US20190110600A1

US20190110600A1 - Inflatable furniture assembly system

Info

Publication number: US20190110600A1
Application number: US16/161,284
Authority: US
Inventors: Joan Durand
Original assignee: Ace Bayou Corp
Current assignee: Ace Bayou Corp
Priority date: 2017-10-18
Filing date: 2018-10-16
Publication date: 2019-04-18
Also published as: WO2019079237A1

Abstract

An inflatable furniture system having an inflatable core, a decorative cover, a first attachment mechanism and a second attachment mechanism. The inflatable core has a sealed enclosed region. The decorative cover at least partially covers the inflatable core. The first attachment mechanism is attached to one of the inflatable core and the decorative cover. The second attachment mechanism is attached to one of the inflatable core and the decorative cover to which the first attachment mechanism is not attached. The first attachment mechanism is capable of engaging the second attachment mechanism to retain the decorative cover in a position with respect to the inflatable core.

Description

REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application claims priority to Provisional Applic. No. 62/573,872, filed on Oct. 18, 2017, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates generally to seating. More particularly, the invention relates to an inflatable furniture assembly system.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Bean bag furniture is popular because it can be configured in a variety of shapes. However, bean bag furniture presents a number of challenges. Foam beads inside of the bean bag furniture present a potential health hazard if they enter a person's nose or mouth. As such, there are regulations regarding the sealing of the bean bag furniture to prevent unauthorized access to the foam beads.
These regulations substantially prevent changing the outer cover of the bean bag furniture such as to provide the bean bag furniture with a different appearance or to replace a discolored or damaged bean bag furniture enclosure. Another challenge of bean bag furniture is that it occupies a large volume, which presents challenges and/or additional expenses for shipping bean bag furniture.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The invention is directed to an inflatable furniture system includes an inflatable core, a decorative cover, a first attachment mechanism and a second attachment mechanism. The inflatable core has a sealed enclosed region. The decorative cover at least partially covers the inflatable core. The first attachment mechanism is attached to one of the inflatable core and the decorative cover. The second attachment mechanism is attached to one of the inflatable core and the decorative cover to which the first attachment mechanism is not attached. The first attachment mechanism is capable of engaging the second attachment mechanism to retain the decorative cover in a position with respect to the inflatable core.
Another embodiment of the invention is directed to a method of assembling furniture. An inflatable core and a decorative cover are provided. The inflatable core has a sealed enclosed region. A first attachment mechanism is attached to one of the inflatable core and the decorative cover. A second attachment mechanism is attached to one of the inflatable core and the decorative cover to which the first attachment mechanism is not attached. The decorative cover is placed at least partially over the inflatable core. The first attachment mechanism engages the second attachment mechanism to retain the decorative cover in a position with respect to the inflatable core.
Another embodiment of the invention is directed to an inflatable furniture system that includes an inflatable core, a decorative cover, a first attachment mechanism and a second attachment mechanism. The inflatable core has a sealed enclosed region. The decorative cover at least partially covers the inflatable core. The first attachment mechanism is attached to one of the inflatable core and the decorative cover. The second attachment mechanism includes a first retention tab and a second retention tab. The second attachment mechanism is attached to one of the inflatable core and the decorative cover to which the first attachment mechanism is not attached. The second attachment mechanism includes a first attachment strap and a second attachment strap. The first retention tab is capable of detachably engaging the first attachment strap. The second retention tab is capable of detachably engaging the second attachment strap. The first attachment strap and the first retention tab both have a first identifying mechanism. The second attachment strap and the second retention tab both have a second identifying mechanism. The first identifying mechanism is different than the second identifying mechanism.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The accompanying drawings are included to provide a further understanding of embodiments and are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification. The drawings illustrate embodiments and together with the description serve to explain principles of embodiments. Other embodiments and many of the intended advantages of embodiments will be readily appreciated as they become better understood by reference to the following detailed description. The elements of the drawings are not necessarily to scale relative to each other. Like reference numerals designate corresponding similar parts.

