Pneumatic Cushion Patents (Class 297/199)
  • Patent number: 10814927
    Abstract: A bicycle saddle rail includes a first connecting structure, two arc rods and a second connecting structure. The first connecting structure includes a main body and two first connecting portions. Each of the arc rods has a first end and a second end, and each of the first ends of the two arc rods is integrally connected to one of the first connecting portions of the first connecting structure. The second connecting structure includes two second connecting portions, wherein each of the second connecting portions is integrally connected to one of the second ends of the two arc rods, respectively, and the second connecting structure is connected with the first connecting structure via the two arc rods, so that the first connecting structure, the two arc rods and the second connecting structure are connected to each other and formed the bicycle saddle rail with a closed structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 17, 2019
    Date of Patent: October 27, 2020
    Assignee: GIANT MANUFACTURING CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Wei-Tsung Hsu, Che-Wei Hsu, Wei-Han Tseng
  • Patent number: 10144470
    Abstract: A vehicle seat includes a cushion material and a cover for covering the cushion material. The cover includes a load receiving portion configured to receive a load of a seated occupant. The load receiving portion includes a large thickness portion and a small thickness portion that are located next to each other in a first direction that intersects with a thickness direction of the cover. Each of the large and small thickness portions includes an elastic layer compressive in the thickness direction and a lower cover layer located closer to the cushion material than the elastic layer in the thickness direction. The elastic layer of the small thickness portion is compressed such that the thickness of the small thickness portion is smaller than the thickness of the large thickness portion. The lower cover layer of the large thickness portion is partially cut off to form a cutoff portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 2017
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2018
    Assignees: TS Tech Co., Ltd., Harley-Davidson Motor Company Group, LLC
    Inventors: Hideki Tokumoto, Sam Schacht, Elizabeth Chambers, Justin Schrand, Katsuhiro Kiya, Anthony Senger, Kenneth Luckjohn, Ben McGinley
  • Patent number: 10035553
    Abstract: A bicycle seat apparatus including at least one rail and a saddle shell. The at least one rail can include a first mounting portion. The first mounting portion can include an ankle. A cross section of a terminus of the ankle can be larger than a cross section of the at least one rail. The saddle shell can include at least one mounting cup configured to mate with the first mounting portion of the at least one rail. A cross section of a base of the at least one mounting cup can be larger than a cross section of the terminus of the ankle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 1, 2017
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2018
    Assignee: Trek Bicycle Corporation
    Inventors: Jess Bailie, Jenn Campbell, Andrew Wilcox-Hull
  • Patent number: 9440695
    Abstract: A seat for a vehicle, such as a bicycle, includes a stem for coupling to the bicycle. The seat includes a saddle supported by the stem and an inflatable bladder supported by the saddle. An electrically powered air compressor is supported by the stem and is in fluid communication with the bladder for inflating the bladder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 9, 2014
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2016
    Assignee: FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC
    Inventors: Scott H. Dunham, Kenneth Alan Stoner, Anthony Ligi, Bernard Gerard Marchetti
  • Patent number: 9422019
    Abstract: A bladder formed inside or positioned on a seat accounts for variations in personal anatomy with changes in the configurations of multiple chambers in the bladder and may also allow for changes to the constriction between the chambers in the bladder. The bladder forms a cushioning device that is used for seating applications which involve movement and continuously changes softness between the chambers by using the movement of the rider. Rider movement results in the interchange of pressures through variable-sized orifices between variable-displacement chambers. The number and size of the chambers can be varied according to a desired seating configuration. The orifice size can be changed with a variable constriction mechanism. Different fastening configurations can change the number and shape of the chambers. The cushioning device can be used in retrofitting existing seats and can be produced in new seats.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 3, 2014
