INFLATABLE COVER FOR TRANSPORTING GOODS

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to the safe and secure transport of goods including, but not limited to, artwork, televisions, computers, and other fragile or valuable objects. In accordance with embodiments of the invention, the good(s) to be transported are enclosed inside an inflatable cover that is resistant to breakage and that keeps out moisture and other contaminants. Unlike conventional shipping materials (e.g., cardboard, bubble wrap, tape), the inflatable cover may be re-used to transport goods over a long lifespan, thereby reducing waste.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

A tremendous amount of waste is currently produced by the shipping and packaging industries. As an ever-increasing amount of goods are transported around the world, more and more materials used to package and transport those goods (e.g., cardboard, bubble wrap, and tape) end up in a landfill. That is because these materials are almost entirely single-use, meaning that they are used only once and then thrown away. For example, in the art world, artwork is frequently transported to different exhibitions or galleries. To prepare artwork to be transported, artists typically wrap their artwork in bubble wrap and tape. Once the artwork reaches its destination, the packaging materials are removed and discarded. The artwork then must be re-wrapped and packaged once again, so that it may be safely transported to the next destination. This process repeats itself for the thousands of artists and galleries around the world, creating tremendous amounts of waste. Moreover, artists will often hire a shipping company to transport their artwork, rather than transport it themselves. This can be expensive. Thus, there exists a need for a low-cost, rugged packaging system that may be re-used many times to reduce waste, save costs, and protect fragile goods. Such a packaging system could be used to transport a wide variety of valuable goods besides artwork, including televisions, computers, or other electronics.

Another problem with conventional packaging is that it generally cannot prevent goods from being damaged, lost, or stolen. During transport, damage may occur in a variety of forms, including, but not limited to, physical forces applied externally to the package (e.g., dropping, crushing, or hitting), or contamination getting inside the package (e.g., moisture, dust, or debris). Meanwhile, preventing the loss or theft of valuable goods is of paramount concern to those transporting such goods. This has led to the introduction of security measures including integrating packaging with locks, trackers, etc. Any packaging system for valuable goods should be able to incorporate such security components. However, no current packaging system incorporates such security measures into a reusable, inflatable cover that is lightweight, rugged, and resistant to damage and contamination.

The present Application addresses these, and other, needs in the art. This Application provides for an inflatable, reusable cover which eliminates the need for single-use boxes, bubble wrap, tape, and other single-use packaging materials. The inflatable cover can itself be used as the container for shipping goods, or it can serve as an inner protective cover placed inside of, e.g., a wooden shipping crate, to be used in lieu of padding, foam, or other single-use materials.

It is anticipated that the inflatable cover of the present Application may be the “last cover” needed for the transport of fragile or expensive goods, thus substantially reducing the waste generated by the packaging and shipping industries.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In accordance with embodiments of the present invention, an inflatable cover for transporting goods is provided. The inflatable cover includes a bottom surface; a plurality of inflatable walls coupled to the bottom surface, wherein the inflatable walls are configured to receive and enclose one or more goods; and at least one bladder, wherein at least one of the bladders is disposed within at least one of the inflatable walls, and wherein the bladders are configured to be filled with air or other gases.

In accordance with embodiments of the invention, a method of using an inflatable cover to enclose a good is provided. The method includes positioning the good within the inflatable cover; inflating one or more bladders of the inflatable cover with air or other gases, wherein at least one of the bladders is disposed within an inflatable wall of the inflatable cover; and closing the inflatable cover to enclose the good.

In accordance with embodiments of the invention, a method of opening an inflatable cover to remove a good is provided. The method includes opening the inflatable cover; deflating one or more bladders of the inflatable cover, wherein at least one of the bladders that is deflated is disposed within an inflatable wall of the inflatable cover; and removing the good.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Referring now to the drawings, where like numerals represent like features or components:

FIG. 1 is a general view of an inflatable cover in accordance with embodiments of the invention, shown in an inflated and closed position.

FIG. 2 is a top view of an inflatable cover in accordance with embodiments of the invention, shown in a deflated and open position.

FIG. 3 is a 3D rendering of the embodiment depicted in FIG. 2.

FIG. 4 is an exploded view showing the interior of one of the inflatable walls 4 of an inflatable cover made in accordance with embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 5 is a 3D rendering of the exploded view shown in FIG. 4.