FIG. 1A is an image of an inflatable core for an inflatable chair according to an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 1B is an image of the inflatable chair having a decorative cover placed over the inflatable core of FIG. 1A.

FIG. 1C is a lower view of the inflatable chair having the decorative cover placed over the inflatable core of FIG. 1A.

FIG. 2A is an image of an inflatable core for an inflatable chair according to another embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 2B is an image of the inflatable chair having a decorative cover placed over the inflatable core of FIG. 2A.

FIG. 2C is a lower view of the inflatable chair having the decorative cover placed over the inflatable core of FIG. 2A.

FIG. 3A is an image of an inflatable core for an inflatable chair according to another embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 3B is an image of the inflatable chair having a decorative cover placed over the inflatable core of FIG. 3A.

FIG. 3C is a lower view of the inflatable chair having the decorative cover placed over the inflatable core of FIG. 3A.

FIG. 4 is an image of a tab attached to a lower surface of the inflatable core.

FIG. 5 is an image of a plurality of tabs attached to the lower surface of the inflatable core.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

An embodiment of the invention is directed to an inflatable chair 10 as illustrated in FIGS. 1A-1C. The inflatable chair 10 generally includes an inflatable core 12 and a decorative cover 14. As described in greater detail herein, the decorative cover 14 extends substantially over the inflatable core 12. Removable attachment of the decorative cover 14 to the inflatable core 12 enables consumers to readily change the appearance of the chair or replace the inflatable core 12 or the decorative cover 14 if damaged.
The inflatable core 12 includes a sealed enclosed region that is adapted to receive a compressed gas such as air. The compressed gas thereby provides the inflatable core 12 with a generally rigid shape that enables a person sitting on the inflatable chair 10 to be supported in a manner that is similar in which a person is supported in a traditional papasan chair. The rigidity of the inflatable core 12 may be varied by changing the volume of gas that is placed in the inflatable core 12. In other embodiments, the inflatable core 12 may be filled with liquids and solids, an example of which is foam beads.
The inflatable core 12 includes a top panel 16, a middle panel 18 and a bottom panel 8, as illustrated in FIG. 1A. The top panel 16, middle panel 18 and bottom panel 8 are generally circular in shape. In an alternative embodiment, the inflatable core 12 includes only a top panel 16, and a bottom panel 8. A person of skill in the art would appreciate the use of additional shapes in the creation of the disclosed inflatable chair 10. Examples of which include an oval, square or rectangle.
The generally circular top panel 16, middle panel 18, and bottom panel 8 may be connected along an edge thereof 1n some embodiments, the connections may defined along two connection points; the circular edge between the top panel 16 and middle panel 18 and the circular edge between the middle panel 18 and the bottom panel 8.
The top panel 16, middle panel 18 and bottom panel 8 may be connected using a variety of techniques, examples of which include an adhesive or a heat seal. A person of skill in the art will appreciate additional methods of connecting the top panel 16, middle panel 18 and bottom panel 8 to create the inflatable core 12.
The top panel 16 has a seat portion 20, back portion 22, side portion 24, 26 and a leg rest portion 28 which may be defined as generally symmetrical on all sides, wherein the top panel 16 is connected to the middle panel 1 8 and bottom panel S by a connector (not shown).
The connectors may be defined by at least one piece that extends between the top panel 16 and bottom panel 8. In certain embodiments the connector may be fabricated from the same material as the other components of the inflatable core 12.
The at least one connector holds a portion of the top panel 16 in a generally recessed configuration to define the seat portion 20, back portion 22, side portion 24, 26 and leg rest portion 28 when filling the inflatable core 12 with the compressed gas.
The seat portion 20 may be located proximate a center of the inflatable core 12. In certain embodiments, the seat portion 20 may have a generally circular shape. In an alternative embodiment, the seat portion 20 may have a plurality of ridges to offer additional structural integrity and stability for the user.
Adjacent one edge of the seat portion 20 is the back portion 22. In an alternative embodiment, the back portion 22 may be in a slightly elevated orientation to offer additional back support for the user. In certain embodiments, the back portion 22 has a plurality of ribs to offer structural integrity and provide additional support to the user.
