Patent Description:
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.

While some air mattresses must be manually inflated by the human user, many air mattresses include a manual or an electric pump, which can be integrated or separately provided, to enable mechanical inflation. For external air pumps, air mattresses often comprise a valve for receiving the pump. Valves associated with air mattresses come in multiple size as do the air pumps used to inflate the air mattresses. As a result, to allow inflation, the valve size must correspond to the air pump size.

Accordingly, there is a need for an improved valve device capable of receiving air from pumps of various sizes for inflation. Embodiments of the present disclosure are directed to these and other considerations.

<CIT> describes an air valve assembly for use with inflatable articles. The air valve assembly includes a valve base, a valve body, an inflation adapter, a plug and a fixing ring. The air valve assembly provides for inflation of the inflatable article through two different sized air passages, allowing inflation by multiple sizes of air inflation hoses or nozzles. The air valve assembly also provides for deflation of the inflatable article through a third and larger sized air passage. The configuration of the air valve assembly may be changed by hand without the need for tools.

<CIT> describes an air mattress including an inflatable compartment having a length and width, when inflated, sufficient to support a human body; an internal, generally horizontal wall located between the top and bottom of the compartment and connected to and horizontally restraining the sides of the compartment; at least one internal, generally vertical member connected to and restraining the relative vertical movement of the top and bottom of the compartment; and wherein one of the internal, generally vertical member and the internal, generally horizontal wall possesses an opening that permits at least a portion of the other structure to pass therethrough without interruption.

<CIT> describes a multi-configurable valve system comprising a cylindrical central core with an exterior end and an interior end with a cylindrical orifice between the exterior and interior ends. The central core is formed with threads and an external radial shoulder. An enlarged cylinder has exterior and interior ends with its exterior end located in proximity to the interior end of the central core. Axially oriented spacers extend interiorly from the interior end of the enlarged cylinder. A hollow interior tube is located within the central core. Radial arms extend outward from the tube. The tube is coupled to an intermediate extent of the central core. The interior tube has downwardly, extending, circumferentially spaced fingers with tips. A pin extends through the interior tube with an upper annular enlargement above the interior tube and a lower annular enlargement normally beneath the interior tube.

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. The present invention relates to an inflatable air mattress and is defined in the appended claims.

Aspects of the present disclosure relate to an air mattress configured to receive air pumps of various size for inflation. In particular, certain aspects of the present disclosure relate 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 <NUM>. Further, the default ring may be configured to allow a <NUM> air pump to inflate an air mattress comprising the middle valve cover. The adapter ring may have a diameter of <NUM>. 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 <NUM> 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 have 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 <NUM>-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 <NUM>. Further, the top valve may be configured to allow an <NUM> air pump to inflate an air mattress comprising the middle valve cover. The middle valve may have a diameter of <NUM>. 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 <NUM> 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.

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.

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 valve capable of receiving pumps of various sizes. In various embodiments, a valve may provide an air mattress the ability to receive 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> shows a top view of an assembled valve <NUM>. Valve <NUM> may comprise various materials. For example, valve <NUM> 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 <NUM> may vary in size and positioning. Valve <NUM> 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 <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrates an exploded view of components of a valve <NUM>. The components and arrangements shown in <FIG> are not intended to limit the disclosed embodiments as the components used to implement the disclosed processes and features may vary. The valve assembly according to the invention is defined in claim <NUM>. Valve <NUM> may include a top cover <NUM>, a top ring <NUM>, a middle valve <NUM>, an adapter ring <NUM>, a default ring <NUM>, a diaphragm <NUM>, a bottom ring <NUM>, and a valve base <NUM>. The top cover <NUM> may include grooves capable of attachment by a screwing motion. The top cover <NUM> may attach to the middle valve <NUM>. As part of attaching to middle valve <NUM>, the top cover <NUM> may envelop at least portion of the middle valve <NUM>. In some embodiments, the top cover <NUM> may attach to the middle valve <NUM> by other means known in the art.

