Inflatable Garment

Abstract

A garment having a first layer of fabric and a second layer of fabric at least partially coupled together via adhesive to form a plurality of cavities where each cavity is configured to receive air. The garment can further include a valve in fluid communication with at least one air cavity of the plurality of cavities and is configured to inflate the plurality of cavities to a target volume.

Claims

1. A garment comprising: a first material; a second material; and a valve; wherein the first material and the second material are cooperatively configured such that at least a portion of the first material is coupled to at least a portion of the second material at one or more locations; wherein the one or more locations of coupling form cavities between the first material and the second material, the cavities configured for inflation and deflation of media; and wherein the valve is in media communication with at least one of the cavities and is configured to inflate or deflate at least a portion of the cavities to a target volume.

2. The garment of claim 1, wherein: the first material is a first layer of a fabric; the second material is a second layer of the fabric; the first layer of fabric and the second layer of fabric are coupled at locations via the application of an adhesive to one or both of the first layer and the second layer, which locations are adhesively coupled; and the media is air.

3. The garment of claim 2, wherein at least one of the first layer of fabric and the second layer of fabric is substantially fluid-impermeable.

4. The garment of claim 2 further comprising a heat reflective layer in thermal communication with the second layer of fabric.

5. The garment of claim 2, wherein the cavities are arranged in a predetermined pattern formed by locations in which the adhesive is applied between the first and the second layers.

6. The garment of claim 5, wherein the predetermined pattern corresponds to the cavities having a substantially rectangular shape.

7. The garment of claim 1, wherein the target volume is based at least in part on an ambient temperature.

8. The garment of claim 1, wherein the garment is a jacket.

9. The garment of claim 1, wherein the valve is configured for manual inflation of the media therethrough.

10. The garment of claim 9, wherein the valve is positioned in a location accessible to the user.

11. The garment of claim 2, wherein the first layer of fabric and the second layer of fabric are coupled together to form a main body and two arm sleeves.

12. The garment of claim 1, wherein the valve is configured for inflation of the media therethrough; and wherein the media is not supplied by the user.

13. A method of manufacturing an inflatable garment comprising: forming a plurality of inflatable portions from a first layer of a fabric and a second layer of the fabric; providing an inflation means to at least one of the inflatable portions; and assembling the plurality of inflatable portions into an inflatable garment.

14. The method of claim 13, wherein forming the plurality of inflatable portions comprises: cutting a sheet of the fabric into the plurality of portions based at least in part on an intended use of the inflatable garment; applying adhesive in a predetermined pattern on at least one of the first layer of fabric and the second layer of fabric of the plurality of portions; and joining the first layer of fabric to the second layer of fabric to form the plurality of inflatable portions.

15. The method of claim 14, wherein assembling the plurality of inflatable portions into an inflatable garment comprises sewing together the plurality of inflatable portions.

16. The method of claim 15 further comprising cutting an opening into the first layer of fabric, the opening being sized to receive the inflation means comprising a valve.

17. The method of claim 16 further comprising uniting one or more borders of the first layer of fabric and the second layer of fabric.

18. An inflatable garment produced by a process comprising: providing a sheet of fabric having a first layer and a second layer; cutting the sheet of fabric into a plurality of portions based at least in part on an intended use of the inflatable garment; applying adhesive in a predetermined pattern on at least one of the first layer of fabric and the second layer of fabric of each portion of the plurality of portions; joining the first layer of fabric to the second layer of fabric of each portion of the plurality of portions to form a plurality of air cavities; affixing a valve to the first layer of fabric on at least one portion of the plurality of portions; and sewing together the plurality of portions.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0058] The accompanying Figures, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate several aspects described below.

[0059] FIG. 1A is a front view of an inflatable garment in a deflated state, in accordance with the disclosed technology.

[0060] FIG. 1B is a side view of the inflatable garment in the deflated state, in accordance with the disclosed technology.

[0061] FIG. 1C is a cross-section view of a portion of the inflatable garment in the deflated state, in accordance with the disclosed technology.