    Date of Patent: August 23, 2016
    Inventor: Robert J. Stuckey
  • Patent number: 9265355
    Abstract: An inflatable furniture cover support including an inflatable shell disposed atop an outdoor furniture item in order to support a furniture cover in a position covering the outdoor furniture item without touching the outdoor furniture item to prevent mildew and water stains on the furniture cover. An air intake-exhaust tube has a proximal end in fluid communication with an air chamber disposed within the shell and further has a distal end with an air intake-exhaust valve disposed thereon which is in operational communication with an air supply source to inflate and deflate the shell.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 23, 2016
    Inventor: Paul Tramontana
  • Patent number: 9073593
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an adjustable pneumatic bicycle saddle (seat) system, and in particular to a system that can have standard, male and racing configurations. In one embodiment, the seat has a plate with a surface and two openings there through. The plate also has two screw holes. A bladder, shaped similarly to the plate, is also provided. The bladder has two side sections inflatable with a selected amount of air. The two sides are connected with crossovers, which are also inflated. Two webs are provided for receiving screws to connect the bladder to the plate. A depression with a hose fitting is further provided between the two sides. A cover perforated with many holes is further provided. A pump with a plunger, main valve and release valve can be used to inflate and deflate the bladder in real time as the user is riding the cycle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 7, 2015
    Inventor: Steven D. Kuhl
  • Patent number: 8973986
    Abstract: A bicycle saddle adapted to reduce pressure on a rider's perineum zone including a shell having a support portion for the ischial tuberosities and a narrow nose portion extending forward of the support portion. A channel of sloped depth runs substantially the length of the nose portion and follows the dimensions of the human body. The channel is depressed at a shoulder of the support portion so that little or no pressure is applied by the saddle to the central point of the perineal body. An air filled elastic member may be provided in the channel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 3, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 10, 2015
    Inventor: Jon A. Marceleno
  • Publication number: 20140300150
    Abstract: A bladder formed inside or positioned on a seat accounts for variations in personal anatomy with changes in the configurations of multiple chambers in the bladder and may also allow for changes to the constriction between the chambers in the bladder. The bladder forms a cushioning device that is used for seating applications which involve movement and continuously changes softness between the chambers by using the movement of the rider. Rider movement results in the interchange of pressures through variable-sized orifices between variable-displacement chambers. The number and size of the chambers can be varied according to a desired seating configuration. The orifice size can be changed with a variable constriction mechanism. Different fastening configurations can change the number and shape of the chambers. The cushioning device can be used in retrofitting existing seats and can be produced in new seats.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 3, 2014
    Publication date: October 9, 2014
    Inventor: Robert J. Stuckey
  • Patent number: 8512842
    Abstract: A human body support comprises a composite material base frame (2) having a top surface (11) and a bottom surface (10) and a cover element ?(3) formed from a first polymer material (3) associated to the base frame (2). The support further comprises at least one film of a second thermoplastic polymer material (8) which is fixedly attached to the base frame (2). The second thermoplastic material (8) has an affinity with the first polymer material (3) so that the cover element may be fixedly attached to the base frame, thereby forming an integral support. A polymethane gel (4) may be disposed in a recess of the base frame (2). The first polymer material (3) has a thickness of 0.1 to 0.3 mm, and the second material (8) has a thickness of 0.01 to 0.025 mm, both may be optically transparent.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2013
    Assignee: Selle Royal S.p.A.