The top ring <NUM> may be inserted between the middle valve <NUM> and the top cover <NUM> during attachment. The top ring <NUM> may reduce friction and/or wear of the middle valve <NUM> and/or the top cover <NUM>. The middle valve <NUM> may be connected to the default ring <NUM> and/or the adapter ring <NUM>. The adapter ring <NUM> may have grooves allowing attachment to the middle valve <NUM> through a screwing motion. The adapter ring <NUM> may have a diameter of <NUM>. As a result, when the adapter ring <NUM> attaches to the middle valve <NUM>, the adapter ring <NUM> may allow the valve <NUM> to fit an air pump having a nozzle size of <NUM>. In some embodiments, the adapter ring <NUM> may attach to the middle valve <NUM> by other means known in the art.

The default ring <NUM> and the adapter ring <NUM> may be connected to the middle valve <NUM> by the same connection. The connection may be flexible such that the adapter ring <NUM> and/or the default ring <NUM> are able to bend over a top portion of the middle valve <NUM>. When the top cover <NUM> is disconnected from the middle valve <NUM>, the middle valve <NUM> is exposed. The middle valve may have a diameter of <NUM>. The default ring <NUM> may also have a diameter of <NUM>. Accordingly, the middle valve and/or default ring may allow the valve <NUM> to fit an air pump having a nozzle size of <NUM>.

When the air pressure of the air mattress <NUM> is inflated, i.e., the air pressure is near capacity, a top portion of the diaphragm <NUM> may enter an opening of a bottom portion of the middle valve <NUM> such that a connection is created. At this point, the connection between the diaphragm <NUM> and the middle valve <NUM> provides closure of the air valve, which prevents air from entering or exiting the air mattress <NUM>. Conversely, when the air pressure of the mattress <NUM> is deflated, space exits between the top portion of the diaphragm <NUM> and the bottom portion of middle valve <NUM> such that air may enter the mattress <NUM> for inflation.

A bottom portion of the diaphragm <NUM> may positioned within the valve base <NUM>. The bottom ring <NUM> may be positioned between the valve base <NUM> and the diaphragm <NUM>. The bottom ring <NUM> may reduce friction and/or wear of the middle valve <NUM> and/or the valve base <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrates stages of assembly of a valve. At <NUM>, valve <NUM> is closed (i.e., the top cover <NUM> is connected to a top portion of the middle valve <NUM>). At <NUM>, the top cover <NUM> is disconnected from a top portion of middle valve <NUM>. When the top cover <NUM> is disconnected from a top portion of the middle valve <NUM>, the middle valve <NUM> is exposed and therefore, the valve <NUM> may receive air from an air pump having a diameter of <NUM>. At <NUM>, the top cover <NUM> is disconnected from a top portion of middle valve <NUM>. However, adapter ring <NUM> is connected to the middle valve <NUM>. Therefore, the valve <NUM> may receive air from an air pump having a diameter of <NUM>.

<FIG> shows a top view of an assembled valve. Similar to valve <NUM>, valve <NUM> may comprise various materials. For example, valve <NUM> 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 <NUM> may vary in size and positioning. Valve <NUM> 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 <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrates an exploded view of components of valve <NUM>, according to embodiments of the present disclosure. The components and arrangements shown in <FIG> are not intended to limit the disclosed embodiments as the components used to implement the disclosed processes and features may vary. The valve assembly according to the invention is defined in claim <NUM>. Valve <NUM> may include a top cap <NUM>, a top valve <NUM>, a top ring <NUM>, a middle valve <NUM>, a diaphragm <NUM>, a bottom ring <NUM>, and a valve base <NUM>. The top cap <NUM> may comprise a combination of plastic, polyvinyl chloride ("PVC"), rubber, metal, or any other suitable material or combination of materials. The top cap <NUM> may be attachable to the valve base <NUM>, the top valve <NUM>, and/or the middle valve <NUM>. The top cap <NUM> may include one or more circular rings capable of enveloping at least a portion of the middle valve <NUM>, and/or at least a portion of the valve base <NUM>. The one or more circular rings of the top cap <NUM> may be attached to one another at one or more points of attachment. The one or more circular rings of the top cap <NUM> may provide the top cap <NUM> attachment the middle valve <NUM> and/or the valve base <NUM>. When valve <NUM> is assembled, each of the one or more circular rings of the top cap <NUM> may fit between an attachment of the top valve <NUM> and the middle valve <NUM>, and/or an attachment of the middle valve <NUM> and the valve base <NUM>. The top cap <NUM> may include a lid capable of connecting and disconnecting from the body of the top cap <NUM> such that an opening and closing feature are provided. When the lid of the top cap <NUM> is connected to the body of the top cap <NUM>, the lid may also be connected to the top valve <NUM>. When the lid of top cap <NUM> is disconnected from the body of top cap <NUM>, an opening is provided such that top valve <NUM> is exposed. Top valve <NUM> may have a diameter of <NUM>. As a result, the valve <NUM> may receive air from an air pump having a diameter of <NUM>.

