Abstract: An inflatable assembly formed of two superimposed sheets sealed at the peripheries thereof to form a generally closed gas receiving compartment including opposing sheet portions having generally aligned initially unsealed edges which form an opening for receiving a gas conduit during inflation. Adhesive or a double-sided adhesive strip is provided on one of the sheet portions facing the other sheet portion. Premature adhesion between the sheet portion is prevented by a removable protective strip disposed between the adhesive surface and the facing sheet portion. After inflation and removal of the gas conduit and the protective strip, application of pressure to the sheet portions seals the opening to prevent escape of gas therethrough.

Abstract: An inflatable assembly is formed of two superimposed sheets sealed at the peripheries thereof to form a generally closed gas receiving compartment having an external surface and an aperture in that surface for receiving a conduit during inflation. An adhesive pad or strip is provided which covers the aperture and is at least partially attached to the external surface about the aperture with the exception of a zone of initial separation for providing access for the gas conduit into the aperture. The adhesive pad includes adhesive in the region of zone of initial separation in which there is interposed a strip of slip paper which resists adhesion between the pad and the external surface in the zone of initial separation. After inflation, removal of the strip of slip paper allows full closure of the aperture by adhesion between the adhesive pad and the external surface in the zone of initial separation.