[0062] FIG. 2A is a front view of the inflatable garment in an inflated state, in accordance with the disclosed technology.

[0063] FIG. 2B is a perspective view of the inflatable garment in the inflated state, in accordance with the disclosed technology.

[0064] FIG. 2C is a cross-section view of a portion of the inflatable garment in the inflated state, in accordance with the disclosed technology.

[0065] FIGS. 3A-3D illustrate example patterns in which adhesive is applied to create a plurality of air cavities, in accordance with the disclosed technology.

[0066] FIG. 4 illustrates a user inflating the inflatable garment via a valve, in accordance with the disclosed technology.

[0067] FIG. 5 illustrates an example use of the inflatable garment, in accordance with the disclosed technology.

[0068] FIG. 6 is a flow chart outlining a method of manufacturing an inflatable jacket, in accordance with the disclosed technology.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0069] Examples of the present disclosure relate to an inflatable garment including a plurality of air cavities configured to be variably inflated and deflated based at least in part on the need and/or desire for more or less insulation, cushioning (for comfort or safety) or flotation. The garment can comprise a layer of a first material and a layer of a second material, the layer of the first material and the layer of the second material being at least partially coupled together via adhesive to form a plurality of cavities, each cavity configured to receive air, and a valve in fluid communication with at least one cavity of the plurality of air cavities, the valve configured to inflate at least a portion of the plurality of cavities to a target volume. The valve can be configured to receive air (e.g. from a user blowing air into the valve or other mechanisms) such that the plurality of cavities can inflate to a target volume.

[0070] The first material and the second material can be the same material. The first material and the second material can be different materials. One or both of the first material and the second material can be a fabric. In an exemplary embodiment, the first material is a fabric and the same as the second material, so that the above-described “layer of the first material and the layer of the second material” are more aptly termed “a first layer of a fabric and a second layer of the fabric.”

[0071] To facilitate an understanding of the principles and features of the disclosed technology, various illustrative examples are explained below. In particular, the presently disclosed subject matter is described in the context of being an inflatable jacket. Examples of the present disclosure, however, are not limited to the inflatable jacket and can be applicable in other forms and contexts. Other applications can include, for example, inflatable vests, pants, shirts, socks, gloves, undergarments, and the like. Other applications can further be outside of the garment field and can include many constructs where variable inflation can be advantageous, including, but not limited to, bags, technology device cases (e.g., computer cases, mobile device cases, and the like), air mattresses, and sleeping bags. These examples are contemplated within the scope of the present disclosure. Accordingly, when the present disclosure is described in the context of an electric utility, it will be understood that other examples can take the place of those referred to.

[0072] It must also be noted that, as used in the specification and the appended claims, the singular forms “a,” “an” and “the” include plural references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. For example, reference to a component is intended also to include composition of a plurality of components. References to a composition containing “a” constituent is intended to include other constituents in addition to the one named. In other words, the terms “a,” “an,” and “the” do not denote a limitation of quantity, but rather denote the presence of “at least one” of the referenced item.

[0073] As used herein, the term “and/or” may mean “and,” it may mean “or,” it may mean “exclusive-or,” it may mean “one,” it may mean “some, but not all,” it may mean “neither,” and/or it may mean “both.” The term “or” is intended to mean an inclusive “or.”

[0074] Also, in describing the exemplary embodiments, terminology will be resorted to for the sake of clarity. It is intended that each term contemplates its broadest meaning as understood by those skilled in the art and includes all technical equivalents which operate in a similar manner to accomplish a similar purpose. It is to be understood that embodiments of the disclosed technology may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known methods, structures, and techniques have not been shown in detail in order not to obscure an understanding of this description. References to “one embodiment,” “an embodiment,” “example embodiment,” “some embodiments,” “certain embodiments,” “various embodiments,” etc., indicate that the embodiment(s) of the disclosed technology so described may include a particular feature, structure, or characteristic, but not every embodiment necessarily includes the particular feature, structure, or characteristic. Further, repeated use of the phrase “in one embodiment” does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment, although it may.

