction to act like a one-way valve, i.e., inhibiting air from exiting the air mattress. The compression spring may act upon the bellow to cause it to contract and/or expand. More specifically, when the compression spring is not pressed (e.g., not stepped on), the bellow may contract. Conversely, when the compression is pressed (e.g., stepped on), the bellow may expand. 
     According to some embodiments, the wavy surface may allow air to enter the valve surface when covered. The diaphragm valve may be configured to prevent air from entering the valve assembly when the air mattress device is inflated. Alternately, the diaphragm valve may be configured to allow air to enter the valve assembly when the air mattress device is not inflated. 
     An example embodiment of the present disclosure relates to an air mattress having a valve comprising a top cover, a top ring, a middle valve cover attached to a valve base, a diaphragm, and a bottom ring. According to some embodiments, the middle valve cover comprises an adapter ring configured to attach to the middle valve cover and a default ring configured to attach to the valve cover. The default ring has a different diameter than the adapter ring. The default ring may have a diameter of 31 mm. Further, the default ring may be configured to allow a 31 mm air pump to inflate an air mattress comprising the middle valve cover. The adapter ring may have a diameter of 18 mm. The adapter may be configured to plug into the middle valve. The adapter ring may be removable from the air mattress. Moreover, the adapter ring may be configured to allow an 18 mm air pump to inflate an air mattress comprising the adapter ring. The middle valve cover may have grooves allowing it to be screwed onto the valve base. The diaphragm may allow connection between the valve base and the middle valve cover. The bottom ring may further facilitate connection between the middle valve cover and the valve base. In some embodiments, the middle valve cover may be attached to the valve base by other means known in the art. The top ring and/or bottom ring may be configured to cover at least a portion of the middle valve cover. The top ring may facilitate connection between the top cover and the middle valve cover. 
     The air mattress may further include an internal structure comprising a sheet connected to the interior surfaces of the top and bottom surfaces of an air mattress. According to some embodiments, the sheet may comprise a single piece of material having a plurality of apertures, forming a mesh (which may be referred to as a “mesh sheet” or “mesh web”). Each of the top and bottom surfaces may comprise a plurality of connection points, and the sheet may be attached to two or more top surface connection points and two or more bottom surface connection points. The sheet may be attached to the top surface and bottom surface in such a manner that it forms a web-like structure or a wavy 3-dimensional sinusoidal shape when the airbed is inflated. The internal structure may help the air mattress maintain its intended geometric shape when inflated. Further, the internal structure may prevent the air mattress from becoming over-inflated. Also, the internal structure may prevent the top and bottom surfaces of the air mattress from shearing (i.e., moving laterally relative to one another) when the air mattress is in use. Also, because such an internal structure is light-weight and adds little to the overall bulk of the air mattress, when deflated, the air mattress can be easily stowed away and transported. 
     Other embodiments of the present disclosure relate to a valve comprising a top cap configured to attach to a top valve, a middle valve, a top ring, a diaphragm and a bottom ring configured to allow the middle valve to attach to the valve base. According to some embodiments, the middle valve has a different diameter than the top valve. The top valve may have a diameter of 18 mm. Further, the top valve may be configured to allow an 18 mm air pump to inflate an air mattress comprising the middle valve cover. The middle valve may have a diameter of 31 mm. The top valve may be configured to attach to the middle valve. In some embodiments, the top valve and the middle may screw into one another for attachment. The middle valve may be configured to allow a 31 mm air pump to inflate an air mattress. The diaphragm may allow connection between the valve base and the middle valve. The diaphragm may be inserted into a region of the middle valve to allow connection between the valve base and the middle valve. The bottom ring may further facilitate connection between the middle valve and the valve base. In some embodiments, the middle valve may be attached to the valve base by other means known in the art. The top ring and/or bottom ring may be configured to cover at least a portion of the middle valve. The top ring may facilitate connection between the top cover and the middle valve. The top cap may be attached by placing the top cap over the top valve and the middle while the two are connected. 
     The foregoing summarizes only a few aspects of the presently disclosed subject matter and is not intended to be reflective of the full scope of the presently disclosed subject matter as claimed. Additional features and advantages of the presently disclosed subject matter are set forth in the following description, may be apparent from the description, or may be learned by practicing the presently disclosed subject matter. Moreover, both the foregoing summary and following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory and are intended to provide further explanation of the presently disclosed subject matter as claimed. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate multiple embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the presently disclosed subject matter; and, furthermore, are not intended in any manner to limit the scope of the presently disclosed subject matter. 
         FIG. 1A  is a top view of an assembled valve, in accordance with an example embodiment of the presently disclosed subject matter; 
         FIG. 1B  is an exploded view of components of a valve, in accordance an example embodiment of with the presently disclosed subject matter; 
         FIG. 1C  illustrates stages of assembly of a valve, in accordance with an example embodiment of the presently disclosed subject matter; 
         FIG. 2A  is a top view of an assembled valve, in accordance with an example embodiment of the presently disclosed subject matter; 
         FIG. 2B  is an exploded view of components of a valve, in accordance an example embodiment of with the presently disclosed subject matter; 
         FIG. 2C  illustrates stages of assembly of a valve, in accordance with an example embodiment of the presently disclosed subject matter; 
         FIG. 3  illustrates stages of assembly of a middle valve section of a valve, in accordance with an example embodiment of the presently disclosed subject matter; 
         FIG. 4  is a schematic overview of an air mattress, in accordance with an example embodiment of the presently disclosed subject matter; 
         FIG. 5  is a top view of an air mattress having a strip-based internal structure, in accordance an example embodiment of with the presently disclosed subject matter; 
         FIG. 6  is a perspective view of an air mattress having a mesh-based internal structure including a detail view of a mesh-based internal structure, in accordance with an example embodiment of the presently disclosed subject matter; 
         FIG. 7  is a schematic overview of an air mattress comprising various air mattress components, in accordance with an example embodiment of the presently disclosed subject matter; 
         FIG. 8  is a view of an air cushion, according to some example embodiments of the disclosed technology; 
         FIG. 9  is a side view of an air cushion, according to some example embodiments of the disclosed technology; 
         FIG. 10  is an end view of an air cushion, according to some example embodiments of the disclosed technology; 
         FIG. 11  is a view of an internal support structure of an air cushion, according to some example embodiments of the disclosed technology; 
         FIG. 12  is a sectional view of a valve assembly that may be connected to a built-in manual air pump, according to some example embodiments of the disclosed technology; 
         FIG. 13A  is a sectional view of a built-in air pump with a closed diaphragm valve, according to some example embodiments of the disclosed technology; 
         FIG. 13B  is a sectional view of a built-in air pump with an open diaphragm valve, according to some example embodiments of the disclosed technology; and 
         FIG. 14  is a top view of a valve assembly connected to a built-in manual air pump of an air mattress, according to some example embodiments of the disclosed technology. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     Although certain embodiments of the disclosure are explained in detail, it is to be understood that other embodiments are contemplated. Accordingly, it is not intended that the disclosure is limited in its scope to the details of construction and arrangement of components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the drawings. Other embodiments of the disclosure are capable of being practiced or carried out in various ways. Also, in describing the embodiments, specific terminology will be resorted to for the sake of clarity. It is intended that each term contemplates its broadest meaning as understood by those skilled in the art and includes all technical equivalents which operate in a similar manner to accomplish a similar purpose. 
