Abstract: An article having a bond with increased strength is described. In one embodiment, the article comprises a first material having a thermoplastic polymer, and a second material having an expanded polytetrafluoroethylene laminate joined by a welded bond. A reinforcing component is disposed between the first and second materials to form a reinforcing region.

Abstract: A multi-layered, composite, inflatable and deflatable article of manufacture is provided. The article includes at least two layers of a flexible, waterproof, air impermeable, optionally water-vapor-penneable material, the two layers forming at least one inflatable compartment therebetween. The two layers have at least one additional layer of a porous insulating material, e.g., batting, disposed between them within the compartment. The layers are all adhesively bonded together about the periphery of the compartment and, optionally, at discrete locations within the periphery of the compartment. The porous insulating layer is otherwise unattached to either of the waterproof layers, and preferably is not otherwise attached to either. The compartment has at least one sealable opening therein through which air may be injected into or removed from the compartment, as desired, to thereby inflate or deflate the compartment to a desired volume and to thereby control its insulative value.

Abstract: Polymer film having at least two regions of differing translucency. The at least two regions of differing translucency can be obtained by selectively compressing regions of the polymer film. Laminate comprising textile material and such a polymer film. The laminates can be breathable and/or waterproof. Suitable uses for the laminate include, for example, garments, tents, and sleeping bags.

Abstract: Polymer film having at least two regions of differing translucency. The at least two regions of differing translucency can be obtained by selectively compressing regions of the polymer film. Laminate comprising textile material and such a polymer film. The laminates can be breathable and/or waterproof. Suitable uses for the laminate include, for example, garments, tents, and sleeping bags.

Abstract: A connector assembly incorporating a pressure relief valve is provided for connecting an inflatable article such as an inflatable garment or air mattress to a source of inflation air which presents a low profile during manufacturing and in use. The connector includes a semi-rigid, hollow connector housing having a first, generally tubular, insertable section, insertable through an opening in a flexible wall of the inflatable article. A second external section extends oppositely from the insertable section and outwardly from the flexible wall upon insertion, the external section and the insertable section are connected and oriented generally at an angle, preferably a right angle, with respect to each other.

Abstract: A connector assembly is provided for connecting an inflatable article such as an inflatable garment or air mattress to a source of inflation air which presents a low profile during manufacturing and in use. The connector includes a semi-rigid, hollow connector housing having a first, generally tubular, insertable section, insertable through an opening in a flexible wall of the inflatable article. A second external section extends oppositely from the insertable section and outwardly from the flexible wall upon insertion, the external section and the insertable section are connected and oriented generally at an angle, preferably a right angle, with respect to each other.