Adjacent another edge of the seat portion 20, and on opposite sides of the back portion 22 are the side portions 24, 26. The side portion 24, 26 includes a first side portion 24 and a second side portion 26. The first side portion 24 may have a shape that is similar to the shape of the second side portion 26. In some embodiments, the first and second side portions 24. 26 have a plurality of ribs to offer structural integrity and provide additional support to the user.
Adjacent another edge of the seat portion 20 that is generally opposite the back portion 20 is the leg rest portion 28. In an alternative embodiment, the leg rest portion 28 may be in a slightly recessed orientation for the user's legs to rest, or hang freely over the leg rest portion 28 of the inflatable chair 10. In certain embodiments, the leg rest portion 28 has a plurality of ribs to offer structural integrity and provide additional support to the user.
The at least one of the top panel 16 and bottom panel 8 has a valve 2 for receipt of the compressed gas. In some embodiments, it is possible for the valve 2 to be attached on other portions of the inflatable core 12.
An aspect of the invention utilizes a mechanism for attaching the decorative cover 14 with respect to the inflatable core 12. A plurality of retention tabs 4 may be provided in a spaced apart configuration on the inflatable core 12, as illustrated in FIGS. 1C, 4 and 5. The plurality of retention tabs 4 minimizes movement of the decorative cover 14 with respect to the inflatable core 12.
In an embodiment, each of the retention tabs 4 has an aperture 6 formed therein. Each of the retention tabs 4 may be different color and/or have a unique shape printed thereon to assist in identification when placing the decorative cover 14 over the inflatable core 12.
The decorative cover 14 includes an attachment strap 15 that assists with securing the decorative cover 14 to the inflatable core 12, as illustrated in FIG. 1C. The attachment strap 15 may be attached to an inner surface of the decorative cover 14. The attachment strap 15 may be fabricated from the same material as the other components of the decorative cover 14. In some embodiments, the attachment strap 15 may be a different color, or have a shape printed thereon to assist in identification of the attachment straps 15 with respect to the retention tabs 4.
The attachment strap 15 engages the retention tab 4 to retain the decorative cover 14 in a position with respect to the inflatable core 12. In an embodiment, the attachment strap 15 extends through an aperture in the retention tab 4 and then is secured such as using a knot. In another embodiment, the attachment strap 15 includes a first snap portion that engages a second snap portion on the retention tab 4. In still another embodiment, the attachment strap 15 includes a button that is extended through the aperture in the retention tab 4. A person of skill in the art will appreciate that the orientation of the components may be reversed.
To further enhance the ability to retain the decorative cover 14 in a position with respect to the inflatable core 12, there may be multiple retention tabs 4 and multiple attachment straps 15. The retention tabs 4 and the attachment straps 15 may be spaced apart from each other.
The decorative cover 14 is formed with a shape that is similar to the shape of the inflatable core 12 when in the inflated configuration. In some embodiments, the decorative cover 14 adapts to the shape of the inflatable core 12 when the inflatable core 12 is in the use configuration. In certain embodiments, at least a portion of the decorative cover 14 is fabricated from an elastic material. Such a configuration may enhance the ability to ensure a tight fit against the inflatable core 12.
The decorative cover 14 may be fabricated from a standard fabric found in the field in which the present disclosure is directed. A person of skill in the art could appreciate the use of various types of fabric in the fabrication of the disclosed decorative cover 14. Examples of which include: cotton, leather, vinyl or polyester.
In one embodiment, the decorative cover 14 has a closure mechanism 30 such as a zipper, draw-string, snaps, buttons or a hook and loop fastener. The closure mechanism 30 facilitates closing the decorative cover 14 over the inflatable core 12. The closure mechanism 30 typically may run along the portion of fabric associated with the bottom or sides of the decorative cover 14.
In another embodiment, the decorative cover 14 has at least one draw-string (not shown) to assist in tightening the decorative cover 14 around the inflatable core 12. The draw-string may be located in the corners of the decorative cover 14 to provide the ability to tighten the decorative cover 14 over the inflatable chair 10 on all surfaces.