The top valve <NUM> may include an opening at the top portion capable of receiving at least a portion of the top cap <NUM>. The top valve <NUM> may include grooves within an inner portion capable of attaching to another body having similar grooves through a screwing motion. The middle valve <NUM> may screw into the top valve <NUM> to create attachment. In some embodiments, the top valve <NUM> may attach to the middle valve <NUM> by other means known in the art. As part of attaching to middle valve <NUM>, the top valve <NUM> may envelop at least a portion of the middle valve <NUM>.

The top ring <NUM> may be inserted between the middle valve <NUM> and the top valve <NUM> during attachment. The top ring <NUM> may reduce friction and/or wear of the middle valve <NUM> and/or the top cover <NUM>. The middle valve <NUM> may have a diameter of <NUM>. The top valve <NUM> may be disconnected/unattached from the middle valve <NUM> by an unscrewing motion. When the top valve <NUM> is unattached from the middle valve <NUM>, an opening is provided such that middle valve <NUM> is exposed. As a result, the middle valve <NUM> may allow the valve <NUM> to fit an air pump having a nozzle size of <NUM>.

As described similarly in reference to <FIG>, when the air pressure of the air mattress <NUM> is inflated, i.e., the air pressure is near capacity, a top portion of the diaphragm <NUM> may enter an opening of a bottom portion of the middle valve <NUM> such that a connection is created. At this point, the connection between the diaphragm <NUM> and the middle valve <NUM> provides closure of the air valve, which prevents air from entering or exiting the air mattress <NUM>. Conversely, when the air pressure of the mattress <NUM> is deflated, space exists between the top portion of the diaphragm <NUM> and the bottom portion of middle valve <NUM> such that air may enter the mattress <NUM> for inflation.

<FIG> illustrates stages of assembly of a valve. At <NUM>, valve <NUM> is closed (i.e., the lid of the top cap <NUM> is connected to the body of top cap <NUM>, and top cap <NUM> is connected to top valve <NUM>). At <NUM>, the top cap <NUM> is disconnected from the top valve <NUM> and the middle valve <NUM>. As shown at <NUM>, when the top cap <NUM> is disconnected from the top valve <NUM> and the middle valve <NUM>, the top valve <NUM> may be exposed. A top portion of the top valve <NUM> may include an opening. When the top valve <NUM> is exposed, valve <NUM> may receive air from an air pump having a diameter of <NUM>. At <NUM>, the top valve <NUM> is disconnected from the middle valve <NUM>. As a result, a top portion of the middle valve <NUM> is exposed. The top portion of the middle valve <NUM> may have an opening allowing a flow of air into the valve. When the middle valve <NUM> is exposed, valve <NUM> may receive air from an air pump having a diameter of <NUM>.

<FIG> 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 <NUM> may be a component of valve <NUM> and/or valve <NUM>. At <NUM>, the bottom portion of middle valve <NUM> can be seen. In this view, middle valve <NUM> is unattached from the diaphragm <NUM>. This view is consistent with the air mattress <NUM> being deflated and in a state where the diaphragm <NUM> does not block air from entering the valve <NUM>. At <NUM>, the diaphragm <NUM> is shown with a top most portion facing upwards. The middle valve <NUM> is shown from a top view. As can be seen, the middle valve <NUM> 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 <NUM> and form a circular opening toward a middle portion of the inner middle valve <NUM>. The top most portion of the diaphragm <NUM> may have a diameter similar in size to the formed circular opening of middle valve <NUM> such that the diaphragm <NUM> may fit into the circular opening. Also, in this view the air mattress <NUM> is in a deflated state such that the diaphragm <NUM> does not prevent air from entering the valve <NUM> for inflation. At <NUM>, the diaphragm <NUM> is connected to the middle valve <NUM>. In this view, the air mattress <NUM> is inflated such that the diaphragm <NUM> prevents air entering the valve <NUM>.