FIG. 6 is a general view depicting the inside of the pocket 1 of an inflatable cover made in accordance with embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 7 is a top view of an inflatable cover made in accordance with embodiments of the invention, shown in an inflated and closed position.

FIG. 8 is a side view of an inflatable cover made in accordance with embodiments of the invention, shown in an inflated and closed position.

FIG. 9 is a sectional side view of an inflatable cover made in accordance with embodiments of the invention, shown in an inflated and closed position.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The present invention is described by reference to the following embodiments thereof. However, it is to be understood that those of ordinary skill in the art would recognize various modifications and versions of these embodiments. Applicant intends this disclosure to encompass all such modifications and versions that would be apparent to one of ordinary skill.

FIG. 1 is a general view of an inflatable cover 100 made in accordance embodiments of the invention. In FIG. 1, the inflatable cover 100 is shown in an inflated and closed position. The inflatable cover 100 comprises one or more inflatable walls 4, which may contain one or more bladders 14 that may be inflated with air using a inflation apparatus 10. In some embodiments, a single bladder 14 can run along the entire circumference of the inflatable walls 4. However, in other embodiments, a plurality of bladders 14 are used for different sections of the inflatable walls 4. For instance, in FIG. 1, there is one bladder 14 that runs along the proximal long edge of the inflatable walls 4, and another bladder 14 that runs along the proximal short edge of the inflatable walls 4. Although not shown in FIG. 1, in such an embodiment, there may also be at least another bladder 14 that runs along the distal long edge of the inflatable walls 4, and another bladder 14 that runs along the distal short edge of the inflatable walls 4. The advantage of using a plurality of bladders 14 is that, if a single bladder 14 is ruptured or compromised, the other bladders can remain intact. This allows the inflatable cover 100 to retain its overall functionality even if one or more bladders are damaged or destroyed. The bladders 14 may be removable, so that if a bladder is damaged, it can easily be replaced. When the bladders 14 within the inflatable walls 4 are inflated, the inflatable walls 4 form a lightweight, rigid, sealed structure that protects goods within the inflatable cover 100 from damage and contamination.

The inflatable walls 4 of the inflatable cover 100 may be made of any suitable material that is both: (i) flexible enough to expand when the bladders 14 are filled with air; and (ii) sturdy enough that, once the bladders are inflated, they form a rigid structure that protects the enclosed goods from damage. Examples of such suitable materials include polyurethane, PVC fabric, UV coated PVC, puncture-resistant vinyl, denier reinforced PVC, and ripstop, such as Ottertex Nylon Ripstop 70 Denier cloth. However, those of ordinary skill in the art would understand that any other materials having the above-listed properties of flexibility and sturdiness could be used. On the exterior side, in certain embodiments, the inflatable walls consist of a tough, ridged surface to minimize the chances of tearing or other damage. In certain embodiments, the interior side of the inflatable walls includes a soft non-scratch surface so that the good is not damaged.

The inflatable walls 4 may comprise two types of sections: “straight” sections 4a, and “corner” sections 4b. In some embodiments, the straight sections 4a constitute a larger share of the overall length of the inflatable walls than the corner sections 4b. When the bladder(s) 14 within the straight sections 4a are inflated, the straight sections 4a comprise a series of radial protrusions, or ridges, that extend radially outward from the center axes of the sections. As discussed below, bladders 14 may all be inflated simultaneously at valve 9 using inflation apparatus 10. Alternatively, the bladders may be individually inflated via individual valves that may be provided for each separate bladder, e.g., to improve isolation of the bladders.

In embodiments, one or more of the inflatable walls 4 may be provided with one or more pressure release valves 20. The pressure release valves are in fluid communication with the bladders 14. When the inflatable cover 100 is subjected to a change in ambient pressure (e.g., because the cover is in an airplane that is ascending or descending), the pressure release valves release air (or whichever gas is used to inflate the inflatable walls 14) so as to maintain equilibrium and prevent an excess pressure differential from developing between the environment and the inflatable walls 4 and bladders 14. The pressure release valves 20 may be active (e.g., controlled by a microprocessor connected to pressure sensors) or passive.

