Patent ID: 7048025

Claim:
A machine for inflating an inflatable cushion having an inflatable body, an inflation portion defining an inflation aperture, and an inlet passageway placing the inflatable body and inflation portion in fluid communication, the machine comprising: an inflation tube having an inlet portion connected to a source of inflation fluid and an outlet portion larger than the inflation aperture of the inflatable cushion; an anvil connected to a base and defining a slot; wherein the inflation tube and anvil are adjustable between: an engaged position in which the inflation tube outlet opposes the slot of the anvil, wherein the inflation tube and the anvil are capable of engaging the inflation portion of the inflatable cushion between the inflation tube outlet and the anvil so that the inflation tube outlet surrounds the inflation aperture to place the inflatable body in fluid communication with the source of inflation fluid, and wherein in the engaged position the inflation tube outlet is adapted to contact the anvil when the inflation portion of the inflatable cushion is not between the inflation tube outlet and the anvil; and a disengaged position in which the inflation tube and anvil are spaced apart, whereby the inflation portion of the inflatable cushion may be inserted or withdrawn from between the inflation tube and the anvil.