<FIG> is an overview of an air mattress <NUM>. Air mattress <NUM> may vary in size once inflated based on the desired dimensions and/or number of users. For example, air mattress <NUM> may be a twin, full, queen, or king size bed. In some embodiments, air mattress <NUM> 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>, the air mattress <NUM> may comprise a top surface <NUM> and bottom surface <NUM> as well as side surfaces (e.g., side surface <NUM>). Air mattress <NUM> may further include valve <NUM>, <NUM>, and/or <NUM>.

<FIG> is a top view of an embodiment of an air mattress <NUM> comprising an internal structure <NUM>. As discussed, in some embodiments, an internal structure <NUM> of an air mattress <NUM> may be included in the interior of the air mattress <NUM>. The internal structure <NUM> may help the air mattress <NUM> achieve and maintain its intended shape once the air mattress <NUM> is inflated. Further, an internal structure <NUM> may prevent the air mattress <NUM> from over-inflating. Similarly, the internal structure <NUM> may prevent the top surface (e.g., top surface <NUM>) and the bottom surface (e.g., bottom surface <NUM>) from shearing (i.e., moving laterally relative to each other).

In some embodiments, an internal structure <NUM> may comprise a plurality of connection strips <NUM> (e.g., strips 510a, 510b) having a predetermined length that are attached (i.e., joined, connected, affixed) to one or more of the top surface <NUM> and bottom surface <NUM> of the air mattress <NUM>. In some embodiments, a connection strip <NUM> 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 <NUM> may be constructed from a single piece of material (e.g., the connection strip <NUM> may be a single, continuous strip of PVC). In some embodiments, a connection strip <NUM> may be constructed from a collection (i.e., a plurality) of materials, fibers, or strings.

As shown in <FIG>, in some embodiments, the air mattress <NUM> can be transparent, thereby providing a view of the plurality of connection strips <NUM> (e.g., connection strips 510a, 510b) comprising the internal structure <NUM>. Further, the transparency of the air mattress <NUM> provides a view of top surface connection points <NUM>, as highlighted by dashed box <NUM>, which includes top surface connection point 515a. Further, the transparency of the air mattress <NUM> provides a view of bottom surface connection points <NUM>, as highlighted by dashed box <NUM>, which includes bottom surface connection point 525a. In some embodiments, connection points (e.g., top surface connection points <NUM> and bottom surface connection points <NUM>) are on opposing interior surfaces of the top surface <NUM> and bottom surface <NUM>. Accordingly, in such embodiments, the connection points are on the interior of the air mattress <NUM>. Further, in some embodiments, connection strips <NUM> may attach directly to connection points <NUM> and <NUM>. In some embodiments, for example, a connection strip <NUM> may be welded to top and bottom surface attachment points <NUM>, <NUM>. Further, in some embodiments, a connection strip <NUM> may be glued, sewn, adhered, or otherwise attached to top and bottom surface attachment points <NUM>, <NUM>.

As shown in <FIG>, in some embodiments, a connection strip <NUM> may attach between a top surface connection point <NUM> and a bottom surface connection point <NUM>. In some embodiments, when an air mattress <NUM> is inflated, as shown in <FIG>, a connection strip <NUM> may angle from top surface <NUM> toward bottom surface <NUM>, or vice versa. For example, as shown in <FIG>, connection strip 510c angles from bottom surface connection point 525b toward top surface connection point 515a. Similarly, as shown in <FIG>, connection strip 510d angles from bottom surface connection point 525a toward top surface connection point 515b, according to some embodiments. As will be appreciated, when configured in the manner described and shown in <FIG>, angled connection strips (e.g., connection strip 510c and 510d) may comprise an internal structure <NUM> with sufficient strength to prevent the air mattress <NUM> from over-inflating and to prevent the top surface and bottom surface (e.g., <NUM> and <NUM>) from moving laterally in relation to one another (i.e., shearing).

