Inflation mechanism and outlet valve for an article of footwear incorporating an inflatable bladder
US7546696B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Oct 17, 2005 |
| Grant date | Jun 16, 2009 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Nov 7, 2026 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC F)Mechanical Engineering; Lighting; Heating
- CPC primaryF16K15/148
- WIPO fieldOther consumer goods
- WIPO sectorOther fields
Abstract
An article of footwear having a fluid system including an inflatable bladder, an inflation mechanism, and a valve for facilitating air movement through the fluid system. In one embodiment, the valve is an outlet valve between the inflation mechanism and the inflatable bladder that includes an umbrella valve. In another embodiment, the valve is an outlet valve between the inflation mechanism and the inflatable bladder wherein a seating of the outlet valve forms a portion of the inflatable bladder and a portion of an inflation chamber of the inflation mechanism. The seating includes a flange for preventing blocked air flow to the valve. In another embodiment, the valve includes an umbrella valve and an inlet filter for keeping particulates from compromising the umbrella valve.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.