The straight sections 4a serve multiple functions. First, the straight sections 4a form the majority of the outer boundary of the inflatable cover 100, giving it its shape, and forming the structure to retain the goods inside. Second, the ridges on the straight sections 4a provide a spring-like surface that can absorb and diffuse force if the inflatable cover 100 is subjected to impact (e.g., dropped). Third, the ridges of the straight sections 4a can extend into the interior of the inflatable cover 100. The portions of the ridges that are within the interior of the inflatable cover 100 can contact the good(s) inside, thus holding them more securely within the inflatable cover 100, and preventing them from moving during transit. As shown in FIG. 1, in certain embodiments, the straight sections 4a are (when inflated) generally cylindrical in shape, with the ridges extending radially from the center of the cylinder, and repeating along its length. The ridges may be provided at various depths and gauges depending on the nature of the goods to be transported.

In an alternative embodiment, the straight sections 4a do not have ridges, and simply have a generally cylindrical shape. The advantage of such an embodiment is that it is simpler to construct. However, such an embodiment lacks the advantages of the ridges discussed above.

In some embodiments, including the embodiment shown in FIG. 1, the corner sections 4b do not have ridges. However, in other embodiments, the corner sections 4b may have ridges, depending on requirements. The primary purpose of the corner sections 4b is to provide rounded connectors that interconnect adjacent pairs of straight sections 4a, thus forming a closed structure.

In other embodiments, the straight sections 4a and/or corner sections 4b may have protrusions, notches or ridges that do not provide a load-bearing or force-diffusing function, but are instead designed to interlock with protrusions, notches or ridges on another inflatable cover 100. In such embodiments, multiple inflatable covers 100 may be stacked on top of one another, and the protrusions, notches or ridges will help keep the covers 100 stacked in place.

Although FIG. 1 depicts an embodiment in which the inflatable cover 100 generally takes the shape of a rounded rectangular prism—with two sets of parallel straight sections 4a oriented perpendicularly to each other, and interconnected by the curved corner sections 4b—those of ordinary skill would know that many other shapes could be used. For instance, the inflatable cover 100 may take the shape of a flattened cylinder, or disc. In such embodiments, the inflatable walls 4, when viewed top-down, would generally form the shape of a circle. In some such embodiments, the circular-shaped inflatable walls may be composed entirely of curved, ridged sections, eliminating the need for corner sections. In other embodiments, alternating series of straight sections 4a and curved corner sections 4b may be used to achieve the desired circular shape.

In addition to such circular-shaped embodiments, and the rectangular-shaped embodiment shown in FIG. 1, any other shape could be used—such as an arbitrary polygonal shape—by selecting the appropriate number and arrangement of straight sections 4a and corner sections 4b (e.g., for a hexagonal shape, six straight ridged sections 4a, connected by six curved corner sections 4b). Such selection and arrangement is well within the skill of those of ordinary skill.

The inflatable cover 100 may further comprise a plurality of hooks 5. The hooks 5 may be made of any suitable material, including metal, hard plastic, etc. As shown in FIG. 1, the hooks 5 may be disposed in a spaced relation along the top side of the inflatable walls 4. In FIG. 1, each straight section 4a of the inflatable walls 4 is shown having two hooks 5. However, those of ordinary skill would know that any other suitable number and arrangement of hooks could be used.

The purpose of the hooks 5 is to receive an elastic cord 3. In operation, the elastic cord 3 is passed through each of the hooks 5, and then tightened (in the nature of a drawstring). The purpose of the elastic cord 3 is to secure the inflatable walls 4 together, and to provide resistance against the outward air pressure on the inflatable walls 4 during and after inflation. The elastic cord 3 may be constructed of any material that is both: (i) sufficiently elastic to pass through the hooks and be tightened; and (ii) sufficiently strong to withstand the outward air pressure from the inflatable walls, and other forces (e.g., impacts) that may be experienced during transit, without breaking. Examples of such suitable materials include elastic, rubber, bungee, braided elastic, a stretch wrap lock band, or a coated or uncoated cable (which may be used with a tensioner). In embodiments, the elastic cord 3 may be disposed within a flap (not shown) which covers and protects the cables and hooks from snagging during handling.

The top of the inflatable cover 100 may comprise one or more canopies 13. The canopies may be made of the same materials as the inflatable walls 4, or may be made of any other suitable material. FIG. 1 shows an embodiment in which the top of the inflatable cover 100 consists of two rectangular canopies 13, each affixed to one of two opposing, parallel straight sections 4a. The canopies 13 may be affixed to the straight sections 4a by any suitable means known in the art.

