INFLATABLE ADJUSTABLE BED

Abstract

The presently disclosed subject matter provides an inflatable adjustable bed. Generally, the inflatable adjustable bed comprises two inflatable units. A head support unit designed to support a user's head and torso and a leg support unit is designed to support the user's legs. A secondary pad and/or a middle pad may be secured to the inflatable units and provide additional support to a user lying supine on the inflatable adjustable bed. In some embodiments, the secondary pad and/or the middle pad comprises a functionality to provide a user with options for cooling, heating, vibration, or monitoring for vitals. Different sections and units of the inflatable adjustable bed can be inflated or deflated independently to a desired level. The inflatable adjustable bed can be folded for an easy transport by the user.

Claims

1. An inflatable adjustable bed for supporting a user's body; the user lying supine upon the inflatable adjustable bed; the inflatable adjustable bed comprising: two inflatable units; each inflatable unit comprising a planar bottom side, a top side, and a perimeter wall disposed therebetween; wherein the perimeter wall defines the at least one inflatable unit height; wherein the two inflatable units comprise a head support unit and a leg support unit; the head support unit comprises a generally wedge-shaped form for supporting the user's head and torso; the leg support unit comprises a generally wedge-shaped form in continuity with a substantially squarish-shaped form for supporting the user's legs and feet; a middle pad; the middle pad comprising a bottom side, a top side, and a perimeter wall disposed therebetween; wherein the perimeter wall defines a height; wherein the middle pad is designed to fit in between the said head support unit and the leg support unit and support the gluteal region of the user lying upon the inflatable adjustable bed; and, wherein the head support unit and the leg support unit each comprise at least one air valve for inflating, or deflating, the head support unit and the leg support unit.

2. The inflatable adjustable bed of claim 1, wherein the middle pad comprises at least one inflatable bladder; and, wherein the middle pad comprises at least one air valve for inflating, or deflating, the at least one bladder.

3. The inflatable adjustable bed of claim 1, wherein the middle pad comprises padding material/s.

4. The inflatable adjustable bed of claim 1, wherein the middle pad comprises at least one inflatable bladder and padding material/s; and, wherein the middle pad comprises at least one air valve for inflating, or deflating, the said at least one bladder.

5. The inflatable adjustable bed of claim 1, wherein the head support unit's generally wedge-shaped form opposes the leg support unit's generally wedge-shaped form in a manner according to which the lowest parts of the generally wedge-shaped forms are proximal to each other; and, wherein the head support unit is tethered, or not tethered, to the leg support unit, wherein when the head support unit is tethered to the leg support unit the type of tethering is selected from a group comprising permanent tethering, adjustable tethering, releasable tethering, permanent and adjustable tethering, or releasable and adjustable tethering; wherein when the head support unit is tethered to the leg support unit the tethering defines a pre-determined space between the two said units; and, wherein the middle pad is designed to fit in the pre-determined space between the two said units.

6. The inflatable adjustable bed of claim 1, wherein the middle pad comprises at least one attachment means designed for attachment to the head support unit and/or the leg support unit.

7. The inflatable adjustable bed of claim 6, wherein the middle pad extends from the pre-determined space in between head support unit and the leg support unit to cover the top side of the head support unit and/or the leg support unit.

8. The inflatable adjustable bed of claim 6, wherein the middle pad extends from the pre-determined space in between head support unit and the leg support unit to partially cover the top side of the head support unit and/or the leg support unit.

9. The inflatable adjustable bed of claim 6, wherein the attachment of the middle pad to the head support unit and/or the leg support unit is a releasable or a permanent attachment.

10. The inflatable adjustable bed of claim 1, wherein the middle pad and/or head support unit and/or leg support unit comprise a heating and cooling functionality.

11. The inflatable adjustable bed of claim 1, wherein the middle pad and/or head support unit and/or leg support unit provide a vibration function as needed.

12. The inflatable adjustable bed of claim 1, wherein the middle pad and/or head support unit and/or leg support unit comprise a at least one sensor for monitoring vitals of the user.

13. The inflatable adjustable bed of claim 12, wherein the middle pad and/or head support unit and/or leg support unit further comprise a controller; the controller responsive to input from the at least one sensor; wherein the controller initiates, or stops, vibration in response to input from the at least one sensor.

14. The inflatable adjustable bed of claim 12, wherein the middle pad and/or head support unit and/or leg support unit further comprise a controller; the controller responsive to input from the at least one sensor; wherein the controller initiates inflation or deflation of air to, or out of, the head unit and/or the leg unit in response to input from the at least one sensor.

15. The inflatable adjustable bed of claim 5, wherein the inflatable adjustable bed further comprises a secondary pad; the secondary pad comprising a bottom side, a top side, and a perimeter wall disposed therebetween; wherein the perimeter wall defines a height; wherein the secondary pad is substantially planar and is designed to fit upon the top side of the leg support unit, middle pad, and head support unit; and, wherein the secondary pad is positioned between the at least one inflatable unit and the user lying upon the inflatable adjustable bed; and/or wherein the inflatable adjustable bed further comprises a cover; the cover designed to fit over the inflatable adjustable bed and cover its top sides and sides.