    Inventor: Stefano Segato
  • Publication number: 20130147151
    Abstract: An improved bicycle seat assembly with pneumatic support, which is adapted for use with a standard bicycle seat post. The pneumatic support of the seat assembly comprises an inflatable bladder positioned between and retained by upper and lower retaining plates. The inflatable bladder is preferably the shape of an annular ring like a bicycle tire inner tube and includes a valve stem to adjust the level of inflation of the inflatable bladder.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 8, 2011
    Publication date: June 13, 2013
    Inventor: Edward J. Noble
  • Patent number: 8302983
    Abstract: A bicycle seat tube assembly includes an outer tube and an inner tube is movably inserted into the outer tube. A valve unit has a first end fixed to the first end cap and a second end of the valve unit is inserted into the inner tube so as to define the interior space of the inner tube into a first oil room and a second oil room. The valve unit regulates volume of oil between the first and second oil rooms. A restriction unit includes a flange on the inner periphery of the inner tube and a stop member located on the valve unit. The stop member contacts the flange when the inner tube moves to a position so as to restrict the inner tube from dropping out from the outer tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2012
    Inventor: Jung Yu Hsu
  • Patent number: 8297696
    Abstract: A bicycle saddle includes front and rear portions; an elastic member disposed between the front and rear portions; and a valve assembly installed to the bottom of the saddle between the front and middle portions and including an air pump and an air escape valve communicating with the elastic member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2012
    Inventor: Louis Chuang
  • Patent number: 8215694
    Abstract: An ATV includes a removable passenger seat. The passenger seat is selectively added or removed from the ATV by way of a latch assembly. The passenger seat is supported by a pivot support link and a suspension coupling. The pivot support link and suspension coupling may be positioned rearward of a straddle-type seat for a driver. The entire pivot support link can be attached to the ATV in a dampened manner by way of the suspension coupling. The suspension coupling is comprised of at least one element acting in a linear direction and moving in at least a partially vertical travel component. The positioning of the suspension coupling provides greater vertical clearance, and therefore, maximum vertical stroke.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 7, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2012
    Assignee: Polaris Industries Inc.
    Inventors: Jeremy C. Smith, Richard D. Ripley, Scott D. Taylor
  • Patent number: 8196948
    Abstract: An elevating device for seat cushion of bicycle includes a cylinder having at least one level to expand or contract inside a frame tube of a bicycle frame, a stick for operating the cylinder, and a driving device for driving the stick. By the driving device, the stick below the seat cushion will press the cylinder so as to make an adjustment of the height of the seat cushion. Therefore, the elevating operation for seat cushion of bicycle is easy and convenient to adjust a proper height of the seat cushion for getting on/off the bicycle and also for comfortable riding.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 12, 2012
    Inventor: Chi-Tien Chang
  • Publication number: 20110057485
    Abstract: A bicycle seatpost assembly is provided with a pair of telescopically tubes, a floating piston, a valve unit and a flow control part. One end of the second tube is open such that one end of the first tube is telescopically disposed in the second tube. The floating piston forms a gas chamber in a first tube. The valve unit is immovably disposed with respect to a second tube and divides the first tube into first and second fluid chambers. The flow control part moves relative to the valve unit such that fluid flows from the second fluid chamber to the first fluid chamber through the valve unit when the flow control part is in a first position, and such that fluid flows from the first fluid chamber to the second fluid chamber through the valve unit when the flow control part is in a second position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 4, 2009
    Publication date: March 10, 2011
    Applicant: SHIMANO INC.
    Inventor: Toyoto SHIRAI
  • Patent number: 7828378
    Abstract: A bicycle seat includes a seat base and a bladder assembly mounted to the seat base. The bladder assembly includes an inner bladder surrounded by an outer bladder and at least partially ringed by a ring bladder. Each bladder can be filled to a desired pressure for any type of rider or riding mode. Accordingly, the bicycle seat offers improved cushioning and stability.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 7, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 9, 2010
    Assignee: Air Seat Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Robert J. Donaghey