In embodiments, each canopy 13 may include a bladder 14 (although, to avoid clutter, only one bladder 14 is shown in FIG. 1). The bladders 14 within the canopies 13 can be inflated with air or gas, as described below, to form a protective top surface for the inflatable cover 100.

In FIG. 1, each canopy 13 contains half of a mating zipper assembly 12. Each half of the zipper assembly 12 is disposed on the edge of the canopy 13 nearest the other canopy 13. In operation, after the good(s) to be transported are placed within the inflatable cover 100, the canopies 13 are drawn together, so that the two halves of the mating zipper assembly 12 are aligned. At that point, the zipper assembly 12 may be closed via the zipper, thus forming a closed, sealed top surface for the inflatable cover 100. In some embodiments, when the zipper assembly 12 is closed, the inflatable walls 4, canopies 13, and zipper assembly 12 together form a watertight seal, which prevents water or other contaminants from entering the inflatable cover 100. The zipper assembly may be made from any suitable material, such as metal, hardened plastic, or PVC at various levels of waterproofing and water steadiness.

While FIG. 1 depicts an embodiment with two rectangular canopies 13, those of ordinary skill in the art would know that any suitable number and shape of canopies may be used to form the top of the inflatable cover 100. For example, if the inflatable cover 100 has a circular vertical cross-section, two semi-circular canopies 13 could be used, with each half of the zipper assembly 12 being disposed along the long, straight edge of each semi-circle. This would cover the entire circular cross-section of the cover 100. Alternatively, if the inflatable cover 100 has an n-gonal vertical cross section, n wedge-shaped canopies could be used, with each affixed to one of the sides of the n-gon. Mating zipper assembly halves 12 could then be disposed on each edge of each wedge-shaped canopy, thus (when zippered) covering the entire n-gonal surface. In embodiments, on the interior or exterior of the canopy or elsewhere on the inflatable cover, there may be disposed a pocket, closed by a zipper or other suitable mechanism, which could be used to store, for example, shipping and customs paperwork relating to the goods to be transported.

While, in the foregoing, mating zipper assembly halves 12 were used to affix the canopies to one another, those of ordinary skill in the art would know that other fastening mechanisms could be used. For instance, buttons, snaps, clips, magnets, hook-and-loop fabric, or any other suitable fastening mechanism could be used, so long as it permits the canopies to form a tight (and, in certain embodiments, watertight) seal.

The inflatable cover 100 may further have a pocket 1 with a zipper 2. As shown in FIG. 1, the pocket 1 may be disposed alongside one of the straight sections 4a of the inflatable walls 4. However, those of ordinary skill would know that the pocket 1 could also be disposed at any other suitable location, and may take any suitable size and shape. One purpose of the pocket 1 is to contain and protect the valve 9, inflation apparatus 10, and inflation apparatus holder 11 (discussed below). In embodiments, the pocket 1 could also hold other valves, ports, monitors, sensors, electronics, one or more battery compartments, power ports, or tools to operate, inflate, deflate, or keep inflated the inflatable walls 14 or other components. The pocket may be made of any suitable material, such as cloth, hard plastic, soft plastic, etc., so long as it capable of containing and protecting the relevant components. To access the interior of the pocket 1, the zipper 2 may be unzipped. To close the pocket 1, the zipper 2 may be zipped. As those of ordinary skill in the art would know, in addition to a zipper, any other suitable fastening mechanism-such as buttons, snaps, clips, magnets, or hook-and-loop fabric-could also be used in place of the zipper 2, to open and close the pocket 1. Additionally, more than one zipper may be disposed on the pocket 1.

FIG. 2 is a top view showing an embodiment of the inflatable cover 100 in an open, deflated state. To avoid clutter, the bladders 14 within the inflatable walls 4 are not shown; however, in embodiments, they are still present. In this embodiment, the inflatable cover 100 includes a bottom surface 15 that is affixed to the inflatable walls 4. The bottom surface 15 may be affixed to the inflatable walls 4 by any suitable means known in the art. The bottom surface 15 generally has the same shape as the vertical cross section of the inflatable cover 100. Thus, in FIG. 2, because the inflatable cover has a rectangular vertical cross section, the bottom surface 15 is rectangular. However, if the inflatable cover 100 had, e.g., a circular vertical cross section, then the bottom surface 15 would be circular.