16. An inflatable adjustable bed for supporting a user's body; the user lying supine upon the inflatable adjustable bed; the inflatable adjustable bed comprising: two inflatable units; each inflatable unit comprising a planar bottom side, a top side, and a perimeter wall disposed therebetween; wherein the perimeter wall defines the at least one inflatable unit height; wherein the two inflatable units comprise a head support unit and a leg support unit; the head support unit comprises a generally wedge-shaped form for supporting the user's head and torso; the leg support unit comprises a generally wedge-shaped form in continuity with a substantially squarish-shaped form for supporting the user's legs and feet; wherein the head support unit's generally wedge-shaped form opposes the leg support unit's generally wedge-shaped form in a manner according to which the lowest parts of the generally wedge-shaped forms are proximal to each other; wherein the head support unit is tethered to the leg support unit, wherein when the head support unit is tethered to the leg support unit the said units abut; and wherein the type of tethering is selected from a group comprising permanent tethering, and releasable tethering.

17. The inflatable adjustable bed of claim 16, wherein head support unit and/or leg support unit comprise at least one functionality selected from a group comprising heating and cooling functionality, a vibration function, and a sensor for monitoring vitals of the user.

18. The inflatable adjustable bed of claim 17, wherein the head support unit and/or leg support unit further comprise a controller; the controller responsive to input from the at least one sensor; wherein the controller initiates, or stops, vibration in response to input from the at least one sensor.

19. The inflatable adjustable bed of claim 17, wherein the head support unit and/or leg support unit further comprise a controller; the controller responsive to input from the at least one sensor; wherein the controller initiates inflation or deflation of air to, or out of, the head unit and/or the leg unit in response to input from the at least one sensor.

20. The inflatable adjustable bed of claim 16, wherein the inflatable adjustable bed further comprises a secondary pad; the secondary pad comprising a bottom side, a top side, and a perimeter wall disposed therebetween; wherein the perimeter wall defines a height; wherein the secondary pad is substantially planar and is designed to fit upon the top side of the leg support unit, middle pad, and head support unit; and, wherein the secondary pad is positioned between the at least one inflatable unit and the user lying upon the inflatable adjustable bed.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0027] Having thus described the presently disclosed subject matter in general terms, reference will now be made to the accompanying Drawings, which are not necessarily drawn to scale, and wherein:

[0028] FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of an embodiment of presently disclosed inflatable adjustable bed; the inflatable adjustable bed comprising air pumps and depicted secured to a bed;

[0029] FIG. 2a-c illustrates a side view of another embodiment of the presently disclosed inflatable adjustable bed, depicting the adjustability of the inflatable adjustable bed, the inflatable adjustable bed being in use by a user (broken lines);

[0030] FIG. 3 illustrates a sectional view of an embodiment of the presently disclosed inflatable adjustable bed, the inflatable adjustable bed depicted in use by a user (broken lines) and placed on a surface, in the depicted example-a bed (broken lines);

[0031] FIG. 4a-c illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of a process of folding, packing, and transporting the presently disclosed inflatable adjustable bed;

[0032] FIG. 5 illustrates a perspective view of another embodiment of the presently disclosed inflatable adjustable bed wherein the inflatable adjustable bed comprises one inflatable unit;

[0033] FIG. 6 illustrates a perspective view of yet another embodiment of the presently disclosed inflatable adjustable bed wherein the inflatable adjustable bed comprises an inflatable secondary pad;

[0034] FIG. 7a-c illustrates a side view of yet another embodiment of the presently disclosed inflatable adjustable bed, depicting a rigid support structure;

[0035] FIG. 8 illustrates a perspective view of another embodiment of the presently disclosed inflatable adjustable bed wherein the inflatable adjustable bed comprises a middle pad;

[0036] FIG. 9 illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of the inflatable adjustable bed wherein the middle pad comprises an air valve;

[0037] FIG. 10 illustrates a perspective view of another embodiment of the presently disclosed inflatable adjustable bed wherein the middle pad is detached;

[0038] FIG. 11 illustrates a perspective view of yet another embodiment of the presently disclosed inflatable adjustable bed wherein the inflatable adjustable bed comprises a middle pad and is used by a user

[0039] FIG. 12 illustrates a perspective view of yet another embodiment of the presently disclosed inflatable adjustable bed wherein the inflatable adjustable bed comprises a middle pad;

[0040] FIG. 13 illustrates a perspective view of yet another embodiment of the presently disclosed inflatable adjustable bed wherein the inflatable adjustable bed comprises a middle pad;

[0041] FIG. 14a-c illustrates side views of several embodiment of the presently disclosed inflatable adjustable bed wherein the inflatable adjustable bed comprises a middle pad;

[0042] FIG. 15 illustrates a perspective view of another embodiment of the presently disclosed inflatable adjustable bed wherein the middle pad comprises a function element; and,

[0043] FIG. 16 illustrates a perspective view of another embodiment of the presently disclosed inflatable adjustable bed wherein the middle pad, head support unit, and foot support unit each comprise a function element and the inflatable adjustable bed comprises a cover.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0044] The presently disclosed subject matter now will be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying Drawings, in which some, but not all embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter are shown. Like numbers refer to like elements throughout. The presently disclosed subject matter may be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein; rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will satisfy applicable legal requirements. Indeed, many modifications and other embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter set forth herein will come to mind to one skilled in the art to which the presently disclosed subject matter pertains having the benefit of the teachings presented in the foregoing descriptions and the associated Drawings. Therefore, it is to be understood that the presently disclosed subject matter is not to be limited to the specific embodiments disclosed and that modifications and other embodiments are intended to be included within the scope of the appended claims.

