US Patent 7007356 Cushioning pads and the formation of cushioning pads

A method of forming a cushioning pad includes placing a component formed of polyurethane foam onto a first web of polyethylene foam. A second web of polyethylene foam is then placed over the component to sandwich the component. Heat and pressure is applied to the sandwich, which flattens the component and forms a seam between the first web and the second web encircling the component. If an unsealed cushioning pad is to be formed, a hollow needle is inserted into one of the first web or the second web. Air passes through the hollow needle and into the component, which absorbs the air and expands. Later, the needle is removed. If a sealed cushioning pad is to be formed, an insertion point of the hollow needle is in the seam, between the first web and the second web. After the component absorbs air and expands, the needle is removed and the insertion point of the hollow needle is re-seamed.