The bottom surface 15 may be made of the same material as the inflatable walls 4, or may be made of any other suitable material. In embodiments, the bottom surface 15 includes a bladder 14. Like the bladders 14 within the inflatable walls 4 and the canopies 13, the bladder 14 within the bottom surface 15 may be inflated to form a robust protective cover for the good(s).

In embodiments, the bottom surface 15 may also include a plurality of pads 6. In FIG. 2, four pads 6 are provided, one at each corner of the bottom surface 15. However, any suitable number of pads could be provided. The purpose of the pads is to enable a flexible but snug fit with the good to be transported. For instance, if the good is a rectangular framed artwork, the four corners of the artwork may be inserted into the four pads 6, to hold the artwork in place. The pads 6 may be integral with the inflatable walls 4 and/or the bottom surface 15. Alternatively, the pads 6 may be removable. If the pads are removable, differently sized and/or shaped pads 6 may be provided to allow the inflatable cover 100 to provide a better fit to different sizes and/or shapes of goods. The pads also may include bladders 14, which may be inflated in the same manner as the bladders within the inflatable walls 4 and/or the bottom surface 15, or the bladders within the inflatable walls 4 and/or bottom surface 15 may be extended to protrude into the pads 6, making them inflatable. The pads generally should be constructed of a material that is rigid enough to secure the good(s) to the bottom surface, but soft enough not to scratch or otherwise damage the good(s). Examples of suitable materials for the pads 6 include any rigid foam or spongy material, or any of the materials suitable for construction of the inflatable walls 4 or bottom surface 15.

In embodiments, instead of (or in addition to) the pads 6, the interior of the inflatable cover 100 may have a plurality of elastic straps or springs that may be fastened to the good to be transported. The elastic straps or springs may be fastened to the inflatable walls 4 and/or bottom surface 15 by any means known in the art. In such embodiments, instead of being firmly affixed to the bottom surface 15, the good may “float” within, e.g., a soft cloth or mesh assembly, coupled to the elastic straps or springs. In such embodiments, the elastic straps or springs, coupled with the soft cloth or mesh assembly, serve as an internal shock absorber, diffusing the force of any hard bumps or jolts, and thus helping to protect the good from any damage that might result therefrom.

In embodiments, one or more pipes 8 may be disposed around the bottom surface 15. The pipes may be in fluid communication with one or more of the bladders 14 within the inflatable walls 4, canopies 13, bottom surface 15, and/or pads 6. The purpose of the pipes is to convey air to or from the bladders 14 within the walls 4, canopies 13, bottom surface 15, and/or pads 6. The pipes 8 may be insulated using any known, suitable insulating material, so that they can remain operable at various temperatures, including the low temperatures within an airplane cargo hold.

In embodiments, a plurality of clips and/or valves 7 (herein, “clips”) may be disposed around the bottom surface. For instance, one clip 7 may be disposed at or near each interface between an inflatable wall 4 and one of the pipes 8. One purpose of the clips 7 is to isolate the bladders 14 from one another, so that if one bladder 14 ruptures, the remaining bladders 14 will remain inflated. For instance, in one embodiment, after the bladders 14 have been inflated, each of the clips 7 may be placed into a “closed” position. That isolates the bladders 14 from one another, so that if one bladder 14 ruptures, air will not travel from the other bladders 14 through the pipes 8 to the ruptured bladder 14 and out into the environment. In this way, the inflatable cover 100 can retain most of its functionality even if one or more of the bladders are ruptured.

In other embodiments, the inflatable cover 100 may include pressure sensors specific to each of the bladders 14, coupled to a microprocessor. If a pressure sensor detects a drop in pressure corresponding to a rupture, the microprocessor may cause an appropriate set of clips 7 to close, thus isolating the ruptured bladder and keeping the remaining bladders inflated.

FIG. 3 is a top-down 3D rendering of the embodiment depicted in FIG. 2. It is included to more-clearly show the structure of potential embodiments of the pads 6, clips 7, and pipes 8.

FIG. 4 is an exploded view of one of the inflatable walls 4, showing the interior of an inflatable wall in accordance with embodiments of the invention. As shown in FIG. 4, during inflation, air (or other gases) can flow through pipes 8, past clip 7, and through artery 22 into bladder 14 disposed within the inflatable wall 4. After inflation, the clip 7 may be closed to isolated the bladder 14 from the other bladders. In embodiments, the top and bottom portions of the inflatable wall 4 may be connected together by hook-and-loop fabric 21, or any other mechanism that permits secure, but detachable, connection. This permits the inflatable wall 4 to be opened, for instance, to permit replacement of the bladder 14 if it has been ruptured.