     It should also be noted that, as used in the specification and the appended claims, the singular forms “a,” “an” and “the” include plural references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. References to a composition containing “a” constituent is intended to include other constituents in addition to the one named. Also, in describing the preferred embodiments, terminology will be resorted to for the sake of clarity. It is intended that each term contemplates its broadest meaning as understood by those skilled in the art and includes all technical equivalents which operate in a similar manner to accomplish a similar purpose. 
     Herein, the use of terms such as “having,” “has,” “including,” or “includes” are open-ended and are intended to have the same meaning as terms such as “comprising” or “comprises” and not preclude the presence of other structure, material, or acts. Similarly, though the use of terms such as “can” or “may” is intended to be open-ended and to reflect that structure, material, or acts are not necessary, the failure to use such terms is not intended to reflect that structure, material, or acts are essential. To the extent that structure, material, or acts are presently considered to be essential, they are identified as such. 
     It is also to be understood that the mention of one or more method steps does not preclude the presence of additional method steps or intervening method steps between those steps expressly identified. Moreover, although the term “step” may be used herein to connote different aspects of methods employed, the term should not be interpreted as implying any particular order among or between various steps herein disclosed unless and except when the order of individual steps is explicitly required. 
     The components described hereinafter as making up various elements of the disclosure are intended to be illustrative and not restrictive. Many suitable components that would perform the same or similar functions as the components described herein are intended to be embraced within the scope of the disclosure. Such other components not described herein can include, but are not limited to, for example, similar components that are developed after development of the presently disclosed subject matter. 
     Embodiments of the disclosed technology include an airbed mattress having a built-in air pump capable of continuous pumping. In various embodiments, because of the continuous pumping, the built-in air pump may provide an air mattress with the ability to be inflated faster. In some embodiments, the airbed mattress may include a valve capable of receiving multiple pumps of different sizes. Further, because larger pumps can be received, the valve allows for faster inflation. The valve also provides for inflation by automated pumps and hand pumps as the sizes vary accordingly. 
     Referring now to the figures, wherein like reference numerals represent like parts throughout the views, embodiments of the valve and the internal airbed structure will be described in detail. 
       FIG. 1A  shows a top view of an assembled valve. Valve  100  may comprise various materials. For example, valve  100  and/or its components may be constructed from a combination of plastic, polyvinyl chloride (“PVC”), rubber, metal, or any other suitable material or combination of materials to provide the desired qualities described herein. Further, valve  100  may vary in size and positioning. Valve  100  may be positioned on a top surface, a bottom surface, and/or a side surface of an air mattress. It is further contemplated that an air mattress may comprise a plurality of valves  100 . 
       FIG. 1B  illustrates an exploded view of components of a valve. The components and arrangements shown in  FIG. 1B  are not intended to limit the disclosed embodiments as the components used to implement the disclosed processes and features may vary. Valve  100  may include a top cover  105 , a top ring  110 , a middle valve  115 , an adapter ring  120 , a default ring  125 , a diaphragm  130 , a bottom ring  135 , and a valve base  140 . The top cover  105  may include grooves capable of attachment by a screwing motion. The top cover  105  may attach to the middle valve  115 . As part of attaching to middle valve  115 , the top cover  105  may envelop at least portion of the middle valve  115 . In some embodiments, the top cover  105  may attach to the middle valve  115  by other means known in the art. 
     The top ring  110  may be inserted between the middle valve  115  and the top cover  105  during attachment. The top ring  110  may reduce friction and/or wear of the middle valve  115  and/or the top cover  105 . The middle valve  115  may be connected to the default ring  125  and/or the adapter ring  120 . The adapter ring  120  may have grooves allowing attachment to the middle valve  115  through a screwing motion. The adapter ring  120  may have a diameter of 18 mm. As a result, when the adapter ring  120  attaches to the middle valve  125 , the adapter ring  120  may allow the valve  100  to fit an air pump having a nozzle size of 18 mm. In some embodiments, the adapter ring  120  may attach to the middle valve  115  by other means known in the art. 
     The default ring  125  and the adapter ring  120  may be connected to the middle valve  115  by the same connection. The connection may be flexible such that the adapter ring  120  and/or the default ring  125  are able to bend over a top portion of the middle valve  115 . When the top cover  105  is disconnected from the middle valve  115 , the middle valve  115  is exposed. The middle valve may have a diameter of 31 mm. The default ring  125  may also have a diameter of 31 mm. Accordingly, the middle valve and/or default ring may allow the valve  100  to fit an air pump having a nozzle size of 31 mm. 
     When the air pressure of the air mattress (e.g., air mattress  400  shown in  FIG. 4 ) is inflated (i.e., the air pressure is near capacity) a top portion of the diaphragm  130  may enter an opening of a bottom portion of the middle valve  115  such that a connection is created. At this point, the connection between the diaphragm  130  and the middle valve  115  provides closure of the air valve, which prevents air from entering or exiting the air mattress  400 . Conversely, when the air pressure of the mattress  400  is deflated, space exits between the top portion of the diaphragm  130  and the bottom portion of middle valve  115  such that air may enter the mattress  400  for inflation. 
     A bottom portion of the diaphragm  130  may positioned within the valve base  140 . The bottom ring  135  may be positioned between the valve base  140  and the diaphragm  130 . The bottom ring  135  may reduce friction and/or wear of the middle valve  115  and/or the valve base  140 . 