In use, the inflatable core 12 is placed inside the decorative cover 14 in an uninflated configuration. The attachment straps 15 on the decorative cover 14 are extended through the tab apertures 6 to secure the decorative cover 12 to the inflatable core 12. The inflatable core 12 is then filled with the compressed gas through the valve 2 utilizing a variety of techniques an individual with skill in the art would recognize as self-evident. Once the inflatable core 12 is in a filled configuration, the decorative cover 14 is sealed around the bottom panel 8 such as using the closure mechanism 30.
Another embodiment of the invention is directed to an inflatable chair as illustrated in FIGS. 2A-2C. The inflatable chair 110 generally includes an inflatable core 112 and a decorative cover 114. As described in greater detail herein, the decorative cover 114 extends substantially over the inflatable core 112. Removable attachment of the decorative cover 114 to the inflatable core 112 enables consumers to readily change the appearance of the chair or replace the inflatable core 112 or the decorative cover 114, if damaged.
The inflatable core 112 includes a sealed enclosed region that is adapted to receive a compressed gas such as air. The compressed gas thereby provides the inflatable core 112 with a generally rigid shape that enables a person sitting on the inflatable chair 110 to be supported in a manner that is similar to which a person is supported in a conventional bean bag chair. The rigidity of the inflatable core 112 may be varied by changing the volume of gas that is placed in the inflatable core 112. In other embodiments, the inflatable core 112 may be filled with liquids and solids, an example of which is foam beads.
The inflatable core 112 includes a top panel 116 and a bottom panel 108. The top panel 116 and the bottom panel 108 are generally circular in shape. However, someone with skill in the art can appreciate the use of additional shapes in the creation of the disclosed inflatable chair 110. Examples of which include an oval, square or rectangle.
The top panel 116 and the bottom panel 108 may be connected along an edge thereof. The top panel 116 and bottom panel 108 may be connected using a variety of techniques, examples of which include an adhesive or a heat seal. A person of skill in the art will appreciate other methods that may be used to connect the top panel 116 and bottom panel 108 to create the inflatable core 112.
The top panel 116 defines a seat portion 120, a back portion 122, side portions 124, 126, and a leg rest portion 128 when the top panel 116 is connected to the bottom panel 108 using a connector (not shown).
These connectors extend between the top panel 116 and bottom panel 108. In certain embodiments the connector may be fabricated from the same material as the other components of the inflatable core 112.
The at least one connector holds a portion of the top panel 116 in a generally recessed configuration to define the seat portion 120, the back portion 122, the side portions 124, 126, and the leg rest portion 128 when filling the inflatable core 112 with the compressed gas. In an alternative embodiment, the seat portion 120, back portion 122, side portions 124, 126, and the leg rest portion 128 are defined when the user sits on the inflatable chair 110.
The seat portion 120 may be located proximate a center of the inflatable core 112. In certain embodiments, the seat portion 120 may have a generally square shape. In an alternative embodiment, the seat portion 120 may have a plurality of ribs to offer additional structural integrity and stability for the user.
Adjacent one edge, the seat portion 120 is the back portion 122. The back portion 122 may be angled to offer a reclined feel for the user. In certain embodiments, the back portion 122 has a generally upside down trapezoid configuration.
Adjacent another edge of the seat portion 120, and on opposite sides of the back portion 122 are the side portions 124, 126. The side portions 124, 126 include a first side portion 124 and a second side portion 126. The first side portion 124 may have a shape that is similar to the shape of the second side portion 126. In an additional embodiment, the first and second side portions 124, 126 are symmetrical.
Adjacent another edge the seat portion 120 that is generally opposite the back portion 122 is the leg rest portion 128. The leg rest portion 128 may be in a slightly recessed orientation relative to the back portion 122 for the user's legs to rest, or hang freely over the leg rest portion 128 of the inflatable chair 110. In certain embodiments, the leg rest portion 128 is symmetrical relative to the back portion 122 to offer an elevated leg rest to provide the user with a reclined feel.