Further, in some embodiments, a plurality of connection strips <NUM> may connect to a particular top surface connection point <NUM> or bottom surface connection point <NUM>. For example, in some embodiments and as shown in <FIG>, four connection strips 510e-h attach to a single connection point (i.e., top surface connection point 515c). It is contemplated that in various embodiments, any number of connection strips <NUM> could connect to a particular connection point (e.g., a top surface connection point <NUM> or bottom surface connection point <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, in configurations in which multiple connection strips (e.g., 510e-h) attach to a single connection point (e.g., top surface connection point 515c), and in which the connection strips <NUM> angle from a top surface connection points <NUM> toward bottom surface connection points <NUM>, and vice versa, the plurality of connection strips <NUM> may constitute an internal structure <NUM> having a web-like configuration. According to some embodiments, a plurality of top surface connection points <NUM> 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 <NUM> may be located on the bottom surface <NUM> in positions that are offset relative to the locations of the plurality of top surface connection points <NUM> on the top surface <NUM>. As will be appreciated, an internal structure <NUM> having a web-like configuration may further aid in helping an air mattress <NUM> maintain its intended shape and prevent the air mattress <NUM> from becoming over-inflated. Further, an internal structure <NUM> having a web-like configuration may help prevent the top surface <NUM> and bottom surface <NUM> of an air mattress <NUM> from shearing or moving laterally relative to one another.

As noted above, in some embodiments, a connection strip <NUM> may be constructed from a single piece of material. But, in some embodiments, a connection strip <NUM> 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 <NUM> and bottom surface connection point <NUM>. In some embodiments, however, a connection strip <NUM> may comprise attachment strips (or, alternatively, weld strips) at each end of the connection strip <NUM>. An attachment strip may be a strip of material or a patch, that may be used to affix a portion of an internal structure <NUM> to a portion of the air mattress <NUM>. For example, an attachment strip may be a strip of PVC that may be welded to a surface of the air mattress <NUM>. In some embodiments, a portion of an internal structure <NUM>, for example, a portion of a connection strip <NUM>, may be sandwiched between an attachment strip and a surface of the air mattress <NUM> and the attachment strip may be welded to the surface of the air mattress <NUM> to secure the connection strip <NUM> to it. In such embodiments, the plurality of individual strips or strands comprising the connection strip <NUM> 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., <NUM> and <NUM>). For example, in some embodiments, an attachment strip, a portion of a connection strip <NUM>, and a portion of either the top surface <NUM> or bottom surface <NUM> may be welded together at a top surface connection point <NUM> or bottom surface connection point <NUM>.

<FIG> is a perspective view of an air mattress <NUM> comprising an internal structure <NUM> that is comprised of a single sheet of material. According to some embodiments, the internal structure <NUM> may be a continuous piece of material. In some embodiments, the internal structure may be a mesh structure <NUM> (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 <NUM> may be made of a single piece of material including a plurality of apertures. In some embodiments, an internal structure <NUM> of an air mattress <NUM> may be included in the interior of the air mattress <NUM> and may operate in a manner similar to internal structure <NUM> described above. For example, the internal structure <NUM> may help the air mattress <NUM> achieve and maintain its intended shape once the air mattress <NUM> is inflated. Further, internal structure <NUM> may prevent the air mattress from over-inflating. Similarly, the internal mesh structure <NUM> may prevent the top surface (e.g., top surface <NUM>) and the bottom surface (e.g., bottom surface <NUM>) from shearing (i.e., moving laterally relative to each other). In some embodiments, the outer edge of the internal structure <NUM> may be attached to the inner surfaces of the side surfaces <NUM>.

In some embodiments, a mesh structure <NUM> 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 <NUM> may be constructed form a single piece of material (e.g., the mesh structure <NUM> may be a single, continuous piece of fiber). In some embodiments, a mesh structure <NUM> may be constructed from a collection (i.e., plurality) of materials, fibers, or strings.