       FIG. 1C  illustrates stages of assembly of a valve. At  150 , valve  100  is closed (i.e., the top cover  105  is connected to a top portion of the middle valve  115 ). At  155 , the top cover  105  is disconnected from a top portion of middle valve  115 . When the top cover  105  is disconnected from a top portion of the middle valve  115 , the middle valve  115  is exposed and therefore, the valve  100  may receive air from an air pump having a diameter of 31 mm. At  160 , the top cover  105  is disconnected from a top portion of middle valve  115 . However, adapter ring  120  is connected to the middle valve  115 . Therefore, the valve  100  may receive air from an air pump having a diameter of 18 mm. 
       FIG. 2A  shows a top view of an assembled valve. Similar to valve  100 , valve  200  may comprise various materials. For example, valve  200  and/or its components may be constructed from a combination of plastic, polyvinyl chloride (“PVC”), rubber, metal, or any other suitable material or combination of materials to provide the desired qualities described herein. Further, valve  200  may vary in size and positioning. Valve  200  may be positioned on a top surface, bottom surface, and/or a side surface of an air mattress. It is further contemplated that an air mattress may comprise a plurality of valves  200 . 
       FIG. 2B  illustrates an exploded view of components of valve  200 , according to embodiments of the present disclosure. The components and arrangements shown in  FIG. 2B  are not intended to limit the disclosed embodiments as the components used to implement the disclosed processes and features may vary. Valve  200  may include a top cap  205 , a top valve  210 , a top ring  215 , a middle valve  220 , a diaphragm  225 , a bottom ring  230 , and a valve base  235 . The top cap  205  may comprise a combination of plastic, polyvinyl chloride (“PVC”), rubber, metal, or any other suitable material or combination of materials. The top cap  205  may be attachable to the valve base  235 , the top valve  210 , and/or the middle valve  220 . The top cap  205  may include one or more circular rings capable of enveloping at least a portion of the middle valve  220 , and/or at least a portion of the valve base  235 . The one or more circular rings of the top cap  205  may be attached to one another at one or more points of attachment. The one or more circular rings of the top cap  205  may provide the top cap  205  attachment to the middle valve  220  and/or to the valve base  235 . When valve  200  is assembled, each of the one or more circular rings of the top cap  205  may fit between an attachment of the top valve  210  and the middle valve  220 , and/or an attachment of the middle valve  220  and the valve base  235 . The top cap  205  may include a lid capable of connecting and disconnecting from the body of the top cap  205  such that an opening and closing feature are provided. When the lid of the top cap  205  is connected to the body of the top cap  205 , the lid may also be connected to the top valve  210 . When the lid of top cap  205  is disconnected from the body of top cap  205 , an opening is provided such that top valve  210  is exposed. Top valve  210  may have a diameter of 18 mm. As a result, the valve  200  may receive air from an air pump having a diameter of 18 mm. 
     The top valve  210  may include an opening at the top portion capable of receiving at least a portion of the top cap  205 . The top valve  210  may include grooves within an inner portion capable of attaching to another body having similar grooves through a screwing motion. The middle valve  220  may screw into the top valve  210  to create attachment. In some embodiments, the top valve  210  may attach to the middle valve  220  by other means known in the art. As part of attaching to middle valve  220 , the top valve  210  may envelop at least a portion of the middle valve  220 . 
     The top ring  215  may be inserted between the middle valve  220  and the top valve  210  during attachment. The top ring  215  may reduce friction and/or wear of the middle valve  220  and/or the top valve  210 . The middle valve  220  may have a diameter of 31 mm. The top valve  210  may be disconnected/unattached from the middle valve  220  by an unscrewing motion. When the top valve  210  is unattached from the middle valve  220 , an opening is provided such that middle valve  220  is exposed. As a result, the middle valve  220  may allow the valve  200  to fit an air pump having a nozzle size of 18 mm. 
     As described similarly in reference to  FIG. 1B , when the air pressure of the air mattress  400  is inflated, i.e., the air pressure is near capacity, a top portion of the diaphragm  225  may enter an opening of a bottom portion of the middle valve  220  such that a connection is created. At this point, the connection between the diaphragm  225  and the middle valve  220  provides closure of the air valve, which prevents air from entering or exiting the air mattress  400 . Conversely, when the air pressure of the mattress  400  is deflated, space exists between the top portion of the diaphragm  225  and the bottom portion of middle valve  220  such that air may enter the mattress  400  for inflation. 
     A bottom portion of the diaphragm  225  may positioned within the valve base  235 . The bottom ring  230  may be positioned between the valve base  235  and the diaphragm  225 . The bottom ring  230  may reduce friction and/or wear of the middle valve  220  and/or the valve base  235 . 
       FIG. 2C  illustrates stages of assembly of a valve. At  250 , valve  200  is closed (i.e., the lid of the top cap  205  is connected to the body of top cap  205 , and top cap  205  is connected to top valve  210 ). At  255 , the top cap  205  is disconnected from the top valve  210  and the middle valve  220 . As shown at  255 , when the top cap  205  is disconnected from the top valve  210  and the middle valve  220 , the top valve  210  may be exposed. A top portion of the top valve  210  may include an opening. When the top valve  210  is exposed, valve  200  may receive air from an air pump having a diameter of 18 mm. At  260 , the top valve  210  is disconnected from the middle valve  220 . As a result, a top portion of the middle valve  220  is exposed. The top portion of the middle valve  220  may have an opening allowing a flow of air into the valve. When the middle valve  220  is exposed, valve  200  may receive air from an air pump having a diameter of 31 mm. 
       FIG. 3  illustrates stages of assembly of a middle valve section of a valve. As may be appreciated by those skilled in the art, the middle valve  220  may be a component of valve  100  and/or valve  200 . At  350 , the bottom portion of middle valve  220  can be seen. In this view, middle valve  220  is unattached from the diaphragm  225 . This view is consistent with the air mattress  400  being deflated and in a state where the diaphragm  225  does not block air from entering the valve  200 . At  355 , the diaphragm  225  is shown with a top most portion facing upwards. The middle valve  220  is shown from a top view. As can be seen, the middle valve  220  has four cylindrical portions forming a cross shape at a bottom portion. The four cylindrical portions attach to an inner portion of the middle valve  220  and form a circular opening toward a middle portion of the inner middle valve  220 . The top most portion of the diaphragm  225  may have a diameter similar in size to the formed circular opening of middle valve  200  such that the diaphragm  225  may fit into the circular opening. Also, in this view the air mattress  400  is in a deflated state such that the diaphragm  225  does not prevent air from entering the valve  200  for inflation. At  360 , the diaphragm  225  is connected to the middle valve  220 . In this view, the air mattress  400  is inflated such that the diaphragm  225  prevents air entering the valve  200 . 