FIG. 5 is a 3D rendering of the exploded view shown in FIG. 4. It is included to more-clearly show the structure of potential embodiments of the components depicted.

FIG. 6 shows the interior of the pocket 1 in accordance with embodiments of the invention. As shown in FIG. 6, the pocket 1 may contain a value 9, a inflation apparatus 10, and a inflation apparatus holder 11. The inflation apparatus holder 11 may be formed integrally with the inflatable walls 4, or may be a separate component. The inflation apparatus holder 11 may be shaped to receive and securely retain the inflation apparatus 10. The inflation apparatus holder 11 may be made of any suitable materials, such as metal, hardened plastic, or the like.

In embodiments, the inflation apparatus 10 is an air pump. Any type of air pump capable of inflating the bladders 14 may be used. For instance, the inflation apparatus 10 may be a manual pump, in which users manually pump air into the bladders 14. Alternatively, the inflation apparatus 10 may be an automatic pump, in which a motor or other powered device pumps air into the bladders 14 via the valve 9. Still alternatively, the inflation apparatus 10 may be a gas cylinder, which can release pressurized gas (e.g., helium) through the valve 9. Those of ordinary skill would recognize that any device capable of inflating the bladders 14 with air or other gases may serve as the inflation apparatus 10, and all such variations are within the scope.

The inflation apparatus 10 may be either removable from the inflation apparatus holder 11, or permanently fixed to it. If the inflation apparatus 10 is removable, then—to inflate the bladders 14—a user may remove it from the holder 11, connect it to the valve 9, and begin inflating. If the inflation apparatus 10 is permanently fixed, then a pipe, tube, or other passage may be connected between the inflation apparatus 10 and the valve 9. To inflate the bladders 14, the user would then simply begin inflating with the inflation apparatus 10 still in the holder 11. Alternatively, the valve 9 could be positioned such that the nozzle end of the inflation apparatus 10 is connected directly to the valve 9. This would dispense with the need for a pipe, tube, or other passage to connect the valve 9 and inflation apparatus 10. Many other alternative arrangements would also be apparent. For example, in embodiments, the nozzle of the inflation apparatus 10 may be configured to twist or latch in one or more directions onto the valve 9 in order to inflate the bladders. So long as the inflation apparatus 10 is capable of inflating the bladders 14 with air or other gases, all such alternative arrangements are within the scope of the current invention.

As discussed above, the valve 9 may be in fluid communication with one or more of the pipes 8. The valve 9 may be of any suitable design, and made of any suitable materials, as would be known to those of ordinary skill. To inflate one or more bladders 14, the valve 9 may be moved into an “open” position, which allows air to flow. The inflation apparatus 10 is connected, either directly or indirectly (as described above), to the valve 9. The inflation apparatus 10 is then actuated to pump air or gas through the valve 9 into one or more pipes 8, thus inflating one or more bladders 14. Once the one or more bladders 14 have been sufficiently inflated, the valve 9 may be switched into an “off” position, which prevents air or gas from escaping the bladders 14.

In some embodiments, the user manually determines how much air or gas to pump into the pipes 8, and thus how fully the bladders 14 are inflated. However, in other embodiments, this can be automated. For example, in some embodiments, the inflatable cover 100 is provided with one or more pressure sensors in fluid communication with one or more of the bladders 14. The pressure sensors may be coupled to (or may be integral with) one or more programmable microprocessor(s). The programmable microprocessor(s) may be programmed with a target pressure for each of the bladders 14. That target pressure may be the same for each bladder, or different for different bladders, depending on user requirements. The target pressures may be initially set by the factory. In some embodiments, the factory-set target pressures may not be changed by the user.

In other embodiments, the target pressure may be changed by the user. For example, a control console coupled to a microprocessor may be disposed at a suitable location on the inflatable cover 100, such as within the pocket 1. The control console may have a display (such as an LCD display, an LED display, etc.), and means for accepting user input (e.g., buttons, dials, a touchscreen). The control console may permit users to change the target pressure for one or more bladders 14 via the user input means. Those changes may be confirmed by visual information on the display. Alternatively, a wireless communication module coupled to a microprocessor may be disposed at a suitable location on the inflatable cover 100, such as within the pocket 1. The wireless communication module may be capable of using Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, NFC, cellular, or any other form of wireless communication. The wireless communication module may communicate with a user's wireless device (e.g., smartphone, tablet, laptop) via application software on the user device. The application software may allow the user to change the target pressure for one or more of the bladders 14. Once the user does so, the changes may be communicated to the wireless communication module on the inflatable cover 100, which may change the target pressures.