The at least one of the top panel 116 and bottom panel 108 has a valve 102 for receipt of a compressed gas. In some embodiments, it is possible for the valve to be attached on other portions of the inflatable core 112.
An aspect of the invention utilizes a mechanism for attaching the decorative cover 114 with respect to the inflatable core 112. A plurality of retention tabs 104 may be provided in a spaced apart configuration on the inflatable core 112, as illustrated in FIG. 2C. The plurality of retention tabs 104 minimizes movement of the decorative cover 114 with respect to the inflatable core 112.
In an embodiment, each of the retention tabs 104 has an aperture 106 formed therein. Each of the retention tabs 104 may be different color and/or have a unique shape printed thereon to assist in identification when placing the decorative cover 114 over the inflatable core 112.
The decorative cover 114 includes an attachment strap 115 that assists with securing the decorative cover 114 to the inflatable core 112. The attachment strap 115 may be attached to an inner surface of the decorative cover 114. The attachment strap 115 may be fabricated from the same material as the other components of the decorative cover 114. In some embodiments, the attachment strap 115 may be a different color, or have a shape printed thereon to assist in identification of the attachment straps 115 with respect to the retention tabs 104.
The attachment strap 115 engages the retention tab 104 to retain the decorative cover 114 in a position with respect to the inflatable core 112. In an embodiment, the attachment strap 115 extends through an aperture in the retention tab 104 and then is secured such as using a knot. In another embodiment, the attachment strap 115 includes a first snap portion that engages a second snap portion on the retention tab 104. In still another embodiment, the attachment strap 115 includes a button that is extended through the aperture in the retention tab 104. A person of skill in the art will appreciate that the orientation of the components may be reversed.
To further enhance the ability to retain the decorative cover 114 in a position with respect to the inflatable core 112, there may be multiple retention tabs 104 and multiple attachment straps 115. The retention tabs 104 and the attachment straps 115 may be spaced apart from each other. In certain embodiments, there may be four retention tabs 104 in certain embodiments that are spaced an approximately equal distance from each other.
The decorative cover 114 is formed with a shape that is similar to the shape of the inflatable core 112 when in the inflated configuration. In some embodiments, the decorative cover 114 adapts to the shape of the inflatable core 112 when the inflatable core 112 is in the use configuration. In certain embodiments, at least a portion of the decorative cover 114 is fabricated from an elastic material. Such a configuration may enhance the ability to ensure a tight fit against the inflatable core 112.
The decorative cover 114 may be fabricated from a standard fabric found in the field in which the present disclosure is directed. A person of skill in the art could appreciate the use of various types of fabric in the fabrication of the disclosed decorative cover 114. Examples of which include: cotton, leather, vinyl or polyester.
In one embodiment, the decorative cover 114 has a closure mechanism 130 such as a zipper, draw-string, snaps, buttons or a hook and loop fastener. The closure mechanism 130 facilitates closing the decorative cover 114 over the inflatable core 112. The closure mechanism 130 typically may run along the portion of fabric associated with the bottom or sides of the decorative cover 114.
In another embodiment, the decorative cover 114 has at least one draw-string (not shown) to assist in tightening the decorative around the inflatable core 112. The draw-string may be located in the corners of the decorative cover 114 to provide the ability to tighten the decorative cover 114 over the inflatable chair 110 on all surfaces.
In use, the inflatable core 112 is placed inside the decorative cover 114 in an uninflated configuration. The attachment straps 115 on the decorative cover 114 are extended through the tab apertures 106 to secure the decorative core 112 to the inflatable core 112. The inflatable core 112 is then filled with the compressed gas through the valve utilizing a variety of techniques an individual with skill in the art would recognize as self-evident. Once the inflatable core 112 is in a filled configuration, the decorative cover 114 is sealed around the bottom panel 108 such as using the closure mechanism 130.