[0075] Ranges may be expressed herein as from “about” or “approximately” or “substantially” one particular value and/or to “about” or “approximately” or “substantially” another particular value. When such a range is expressed, other exemplary embodiments include from the one particular value and/or to the other particular value. Further, the term “about” means within an acceptable error range for the particular value as determined by one of ordinary skill in the art, which will depend in part on how the value is measured or determined, i.e., the limitations of the measurement system. For example, “about” can mean within an acceptable standard deviation, per the practice in the art. Alternatively, “about” can mean a range of up to ±20%, preferably up to ±10%, more preferably up to ±5%, and more preferably still up to ±1% of a given value. Alternatively, the term can mean within an order of magnitude, preferably within 2-fold, of a value. Where particular values are described in the application and claims, unless otherwise stated, the term “about” is implicit and in this context means within an acceptable error range for the particular value.

[0076] Throughout this disclosure, various aspects of the disclosure can be presented in a range format. It should be understood that the description in range format is merely for convenience and brevity and should not be construed as an inflexible limitation on the scope of the disclosure. Accordingly, the description of a range should be considered to have specifically disclosed all the possible subranges as well as individual numerical values within that range. For example, description of a range such as from 1 to 6 should be considered to have specifically disclosed subranges such as from 1 to 3, from 1 to 4, from 1 to 5, from 2 to 4, from 2 to 6, from 3 to 6 etc., as well as individual numbers within that range, for example, 1, 2, 2.7, 3, 4, 5, 5.3, and 6. This applies regardless of the breadth of the range.

[0077] By “comprising” or “containing” or “including” is meant that at least the named compound, element, particle, or method step is present in the composition or article or method, but does not exclude the presence of other compounds, materials, particles, method steps, even if the other such compounds, material, particles, method steps have the same function as what is named.

[0078] Throughout this description, various components may be identified having specific values or parameters, however, these items are provided as exemplary embodiments. Indeed, the exemplary embodiments do not limit the various aspects and concepts of the present disclosure as many comparable parameters, sizes, ranges, and/or values may be implemented. The terms “first,” “second,” and the like, “primary,” “secondary,” and the like, do not denote an order, quantity, or importance, but rather are used to distinguish one element from another.

[0079] It is noted that terms like “specifically,” “preferably,” “typically,” “generally,” and “often” are not utilized herein to limit the scope of the claimed disclosure or to imply that certain features are critical, essential, or even important to the structure or function of the claimed disclosure. Rather, these terms are merely intended to highlight alternative or additional features that may or may not be utilized in a particular embodiment of the present disclosure. It is also noted that terms like “substantially” and “about” are utilized herein to represent the inherent degree of uncertainty that may be attributed to any quantitative comparison, value, measurement, or other representation.

[0080] The dimensions and values disclosed herein are not to be understood as being strictly limited to the exact numerical values recited. Instead, unless otherwise specified, each such dimension is intended to mean both the recited value and a functionally equivalent range surrounding that value. For example, a dimension disclosed as “50 mm” is intended to mean “about 50 mm.”

[0081] It is also to be understood that the mention of one or more method steps does not preclude the presence of additional method steps or intervening method steps between those steps expressly identified. Similarly, it is also to be understood that the mention of one or more components in a composition does not preclude the presence of additional components than those expressly identified.

[0082] The materials described hereinafter as making up the various elements of the present disclosure are intended to be illustrative and not restrictive. Many suitable materials that would perform the same or a similar function as the materials described herein are intended to be embraced within the scope of the disclosure. Such other materials not described herein can include, but are not limited to, materials that are developed after the time of the development of the disclosure, for example. Any dimensions listed in the various drawings are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to be limiting. Other dimensions and proportions are contemplated and intended to be included within the scope of the disclosure.