       FIG. 4  is an overview of an air mattress  400 . Air mattress  400  may vary in size once inflated based on the desired dimensions and/or number of users. For example, air mattress  400  may be a twin, full, queen, or king size bed. In some embodiments, air mattress  400  may be constructed out of polyvinyl chloride (“PVC”). It is contemplated, however, that other materials such as other plastics or rubber may be used. Further, as shown in  FIG. 4 , the air mattress  400  may comprise a top surface  410  and bottom surface  415  as well as side surfaces (e.g., side surface  420 ). Air mattress  400  may further include valve  100 ,  200 , and/or  300 . 
       FIG. 5  is a top view of an embodiment of an air mattress  400  comprising an internal structure  500 . As discussed, in some embodiments, an internal structure  500  of an air mattress  400  may be included in the interior of the air mattress  400 . The internal structure  500  may help the air mattress  400  achieve and maintain its intended shape once the air mattress  400  is inflated. Further, an internal structure  500  may prevent the air mattress  400  from over-inflating. Similarly, the internal structure  500  may prevent the top surface (e.g., top surface  410 ) and the bottom surface (e.g., bottom surface  415 ) from shearing (i.e., moving laterally relative to each other). 
     In some embodiments, an internal structure  500  may comprise a plurality of connection strips  510  (e.g., strips  510   a ,  510   b ) having a predetermined length that are attached (i.e., joined, connected, affixed) to one or more of the top surface  410  and bottom surface  415  of the air mattress  400 . In some embodiments, a connection strip  510  may be constructed from PVC or various other fiber, fabric, or film that is suitable for a particular application. In some embodiments, a connection strip  510  may be constructed from a single piece of material (e.g., the connection strip  510  may be a single, continuous strip of PVC). In some embodiments, a connection strip  510  may be constructed from a collection (i.e., a plurality) of materials, fibers, or strings. 
     As shown in  FIG. 5 , in some embodiments, the air mattress  400  can be transparent, thereby providing a view of the plurality of connection strips  510  (e.g., connection strips  510   a ,  510   b ) comprising the internal structure  500 . Further, the transparency of the air mattress  400  provides a view of top surface connection points  515 , as highlighted by dashed box  520 , which includes top surface connection point  515   a . Further, the transparency of the air mattress  400  provides a view of bottom surface connection points  525 , as highlighted by dashed box  530 , which includes bottom surface connection point  525   a . In some embodiments, connection points (e.g., top surface connection points  515  and bottom surface connection points  525 ) are on opposing interior surfaces of the top surface  410  and bottom surface  415 . Accordingly, in such embodiments, the connection points are on the interior of the air mattress  400 . Further, in some embodiments, connection strips  510  may attach directly to connection points  515  and  525 . In some embodiments, for example, a connection strip  510  may be welded to top and bottom surface attachment points  515 ,  525 . Further, in some embodiments, connection strips  510  may be glued, sewn, adhered, or otherwise attached to top and bottom surface attachment points  515 ,  525 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 5 , in some embodiments, a connection strip  510  may attach between a top surface connection point  515  and a bottom surface connection point  525 . In some embodiments, when an air mattress  400  is inflated, as shown in  FIG. 5 , a connection strip  510  may angle from top surface  410  toward bottom surface  415 , or vice versa. For example, as shown in  FIG. 5 , connection strip  510   c  angles from bottom surface connection point  525   b  toward top surface connection point  515   a . Similarly, as shown in  FIG. 5 , connection strip  510   d  angles from bottom surface connection point  525   a  toward top surface connection point  515   b , according to some embodiments. As will be appreciated, when configured in the manner described and shown in  FIG. 5 , angled connection strips (e.g., connection strip  510   c  and  510   d ) may comprise an internal structure  500  with sufficient strength to prevent the air mattress  400  from over-inflating and to prevent the top surface and bottom surface (e.g.,  410  and  415 ) from moving laterally in relation to one another (i.e., shearing). 
     Further, in some embodiments, a plurality of connection strips  510  may connect to a particular top surface connection point  515  or bottom surface connection point  525 . For example, in some embodiments and as shown in  FIG. 5 , four connection strips  510   e - h  attach to a single connection point (i.e., top surface connection point  515   c ). It is contemplated that in various embodiments, any number of connection strips  510  could connect to a particular connection point (e.g., a top surface connection point  515  or bottom surface connection point  525 . As shown in  FIG. 5 , in configurations in which multiple connection strips (e.g.,  510   e - h ) attach to a single connection point (e.g., top surface connection point  515   c ), and in which the connection strips  510  angle from a top surface connection points  515  toward bottom surface connection points  525 , and vice versa, the plurality of connection strips  510  may constitute an internal structure  500  having a web-like configuration. According to some embodiments, a plurality of top surface connection points  515  may be spaced apart at predetermined distances or intervals, and a plurality of bottom surface connection points may also be spaced apart at predetermined distances or intervals. In some embodiments, a plurality of bottom surface connection points  525  may be located on the bottom surface  415  in positions that are offset relative to the locations of the plurality of top surface connection points  515  on the top surface  410 . As will be appreciated, an internal structure  500  having a web-like configuration may further aid in helping an air mattress  400  maintain its intended shape and prevent the air mattress  400  from becoming over-inflated. Further, an internal structure  500  having a web-like configuration may help prevent the top surface  410  and bottom surface  415  of an air mattress  400  from shearing or moving laterally relative to one another. 