Another embodiment of the invention is directed to an inflatable chair as illustrated in FIGS. 3A-3C. The inflatable chair 210 generally includes an inflatable core 212 and a decorative cover 214. As described in more detail herein, the decorative cover 214 extends substantially over the inflatable core 212. Removable attachment of the decorative cover 214 to the inflatable core 212 enables consumers to readily change the appearance of the inflatable chair 210 or replace the inflatable core or the decorative cover 214 if damaged.
The inflatable core 212 includes a sealed region that is adapted to receive a compressed gas such as air. The compressed gas thereby provides the inflatable core 212 with a generally rigid shape that enables a person sitting on the inflatable chair 210 to be supported in a manner that is similar in which a person is supported in a conventional chair. The rigidity of the inflatable core 212 may be varied by changing the volume of gas that is placed in the inflatable core 212. In other embodiments, the inflatable core 212 may be filled with liquids and solids, an example of which is foam beads.
The inflatable core 212 generally includes a seat portion 220, and back portions 224, 226. The first back portion 224, second back portion 226 and seat portion 220 may be connected along the intersection point 260 thereof.
The first back portion 224, second back portion 226 and seat portion 220 may be connected using a variety of techniques, examples of which include an adhesive or a heat seal. A person of skill in the art will appreciate other methods that may be used to connect the first back portion 224, second back portion 226 and seat portion 220 to create the inflatable core 212.
The first back portion 224, second back portion 226 and seat portion 220 at the intersection point 260 is connected by a connector (not shown). The connectors extend between the first back portion 224, second back portion 226 and seat portion 220. In certain embodiments the connector may be fabricated from the same material as the other components of the inflatable core 212.
The at least one connector may hold the first back portion 224 in a generally angled orientation relative to the second back portion 226 which may also be angled relative to the position of the first back portion 224. In certain embodiments, the connector may hold the first back portion 224 and the second back portion 226 in a symmetrical orientation.
The at least one connector may hold the seat portion 220 at the intersection point 260 in a generally horizontal orientation. In certain embodiments, the seat portion 220 may be oriented by the connector at an angle that declines when moving from a front edge of the seat portion 220 to a back edge of the seat portion 220 at the intersection point 260.
The seat portion 220 may have a generally triangular shape and the seat portion 220 intersects the back portions 224, 226 at intersection point 260. The seat portion 220 has a seating surface 262 that is generally in a horizontal orientation when the inflatable chair 210 is in a use configuration. The seating surface 262 is in a spaced-apart configuration with respect to the bottom panel 208 of the seat portion 220. A person of skill in the art will appreciate that a distance between the seating surface 262 and the bottom panel 208 may be selected based upon the size of the person who is intended to use the inflatable chair 210. In some embodiments, the front surface of the seat portion 220 may have a convex shape.
In certain embodiments, the first back portion 224 may have a shape that is similar to a shape of the second back portion 226. The first back portion 224 and the second back portion 226 each include an inner wall 264 and an outer wall 266 that is mounted at the intersection point 260 in a spaced-apart configuration with respect to each other. In certain embodiments, the first back section 224 and the second back section 226 each have an angled upper surface that tapers upwardly when moving from a front of the inflatable chair 210 to a back of the inflatable chair 210.
The bottom panel 208 may have a valve 202 for receipt of the compressed gas. In some embodiments, it is possible for the valve to be attached on other portions of the inflatable core 212.
An aspect of the invention utilizes a mechanism for attaching the decorative cover 214 with respect to the inflatable core 212. A plurality of retention tabs 204 may be provided in a spaced apart configuration on the inflatable core 212, as illustrated in FIG. 3C. The plurality of retention tabs 204 minimizes movement of the decorative cover 214 with respect to the inflatable core 212.
In an embodiment, each of the retention tabs 204 has an aperture 206 formed therein. Each of the retention tabs 204 may be different color and/or have a unique shape printed thereon to assist in identification when placing the decorative cover 214 over the inflatable core 212.