As shown in <FIG>, in some embodiments, a mesh structure <NUM> may attach to the internal surface of an air mattress <NUM> at various top surface connection points <NUM> and bottom surface connection points <NUM>. According to some embodiments, the top surface connection points <NUM> and bottom surface connection points <NUM> may be located in positions similar to those shown with respect to internal structure <NUM> and creating a 3D web-like structure as previously described above. For example, according to some embodiments, a plurality of top surface connection points <NUM> 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 <NUM> may be located on the bottom surface <NUM> in positions that are offset relative to the locations of the plurality of top surface connection points <NUM> on the top surface <NUM>. Accordingly, in some embodiments, when air mattress <NUM> is inflated, the mesh structure <NUM> may take on a <NUM>-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>. According to some embodiments, the peak of each top hump may attach to the air mattress <NUM> at a top connection point <NUM> and the trough of each bottom hump may attach to the air mattress <NUM> at a bottom connection point <NUM>. As will be appreciated, an internal structure <NUM> having a web-like configuration may help prevent the top surface <NUM> and bottom surface <NUM> of an air mattress <NUM> from shearing and moving laterally relative to one another.

As described above, a mesh structure <NUM> may attach (i.e., join, connect, affix) to the top surface <NUM> and bottom surface <NUM> of the air mattress <NUM>. In some embodiments, a mesh structure <NUM> may attach to the air mattress <NUM> at one or more top surface connection points <NUM> and one or more bottom surface connection points <NUM>. In some embodiments, portions of a mesh structure <NUM> may be welded to top and bottom surface attachment points <NUM>, <NUM>. In some embodiments, portions of the mesh structure <NUM> may be attached to the air mattress <NUM> 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 <NUM> to a top surface connection point <NUM> or a bottom surface connection point <NUM>. According to some embodiments, portions of the mesh structure <NUM> may be attached to the air mattress <NUM> with one or more attachment strips. For example, a top connection point <NUM> may be sandwiched between an attachment strip and the top surface <NUM> and the three may be welded together. Likewise, a bottom surface connection point <NUM> may be sandwiched between an attachment strip and the bottom surface <NUM> 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 <NUM> may be glued, sewn, adhered, or otherwise attached to top and bottom surface attachment points <NUM>, <NUM>.

<FIG> is an embodiment of an air mattress <NUM> comprising a top surface <NUM>, bottom surface <NUM>, a plurality of side surfaces (e.g., side surface <NUM>), and various air mattress <NUM> components. Further, as shown in <FIG>, in some embodiments, an air mattress <NUM> may comprise a portable power source <NUM>. In some embodiments, a portable power source <NUM> may be a battery and provide direct current. In other embodiments, portable power source <NUM> 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 <NUM> may be housed in a power source housing (not shown) on air mattress <NUM> for convenient transport. In some embodiments, a portable power source <NUM> may comprise a power plug <NUM>, which may be attachable to portable power source <NUM>. In some embodiments, however, power plug <NUM> may be used in lieu of portable power source <NUM>. Power plug <NUM> 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 <NUM> may be used in outdoor and indoor locations, a power plug <NUM> may be suited for indoor use when air mattress <NUM> is placed near an electrical outlet.

In some embodiments, an air mattress may comprise an air control system <NUM>, which may be used to control air flow and to inflate and deflate an air mattress <NUM>. In some embodiments, a portable power source <NUM> or a power plug <NUM> (or a combination of both) may provide power to an air control system <NUM>. In some embodiments, an air control system <NUM> may include an air intake component <NUM> and a controller <NUM>. An air intake component <NUM> may be configured to direct ambient air into the air mattress <NUM> during mattress inflation and direct air from the air mattress <NUM> during mattress deflation. In some embodiments, the air intake component <NUM> may comprise an outer seal that inhibits or allows the flow of outside air into the air control system <NUM>. In some embodiments, the air intake component <NUM> also may include an inner seal (not shown) that inhibits or allows the flow of internal air between air control system <NUM> and the air chamber (i.e., interior) of an air mattress <NUM>.