     As noted above, in some embodiments, a connection strip  510  may be constructed from a single piece of material. But, in some embodiments, a connection strip  510  may comprise a plurality of individual strips or strands. In some embodiments, each of the plurality of individual strips that comprise a connection strip may attach to the same top surface connection point  515  and bottom surface connection point  525 . In some embodiments, however, a connection strip  510  may comprise attachment strips (or, alternatively, weld strips) at each end of the connection strip  510 . An attachment strip may be a strip of material or a patch, that may be used to affix a portion of an internal structure  500  to a portion of the air mattress  400 . For example, an attachment strip may be a strip of PVC that may be welded to a surface of the air mattress  400 . In some embodiments, a portion of an internal structure  500 , for example, a portion of a connection strip  510 , may be sandwiched between an attachment strip and a surface of the air mattress  400  and the attachment strip may be welded to the surface of the air mattress  400  to secure the connection strip  510  to it. In such embodiments, the plurality of individual strips or strands comprising the connection strip  510  may be held in place by the opposing attachment strips, and the attachment strips may be affixed to the top and bottom surface connection points (i.e.,  515  and  525 ). For example, in some embodiments, an attachment strip, a portion of a connection strip  510 , and a portion of either the top surface  410  or bottom surface  415  may be welded together at a top surface connection point  515  or bottom surface connection point  525 . 
       FIG. 6  is a perspective view of an air mattress  400  comprising an internal structure  600  that is composed of a single sheet of material. According to some embodiments, the internal structure  600  may be a continuous piece of material. In some embodiments, the internal structure may be a mesh structure  610  (which may also be referred to as a “mesh web” or a “mesh sheet”) that includes one or more apertures forming a mesh. In some embodiments, a mesh structure  610  may be made of a single piece of material including a plurality of apertures. In some embodiments, an internal structure  600  of an air mattress  400  may be included in the interior of the air mattress  400  and may operate in a manner similar to internal structure  500  described above. For example, the internal structure  600  may help the air mattress  400  achieve and maintain its intended shape once the air mattress  400  is inflated. Further, internal structure  600  may prevent the air mattress from over-inflating. Similarly, the internal mesh structure  600  may prevent the top surface (e.g., top surface  410 ) and the bottom surface (e.g., bottom surface  415 ) from shearing (i.e., moving laterally relative to each other). In some embodiments, the outer edge of the internal structure  600  may be attached to the inner surfaces of the side surfaces  420 . 
     In some embodiments, a mesh structure  610  may be constructed from PVC or various other fiber, fabric, or film that is suitable for a particular application. In some embodiments, a mesh structure  610  may be constructed form a single piece of material (e.g., the mesh structure  610  may be a single, continuous piece of fiber). In some embodiments, a mesh structure  610  may be constructed from a collection (i.e., plurality) of materials, fibers, or strings. 
     As shown in  FIG. 6 , in some embodiments, a mesh structure  610  may attach to the internal surface of an air mattress  400  at various top surface connection points  615  and bottom surface connection points  625 . According to some embodiments, the top surface connection points  615  and bottom surface connection points  625  may be located in positions similar to those shown with respect to internal structure  500  and creating a 3D web-like structure as previously described above. For example, according to some embodiments, a plurality of top surface connection points  615  may be spaced apart at predetermined distances or intervals, and a plurality of bottom surface connection points may also be spaced apart at predetermined distances or intervals. In some embodiments, a plurality of bottom surface connection points  625  may be located on the bottom surface  415  in positions that are offset relative to the locations of the plurality of top surface connection points  615  on the top surface  410 . Accordingly, in some embodiments, when air mattress  400  is inflated, the mesh structure  610  may take on a 3-dimensional, approximately sinusoidal shape with top and bottom “humps” extending in upwards and/or downwards directions when the airbed is inflated, as shown in  FIG. 6 . According to some embodiments, the peak of each top hump may attach to the air mattress  400  at a top connection point  615  and the trough of each bottom hump may attach to the air mattress  400  at a bottom connection point  625 . As will be appreciated, an internal structure  600  having a web-like configuration may help prevent the top surface  410  and bottom surface  415  of an air mattress  400  from shearing and moving laterally relative to one another. 
     As described above, a mesh structure  610  may attach (i.e., join, connect, affix) to the top surface  410  and bottom surface  415  of the air mattress  400 . In some embodiments, a mesh structure  610  may attach to the air mattress  400  at one or more top surface connection points  615  and one or more bottom surface connection points  625 . In some embodiments, portions of a mesh structure  610  may be welded to top and bottom surface attachment points  615 ,  625 . In some embodiments, portions of the mesh structure  610  may be attached to the air mattress  400  with one or more attachment strips. For example, in some embodiments, an attachment strip may be used to secure a portion of a mesh structure  610  to a top surface connection point  615  or a bottom surface connection point  625 . According to some embodiments, portions of the mesh structure  610  may be attached to the air mattress  400  with one or more attachment strips. For example, a top connection point  615  may be sandwiched between an attachment strip and the top surface  410  and the three may be welded together. Likewise, a bottom surface connection point  625  may be sandwiched between an attachment strip and the bottom surface  415  and the three may be welded together. According to some embodiments, an attachment strip may be a PVC strip. Further, in some embodiments, a mesh structure  610  may be glued, sewn, adhered, or otherwise attached to top and bottom surface attachment points  615 ,  625 . 
       FIG. 7  is an embodiment of an air mattress  400  comprising a top surface  410 , bottom surface  415 , a plurality of side surfaces (e.g., side surface  420 ), and various air mattress  400  components. Further, as shown in  FIG. 7 , in some embodiments, an air mattress  400  may comprise a portable power source  710 . In some embodiments, a portable power source  710  may be a battery and provide direct current. In other embodiments, portable power source  710  may include a motor or generator and provide alternating current. It is contemplated that any portable power source may be used. Further, a portable power source  710  may be housed in a power source housing (not shown) on air mattress  400  for convenient transport. In some embodiments, a portable power source  710  may comprise a power plug  715 , which may be attachable to portable power source  710 . In some embodiments, however, power plug  715  may be used in lieu of portable power source  710 . Power plug  715  may include a variety of power plugs, such as those configured to plug into USB ports and 120V standard outlets. As will be appreciated, while a portable power source  710  may be used in outdoor and indoor locations, a power plug  715  may be suited for indoor use when air mattress  100  is placed near an electrical outlet. 