[0045] In some embodiments, the presently disclosed subject matter provides an inflatable adjustable bed (also referred to herein as IAB). The IAB comprises at least one inflatable unit designed, when inflated, to support a user's body part/s in varying positions. The IAB is designed to be used when laid upon, or secured to, any flat surface, including a standard mattress and/or standard bed and/or the floor. In some embodiments, the IAB comprises two inflatable units. A head support unit designed to support a user's head and torso, and a leg support unit designed to support the user's legs. In some embodiments, the IAB comprises a secondary pad which may be secured to the inflatable units and which provides structure and cushioning to a user being supported by the IAB. In some other embodiments, the IAB comprises a middle pad designed to fit in between the head support unit and the leg support unit and support the user's lower back and pelvis. In some embodiments, any of the IAB's parts/units such as the secondary pad, middle pad, head support unit, or leg support unit comprises a functionality to provide a user with options for cooling, heating, vibration, or monitoring (for example, for vitals). To use the IAB, a user lays the deflated IAB flat on a surface, for example, a standard bed. A user than inflates the inflatable unit/s to the desired level of air volume. The volume of air inflated will determine the height of the inflatable unit/s and thus the degree of elevation of the supported body part of the user. A user may choose a different level of elevation for different body parts as needed. For example, a user may choose to inflate the head support unit to a higher height than the leg support unit, or vice versa, or only inflate one support and not the other. A user may also choose cooling, heating, or vibration setting. To transport the IAB, a user must deflate the inflatable unit/s. Once deflated and laid flat the inflatable unit/s and secondary pad are foldable, for example, by being rolled in a manner similar to rolling a sleeping bag. Once folded and secured in a folded position, the IAB's components can be easily transported by the user.

[0046] Referring now to FIGS. 1, 2a-c, and 5, according to some embodiments, the IAB 100 comprises two inflatable units: the head support unit 2 for supporting the user's head and torso, and the leg support unit 3 for supporting the user's legs. The head support unit 2 comprises a generally wedged-form and comprises a planar bottom side, a top side 14 (the long side of the generally wedged-form), and a perimeter wall disposed therebetween. The perimeter wall defines the height of the head support unit 2. The leg support unit 3 comprises a generally wedged-form in continuity with a substantially squarish-shaped form. The leg support unit 3 comprises a planar bottom side, a top side 14 (the long side of the generally wedged-form and a top side of the squarish form), and a perimeter wall disposed therebetween. The perimeter wall defines the height of the head support unit 2. In some embodiments, the generally wedge-shaped form of the leg support unit 3 is in continuation with any applicably shaped form, as long as the said form is usable for supporting the feet of a user lying on the IAB 100.

[0047] For use, the head support unit 2 and the leg support unit 3 are positioned opposite to each other in a manner according to which the lowest parts of the generally wedged-forms are proximal and the highest parts of the generally wedge-shaped forms are distal. The IAB 100 can be arranged in such manner for use upon any flat surface, for example, a floor, a mattress, or a bed 19. In some embodiments, when the IAB 100 is used positioned upon a traditional bed 19, the distance between the highest part of the head support unit's 2 generally wedged-shaped form and the most distal end of the rectangular-shaped form is similar to the length of a traditional bed 19.

[0048] In some embodiments, the IAB 100 further comprises a secondary pad 1. The secondary pad 1 is designed to be placed upon, and cover, the head support unit 2 and the leg support unit 3 and provide structure and comfort for the user. The secondary pad 1 may comprise, for example, padding material/s, at least one inflatable bladder, or combinations thereof. Generally, the secondary pad 1 spreads out any pillowing (unevenness) resulting from the inflatable head and leg support units 2, 3 to further improve the user's comfort. Therefore, in some embodiments, the secondary pad 1 is semi-rigid or comprises structural resilience. In some embodiments, the secondary pad 1 is permanently attached to the head support unit 2 and the leg support unit 3 and thus, tethers the said units together and defines a pre-determined distance between them. In some other embodiments (shown), the said attachment is removable or the secondary pad 1 is simply laid on the head support unit 2 and the leg support unit 3. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1, the secondary pad 1 releasably attaches to the head support unit 2 and the leg support unit 3 using hook and loop fastener straps 6. In the example shown, the straps 6 are positioned on two opposite ends of the secondary pad 1 and releasably attach to matching straps 6 on the head support unit 2 and the leg support unit 3. Other methods for releasable attachment 6 are within the scope of this disclosure for the purpose described above, including but not limited to, hook and eye fasteners, zippers, studs, fastening buttons and complementary button holes, straps with longitudinally spaced holes and corresponding buckles, snap buttons, and combinations thereof.

[0049] In the example illustrated, head support unit 2 and the leg support unit 3 are tethered to each other via straps 8, thus defining a pre-determined length, for example, the length of a traditional bed 19. In some embodiments, the length of straps 8 can be adjusted by the user, for example, when the straps 8 comprise an adjustable buckle (not shown), or the user can use a buckle (or any other attachment means) on straps 8 to separate the head support unit 2 from the leg support unit 3 and use the inflatable units 2, 3 separately as desired. Generally, the type of tethering 8 may include without limitation permanent tethering, adjustable tethering, releasable tethering, permanent and adjustable tethering, releasable and adjustable tethering, or tethering created when the forms of the head support unit and the leg support unit are interlocking, and combinations thereof.