Various alternatives are possible for a user to initiate automated inflation of the bladders 14. For instance, an “INFLATE” button coupled to the inflation apparatus 10 and/or microprocessor may be provided. Once the user presses the INFLATE button, the inflation process may be initiated. Alternatively, if the control console described above is provided, the user may navigate via the display to an option to begin inflation, and select that option via the user input means. Still alternatively, if the wireless communication module described above is provided, the user may initiate inflation via application software on their mobile device.

In any event, once automated inflation is initiated, the inflation apparatus 10 begins pumping air or gas into the bladders 14 via the pipes 8. During inflation, the programmable microprocessor(s) continually monitor the air pressure in their respective bladders, via their respective pressure sensors. Once a programmable microprocessor determines that the target pressure for one or more bladders has been reached, it sends a control signal to a microprocessor coupled to the inflation apparatus 10. That control signal indicates that the inflation apparatus 10 should stop pumping air or gas into the relevant bladders. The microprocessor responds by stopping the flow of air or gas to the relevant bladders, as discussed below. Once all microprocessor(s) have indicated that their bladder(s) have been inflated to the target pressure, the inflation process is complete, and the inflation apparatus 10 can be turned off.

While the foregoing embodiment has multiple microprocessors and pressure sensors coupled to multiple different bladders, for simplicity, a single microprocessor and pressure sensor could also be used. In such an embodiment, a single pressure sensor could be disposed in fluid communication with all of the bladders, or with a representative sample thereof. In this embodiment, a single average target pressure could be set for the entire set of bladders. Once the microprocessor detects (via the pressure sensor) that this average target pressure has been achieved, it can send a control signal to the inflation apparatus 10, indicating that inflation is complete. The inflation apparatus 10 can then be turned off. This embodiment has the advantage of being considerably simpler than the multiple-pressure sensor, multiple microprocessor embodiment. However, it lacks the ability to independently determine whether each bladder has achieved the target pressure. Those of ordinary skill would know that different users might have different preferences in terms of simplicity vs. the ability to independently monitor pressure.

In certain embodiments, the inflatable cover 100 may be adapted to automatically adjust the air pressure within the bladders in response to changes in ambient pressure. Such embodiments would advantageously be able to prevent the bladders from over-inflating (and thus potentially rupturing) or under-inflating (and thus losing their protective characteristics) in response to changes in ambient pressure, such as changes experienced during air travel. In these embodiments, the inflatable cover 100 is equipped with one or more pressure sensor(s) in fluid communication with the one or more bladder(s), and one or more microprocessors coupled to the one or more pressure sensor(s), as discussed above. The inflatable cover 100 is also provided with an ambient air pressure sensor coupled to one or more microprocessors. In certain embodiments, all of the pressure sensors (i.e., the pressure sensors in communication with the bladders, and the ambient pressure sensor) are connected to a single microprocessor. In that embodiment, the microprocessor is programmed with a target differential range between the pressure in the bladders and ambient pressure. As long as the microprocessor detects that the pressure differential is within the target range, nothing is done. If, on the other hand, the microprocessor detects that the pressure in one or more bladders has fallen below the target differential range, the microprocessor will control the inflation apparatus 10 to pump air into the relevant bladders—in the manner described below—until the pressure differential is restored to the target range. Alternatively, if the microprocessor detects that the pressure in one or more bladders has risen above the target differential range, the microprocessor will control the valve 9—in the manner discussed below—to release air from the relevant bladders, until the pressure has been restored to the target range. Still alternatively, if the pressure release valves 20 are “active” (as discussed above), then if the pressure in a bladder is too high, the microprocessor may cause the corresponding pressure release valve 20 to release air. In this way, the pressure in the bladders can be continually maintained within the target range.