  • Publication number: 20100164260
    Abstract: A shock absorbing device for mounting to a bicycle saddle-type seating structure, includes at least one main hollow body (2) of a first elastomeric material that defines an elastically deformable compression chamber (3), at least one secondary hollow body (4) of a second elastomeric material that defines an elastically deformable expansion chamber (5), at least one channel (6) for fluidic connection between the chambers (3, 5), an attachment (7) of the main body (2) and the secondary body (4) to the seating structure (11). The connection channel (6) has a valve for controlling fluid flow between the chambers (3, 5) in response to elastic deformation thereof.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 7, 2007
    Publication date: July 1, 2010
    Inventor: Stefano Segato
  • Patent number: 7648198
    Abstract: An adjustable seat cushion for use on a support surface such as the seat of a motorcycle. The seat cushion is cellular and laterally spreadable inwardly or outwardly depending on the space between the ischial tuberosities of a user seated on the cushion for improved comfort. In an embodiment, the cellular cushion cups the buttocks and also tilts the pelvis of a user seated on the cushion forward for enhanced seated stability.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 19, 2010
    Inventor: Winfield R. Matsler
  • Patent number: 7635161
    Abstract: A seat includes a bladder assembly having a plurality of pneumatic bladders arranged one within another. The compressibility of each pneumatic bladder is based at least in part on a pressure within the pneumatic bladder, and/or on a thickness of an outer layer that defines the shape of the pneumatic bladder. In a configuration, an inner bladder is inflatable independently from an outer bladder, for adjustable, targeted support and compressibility.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 27, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 22, 2009
    Assignee: Air Seat Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Robert Donaghey
  • Publication number: 20090261632
    Abstract: A bicycle saddle comprises a saddle including front and rear portions; an elastic member disposed between the front and rear portions; a valve assembly installed to bottom of the saddle between the front and middle portions and including an air pump and an air escape valve communicating with the elastic member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 1, 2009
    Publication date: October 22, 2009
    Inventor: Louis CHUANG
  • Patent number: 7513568
    Abstract: A bicycle saddle assembly includes a seat body, a supporting rail and a suspension means. The seat body includes a front portion and a rear portion being wider than the front portion. The seat body further includes a longitudinal axis dividing the seat body into two symmetrical portions, and a pressure receiving center located on the rear portion of the seat body and passed through by said longitudinal axis. The supporting rail has a first rear end engaged on the underside of the front portion of the seat body, a second and front rear ends respectively extending from the front end along the longitudinal axis of the seat body. The suspension means is disposed exactly under the pressure receiving center of the seat body and coupled with the first and second rear ends of the suspension rail.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 4, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 7, 2009
    Assignee: Velo Enterprise Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Chun-Fu Hung
  • Patent number: 7448676
    Abstract: A novel and unique bicycle seat for a rider includes a base having a base top surface with an inflatable bladder having a bladder top surface. The inflatable bladder is disposed on the base top surface and the base top surface and the bladder top surface together form a seat contour profile. A pump is connected to the inflatable bladder to introduce fluid media therein with a release valve fluidly connected to the bladder to permit fluid media to exit therefrom. Also, the bicycle seat of the present invention can be configured to be in the form of a cover to be retrofitted to an existing bicycle seat. In this configuration, the cover includes a base with a structure for securing it to the existing bicycle seat. For example, this structure can be a skirt of material or other releasable type of structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 11, 2008
    Assignee: poly Polyworks, Inc.
    Inventors: Daniel M. Wyner, Thomas F. Cafaro, Jeffrey H. Bowie
  • Patent number: 7431390
    Abstract: A cycle saddle assembly includes a stem unit having a saddle stem. A pneumatic suspension member is supported by the stem unit. A saddle seat is supported at least in part by the pneumatic suspension member for movement relative to the saddle stem. Whereby the shock omnidirectionally transmitting from the rider and the frame of the bicycle during riding will be absorbed by such a cycle saddle assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 7, 2008