[0050] According to yet other embodiments, head support unit 2 and the leg support unit 3 form a continues single inflatable unit 2, 3. This embodiment is exemplified in FIG. 5 which illustrate one inflatable unit comprising a generally wedge-shaped form head support and a contoured leg support comprising a wedge-shaped form. The IAB 100 of FIG. 5 comprises at least one air valve 16. In some embodiments, a user has possibilities such as inflating/deflating the entire IAB 100 via a single air valve 16, or inflating/deflating separate sections (such as sections 3a, 3b which will be discussed below) via more than one air valve 16, or combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the IAB 100 comprises one or more attachment points 21 to releasably attach items such as without limitations cover/s, sheet/s, or pad/s. The attachment points may be without limitation clip/s, clamp/s, or combinations thereof.

[0051] In some embodiments, head support unit 2 and the leg support unit 3 comprise bolsters 7 positioned along the perimeter of the two opposite and parallel sides of their top sides 14. The bolsters 7 generally assist with the alignment and placement of the user and prevent a user from rolling of the secondary pad 1. The bolsters 7 may comprise padding material/s, or at least one inflatable bladder, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the bolsters' said at least one inflatable bladder is in air flow continuation with the inflatable support unit they are part of (e.g. head support unit 2 and the leg support unit 3). According to other embodiments, the bolsters comprise at least one air valve.

[0052] In some other embodiments, head support unit 2 and the leg support unit 3 further comprise an attachment means 9 for releasably securing the said units to a surface, for example to a traditional bed's mattress 20. In the example illustrated, the attachment means is a straps 9. The straps 9 are attached to the head support unit 2 and the leg support unit 3. A user loops the strap 9 of each of the said inflatable units around the mattress and thus secure them firmly in place. Straps 9 may comprise any attachment/securing means. Other possible attachment means are, without limitation, hook and eye fasteners, zippers, studs, fastening buttons and complementary button holes, straps with longitudinally spaced holes and corresponding buckles, snap buttons, and combinations thereof.

[0053] In some embodiments, the head support unit 2 and the leg support unit 3 (inflatable units 2, 3,) each comprise at least one air valve 16 usable for inflating or deflating the two said units. In any of the embodiments, disclosed herein, any air valve 16 is attachable to an air pump 11, or to an air hose 10 which in turn is attachable to an air pump 11. The at least one air valve 16 is generally disposed in one of the side walls of the inflatable units 2, 3, for example, in the perimeter wall (shown). However, the at least one air valve 16 may be positioned in any applicable location of any of the inflatable units 2, 3, 1 of this disclosure. The at least one air valve 16 may be any type of air valve traditionally used in the art.

[0054] The air pump/s 11 may be any type of pump known in the art, for example, a compressor, a blower, a fan, or a hand/manual pump. The air pump 11 may be battery powered or electrical corded 12. The at least one air valve 16 and the air pump/s 11 may each be controlled, and/or operated, for deflation or inflation of the inflatable units 2, 3 and/or secondary pad 1 manually. Alternatively, the at least one air valve 16 and the air pump/s 11 may each be controlled, and/or operated, for deflation or inflation of the inflatable units 2, 3 and/or secondary pad 1 remotely using wireless communication. For example, via electric control of a remote 13, or via a smart phone application 13. In another embodiments, the at least one air valve 16 and the air pump/s 11 may each be controlled, and/or operated, for deflation or inflation of the inflatable units 2, 3 and/or the secondary pad 1 manually, or remotely, automatically, or combination thereof. In some embodiments, as exemplified in FIG. 5, the air pump 11 is built-in into the inflatable unit/s 2, 3, or secondary pad 1.

[0055] Padding material/s as defined herein may be used to construct any one of the inflatable units 2, 3, or specifically the top side 14 of any one of the inflatable units 2, 3, or any other side of any one of the inflatable units 2, 3, or any part of the middle pad 200, or any part of the secondary pad 1, or combinations thereof. The padding material/s may be used to fashion the inflatable units 2, 3, and/or the secondary pad 1, and or the middle pad 200 more comfortable to lie on or to produce a structural or cooling effect. Examples of padding material/s include, without limitation, memory foam, other types of foam, any type of latex, wool, synthetic fibers, cotton, any other fiber fills, down, any other feathers, downlike fill, gel, liquid (such as water), and combinations thereof.

[0056] Additionally, padding material/s considered herein for the construction of the inflatable units 2, 3, and/or the secondary pad 1, and/or the middle pad 200, and/or cover 27 may be used to produce a cooling effect for the benefit of the user. For example, padding material/s include breathable materials, such as open-cell foam, latex, Phase Change Materials (PCMs), moisture-wicking fabrics, gel-infused foams, gel pads, water/water pads, or combinations thereof. A person skilled in the art will appreciate that any padding material/s or fabric is within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0057] In some embodiments, the secondary pad 1 (or any other of the units/parts of the IAB 100, as will be further discussed below) comprises a function element 4 providing the secondary pad 1 with functionality such as heating, cooling, vibration, monitoring (sensor), or combinations thereof. In the example illustrated, the function element 4 provides a ventilated design to provide a cooling effect for a user. The function element 4 comprises multiple air channels 5 or perforations 5. These perforations 5 may be of any applicable diameter and they enhance airflow within the secondary pad 1, allowing heat to escape and preventing it from becoming trapped near the user's body. In some embodiments, the perforations 5 are used for blowing out cold or hot air for air conditioning the user.

