Abstract: A multiple cell inflation structure such as an air cushion or mattress has an arrangement for selectively providing communication between the respective cells when the structure is inflated. Each cell has an air inlet-outlet passage connected with an outside valve chamber and an inflation duct is connected to each valve chamber through respective branch ducts. Each valve chamber includes a valve seat and movable valve element. When the structure is being inflated, the air pressure lifts the valves from their seats so as to connect each cell with the inflation duct. When inflated, air pressure in each cell, along with a spring in the respective valve chamber returns the respective valves to their seats and closes off the cells from one another. Each valve chamber also has a distensible membrane for engaging a stem portion of the respective valve element and moving it off the seat so as to provide communication between the respective cells when the membrane is distended.

Abstract: In insole for promoting muscle activity has a first fluid cell confined to a toe area of the insole and a second fluid cell in the heel area. The cells are connected by at least one communicating duct which allows fluid to flow there between as a person walks on the insole. The duct has a valve system for controlling the flow as between the cells in a manner such that it may flow faster in one direction than the other.

Abstract: In a cellular element the individual cells (1) are connected via a narrowed passage (2) to another cell or to a duct (3), which can be connected via a valve to a first pressure source. Hollow, expansible bodies (4) of an elastic, yielding material are placed in the duct and/or in one or more cells (1). The bodies (4) are interconnected via one or more yielding organs (5) in such a way that when they expand, they prevent outflow from the cells (1).The yielding organ or organs (5) may appropriately be tubes connecting the interior of the expansible bodies (4) with a second pressure source.An expansible body (4) may be placed in each cell (1), and the yielding organ or organs (5) is/are then shaped and dimensioned in such a way that when the body (4) is expanded, it bears against the mouth of the passage (2) into the cell (1) and tightens it.

Abstract: In a cellular element, e.g. an air mattress, the individual cells (1) are connected via a narrow passage (2) to a duct (3) which can be connected via a valve to a first pressure source. In each cell (1) a body (4) is placed, bearing against the mouth of the passage (2) into the cell, closing it tightly, and in the duct (3) at least one expansible organ (5) is placed which, when expanding, will press the body (4) away from the mouth of the passage (2).The expansible organ or organs may consist of a tube, which is closed at one end, and the other end of which can be connected to a second pressure source, if required via a valve.The body (4) placed in a cell (1) may appropriately be hollow and made of a yielding material.In such an element a wall of each cell, e.g. in the form of a membrane, can make up an individual supporting surface. When the cells are exposed to uneven pressure from outside, e.g.