     In some embodiments, an air mattress may comprise an air control system  720 , which may be used to control air flow and to inflate and deflate an air mattress  400 . In some embodiments, a portable power source  710  or a power plug  715  (or a combination of both) may provide power to an air control system  720 . In some embodiments, an air control system  720  may include an air intake component  722  and a controller  724 . An air intake component  722  may be configured to direct ambient air into the air mattress  400  during mattress inflation and direct air from the air mattress  400  during mattress deflation. In some embodiments, the air intake component  722  may comprise an outer seal that inhibits or allows the flow of outside air into the air control system  720 . In some embodiments, the air intake component  722  also may include an inner seal (not shown) that inhibits or allows the flow of internal air between air control system  720  and the air chamber (i.e., interior) of an air mattress  400 . 
     In some embodiments, a controller  724  may be configured to receive user input and control the opening or closing of inner and outer seals and/or inflating and deflating of the air mattress  400  via the air control system  720 . In some embodiments, the controller  724  may include one or more processors having memory. Also, in some embodiments, the controller  724  may be configured to execute one or more operating modes. For example, operating modes may include inflation mode, deflation mode, air recirculation mode, and standby mode. In some embodiments, the controller  724  may include one or more electronic components that allow a user to switch between modes. 
     In some embodiments, inflation mode may begin when the controller  724  receives user input to inflate the air mattress  400 . In some embodiments, inflation mode may last until the controller  724  receives additional user input to stop inflating the air mattress  400 . In some embodiments, however, the controller  724  may automatically control the speed and duration of inflation based on a predetermined or user supplied air pressure for the air in the air mattress  400 . During inflation mode, both the inner and outer seals may be open to allow ambient air to flow into the air mattress  400 . 
     In some embodiments, deflation mode may begin when the controller  724  receives user input to deflate the air mattress  400 . For example, in some embodiments, deflation mode may last until the controller  724  receives additional user input to stop deflating the air mattress  400 . Further, in some embodiments, the controller  724  may automatically control the speed and duration of deflation based on a predetermined or user supplied air pressure for the air in the air mattress  400 . During deflation mode, both the inner and outer seals may be open to allow ambient air to flow out of the air mattress  400 . 
     According to some embodiments, an air recirculation mode may begin when the controller  724  receives user input to circulate air within air mattress  100 . In doing so, the controller  724  may direct the outer seal to close while the inner seal remains open, thus allowing air to enter the air intake component  722 , but not escape the air mattress  400 . According to some embodiments, circulating air within an air mattress  400  may cause a vibrating or massaging pulse on the surface of the air mattress  400  and/or adjust air pressure via air control system  720 . In some embodiments, air recirculation mode may last until the controller  724  receives additional user input to stop circulating air within the air mattress  400 . Also, in some embodiments, the controller  724  may automatically control the time duration and/or interval to recirculate air within the air mattress  400 . 
     In some embodiments, a standby mode may occur when the controller  724  receives power from portable power source  710  and/or power plug  715  and is not placed in another mode. For example, the controller  724  may operate in standby mode before receiving user input. In some embodiments, the controller  724  may also direct the inner seal to close to inhibit air recirculation. Also, in some embodiments, the controller  724  may direct the inner seal to remain open. It is contemplated that the air mattress  400  may only include the outer seal and not the inner seal, according to some embodiments. 
     In some embodiments, an air mattress  400  may comprise valve  100 ,  200 , and/or  300 . As shown, air mattress  400  may comprise valve  100 . According to some embodiments, valve  100  may be configured to inhibit the flow of air out of the air mattress  400  when valve  100  is in a closed position and allow air flow out of air mattress  400  when  100  is in an open position. 
       FIGS. 8-11  depict an air cushion representative of an air mattress, in accordance with some embodiments of the disclosed technology. The air cushion depicted includes a single internal support structure  810 , which includes a first side strip  816  positioned outside the loop  812  and proximate the overlapping ends and a second side strip  816  that may be positioned outside the loop  812  and adjacent a portion of the loop  812  opposite the overlapping ends of the loop  812 , as discussed above. As shown most clearly in  FIGS. 10 and 11 , attachment of the first side strip  816  to the second side strip  816  causes the loop  812  to “pinch” together at or near the first and second side strips  816 . Though only a single support structure  1010  is shown, it is understood that a plurality of similar support structures could be used in an air mattress, according to the disclosed technology. 
       FIG. 12  illustrates a sectional view of a valve assembly that may be connected to a built-in manual air pump. The built-in manual air pump may be included internally with an air mattress such as air mattress  400 . The valve assembly  1200  may include a valve cap  1205 , a cap gasket  1210 , a cap strap  1215 , a valve body  1220 , a diaphragm valve  1225 , a wavy surface  1230 , and/or a flat flange  1235 . The valve body  1220  may comprise various materials. For example, the valve body  1220  and/or its components may be constructed from a combination of plastic, polyvinyl chloride (“PVC”), rubber, metal, or any other suitable material or combination of materials to provide the desired qualities described herein. In some embodiments, the valve body  1220  may be injection molded. The valve body  1220  may be connected to the air mattress  400  by high frequency welding and/or any other suitable means of attachment known in the art. The valve body  1220  may comprise the flat flange  1235 , the wavy surface  1230 , and/or the cap strap  1215 . The flat flange  1235  may be connected to a top surface of the air mattress  400  such that it creates a flush connection with the air mattress  400 . The wavy surface  1230  may have a rippled shaped. At least in part because of its shape, the wavy surface  1230  may allow air to flow into the built-in air pump when the valve assembly  1200  is covered (e.g., a user has his foot on top of the valve assembly  1200 ). As will be appreciated, such design allows the user to continually pump the air mattress  400  without lifting his or her foot from the built-in manual air pump, thus providing added efficiency. At a side surface of the wavy surface  1230 , the flat flange  1235  may be connected to the wavy surface  1230 . The cap strap  1215  may extend from the flat flange  1235  and connect to the valve cap  1205 . The valve cap  1205  may have a hook-like portion on a side surface allowing the cap strap  1215  to attach to the valve cap  1205 . When attached to the valve cap  1205 , the cap strap  1215  may be used to keep the valve cap  1205  connected to the valve body  1220  and thus, preventing the cap from becoming a loose part. 
     The diaphragm valve  1225  may be located at a bottom portion of the valve body  1220 . The diaphragm valve  1225  may operate from an open or a closed position. When the valve assembly  1200  is stepped on, air may be pushed down the valve assembly  1200  and into the built-in air pump. The air within the built-in air pump may then enter the main chamber of the air mattress  400 . Consequently, the air pressure within the air mattress  400  will increase and the diaphragm valve  1225  will close and thus, shut off air flowing into the valve assembly  1220 . Conversely, when the air pressure within the air mattress  400  is low, the diaphragm valve  1225  may be in an open position allowing air to enter the valve assembly  1220 . 