[0058] Further, in some embodiments the function element 4 provides heating or cooling as necessary and desired. This is achieved using any method known in the art, including but not limited to, heated wires, heated water, cooled water, or combinations thereof to increase or decrease temperature. Furthermore, in some embodiments the function element 4 provides vibration as needed and desired. In some embodiments, any of the functions provided by the function element 4 are initiated or stopped manually by the user. In some other embodiments, some, a combination of, or all the functions provided by the function center 4 are initiated or stopped automatically.

[0059] In some embodiments, the function element 4 comprises at least one sensor 15. The at least one sensor 15 generally monitors the vitals of the person using the IAB 100. The vitals monitored may include, but not limited to, indications such as body temperature, pulse rate, respiration rate, blood pressure, or combination thereof. Input from the at least one sensor 15 is transferred to a controller 13, further comprised within the secondary pad 1 or the function element 4, and the controller starts, enhances, reduces, or stops one or more function of the function element 4 as needed. In other embodiments, the controller functionality is comprised in a remote 13 and/or a smart phone application.

[0060] A sectional view is provided depicting an example of the presently disclosed IAB 100 in FIGS. 2a-c. The IAB 100 is depicted in use by a user (broken lines) and placed on any type of flat surface, such as a traditional bed as depicted in FIG. 1. FIG. 2a depicts the IAB 100 in a fully inflated position and the user reclines when both inflatable units 2, 3 are at maximal heights. A user may choose to inflate the head support unit 2, or the leg support unit 3, or both only partly. This position of partly inflated IAB 100 is depicted in FIG. 2b and it creates a more supine posture for the user while still elevating the head, torso, and legs. The user may choose any such partly inflated position with respect to the head support unit 2, or the leg support unit 3, or both to achieve maximal comfort. Alternatively, both inflatable units 2, 3 may be deflated completely as illustrated in FIG. 2c. In this position a user may simply use the IAB 100 as a flat comfortable mattress. Furthermore, in this position the standard bed to which the IAB 100 is releasably secured can be made and covered according to the user's preferences and the IAB 100 will not be noticeable until inflated again.

[0061] It is desirable that when the IAB 100 is partially deflated the perimeter wall will adjust but the top sides 14 will substantially retain their flatness. In some embodiments, any of the side of the inflatable units 2, 3 is fashioned of materials traditionally used in the art for the construction of retail and commercial air mattresses/bladders. In some embodiments, the top sides 14 (sides) of the inflatable units 2, 3 are thicker, or more rigid/resilient, than the perimeter walls. For example, the top sides 14 (sides) may be 1.5, 2, 2.5, or 3 times thicker than the perimeter walls. In some embodiments, the perimeter walls of the inflatable units 2, 3 comprise a flexible material.

[0062] FIG. 6 exemplify another embodiment of the IAB 100 according to which the secondary pad 1 comprises one or more inflatable bladder. The IAB 100 is illustrated comprising the head support unit 2, leg support unit 3, and secondary pad 1, each comprising at least one air valve 16, built-in air pump 11, or a combination thereof. In any of the embodiments disclosed herein, clement 11, 16 may be a combination air valve 16 and built-in air pump 11, air valve 16, or a built-in air pump 11. Disposed along the perimeter wall are one or more attachment points for a releasable attachment of a sheet or cover for covering the top side 14 of the IAB 100 as desired.

[0063] Moving now to FIG. 3, illustrating a sectional view of an example of the presently disclosed IAB 100. in some embodiments, the leg support unit 3 comprises a triangle shaped section 3a and a generally wedge-shaped section 3b. Section 3a is base section wherein its bottom side is planar with the bottom side of the head support unit 2 (when the IAB 100 is inflated and positioned on a flat surface). An upper side of the base section 3a abuts the long side of section 3b, the foot section. In some embodiments, the foot section 3b comprises at least one air valve 16 usable for inflating, or deflating, the foot section 3b independently of the inflation or deflation position of base section 3a. The ability to inflate or deflate section 3b independently as desired enables a user to elevate or lower his/her feet while keeping the knees high. In some embodiments, this adjustment of the IAB 100 comprises a full deflation of section 3b and an releasably attachment of attachment means 6 of secondary pad 1 to the bottom, planar, side of section 3a. This further enhances the ability of a user to adjust the IAB 100 for maximal comfort. This is another example of the endless positions that the IAB 100 can be in to better accommodate individual support needs.

[0064] FIG. 4a-c illustrates the portability of the presently disclosed IAB 100. The deflated IAB 100 can be folded by the user. FIG. 4a depicts the IAB 100 featuring inflatable unit 2, 3 and attached secondary pad 1 laid flat on the ground and in the process of being rolled, like a sleeping bag, by the user. The air hoses 10 and air pumps 11 are detached from the inflatable unit 2, 3 and secondary pad 1. Once rolled (FIG. 4b), the inflatable unit 2, 3 and secondary pad 1 may be releasably secured in a folded position using a securing means. 17 A securing means include, without limitation, hook and eye fasteners, zippers, studs, fastening buttons and complementary button holes, straps with longitudinally spaced holes and corresponding buckles, straps (shown 17), straps with buckles, snap buttons, and combinations thereof. The different components of the IAB 100 can be stored then in a carrying bag 18 for portability (FIG. 4c). In some embodiments, the carrying bag 18 is of a standard airline carry-on bag dimension. Generally carrying bag 18 may take the form of any sized portable container with or without wheels.