[0083] The components described hereinafter as making up various elements of the disclosed technology are intended to be illustrative and not restrictive. Many suitable components that would perform the same or similar functions as the components described herein are intended to be embraced within the scope of the disclosed technology. Such other components not described herein can include, but are not limited to, similar components that are developed after development of the presently disclosed subject matter.

[0084] Referring now to the drawings, in which like numerals represent like elements, example embodiments of the present disclosure are herein described. FIG. 1A illustrates a front view of an inflatable garment 100 in a deflated state and FIG. 1B illustrates a side view of the inflatable garment 100 in the deflated state. As illustrated in FIGS. 1A and 1B, the inflatable garment 100 can be a jacket 110 (e.g., parka, coat, raincoat, and the like), however, such construct shall be construed as non-limiting. The inflatable garment 100 can be manufactured and/or constructed as many pieces of outwear, pants, socks, gloves, undergarments and the like. Solely for conciseness of disclosure, the inflatable garment 100 is represented as an inflatable jacket 110.

[0085] The inflatable garment 100 can include a main body 122 and two arm sleeves 124. The inflatable garment 100 can optionally include a hood 126 (FIG. 5) that is removably attachable to a collar 128. The inflatable garment 100 can include an attachment means 130 (e.g., a zipper, one or more buttons, Velcro®, or the like) configured to substantially close the main body 122 of the inflatable garment 100. Several means of attachment 130 can be used to attach the several elements of the garment 100 to various portions, like the hood 126 to the collar 128, the entirety of the length of the garment 100 closed, useful to “close” pockets and the like, and other examples. The means of attachment can include, for example, different types of mechanisms, instruments and mediums. Optionally, the attachment means 130 used to close the entirety of the length of the garment 100 can be affixed on a piece of fabric (or cover) 142.

[0086] The inflatable garment 100 can further include one or more pockets 144. Optionally, the one or more pockets 144 can be positioned on the main body 122 at approximately waist or hip height of a user. Optionally, the one or more pockets 144 can be positioned on the main body 122 at approximately the upper chest of a user. A bottom portion 100B of the main body 122 can include one or more slits 146. The slits 146 can be positioned at approximately each side of the main body 122 as illustrated in FIG. 1A. A slit 146 can additionally be positioned to align with approximately a center of a back of a user as illustrated in FIG. 1B. The one or more slits 146 can provide comfort, flexibility, and mobility for the user.

[0087] The inflatable garment 100 can further include an inlet/outlet system 150 useful to inflate/deflate the inflatable garment 100. In an exemplary embodiment, the inlet/outlet system 150 can include a plurality of valves 152. The valve 152 can be configured to direct air into air cavities 154 (FIG. 1C) of the inflatable garment 100 and release air from the air cavities 154 of the inflatable garment 100 as further discussed herein.

[0088] While some exemplary embodiments including inflation with air, the cavity technology allows for many types of media to be used for different use cases. For example, the cavities can be “inflated” with a gel for physiotherapy, and/or water for comfort or safety, and/or helium for buoyancy, among other options.

[0089] Alternatively, the compartments made through the patterns can be used for storage if there are appropriate inlets in the implement/the garment.

[0090] The valve 152 can be made of many materials, including, but not limited to, polyvinyl chloride (PVC), or other polymeric materials. The valve 152 can be many types of valve configured to receive and release air. By way of example, the valve 152 can be a one-way check valve with two ports (e.g., a Boston valve) that can facilitate inflation and deflation of the inflatable garment 100.

[0091] Alternatively, the valve 152 can be a free-flow valve or non-return valve. The opening of the valve 152 can be many sizes and shapes, preferably cooperatively sized/shaped for location on the garment 100, the amount of inflation/deflation necessary, and the particular manner in which a wearer will inflate/deflate the sections of the garment at particular locations (mouth, pump or the like).

[0092] For example, the size of the opening can be based at least in part on the size of the inflatable garment 100 and/or the number of valves 152 that are incorporated into the inflatable garment 100. Additionally, the opening of the valve 152 can be sized to allow for ease of inflation via a user's mouth.