    Inventors: Peter Gordon Martin, David Benjamin Warner
  • Publication number: 20080224506
    Abstract: A seat includes a bladder assembly having a plurality of pneumatic bladders arranged one within another. The compressibility of each pneumatic bladder is based at least in part on a pressure within the pneumatic bladder, and/or on a thickness of an outer layer that defines the shape of the pneumatic bladder. In a configuration, an inner bladder is inflatable independently from an outer bladder, for adjustable, targeted support and compressibility.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 27, 2008
    Publication date: September 18, 2008
    Inventor: Robert J. Donaghey
  • Patent number: 7393051
    Abstract: A seat includes a bladder assembly having a plurality of pneumatic bladders arranged one within another. The compressibility of each pneumatic bladder is based at least in part on a pressure within the pneumatic bladder, and/or on a thickness of an outer layer that defines the shape of the pneumatic bladder. In a configuration, an inner bladder is inflatable independently from an outer bladder, for adjustable, targeted support and compressibility.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 1, 2008
    Assignee: Air Seat Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Robert Donaghey
  • Publication number: 20080136222
    Abstract: A bicycle seat includes a seat base and a bladder assembly mounted to the seat base. The bladder assembly includes an inner bladder surrounded by an outer bladder and at least partially ringed by a ring bladder. Each bladder can be filled to a desired pressure for any type of rider or riding mode. Accordingly, the bicycle seat offers improved cushioning and stability.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 7, 2007
    Publication date: June 12, 2008
    Inventor: Robert J. Donaghey
  • Patent number: 7125030
    Abstract: A bicycle designed to reduce the transfer of vibrations to the rider. The bicycle includes a seatpost assembly comprising an inner member, an outer member at least partially surrounding a portion of the inner member, and a damping member disposed between the inner member and the outer member. The damping member provides vibration damping between the frame and the seat. Preferably, the inner member includes a necked portion positioned within the damping member. In addition, the damping member can include a body portion positioned inside the outer member and a head portion positioned longitudinally adjacent the outer member. The concepts of the present invention are also applicable to frame members of the bicycle frame, such as the chainstays, the seatstays, and the fork.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 24, 2006
    Assignee: Specialized Bicycle Components, Inc.
    Inventors: Christopher P. D'Aluisio, Jeremy Thompson, Jean-Luc Callahan, Mark Schroeder
  • Patent number: 6942291
    Abstract: A bicycle saddle includes a rigid/semi-rigid shell functioning as a supporting structure for the bicycle saddle. A covering is disposed on the shell and attached thereto, with a padding between the shell and the covering. The padding comprise a cushion made of a resilient material. The cushion includes a plurality of cavities and is attached to the top of the shell such that the cavities would work as pneumatic cushions with air cushions/air springs interposing between the shell and the rider's body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 16, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2005
    Assignee: Selle Tech Industrial Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Tsai-Yun Yu
  • Patent number: 6860551
    Abstract: A saddle structure for vehicles includes a saddle, a spongy mass mounted on top of the saddle thereof, and an outer leather layer wherein the spongy mass has an elastic reinforcing area disposed therein which, designed according to the ergonomics, is made up of two annular suspended cavities symmetrically dented at both lateral sides thereon and a linkage support groove to bridge the two suspended cavities at the middle section thereof, properly fitting to the position of the hipbones and the cleft of the buttocks of human body respectively. The outer leather layer is tightly bound at the upper surface of the spongy mass without the elastic reinforcing area thereof in direct contact with the surface of the saddle to form an enclosed and elastic empty space there-between.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 1, 2005
    Inventor: Hsien Yao Chi
  • Patent number: 6860552
    Abstract: A saddle, specifically designed for bicycles, comprises a framework (2) to be coupled to a supporting element and a padding element (3), thereon a user will seat, the saddle being characterized in that it comprises a cushion element (4), including at least a fluid-filled deformable vessel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 1, 2005
    Inventor: Giuseppe Bigolin
  • Publication number: 20030146651