[0065] Finally, FIG. 7a-c illustrate another embodiment of the IAB 100 featuring rigid support structure 22, 23, 24 positioned on a flat surface 15 and supporting a secondary pad 1. A user lying on the secondary pad 1 is illustrated in a broken line. In some embodiments, the rigid support structure 22, 23, 24 is fashioned of a rigid material of little flexibility. Such material includes, but is not limited to, any type polymeric material, any type of plastic, metal, wood, or combinations thereof. The rigid support structure 22, 23, 24 comprise, from a side perspective, more than one pivotable section/s 22, pivot point/s 23, and pivotable/foldable leg/s 24. In some embodiments, the rigid support structure 22, 23, 24 is designed to be positioned in between inflatable unit/s 2, 3 and the secondary pad, thus it is designed to be contoured according to the adjustable positions of the inflatable unit/s 2, 3. At least one pivot point 23 allows the user to adjust the head and torso section of the rigid support structure 22, 23, 24, independently of the legs and feet section, and vise versa. For example, in FIG. 7a, the head and torso and the pivotable legs 24a, 24b are raised to a position which correspond to a full inflation of inflatable unit/s 2, 3. In this position, the legs 24a, 24b are substantially perpendicular to the surface 25. FIG. 7b depicts a more inclined position of the rigid support structure 22, 23, 24, with the torso and head section leaned back via rotation of the pivotable leg 24a to a diagonal position relative to the surface 25. In FIG. 7b, the feet section, corresponding to section 3b discussed above, is lowered and pivotable leg 24 is partially folded, thus the user's feet are lowered while the knees are still at the same height exemplified in FIG. 7a. FIG. 7c depicts the rigid support structure 22, 23, 24, positioned flat on the surface 25, with pivotable legs 24a, 24b, folded within the frame of the rigid support structure 22, 23, 24. In some embodiments, the secondary pad contains depressions/voids 26 of the secondary pad 1 which correspond to the locations in which the secondary pad 1 folds/contours with the different adjustable positions of the rigid support structure 22, 23, 24, comprise a flexible/elastic material to allow for a smoother contouring of the secondary pad 1 for greater comfort. The depressions/voids 26 are exposed when the secondary pad 1 is flat and continue to collapse inward as the secondary pad is folded. The pivot point/s 23 may comprise any method traditional in the art for pivoting, for example a leg or a rod, and releasably securing it in place, including without limitation any type of hinge/bracket. In some embodiments, when the rigid support structure 22, 23, 24 is used positioned in between inflatable unit/s 2, 3 and the secondary pad 1, pivotable legs 24 a, 24b are in a folded position (as depicted in FIG. 7c). In some embodiments, the rigid support structure 22, 23, 24 is used independently of inflatable unit/s 2 and 3 and is positioned on any flat surface 25 including a mattress, a bed, the ground, or floor. In some embodiments, the secondary pad 1 is attached to the rigid support structure 22, 23, 24. In some embodiments, the attachment of the secondary pad 1 to the rigid support structure 22, 23, 24 is a releasable attachment using any applicable attachment means.

[0066] In yet another embodiment, illustrated in FIG. 8, the IAB 100 comprises the inflatable units 2, 3 and a middle pad 200. Generally, the middle pad 200 is designed to fit in a pre-determined space in-between the inflated head support unit 2 and the inflated leg support unit 3 and provide support for the gluteal region of a user lying on the IAB 100. In some embodiments, the middle pad 200 comprises a substantially planar bottom side, a top side 14, and a perimeter wall disposed therebetween. In some embodiments, the top side 14 of the middle pad 200 is contoured, for example, it may be concaved, to comfortably accommodate the contours of a user's body. In addition, the top side 14 of the middle pad 200 may be contoured to be substantially flush with the top side 14 of at least one of the abutting inflatable units 2, 3 (exemplified in FIGS. 11, 13, and 14). As the middle pad 200 supports the middle part (lower back and pelvis) of a user's body while the user's torso and legs are elevated (by the head support unit 2 and leg support unit 3, respectively), it supports much of the user's body weight. Therefore, in some embodiments, the middle pad 200 comprises material/s and combinations of material/s designed to support weight while providing comfort. Thus, in some embodiments, the middle pad 200 comprises padding material/s to provide structural support, comfort, and/or cooling effect. Padding material/s as defined herein includes, for example, breathable materials, such as open-cell foam, any type of latex, Phase Change Materials (PCMs), moisture-wicking fabrics, gel-infused foams, memory foam, any type of foam, gel/gel pads, water/water pads, wool, synthetic fibers, cotton, any other fiber fills, down, any other feathers, downlike fill or combinations thereof. A person skilled in the art will appreciate that any padding material/s or fabric known in the art is within the scope of the present disclosure. In some other embodiments, the middle pad 200 is inflatable and comprises at least one air valve 16 (as depicted in FIG. 9) in air continuation with at least one inflatable bladder. According to yet other embodiments, the middle pad 200 comprises padding material/s, at least one inflatable bladder, or combinations thereof.