[0093] Alternatively or in addition to, the opening of the valve 152 can be sized to allow for ease of inflation via a pump (e.g., a manual pump or automatic pump). For example, a hand pump or automatic pump can be used in connection with the valve 152 to facilitate inflation of the inflatable garment 100.

[0094] Alternatively or in addition to, an air cannister can be used in connection with the valve 152 to facilitate inflation of the inflatable garment 100. This cannister or pump can be incorporated into the garment so it is accessible for maintenance, repair or replacement later on. The valve 152 can be positioned at many locations. Optionally, the valve 152 can be positioned at a location that is easily accessible to a user. For example, the valve 152 can be positioned on a sleeve 124 of the inflatable garment 100 such that the user can easily raise his arm to his mouth in order to inflate the inflatable garment 100.

[0095] Alternatively or in addition to, the valve 152 can be positioned proximate to the user's head and/or proximate to the user's upper chest such that the user can easily inflate the inflatable garment 100 via his mouth.

[0096] FIG. 1C illustrates an exemplary cross-sectional view of a portion of the inflatable garment 100 in a deflated state. The inflatable garment 100 can include a first layer of fabric 162 and a second layer of fabric 164 (e.g., the fabric can be two-ply). The first layer of fabric 162 and the second layer of fabric 164 can be at least partially coupled together via a type of attachment means 130, here an adhesive 166 such that an air cavity 154 is formed between the first and second layers of fabric 162, 164. In the deflated state, the air cavity 154 is substantially devoid of air or has a minimal amount of air. The adhesive can be applied such that the adhesive can have many thicknesses.

[0097] The first and second layer of fabric 162, 164 can be substantially water-impermeable. For example, the first and second layer of fabric 162, 164 can be a substantially coated fabric (e.g., a substantially polyvinyl chloride or thermoplastic polyurethane coated fabric).

[0098] Alternatively, the first and second layer of fabric 162, 164 can be composed of nylon, polyester, polypropylene, ripstop or other similar material.

[0099] The first layer of fabric 162 and the second layer of fabric 164 can have many thicknesses. Optionally, the first and second layers of fabric 162, 164 can have the same thickness.

[0100] Alternatively, the first layer of fabric 162 can have a different thickness than the second layer of fabric 164.

[0101] Optionally, the inflatable garment 100 can include a heat reflective layer 172. The heat reflective layer 172 can include many types of materials configured to reflect heat, including, for example, foil or reflective cloth fabric. The heat reflective layer 172 can be in communication with the second layer of fabric 164, or in some embodiments, can be the second layer of fabric itself. In one configuration, the heat reflective layer 172 can be the closest layer of material to the user's body. In such configuration the heat reflective layer 172 can reflect body heat, thereby serving as a source of insulation for the user.

[0102] Alternatively, the inflatable garment 100 can be reversible, such that the first layer of fabric 162 can be positioned closest to the user's body, and the heat reflective layer 172 can be the outermost layer of material. In such configuration, the heat reflective layer 172 can provide limited insulation to the user and can facilitate cooling off the user.

[0103] As further illustrated in FIG. 1C, the valve 152 can be in fluid communication with at least one air cavity 154 (e.g., a first air cavity 154A as shown in FIG. 1C). Upon directing air into the first air cavity 154A in direct fluid communication with the valve 152 whether manually via the user's mouth or via pump or cannister of air, the first air cavity 154A can substantially inflate. Via an opening in a portion of the adhesive pattern 166 within the air cavity 154, the air can gradually migrate from the first air cavity 154A to the second air cavity 154B.

[0104] Optionally, the inflatable garment 100 can include one or more reflective portions to provide increased safety for a user at night or in areas of low visibility. For example, one or more patches of reflective material can be coupled to the inflatable garment 100 or otherwise incorporated into the inflatable garment 100. Such reflective material can be positioned at many locations on the inflatable garment 100, including, without limitation, on the backside of the inflatable jacket, on the hood, and/or on the sleeves 124.

