The patent badge is an abbreviated version of the USPTO patent document. The patent badge does contain a link to the full patent document.
The patent badge is an abbreviated version of the USPTO patent document. The patent badge covers the following: Patent number, Date patent was issued, Date patent was filed, Title of the patent, Applicant, Inventor, Assignee, Attorney firm, Primary examiner, Assistant examiner, CPCs, and Abstract. The patent badge does contain a link to the full patent document (in Adobe Acrobat format, aka pdf). To download or print any patent click here.
Patent No.:
Date of Patent:
Dec. 09, 2003
Filed:
Aug. 15, 2002
Alan W. Brownlie, Pagosa Springs, CO (US);
Other;
Abstract
These interface pads have a right and a left inflatable member with the volume of air in each of these inflatable members being independently adjustable. Each member is adapted to provide an interface between one side of a load-bearing animal and a load-supporting structure such as a saddle. Connecting means span the spinal area of the animal and link the members to one another in a manner that avoids the placement of any substantial compression on the animal's supraspinous ligament. Moreover, a gullet channel is maintained so as to allow appropriate ventilation in this area. The inflatable members are constructed of a foam core wholly surrounded by and bonded to a pair of thin skins or panels, forming a fluid tight envelope. A valve is disposed between the chamber formed by the envelope and the ambient environment. After allowing inflation of an air pad of this type and placing a load (such as the saddle and/or rider) thereon, the valve can be opened. In this situation, the air pad will conform to the contours and configuration of both saddle and animal until it reaches a point where the pressure exerted by foam and air remaining in the foam matches the exterior pressure placed on its various parts. The use of a proportional valve is preferred as this makes the process virtually automatic.