[0067] FIG. 11 illustrates an embodiment of IAB 100 comprising the inflatable units 2, 3 and middle pad 200 therebetween when in use by a user. The user's mid-body, specifically gluteal region, are supported by the middle pad 200 while the torso and back are raised. This posture requires the middle pad 200 to comfortably and sturdily supports the user's weight, while snugly staying in place in-between the inflatable units 2, 3. In some embodiments, this is achieved using any suitable attachment means 6 to releasably, or permanently, attach the middle pad 200 to the abutting inflatable units 2, 3. FIG. 8 depicts an example of a middle pad 200 which comprises attachment means 6 designed to releasably, or permanently, attach to matching attachment means 6 located at the bottom sides of inflatable unit 2, 3, thus keeping the middle pad 200 in close contact with inflatable units 2, 3. Attachment means 6 includes, without limitation, hook and loop fasteners, hook and eye fasteners, zippers, studs, fastening buttons and complementary button holes, straps with longitudinally spaced holes and corresponding buckles, snap buttons, and combinations thereof.

[0068] In other embodiments, keeping the middle pad 200 in place is achieved by tethering 8 the inflatable units 2, 3, together at a pre-determined distance from each other. Examples of tethering 8 are depicted in FIGS. 1 and 10. In the examples illustrated, the tethering comprises straps 8. In some other embodiments, tethering 8 is achieved by a continues piece of material/fabric/padding material/s attached to the head support unit 2 and the leg support unit 3, thus keeping them at a desired distance from each other. As illustrated in FIG. 10, the middle pad 200 then can be snugly fitted into the space created by the tethering 8. In some embodiments, the length of straps 8 can be adjusted by the user, for example, when the straps 8 comprise an adjustable buckle (not shown), or the user can use a buckle (or any other attachment means 6, 9) on straps 8 to separate the head support unit 2 from the leg support unit 3 and use the inflatable units 2, 3 separately as desired. Additionally, adjusting the length of the tethering 8 enables a user to use various pre-determined distances between the inflatable units 2, 3, and thus fit in the space created between them a middle pad 200 of choice to reach maximal support and comfort. Generally, the type of tethering 8 may include without limitation permanent tethering, adjustable tethering, releasable tethering, permanent and adjustable tethering, releasable and adjustable tethering, or tethering created when the forms of the head support unit and the leg support unit are interlocking, and combinations thereof.

[0069] FIGS. 12 and 14c depict another example of the presently disclosed IAB 100; the IAB comprising inflatable units 2, 3, and a middle pad 200 disposed therebetween and extending to cover the top side 14 of the head support unit 3. Generally, the middle pad 200 may be of any shape or configuration. In some embodiments, the middle pad 200 is pillow-like, as depicted in at least FIGS. 8-11, and contained in the space in between the inflatable units 2, 3. In some other embodiments, the middle pad 200, in addition to being fitted in the space in-between the inflatable units 2, 3, extends to cover, partially or fully, either the head support unit 2 or the leg support unit 3, or both. An example, of the middle pad 200 covering fully the head support unit 3 and partially the leg support unit 2 is depicted in FIG. 13. As illustrated in FIG. 13, in some embodiments the thickness of the middle pad 200, or its composition, is not uniform and it contours as desired to support the user's mid-body, and cover/partially-cover the inflatable units 2, 3. The configuration of the attachment means 6 and/or tethering 8 varies according to the embodiment of the middle pad 200 and/or inflatable units 2, 3. FIG. 13 depicts attachment means 6 which attaches the middle pad 200 to the bottom side of the leg support unit 2, and to the top side 14, and side, of the head support unit 3.

[0070] In some embodiments, as illustrated in FIG. 14a, the IAB 100, which is depicted in use, comprises a middle pad 200 and a secondary pad 1. In the example illustrated, the secondary pad 1 covers the top sides 14 of the inflatable units 2, 3, and the middle pad 200. In the other embodiments, the secondary pad 1 covers/partially-covers the head support unit 2 and/or leg support unit 3 and/or the middle pad 200. Other embodiments of the IAB 100, in use, are described in FIGS. 14b-c.

[0071] Moving on to FIGS. 15-17, in some embodiments, any of the IAB 100 units/parts including the head support unit 2, leg support unit 3, middle pad 200, and secondary pad 1 may comprise a function element 4. Thus, providing the user with functionality such as heating, cooling, vibration, monitoring (sensor), or combinations thereof. In the example illustrated in FIG. 15, the middle pad comprises a function element 4, while according to the examples of FIGS. 15 and 16 the middle pad 200 and inflatable units 2, 3, each comprise a function element 4. In some embodiments, the function element 4 provides a ventilated design to provide a cooling effect for a user. The function element 4 comprises multiple air channels 5 or perforations 5. These perforations 5 may be of any applicable diameter and they enhance airflow, allowing heat to escape. FIGS. 15 and 16 depict an example of smaller multiple perforations 5, while FIG. 17 illustrates a single, larger, perforation 5. A person skilled in the art will appreciate that perforations 5 of any suitable number, shape, and size and within the scope of the present disclosure. In some embodiments, the perforations 5 are used for blowing out cold or hot air for air conditioning the user. In yet other embodiments, exemplified in FIG. 17, the perforation 5 also provide structural stability, pressure relief from the user's gluteal region, and/or flexibility.

[0072] Further, in some embodiments the function element 4 provides heating or cooling as necessary and desired. This is achieved using any method known in the art, including but not limited to, heated wires, heated water, cooled water, or combinations thereof to increase or decrease temperature. Furthermore, in some embodiments the function element 4 provides vibration as needed and desired. In some embodiments, any of the functions provided by the function element 4 are initiated or stopped manually by the user. In some other embodiments, some, a combination of, or all the functions provided by the function center 4 are initiated or stopped automatically.