[0105] Optionally, technology devices, including, but not limited to, thermochromic materials, thermochromic dyes, LED lights, and the like, can be incorporated into the inflatable garment 100. For example, a portion of the inflatable garment 100 can include a coating of thermochromic dyes and/or an LED light can be attached to a portion of the inflatable garment 100. Heat sensitive materials including thermochromic materials and thermochromic dyes can be configured to alert the user of extreme temperatures (e.g., when the temperature is below a predetermined temperature or when the temperature is above a predetermined temperature). By alerting the user of such extreme temperature, the user can appropriately react by finding shelter, removing the inflatable garment or other layers of clothes, or by taking other forms of precautions.

[0106] Alternatively or in addition to, the technology devices can be configured to alert the user when the temperature meets or exceed a predetermined temperature in which the adhesive strength of the adhesive used to couple together the two layers of fabric as further discussed herein may be affected. Electrical components, conductive threads or similar hardware can be imbedded within or secured on the seams or cavities through dedicated adhesive patterns or with fasteners.

[0107] Optionally, the inflatable garment 100 can further include various embellishments for aesthetic purposes.

[0108] FIG. 2A illustrates a front view of the inflatable garment 100 in an inflated state, and FIG. 2B illustrates a perspective view of the inflatable garment 100 in the inflated state. As illustrated in FIGS. 2A and 2B, the inflatable garment 100 can include a plurality of air cavities 154 in an inflated state. In the inflated state, the predetermined pattern of the air cavities 154 can become more prominent, as the shape of each air cavity can take form as air is directed into the plurality of air cavities 154. These can make way for aesthetic or functional embellishments to the implement.

[0109] FIG. 2C illustrates a cross-section view of a portion of the inflatable garment 100 in the inflated state. As shown in FIGS. 2A through 2C, the inflatable garment 100 can include a plurality of air cavities 154. At least one air cavity 154 can be in fluid communication with a valve 152 that is incorporated on or within the first layer of fabric 162. When the air cavity 154 receives air whether by blowing air or using manual or automatic pump 152, the air cavity 154 can gradually inflate.

[0110] For representative purposes, the air cavity that is in direct, fluid communication with the valve is referred to herein as the first air cavity. However, it is noted that if the inflatable garment 100 includes multiple valves, there would also be multiple air cavities that are in direct communication with a respective valve. As the first air cavity inflates, air can gradually migrate from the first air cavity to the air cavities in fluid communication with such first air cavity. As air migrates from the first air cavity to the second air cavity, the air cavities can expand in size and shape to create a “puffer” configuration.

[0111] FIGS. 3A through 3D illustrate various patterns of air cavities 154. Many desired shapes and/or patterns of air cavities 154 can be created via the use of adhesive. In order to create the shape and/or pattern of air cavities 154, adhesive is applied in the desired shape and/or pattern. Small gaps in the adhesive pattern are used to create the channels for air to migrate from one air cavity to those air cavities in fluid communication. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 3A, adhesive can be applied to one or both of the first and second layers of fabric 162, 164 in a vertical, rectangular pattern. Accordingly, the first and second layers of fabric 162, 164 can be affixed together at all portions where adhesive is applied. As such, in the open areas where adhesive is not applied, air cavities configured to receive a target volume of air can be formed. The gaps in adhesive at the tops and bottoms of each rectangle can provide the channels for air to migrate from one air cavity 154 to another air cavity 154.

[0112] Similarly, as illustrated in FIG. 3B, adhesive can be applied to one or both of the first and second layers of fabric 162, 164 in a horizontal, rectangular pattern.

[0113] Further, FIGS. 3C and 3D illustrates an alternative pattern of the air cavities created via applying adhesive in a zig zag configuration and a wave-like configuration, respectively.

[0114] Although FIGS. 3A through 3D illustrate example patterns of air cavities 154, it is contemplated that the air cavities can have many shapes and can be arranged in many patterns.