     The valve cap  1205  may be configured to attach to the valve body  1220 . In some embodiments, the valve cap  1205  may include internal grooves at a bottom portion capable of attachment to the valve body  1220  by a screwing motion. When the valve cap  1205  is attached to the valve body  1220 , the valve cap  1205  may prevent air from entering the valve assembly  1200 . Alternately, when the valve cap  1205  is not attached to the valve body  1220 , air may enter the valve assembly  1200 . The valve cap gasket  1210  may be positioned within the valve cap  1205 . The valve cap gasket  1210  may help ensure the prevention of air from entering the valve body  1220  when the valve cap  1205  is attached to the valve body  1220 . 
       FIGS. 13A-B  illustrate a sectional view of a built-in air pump with a closed and opened diaphragm valve, respectively. The built-in air pump  1300  may be included within the air mattress  400 . In some embodiments, the air mattress  400  may include a plurality of the built-in air pump  1300 . The built-in air pump  1300  may be positioned in various positions on the air mattress  400 . The built-in air pump  1300  may include a compression spring  1305 , a bottom end cap  1310 , a top end cap  1315 , a bellow  1320 , a tube-like construction  1325 , and the valve assembly  1200 . The bottom end cap  1310  and the top end cap  1315  may be attached to the compression spring  1305  at opposite ends of the compression spring  1305 . The top end cap  1315  may be connected to the valve body  1220  providing a connection between the valve assembly  1200  and the built-in air pump  1300 . The tube-like construction  1325  may comprise a plurality of flexible sheets. The tube-like construction  1325  may form a hollow cylindrical shaped structure. The bottom end cap  1310 , the top end cap  1315 , and the compression spring  1305  may be positioned within the tube-like construction  1325 . At a side surface, the tube-like construction  1325  may be attached to the bellow  1320 . Downward pressing on the valve assembly  1200  may cause air to flow through the tube-like construction  1325 , into the bellow  1320 , and then into the main chamber of the air mattress  400 . 
     Referring to  FIG. 13A , high air pressure within the built-in air pump  1300  may close the diaphragm valve  1225  restricting the intake of air through the valve assembly  1200 . When the air mattress  400  is inflated and the valve assembly  1200  is stepped on, the air pressure within the air mattress  400  and the built-in air pump  1300  may cause the compression spring  1305  and the tube-like construction  1325  not to contract. Consequently, the top end cap  1315  may not move toward the bottom end cap  1310 . Therefore, air may not be pushed through the bellow  1320  and into the air mattress  400 . Further, the air pressure acting against the tube-like construction  1325  may cause the tube-like construction  1325  to serve as one-way valve preventing air from leaving the air mattress  400 . 
     Turning to  FIG. 13B , the diaphragm valve  1225  may be open when the air pressure within the internal chamber  1300  is low. A low air pressure may be an air pressure insufficient to inflate the air mattress  400 . When the air assembly  1200  is stepped on, the air compression spring  1305  and the tube-like construction  1325  may contract allowing the top end cap  1315  to be moved downward toward the bottom end cap  1310 . The downward movement of the top end cap  1315  may cause air within the internal air chamber  1300  to be pushed downward and through the bellow  1320 . The air pushed through the bellow  1320  enters the main chamber of the air mattress  400  causing the air mattress  400  to be inflated. 
       FIG. 14  depicts a top view of a valve assembly connected to a built-in manual air pump of an air mattress. Within an internal portion of the air mattress  400 , the built-in air pump  1300  may be included. The valve assembly  1200  may be positioned on a top surface of the air mattress  400  above the built-in air pump  1300  such that the valve assembly  1200  may attach to the built-in air pump  1300 . 
     An embodiment of the present disclosure can be implemented according to at least the following: 
     Clause 1: An air mattress comprising: a built-in air pump provided within an internal portion of the air mattress; a valve assembly disposed on a top surface of the air mattress and connected to the built-in air pump, the top surface having a plurality of top surface connection points on an internal side of the top surface, and the valve assembly comprising: a valve body attached to the top surface of the air mattress; a diaphragm valve positioned on a bottom portion of the valve body; a valve cap configured to attach to the valve body, the valve cap having a hook-like portion; and a cap gasket positioned within the valve cap; a bottom surface having a plurality of bottom surface connection points on an internal side of the bottom surface; and one or more side surfaces connecting the top surface to the bottom surface such that the top surface, the bottom surface, and the one or more side surfaces form an airtight enclosure that defines an interior volume of the air mattress, wherein the internal sides of the top and bottom surfaces face into the airtight enclosure. 
     Clause 2: The air mattress of Clause 1, wherein the built-in air pump further comprises: a tube-like construction defining an inner cavity between the top surface and the bottom surface; a compression spring located within the inner cavity and attached to the top surface and the bottom surface; a bellow connected to a side surface of the tube-like construction, the bellow providing an air pathway from the inner cavity to the interior volume of the air mattress; a top end cap attached to a top portion of the compression spring and abutting the top surface; and a bottom end cap attached to a bottom portion of the compression spring and abutting the bottom surface. 
     Clause 3: The air mattress of Clause 2, wherein the tube-like construction comprises a plurality of flexible sheets. 
     Clause 4: The air mattress of Clause 2, wherein when a downward force on the valve assembly exceeds an outward force exerted on the diaphragm valve of the valve assembly by the compression spring, and wherein when an inward force of atmospheric air pressure acting on the valve assembly exceeds an outward force exerted on the diaphragm valve of the valve assembly by air pressure internal to the air mattress, the downward force causes the compression spring and the tube-like construction to contract such that the top end cap moves toward the bottom end cap. 
     Clause 5: The air mattress of Clause 4, wherein when the top end cap moves toward the bottom end cap, air contained in the inner cavity flows through the bellow into the interior volume of the air mattress. 
     Clause 6: The air mattress of Clause 1, wherein when an outward force exerted on the diaphragm valve of the valve assembly by air pressure internal to the air mattress exceeds an inward force exerted on the valve assembly by atmospheric air pressure, the outward force causes the diaphragm valve to close the valve body. 