[0073] In some embodiments, the function element 4 comprises at least one sensor 15. The at least one sensor 15 generally monitors the vitals of the person using the IAB 100. The vitals monitored may include, but not limited to, indications such as body temperature, pulse rate, respiration rate, blood pressure, or combination thereof. Input from the at least one sensor 15 is transferred to a controller 13, further comprised within the secondary pad 1 or the function element 4, and the controller starts, enhances, reduces, or stops one or more function of the function element 4 as needed. In other embodiments, the controller functionality is comprised in a remote 13 and/or a smart phone application.

[0074] Finally, the embodiment of the IAB 100 exemplified in FIG. 16 further comprises a cover 27. The cover 27 is designed to cover the top sides 14 and sides of the inflatable units 2, 3, and the middle pad 200 if in use, and the secondary pad 1 if in use. In some other embodiments, the cover 27 completely envelopes the inflatable units 2, 3, and the middle pad 200 if in use, and the secondary pad 1 if in use. In yet some other embodiments, the cover 27 covers the top sides 14 and sides of the inflatable units 2, 3, and the middle pad 200 if in use, and the secondary pad 1 if in use, and additionally partially covers the bottom side of the inflatable units 2, 3, and the middle pad 200 if in use, and the secondary pad 1 if in use. Generally, when the cover 27 covers the top sides 14 and sides of the inflatable units 2, 3, and the middle pad 200, or also partially covers the bottom side of the inflatable units 2, 3, and the middle pad 200, it acts like a fitted sheet. As with a fitted sheet, the cover may be held in place over the parts/units of the

[0075] IAB 100 with the aid of elastics along its opening. In some other embodiments, the cover 27 can be held in place with the aid of any of the attachment means 6, 9 and/or tethering 8 disclosed herein, and combinations thereof. In some embodiments wherein the units/parts of the IAB 100 comprise one or more attachment points 21, the attachments points 21 are used to releasably attach the cover 27.

[0076] The cover 27 provides comfort for the user lying on the IAB 100, it also allows a user to remove it to clean it, such as launder it, between uses. In addition, when it fits snugly upon the IAB 100, it holds its various units (2, 3, 200, 1) in configuration even when tethering 8 and/or attachment means 6, 9 are not used. However, in some other embodiments, the cover 27 may be attached to any of the units of the IAB 100 (2, 3, 1, 200) using any of the attachment means 6, 9, attachment points 21, and/or tethering 8 disclosed herein, and combinations thereof. The cover 27 may be fashioned out of any material/s known in the art and suitable for manufacturing of bed covers, for example, the cover 27 may comprise any of the padding material/s disclosed herein or combinations thereof. It is stated herein that the cover 27 may be used with any of the configurations of the IAB 100 disclosed herein. It is stated herein that any of the IAB 100 components and/or elements described and illustrated herein may be combined in any applicable manner.

[0077] Following long-standing patent law convention, the terms a, an, and the refer to one or more when used in this application, including the claims. Thus, for example, reference to a subject includes a plurality of subjects, unless the context clearly is to the contrary (e.g., a plurality of subjects), and so forth.

[0078] Throughout this specification and the claims, the terms comprise, comprises, and comprising are used in a non-exclusive sense, except where the context requires otherwise. Likewise, the term include and its grammatical variants are intended to be non-limiting, such that recitation of items in a list is not to the exclusion of other like items that can be substituted or added to the listed items.

[0079] For the purposes of this specification and appended claims, unless otherwise indicated, all numbers expressing amounts, sizes, dimensions, proportions, shapes, formulations, parameters, percentages, quantities, characteristics, and other numerical values used in the specification and claims, are to be understood as being modified in all instances by the term about even though the term about may not expressly appear with the value, amount or range. Accordingly, unless indicated to the contrary, the numerical parameters set forth in the following specification and attached claims are not and need not be exact, but may be approximate and/or larger or smaller as desired, reflecting tolerances, conversion factors, rounding off, measurement error and the like, and other factors known to those of skill in the art depending on the desired properties sought to be obtained by the presently disclosed subject matter. For example, the term about, when referring to a value can be meant to encompass variations of, in some embodiments, 100% in some embodiments 50%, in some embodiments 20%, in some embodiments 10%, in some embodiments 5%, in some embodiments 1%, in some embodiments 0.5%, and in some embodiments 0.1% from the specified amount, as such variations are appropriate to perform the disclosed methods or employ the disclosed compositions.

[0080] Further, the term about when used in connection with one or more numbers or numerical ranges, should be understood to refer to all such numbers, including all numbers in a range and modifies that range by extending the boundaries above and below the numerical values set forth. The recitation of numerical ranges by endpoints includes all numbers, e.g., whole integers, including fractions thereof, subsumed within that range (for example, the recitation of 1 to 5 includes 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5, as well as fractions thereof, e.g., 1.5, 2.25, 3.75, 4.1, and the like) and any range within that range.

[0081] By the term substantially it is meant that the recited characteristic, parameter, or value need not be achieved exactly, but that deviations or variations, including for example, tolerances, measurement error, measurement accuracy limitations and other factors known to skill in the art, may occur in amounts that do not preclude the effect the characteristic was intended to provide. For example, when using the term substantially herein it may be a value of at least 50%, at least 60%, at least 70%, at least 80%, at least 90%, or at least 99%, or any amount or range therebetween.

[0082] Although the foregoing subject matter has been described in some detail by way of illustration and example for purposes of clarity of understanding, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that certain changes and modifications can be practiced within the scope of the appended claims.