[0115] FIG. 4 illustrates a user wearing the inflatable garment 100 and simultaneously inflating the inflatable garment 100 via the valve 152. As illustrated in FIG. 4, the valve 152 can be positioned proximate to the user's head. For example, the valve 152 can be positioned on or proximate the collar 128 of the hood 126 of the inflatable garment 100 such that the user can easily access the valve 152 to inflate.

[0116] A user can inflate the inflatable garment 100 to a target volume via blowing air into the opening of the valve using their mouth. Alternatively, or in addition to, the user can inflate the inflatable garment 100 to the target volume via a manual or automatic pump or a cannister of air. The target volume can be based on the user's preferences.

[0117] Alternatively or in addition to, the target volume can be based on an ambient temperature, as the air within the air cavities 154 can provide an insulating effect. For example, if the user is outside in a low temperature environment, the user can inflate the inflatable garment 100 to a target volume that is greater than if the user is outside in a moderate temperature environment. Once the user inflates the inflatable garment 100 to the desired target volume, the user can close the valve 152 such that the target volume is maintained.

[0118] In another embodiment, the user can selectively inflate portions of the garment or allow sensors and actuators to automatically to do so. That is, inflation of the garment can be “automatic”—through the use of sensors and actuators, forming a “smart” garment.

[0119] The user can additionally deflate the inflatable garment 100 based at least in part of the user's preferences or an ambient temperature. For example, if the user determines they do not need and/or desire the insulation provided by the inflatable garment 100 when in the inflated state or if the user determines less insulation is needed and/or desired, the user can deflate the inflatable garment 100. The user can open the valve 152 to allow the air stored within the air cavities 154 to be released. Optionally, the user can release only a portion of the air stored in the air cavities 154. Alternatively, the user can release substantially all of the air stored in the air cavities 154.

[0120] FIG. 5 illustrates an example use of the inflatable garment 100. As discussed herein, the inflatable garment 100 can be used as a piece of clothing (e.g., a coat) and can be inflated to a target volume of air based on the user's preferences and/or need for insulation. However, such use of the inflatable garment 100 shall not be construed as limiting. For example, the inflatable garment 100 can further be used as a comfortable, insulating material upon which a user can lie. As illustrated in FIG. 5, a user may inflate the inflatable garment 100 to a target volume via the valve using methods as previously described herein. The user can subsequently open the inflatable garment 100 such that the interior of the inflatable garment 100 forms a cavity for the user to lie within. Optionally, the user can detach the collar 128 and/or the hood 126 and use such collar 128 and/or hood 126 as a pillow. Optionally, the collar 128 and/or hood 126 can include one or more air cavities that are not in fluid communication with the air cavities 154 of the other portions of the inflatable garment 100. In such configuration, the collar 128 and/or hood 126 can each have a valve 152 incorporated into the first layer of fabric of the collar 128 and the hood 126, respectively. Once the collar 128 and/or hood 126 is detached from the inflatable garment, the user can inflate the collar 128 and/or hood 126 individually via the valve incorporated with the collar 128 and/or hood 126, respectively, to a target volume of air. The target volume of air can be based upon a desired volume of air such that the collar and/or hood can appropriately be used by the user as a pillow.

[0121] FIG. 6 outlines an exemplary method 600 of manufacturing the inflatable garment 100. The method 600 can include providing 602 a sheet of fabric having a first layer and a second layer. As previously discussed herein, the sheet of fabric can be substantially water-impermeable and can be made of various materials including, but not limited to, nylon, polyester, polypropylene, ripstop or other similar material. Optionally, the sheet of fabric can be coated with TPU and/or PVC.

[0122] The method 600 can include cutting 604 the sheet of fabric into a plurality of portions based at least in part on an intended use of the inflatable garment 100 (e.g., as a coat, sock, undergarment, or the like). For example, when the inflatable garment 100 is intended to be used as a coat, the sheet of fabric can be cut into a front portion, a back portion, a first sleeve portion, a second sleeve portion, a collar portion, and a hood portion. Optionally, a stencil can be used to facilitate cutting the sheet of fabric into the plurality of portions. An opening can further be cut in the first layer of fabric 162 in a selected portion (e.g., a sleeve portion) for the placement of each valve 152. The size of the opening can be based upon the size of the valve 152. One having ordinary skill in the art would understand how to cut the sheet of fabric into multiple portions based on the intended use and the necessary sizing of the ultimately manufactured inflatable garment 100.