    Abstract: A seat assembly for a bicycle has a base and an enveloped coat. The base is attached to a seat post of the bicycle and has a flange extending downward around the periphery of the base. The enveloped coat is attached to the top of the base and has a skirt surrounding the flange on the base. With such a seat assembly, the enveloped coat can provide a good and adjustable comfort effect to the bicycle rider.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 4, 2002
    Publication date: August 7, 2003
    Inventor: Chin-Chang Wu
  • Patent number: 6390548
    Abstract: A bicycle seat with inflatable interior including a bicycle seat comprised of a seat portion and a stem portion. The stem portion couples the bicycle seat to a frame of a standard bicycle. The seat portion has an outer layer and a padded inner layer. The padded inner layer has a recess formed in a central portion thereof. An inflatable cushion is disposed within the recess formed in the central portion of the padded inner layer of the bicycle seat. The inflatable cushion has a generally hourglass configuration. The inflatable cushion has an air tube extending outwardly therefrom and extending outwardly of the bicycle seat. A free end of the air tube has a hand pump coupled thereto for selectively pumping air into the cushion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 21, 2002
    Inventor: Clarence Cole
  • Patent number: 6305743
    Abstract: The pneumatic bicycle seat assembly of the present invention has an exterior covering, a bracket being a rod of suitable size bent at the center to form an eye, with each of two leg portions extending rearward in mirror image fashion. A base attaches to and rests on top of the bracket. A pneumatic bladder is a self-enclosed element which is separate from and disposed between the base and the soft, flexible cover. An external valve and a pneumatic pump cooperate to both inflate and deflate the pneumatic bladder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 13, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2001
    Inventor: Kelly Wheeler
  • Patent number: 6153277
    Abstract: A device outer wall structure includes a rubber covering covered on a device for example a bicycle hand grip or saddle, the rubber covering having a plurality of hollow convex portions filled with air and a plurality of air passages in communication between the convex portions for guiding air from one convex portion to another when the convex portions bear an external pressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 28, 2000
    Inventor: Kwei-Lin Chang
  • Patent number: 6135550
    Abstract: A bicycle seat that includes a foam seat cushion member having an inflatable edge cushion provided around the back and side edges of an upper cushion surface thereof and a centrally positioned dual lobe inflatable buttocks cushion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 1, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 24, 2000
    Inventor: Tafesse Tucho
  • Patent number: 6012772
    Abstract: A bicycle seat cover is provided which is adjustably inflatable by a bulb pump and two way pressure release valve. The bulb pump is positioned for easy access for inflation and deflation of a single chambered air bladder. The seat cover is removably attached to a bicycle saddle with hook and loop fasteners. The seat cover provides added comfort and cushion to the bicycle rider due to a quilted air bladder design and the increased surface area imparted to the bicycle's saddle. Materials contemplate use of a resilient anti-bacterial, water resistant. relatively thick polyurethane vinyl.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 1998
    Date of Patent: January 11, 2000
    Assignee: Morcon Air, Inc.
    Inventors: Manuel A Conde, Grant A. York
  • Patent number: 5938277
    Abstract: A new inflated bicycle seat for providing a pneumatic pad for a bicycle seat. The inventive device includes an inflatable bladder with a valve into the interior of the bladder. The bladder is restable on the top of a seat. A cover covers the bladder and the seat the bladder is rested on.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 17, 1999
    Inventors: Jean-Pierre Rioux, Suzanne Goyette Rioux
  • Patent number: 5916664
    Abstract: A method for inflating cushioning devices which comprise at least first and second distinct chambers having an interconnecting passage providing fluid communication between the chambers. The method comprises either: (1) limiting the volume of at least one of the chambers, filling the chambers with a fluid at a single inflation pressure from a single inflation point and sealing the interconnecting passage, or (2) filling the chambers with a fluid at a single inflation pressure from a single inflation point compressing at least one of the distinct chambers, and sealing the interconnecting passage. The method is particularly suited to manufacture of a footwear cushion comprised of a body of elastomeric material having a plurality of sealed non-communicating cells having a single inflation point. At least two cells sharing a single sealed inflation passage are at different pressures.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 1996