The decorative cover 214 includes an attachment strap 215 that assists with securing the decorative cover 214 to the inflatable core 212. The attachment strap 215 may be attached to an inner surface of the decorative cover 214. The attachment strap 215 may be fabricated from the same material as the other components of the decorative cover 214. In some embodiments, the attachment strap 215 may be a different color, or have a shape printed thereon to assist in identification of the attachment straps 215 with respect to the retention tabs 204.
The attachment strap 215 engages the retention tab 204 to retain the decorative cover 214 in a position with respect to the inflatable core 212. In an embodiment, the attachment strap 215 extends through an aperture in the retention tab 204 and then is secured such as using a knot. In another embodiment, the attachment strap 215 includes a first snap portion that engages a second snap portion on the retention tab 204. In still another embodiment, the attachment strap 215 includes a button that is extended through the aperture in the retention tab 204. A person of skill in the art will appreciate that the orientation of the components may be reversed.
To further enhance the ability to retain the decorative cover 214 in a position with respect to the inflatable core 212, there may be multiple retention tabs 204 and multiple attachment straps 215. The retention tabs 204 and the attachment straps 215 may be spaced apart from each other. As illustrated in FIG. 3C, there may be four retention tabs 204 in certain embodiments that are spaced an approximately equal distance from each other.
The decorative cover 214 is formed with a shape that is similar to the shape of the inflatable core 212 when in the inflated configuration. In some embodiments, the decorative cover 214 adapts to the shape of the inflatable core 212 when the inflatable core 212 is in the use configuration. In certain embodiments, at least a portion of the decorative cover 214 is fabricated from an elastic material. Such a configuration may enhance the ability to ensure a tight fit against the inflatable core 212.
The decorative cover 214 may be fabricated from a standard fabric found in the field in which the present disclosure is directed. A person of skill in the art could appreciate the use of various types of fabric in the fabrication of the disclosed decorative cover 214. Examples of which include: cotton, leather, vinyl or polyester.
In one embodiment, the decorative cover 214 has a closure mechanism 230 such as a zipper, draw-string, snaps, buttons or a hook and loop fastener. The closure mechanism 230 facilitates closing the decorative cover 214 over the inflatable core 212. The closure mechanism 230 typically may run along the portion of fabric associated with the bottom or sides of the decorative cover 214.
In another embodiment, the decorative cover 214 has at least one draw-string (not shown) to assist in tightening the decorative around the inflatable core 212. The draw-string may be located in the corners of the decorative cover 214 to provide the ability to tighten the decorative cover 214 over the inflatable chair 210 on all surfaces.
In use, the inflatable core 212 is placed inside the decorative cover 214 in an uninflated configuration. The attachment straps 215 on the decorative cover 214 are extended through the tab apertures 206 to secure the decorative core 212 to the inflatable core 212. The inflatable core 212 is then filled with the compressed gas through the valve utilizing a variety of techniques. An individual with skill in the art would recognize as self-evident. Once the inflatable core 212 is in a filled configuration, the decorative cover 214 is sealed around the bottom panel 208 such as using the closure mechanism 230.
In the preceding detailed description, reference is made to the accompanying drawings, which form a part hereof, and in which is shown by way of illustration specific embodiments in which the invention may be practiced. In this regard, directional terminology, such as “top,” “bottom,” “front,” “back,” “leading,” “trailing,” etc., is used with reference to the orientation of the Figure(s) being described. Because components of embodiments can be positioned in a number of different orientations, the directional terminology is used for purposes of illustration and is in no way limiting. It is to be understood that other embodiments may be utilized and structural or logical changes may be made without departing from the scope of the present invention. The preceding detailed description, therefore, is not to be taken in a limiting sense, and the scope of the present invention is defined by the appended claims.
It is contemplated that features disclosed in this application, as well as those described in the above applications incorporated by reference, can be mixed and matched to suit particular circumstances. Various other modifications and changes will be apparent to those of ordinary skill.