In some embodiments, a controller <NUM> 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 <NUM> via the air control system <NUM>. In some embodiments, the controller <NUM> may include one or more processors having memory. Also, in some embodiments, the controller <NUM> 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 <NUM> 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 <NUM> receives user input to inflate the air mattress <NUM>. In some embodiments, inflation mode may last until the controller <NUM> receives additional user input to stop inflating the air mattress <NUM>. In some embodiments, however, the controller <NUM> 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 <NUM>. During inflation mode, both the inner and outer seals may be open to allow ambient air to flow into the air mattress <NUM>.

In some embodiments, deflation mode may begin when the controller <NUM> receives user input to deflate the air mattress <NUM>. For example, in some embodiments, deflation mode may last until the controller <NUM> receives additional user input to stop deflating the air mattress <NUM>. Further, in some embodiments, the controller <NUM> 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 <NUM>. During deflation mode, both the inner and outer seals may be open to allow ambient air to flow out of the air mattress <NUM>.

According to some embodiments, an air recirculation mode may begin when the controller <NUM> receives user input to circulate air within air mattress <NUM>. In doing so, the controller <NUM> may direct the outer seal to close while the inner seal remains open, thus allowing air to enter the air intake component <NUM>, but not escape the air mattress <NUM>. According to some embodiments, circulating air within an air mattress <NUM> may cause a vibrating or massaging pulse on the surface of the air mattress <NUM> and/or adjust air pressure via air control system <NUM>. In some embodiments, air recirculation mode may last until the controller <NUM> receives additional user input to stop circulating air within the air mattress <NUM>. Also, in some embodiments, the controller <NUM> may automatically control the time duration and/or interval to recirculate air within the air mattress <NUM>.

In some embodiments, a standby mode may occur when the controller <NUM> receives power from portable power source <NUM> and/or power plug <NUM> and is not placed in another mode. For example, the controller <NUM> may operate in standby mode before receiving user input. In some embodiments, the controller <NUM> may also direct the inner seal to close to inhibit air recirculation. Also, in some embodiments, the controller <NUM> may direct the inner seal to remain open. It is contemplated that the air mattress <NUM> may only include the outer seal and not the inner seal, according to some embodiments.

In some embodiments, an air mattress <NUM> may comprise valve <NUM>, <NUM>, and/or <NUM>. As shown, air mattress <NUM> may comprise valve <NUM>. According to some embodiments, valve <NUM> may be configured to inhibit the flow of air out of the air mattress <NUM> when valve <NUM> is in a closed position and allow air flow out of air mattress <NUM> when <NUM> is in an open position.

<FIG> 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 <NUM>, which includes a first side strip <NUM> positioned outside the loop <NUM> and proximate the overlapping ends and a second side strip <NUM> a second side strip <NUM> may be positioned outside the loop <NUM> and adjacent a portion of the loop <NUM> opposite the overlapping ends of the loop <NUM>, as discussed above. As shown most clearly in <FIG>, attachment of the first side strip <NUM> to the second side strip <NUM> causes the loop <NUM> to "pinch" together at or near the first and second side strips <NUM>. Though only a single support structure <NUM> is shown, it is understood that a plurality of similar support structures could be used in an air mattress, according to the disclosed technology.

Claim 1:
An inflatable air mattress comprising:
a top panel;
a bottom panel;
one or more side panels attached to the top panel and the bottom panel to form a substantially airtight enclosure;
an internal support structure (<NUM>); and
an air valve assembly (<NUM>, <NUM>) configured to control ingress and egress of air from the substantially airtight enclosure, the air valve assembly comprising:
a base (<NUM>, <NUM>) configured to attach to a portion of the inflatable air mattress,
a middle valve (<NUM>, <NUM>) configured to attach to the base (<NUM>, <NUM>) and having a first diameter, the middle valve comprising: (i) a first end having a first threaded portion and (ii) a second end having a second threaded portion,
a diaphragm member (<NUM>, <NUM>) configured to attach to the middle valve (<NUM>, <NUM>),
an adapter (<NUM>, <NUM>) (i) having a portion with a second diameter that is smaller than the first diameter and (ii) configured to detachably attach to the middle valve portion such that when it is attached, a user may use an inflation device with a smaller dimensioned output, and
a cap (<NUM>, <NUM>) configured to removably couple to a portion of the air valve.