    Date of Patent: June 29, 1999
    Assignee: Robert C. Bogart
    Inventor: Marion Franklin Rudy
  • Patent number: 5846063
    Abstract: There is disclosed a preform for an air pump and relief valve assembly which has an assembly body with a substantially flat bottom and molded entirely of a flexible plastic to form a bulbous extremity on one end of the body and open at its bottom and a relief valve recess adjacent the opposite end of said body and open to a valve port in said bottom wall with at least one, and preferably two, internal passages open to the interior of the bulbous extremity and extending through said assembly body to a second port open at the bottom wall, with a substantially planar base flange extending about said body and peripherally about said bulbous extremity and said relief valve recess. The preform can be sealed to a flat sheet of plastic to complete the pump and relief valve and for this purpose has a transverse tunnel located between said internal passage and the bottom wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 9, 1997
    Date of Patent: December 8, 1998
    Inventor: Nikola Lakic
  • Patent number: 5829733
    Abstract: A shock-absorbing and height-adjusting assembly for mounting a seat onto the seat-supporting framework tubing of a bicycle frame. A standard, commercially available, adjustable-length gas spring (hydropneumatic spring), of the type used for the control column of adjustable height chairs, is slideably contained within a hollow receiver attached alongside or within a lower portion of the bicycle seat supporting framework to which the gas spring piston rod is affixed with the upper end of the gas spring in underlying contact with the lower end of a vertically extending elongated cylindrical seat supporting guide tube supported in alignment with the gas spring for axial and non-rotational movement within a bushing assembly affixed to the uppermost portion of the bicycle seat supporting framework.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 1996
    Date of Patent: November 3, 1998
    Inventor: William R. Becker
  • Patent number: 5769488
    Abstract: A motorcycle seat has a shape forming base on which a selectively deformable cushion is positioned and covered by an exterior covering, the cushion having a foam material encased within an airtight bladder. A valve member located externally of the covering has a conduit which extends through the bladder in sealed fashion and terminates within the foam material. The valve may be selectively opened, and when open while a compression force is applied on the foam, air is expelled from the foam, and if the valve is then closed the foam is formed into the shape of the force applicator. With the valve closed, movement upon the cushion redistributes the air within the foam accordingly. When the compression force is relieved and the valve is opened, the cushion takes on its original shape.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 1997
    Date of Patent: June 23, 1998
    Assignee: Ooltewah Manufacturing, Inc.
    Inventors: Jerry Daniels, Michael E. Simonson
  • Patent number: 5711573
    Abstract: A motorcycle seat has a shape forming base on which a selectively deformable cushion is positioned and covered by an exterior covering, the cushion having a foam material encased within an airtight bladder. A valve member located externally of the covering has a conduit which extends through the bladder in sealed fashion and terminates within the foam material. The valve may be selectively opened, and when open while a compressible force is applied on the foam, air is expelled from the foam, and if the valve is then closed the foam is formed into the shape of the force applicator. With the valve closed, movement upon the cushion redistributes the air within the foam accordingly. When the compression force is relieved and the valve is opened, the cushion takes on its original shape. A motorcycle rider sitting on the seat applies the compression force.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 1996
    Date of Patent: January 27, 1998
    Assignee: Ooltewah Manufacturing, Inc.
    Inventors: Jerry Daniels, Michael E. Simonson
  • Patent number: 5670232
    Abstract: A method for manufacturing integral elastic supports formed by an upper covering (2), by an intermediate filler (3) and by a semirigid shell (4) entails the use of a mold with a hollow lower part, a flat upper part, and at least one intermediate plate. The method includes the following steps: opening of the mold; deposition on the lower part of a covering sheet with an excess border; securing of the excess border by means of the locking plate; deformation of the covering sheet in vacuum; pouring of a first layer of a gel compound in the fluid state; coupling of a semirigid shell to the upper part of the mold; pouring of a second layer of an expandable resin in the fluid state; closing of the mold; opening of the mold and removal of the finished support.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 1995
    Date of Patent: September 23, 1997
    Assignee: Selle Royal S.p.A.