Claims

1. An inflatable furniture system comprising:

an inflatable core having a sealed enclosed region;

a decorative cover that at least partially covers the inflatable core;

a first attachment mechanism attached to one of the inflatable core and the decorative cover; and

a second attachment mechanism attached to one of the inflatable core and the decorative cover to which the first attachment mechanism is not attached, wherein the first attachment mechanism is capable of engaging the second attachment mechanism to retain the decorative cover in a position with respect to the inflatable core.

2. The inflatable furniture system of claim 1, wherein the first attachment mechanism is attached to an outer surface of the inflatable core and wherein the second attachment mechanism is attached to an inner surface of the decorative cover.

3. The inflatable furniture system of claim 1, wherein the first attachment mechanism is capable of detachably engaging the second attachment mechanism to retain the decorative cover in the position with respect to the inflatable core.

4. The inflatable furniture system of claim 1, wherein the first attachment mechanism comprises a first retention tab and a second retention tab, wherein the second attachment mechanism comprises a first attachment strap and a second attachment strap, wherein the first retention tab and the first attachment strap both have a first identifying mechanism, wherein the second retention tab and the second attachment strap both have a second identifying mechanism and wherein the first identifying mechanism is different than the second identifying mechanism.

5. The inflatable furniture system of claim 4, wherein the first identifying mechanism and the second identifying mechanism comprise at least one of a color and a shape.

6. The inflatable furniture system of claim 1, wherein the inflatable core comprises a seat portion and a back portion.

7. The inflatable furniture system of claim 1, wherein the inflatable core is inflated with at least one of air and foam beads.

8. The inflatable furniture system of claim 1, wherein the decorative cover substantially covers the inflatable core and wherein the decorative cover further comprises a closure mechanism.

9. A method of assembling furniture comprising;

providing an inflatable core and a decorative cover, wherein the inflatable core has a sealed enclosed region, wherein a first attachment mechanism is attached to one of the inflatable core and the decorative cover and wherein a second attachment mechanism is attached to one of the inflatable core and the decorative cover to which the at least one retention tab is not attached;

placing the decorative cover at least partially over the inflatable core; and

engaging the first attachment mechanism and the second attachment mechanism to retain the decorative cover in a position with respect to the inflatable core.

10. The method of claim 9, wherein the first attachment mechanism is attached to an outer surface of the inflatable core and wherein the second attachment mechanism is attached to an inner surface of the decorative cover.

11. The method of claim 9, wherein the first attachment mechanism detachably engages the second attachment mechanism to retain the decorative cover in the position with respect to the inflatable core.

12. The method of claim 9, wherein the first attachment mechanism comprises a first retention tab and a second retention tab, wherein the second attachment mechanism comprises a first attachment strap and a second attachment strap, wherein the first retention tab and the first attachment strap both have a first identifying mechanism, wherein the second retention tab and the second attachment strap both have a second identifying mechanism and wherein the first identifying mechanism is different than the second identifying mechanism.

13. The method of claim 12, wherein the first identifying mechanism and the second identifying mechanism comprise at least one of a color and a shape.

14. The method of claim 9, and further comprising inflating the inflatable core with at least one of air and foam beads.

15. The method of claim 9, wherein the decorative cover substantially covers the inflatable core and wherein the decorative cover further comprises a closure mechanism.

16. An inflatable furniture system comprising:

an inflatable core having a sealed enclosed region;

a decorative cover that at least partially covers the inflatable core;

a first attachment mechanism attached to one of the inflatable core and the decorative cover, wherein the first attachment mechanism comprises a first retention tab and a second retention tab; and

a second attachment mechanism attached to one of the inflatable core and the decorative cover to which the first attachment mechanism is not attached, wherein the second attachment mechanism comprises a first attachment strap and a second attachment strap, wherein the first retention tab is capable of detachably engaging the first attachment strap, wherein the second retention tab is capable of detachably engaging the second attachment strap, wherein the first attachment strap and the first retention tab both have a first identifying mechanism, wherein the second attachment strap and the second retention tab both have a second identifying mechanism and wherein the first identifying mechanism is different than the second identifying mechanism.

17. The inflatable furniture system of claim 16, wherein the first attachment mechanism is attached to an outer surface of the inflatable core and wherein the second attachment mechanism is attached to an inner surface of the decorative cover.

18. The inflatable furniture system of claim 16, wherein the first identifying mechanism and the second identifying mechanism comprise at least one of a color and a shape.

19. The inflatable furniture system of claim 16, wherein the inflatable core is inflated with at least one of air and foam beads.

20. The inflatable furniture system of claim 16, wherein the decorative cover substantially covers the inflatable core and wherein the decorative cover further comprises a closure mechanism.