Abstract: Valve assemblies optionally with inflatable bodies for modulating fluid expulsion from an inflatable body, without active user participation. Valve assemblies include, in separate components or in integrated form, a vent body defining an external orifice, an internal orifice in fluid communication with the external orifice, and an inflatable body interface. Extending from the internal orifice is a collapsible, hollow elongate member defining longitudinal and lateral axes. Sealing closure of the elongate member, which is preferably constructed from a resilient material, results from application of generally opposing mechanical forces across a lateral surface of the elongate member. Compression localizing members may be used proximate to the elongate member to increase closure performance. In addition, performance parameters can be varied by modifying the physical characteristics of the compression members (height, upper surface area, lower surface area, composition, density, use of localizing ridges, etc.

Abstract: Latches, latch arrangements and related methods for temporarily associating two objects, each having one part of a magnetic catch retention arrangement. Latches according to various embodiments of the invention have matable first and second housings wherein the first housing defines a primary recess and the second includes a primary protrusion that is receivable by the primary recess. A biased, displaceable catch of one housing selectively retains the other housing when the two housings are in a mated condition. The magnetic catch retention arrangement becomes functional after sufficient user displacement of the catch; upon sufficient differential movement of the housings, the magnetic catch retention arrangement no longer has sufficient effect to overcome the catch bias.

Abstract: Valve assemblies optionally with inflatable bodies for modulating fluid expulsion from an inflatable body, without active user participation. Valve assemblies include, in separate components or in integrated form, a vent body defining an external orifice, an internal orifice in fluid communication with the external orifice, and an inflatable body interface. Extending from the internal orifice is a collapsible, hollow elongate member defining longitudinal and lateral axes. Sealing closure of the elongate member, which is preferably constructed from a resilient material, results from application of generally opposing mechanical forces across a lateral surface of the elongate member. Compression localizing members may be used proximate to the elongate member to increase closure performance. In addition, performance parameters can be varied by modifying the physical characteristics of the compression members (height, upper surface area, lower surface area, composition, density, use of localizing ridges, etc.

Abstract: An inflatable body including first and second fluid impervious major panels, each having an outer surface, an inner surface and a perimeter, and further including a fluid impervious intermediate panel having a first surface, a second surface and a perimeter. A first perimeter portion of the intermediate panel is joined to the inner surface of the first major panel from one perimeter portion thereof to a generally opposed perimeter portion thereof, and a second perimeter portion of the intermediate panel, which is generally opposed to the first perimeter portion, is joined to the inner surface of the second major panel from one perimeter portion thereof to a generally opposed perimeter portion thereof. The first and second major panel perimeters are joined to each other, defining a primary enclosure having first and second chambers separated by the intermediate panel, and at least one sealable orifice in fluid communication with the environment and at least one chamber.