    Inventor: Riccardo Bigolin
  • Patent number: 5636896
    Abstract: A bicycle saddle having an air-filled bladder. The bladder is a durable plastic film chamber having an easily accessible air pump and release valve that allows the bicyclist to adjust the air pressure to his/her comfort without dismounting and or seeking an air supply. The bladder is fitted to conform to a plastic shell base. The bicyclist's weight is supported by the bladder that maintains its shape due to material selection and thickness plus a supporting base. Additional dimensional stability is provided by spot welds of the bladder material to control expansion. Also, an optional skirt is provided on the base and the bladder to further hold it in position when inflated. A simple push pump at the rear and a release valve button under the nose of the saddle enables the saddle to be adjusted for pressure. Metal rails provide generous fore and aft adjustment and a place to firmly clamp the saddle to the bicycle seat post. The saddle is covered with a soft flexible material and adhered to the plastic base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 1996
    Date of Patent: June 10, 1997
    Inventor: Charles R. Howard
  • Patent number: 5613570
    Abstract: A snowmobile seat suspension includes a seat support member pivotally connected at its front end to the chassis of a snowmobile, a yieldable support member supporting the rear of the seat support member and at least one air cylinder yieldable in a downward direction but damping in the upward direction. The air cylinder is connected to an inlet hose having a length of 1 to 6 inches, the hose containing a one-way valve which allows air to enter the cylinder without restriction but restricts outflow of air from the cylinder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 1995
    Date of Patent: March 25, 1997
    Inventor: Gary Becker
  • Patent number: 5558395
    Abstract: An inflatable air cushion has an integrally formed extension tube of zig-zag form with its free end attached to another cushion or to a pump assembly for inflating the cushion. By separating the limbs of the zig-zag tube, the cushions, or the cushion and pump assembly can be spaced apart at different distances to suit different applications. The pump may include a pressure limiting chamber integrated therewith for limiting the maximum inflation pressure of the cushion. In a preferred embodiment, the inflatable air cushion is shaped to fit a bicycle saddle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 1994
    Date of Patent: September 24, 1996
    Inventor: Yin-jun Huang
  • Patent number: 5524961
    Abstract: A bicycle saddle having an air-filled bladder. The bladder is a durable plastic film chamber having an easily accessible air pump and release valve that allows the bicyclist to adjust the air pressure to his/her comfort without dismounting and or seeking an air supply. The bladder is fitted into a contoured cavity located in a plastic shell base. The bicyclist's weight is supported by the bladder which maintains its shape due to material selection and thickness plus a supporting base. Additional dimensional stability is provided by spot welds of the bladder material to control expansion. Also, an optional skirt is provided on the bladder to further hold it in position when inflated. A simple push pump at the rear and a release valve button under the nose of the saddle enables the saddle to be adjusted for pressure. Metal rails provide generous fore and aft adjustment and a place to firmly clamp the saddle to the bicycle seat post.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 1995
    Date of Patent: June 11, 1996
    Inventor: Charles R. Howard
  • Patent number: 5353734
    Abstract: A number of embodiments of seat assemblies for a watercraft wherein the seat includes a cushion comprised of at least in part an open celled foam that is covered on its lower side by a bottom plate and on its upper side by a skin that is sealingly engaged also with the bottom plate. At least one air flow opening is formed in the bottom through which air may be expelled upon compression of the cushioning material and returned upon expansion of the cushioning material. This opening communicates with a hermetically sealed cavity so that water cannot enter the cushion along with the air flowing through the opening. In some embodiments, the openings discharge into a flexible bag which offers a further hermetic seal for the openings and which is contained in the cavity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 5, 1992
    Date of Patent: October 11, 1994
    Assignee: Yamaha Hatsudoki Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Satoshi Tani
  • Patent number: 5335382
    Abstract: An inflatable air cushion has an integrally formed extension tube of zig-zag form with its free end attached to another cushion or to a pump assembly for inflating the cushion. By separating the limbs of the zig-zag tube, the cushions, or the cushion and pump assembly can be spaced apart at different distances to suit different applications. The pump may include a pressure limiting chamber integrated therewith for limiting the maximum inflation pressure of the cushion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 23, 1992
    Date of Patent: August 9, 1994
    Inventor: Yin-jun Huang