[0123] The method 600 can include applying 606 adhesive in a predetermined pattern to at least one of the first layer of fabric 162 and the second layer of fabric 164 of each portion of the plurality of portions. Optionally, adhesive can be applied to both the first and second layer of fabric 162, 164. If adhesive is applied to both the first and second layer of fabric 162, 164, the adhesive can be applied such that the predetermined pattern of the adhesive on one layer of the fabric is mirrored, and hence overlapped, on the other layer of fabric.

[0124] The method 600 can include joining 608 the first layer of fabric 162 and the second layer of fabric 164 such that the first and second layers of fabric 162, 164 can be coupled together (e.g., bonded) where the adhesive has been applied. Optionally, various physical and/or chemical techniques can be applied to couple the first and second layers of fabric 162, 164 together. For example, heat pressing can be used to couple the first and second layers of fabric 162, 164 together. Alternatively, the implement could be additively built instead of seamed or sewn together through 3D printing and similar technologies.

[0125] The borders of each portion can be further heat activated/bonded to ensure the first layer of fabric 162 and the second layer of fabric 164 are joined together and create the plurality of air cavities 154. This application on the borders will differ depending on the type of material used in making the garment, and the method of adhesion used.

[0126] The method 600 can include affixing 610 the valve 152 to the first layer of fabric 120. Optionally, a water-impermeable coating/sealant can be applied to the exterior surface of the valve and excess fabric that surrounds the valve 152. Optionally, a manual and/or automatic pump can additionally be affixed to the first layer of fabric 162.

[0127] The method 600 can include sewing 612 the plurality of portions to form the inflatable garment 100.

[0128] Optionally, the method 600 can further include sewing the heat reflective layer to the second layer of fabric 164. Accordingly, in one configuration, the heat reflective layer can be the innermost layer that is closest to the user's body. In such an embodiment, wherein the heat reflective layer is one of the first/second layers of the fabric, it is preferably mostly water-impermeable. Alternatively, the inflatable garment can be reversed such that the heat reflective layer is the outermost layer that is exposed to the exterior environment.

[0129] Although FIG. 6 indicates on example method of manufacturing the inflatable garment 100, it is contemplated a variety of manufacturing methods can be used. For example, instead of applying adhesive to at least one layer of fabric and subsequently joining the first layer of fabric 162 and the second layer of fabric 164 such that the first and second layers of fabric 162, 164 are coupled together, a sheet of fabric that is substantially or entirely pre-coated with adhesive can be used. In that case, a non-stick sheet, Teflon®-coated sheet or other similar material can be placed between both coated fabrics to create the pattern for adhesion. Such sheet can be cut in (a negative of) the predetermined pattern of adhesive.

[0130] While the present disclosure has been described in connection with a plurality of example aspects, as illustrated in the various figures and discussed above, it is understood that other similar aspects can be used, or modifications and additions can be made to the described subject matter for performing the same function of the present disclosure without deviating therefrom. In this disclosure, methods and compositions were described according to aspects of the presently disclosed subject matter. But other equivalent methods or compositions to these described aspects are also contemplated by the teachings herein. Therefore, the present disclosure should not be limited to any single aspect, but rather construed in breadth and scope in accordance with the appended claims. Moreover, various aspects of the disclosed technology have been described herein as relating to methods, systems, mechanism, mechanisms, and/or non-transitory, computer-readable medium storing instructions. However, it is to be understood that the disclosed technology is not necessarily limited to the examples and embodiments expressly described herein. That is, certain aspects of a described system can be included in the methods described herein, aspects of a described mechanism or system can be included in another mechanism or system, various aspects of a described method can be included in a system described herein, and the like.