     Clause 7: The air mattress of Clause 1, wherein the valve body comprises: a flat flange connected to the top surface of the air mattress device; a wavy surface having a side surface, the wavy surface being connected to the flat flange at the side surface of the wavy surface; and a cap strap configured to attach to the valve cap at the hook-like portion of the valve cap. 
     Clause 8: The air mattress of Clause 7, wherein the wavy surface includes a set of openings such that the wavy surface allows air to enter the valve assembly when the valve assembly is covered. 
     Clause 9: The air mattress of Clause 7, wherein the valve body is injection molded. 
     Clause 10: The air mattress of Clause 1, further comprising a mesh web that is attached to two or more of the plurality of top surface connection points and two or more of the plurality of bottom surface connection points. 
     Clause 11: An air mattress comprising: a top surface having a plurality of top surface connection points on an internal side of the top surface; a bottom surface having a plurality of bottom surface connection points on an internal side of the bottom surface; one or more side surfaces connecting the top surface to the bottom surface such that the top surface, the bottom surface, and the one or more side surfaces form an airtight enclosure that defines an interior volume of the air mattress; a built-in air pump provided within an internal portion of the air mattress, the built-in air pump comprising: a tube-like construction defining an inner cavity between the top surface and the bottom surface; a compression spring located within the inner cavity and attached to the top surface and the bottom surface; a bellow connected to a side surface of the tube-like construction, the bellow providing an air pathway from the inner cavity to the interior volume of the air mattress; a top end cap attached to a top portion of the compression spring and abutting the top surface; and a bottom end cap attached to a bottom portion of the compression spring and abutting the bottom surface; and a valve assembly disposed on a top surface of the air mattress device and connected to the built-in air pump. 
     Clause 12: The air mattress of Clause 11, wherein the valve assembly comprises: a valve body; a diaphragm valve positioned at a bottom portion of the valve body; a valve cap configured to attach to the valve body, the valve cap having a hook-like portion; and a cap gasket positioned within the valve cap. 
     Clause 13: The air mattress of Clause 12, wherein the valve body comprises: a flat flange connected to the top surface of the air mattress device; a wavy surface having a side surface, wherein the wavy surface is connected to the flat flange at the side surface; and a cap strap configured to attach to the valve cap at the hook-like portion of the valve cap. 
     Clause 14: The air mattress of Clause 13, wherein the wavy surface includes a set of openings such that the wavy surface allows air to enter the valve assembly when the valve assembly is covered. 
     Clause 15: The air mattress of Clause 12, wherein the valve body is injection molded. 
     Clause 16: The air mattress of Clause 11, further comprising a mesh web that is attached to two or more of the plurality of top surface connection points and two or more of the plurality of bottom surface connection points. 
     Clause 17: The air mattress of Clause 11, wherein the tube-like construction comprises a plurality of flexible sheets. 
     Clause 18: The air mattress of Clause 11, wherein when a downward force on the valve assembly exceeds an outward force exerted on the diaphragm valve of the valve assembly by the compression spring, and wherein when an inward force of atmospheric air pressure acting on the valve assembly exceeds an outward force exerted on the diaphragm valve of the valve assembly by air pressure internal to the air mattress, the downward force causes the compression spring and the tube-like construction to contract such that the top end cap moves toward the bottom end cap. 
     Clause 19: The air mattress of Clause 18, wherein when the top end cap moves toward the bottom end cap, air contained in the inner cavity flows through the bellow into the interior volume of the air mattress. 
     Clause 20: The air mattress of Clause 11, wherein when an outward force exerted on the diaphragm valve of the valve assembly by air pressure internal to the air mattress exceeds an inward force exerted on the valve assembly by atmospheric air pressure, the outward force causes the diaphragm valve to close the valve body. 
     Clause 21: The air mattress of Clause 11, wherein when an inward force exerted on the valve assembly by atmospheric air pressure exceeds an outward force exerted on the diaphragm valve of the valve assembly by air pressure internal to the air mattress, the diaphragm valve is configured to allow air to enter the valve assembly. 
     Clause 22: A method of inflating an air mattress, the method comprising: depressing a valve assembly disposed on a top surface of the air mattress and connected to a built-in air pump, the valve assembly comprising: a valve body attached to the top surface of the air mattress; a diaphragm valve positioned on a bottom portion of the valve body; a valve cap configured to attach to the valve body, the valve cap having a hook-like portion; and a cap gasket positioned within the valve cap; applying a downward force to the built-in air pump by exceeding an outward force of air pressure exerted on the valve assembly, the built-in air pump comprising: a tube-like construction defining an inner cavity between the top surface and a bottom surface of the air mattress; a compression spring located within the inner cavity and attached to the top surface and the bottom surface; a bellow connected to a side surface of the tube-like construction, the bellow providing an air pathway from the inner cavity to an interior volume of the air mattress; a top end cap attached to a top portion of the compression spring and abutting the top surface; and a bottom end cap attached to a bottom portion of the compression spring and abutting the bottom surface; contracting the compression spring and the tube-like construction allowing the top end cap to move toward the bottom end cap; and pushing air contained in the inner cavity through the bellow and into the interior volume due to the contracting. 
     Clause 23: The method of Clause 22, wherein when the outward force of air pressure pushes the diaphragm valve into the valve body to seal the valve body when the air mattress is inflated. 
     Clause 24: The method of Clause 22, wherein applying the downward force further comprises exceeding an outward force of the compression spring. 
     Clause 25: The method of Clause 22, wherein the valve body is injection molded. 
     Clause 26: The method of Clause 22, further comprising a mesh web that is attached to two or more of the plurality of top surface connection points and two or more of the plurality of bottom surface connection points. 
     Clause 27: The method of Clause 22, wherein the tube-like construction comprises a plurality of flexible sheets. 
     While the present disclosure has been described in connection with a plurality of exemplary aspects, as illustrated in the various figures and discussed above, it is understood that other similar aspects can be used or modifications and additions can be made to the described aspects for performing the same function of the present disclosure without deviating therefrom. For example, in various aspects of the disclosure, methods and compositions were described according to aspects of the presently disclosed subject matter. But, other equivalent methods or composition to these described aspects are also contemplated by the teachings herein. Therefore, the present disclosure should not be limited to any single aspect, but rather construed in breadth and scope in accordance with the appended claims.