Advantageously, in some embodiments, the valve 9 may be constructed to allow air to flow selectively in or out of particular bladders. For example, the valve 9 may have a multi-port construction, with one port connected to the inflation apparatus 10, and the other ports connected to different pipes 8 feeding one or more different bladders. In such embodiments, the valve 9 may selectively open or close different ports, based on any means known in the art, such as rotary ball valves. The valve 9 may operated manually, or it may be under the control of a motor connected to a power source (e.g., battery) and a microprocessor. Advantageously, in the latter case, the motor may be placed under control of a microprocessor for automated operation. For instance, in the “automated” embodiments described above, if the microprocessor determines that a particular bladder 14 has fallen below the target pressure differential, it may: (i) cause the valve 9 to open the port connected to the pipe 8 feeding that bladder 14; (ii) cause the inflation apparatus 10 to pump air or gas into that bladder 14 until it has been restored to the target range; and then (iii) cause the valve 9 to close the port connected to the pipe 8 feeding that bladder 14. Similarly, if the microprocessor determines that a particular bladder 14 has exceeded the target pressure differential, it may: (i) cause the valve 9 to open the port connected to the pipe 8 feeding that bladder 14; (ii) allow air to escape the valve 9 until the target pressure differential has been restored; and then (iii) cause the valve 9 to close the port connected to the pipe 8 feeding that bladder 14. In this way, fully automated maintenance of the pressure differential can be achieved.

Alternatively, instead of a single multi-port valve 9, multiple valves could be used. For instance, separate valves could be installed in fluid communication with: (i) the bladder(s) 14 within the inflatable walls 4; (ii) the bladder(s) 14 within the bottom surface 15; and (iii) the bladder(s) 14 within the canopies 13. During inflation, inflation apparatus 10 could then be separately connected (either manually or via automated means) to the separate valves, to separately inflate the different groups of bladders. Such a construction would have the advantage of being simpler than the multi-port valve described above. However, it would have the disadvantage of making it more difficult to achieve advanced features, such as automated pressure adjustment.

In operation, in certain embodiments, the good(s) to be transported are placed onto the bottom surface 15, and secured there via the pads 6. In other embodiments, the goods are secured in a “floating” fashion using elastic springs or straps and/or a soft mesh or cloth array, as discussed above. In either case, closing the inflatable cover 100 then consists of performing the steps of: (i) inflating any bladders 14 disposed within the inflatable walls 4, bottom surface 14, canopies 13, and pads 6; (ii) folding up the inflatable walls 4 so that the canopies 13 contact each other; and (iii) securing the canopies together via the zipper assembly 12 (or other fastening mechanism). Generally, the inflation, folding, and securing steps can be performed in any order-although the securing step generally cannot occur until after the folding step. Once all steps have been completed, the inflatable cover 100 forms a rigid, secure container for the good(s).

Once the good(s) have reached their destination, they can then be removed from the inflatable cover 100, and the inflatable cover 100 can be deflated for ease of storage. In embodiments, deflation can comprise the steps of: (i) if necessary, partially deflating the bladders to permit loosening of the elastic cord 5; (ii) if necessary, loosening the elastic cord 5; (iii) unfastening the canopies 13 from each other; (iv) folding the inflatable walls 4 down; (v) deflating the bladders 14 within the inflatable walls 4, bottom surface 15, canopies 13, and pads 6; and (vi) removing the good(s). Generally, these steps can be performed in any order-although, of course, the good(s) cannot be removed until the canopies 13 are unfastened. Deflation is achieved by opening the valve(s) 9 and/or pressure release valves 20 to allow air to escape the bladders 14. This may be done either manually, or via automated means. For instance: in the multi-port valve embodiments described above, the user may initiate a “DEFLATE” procedure, such as by pressing a button on the inflatable cover 100, selecting a “DEFLATE” option on the control console, or initiating a DEFLATE procedure through an application on their mobile device. In such embodiments, the microprocessor may control the valve 9 to sequentially cycle through opening each pipe 8 connected to each bladder 14. Once the pressure sensor for a bladder 14 detects that that bladder has been fully deflated, it can send a signal to that effect to the microprocessor. The microprocessor can then cause the valve to open the pipe 8 connected to the next bladder 14, and repeat that process until all bladders are deflated. Alternatively, for faster deflation, the valve 9 can open all pipes 8 at once, thus allowing all bladders to deflate simultaneously.

In embodiments, after deflation, the inflatable cover 100 may fold upon itself into a smaller form-factor, thus permitting easier transport until the inflatable cover 100 is to be used again.

In this way, the inflatable cover 100 advantageously provides a rigid, secure, non-damaging container for valuable or fragile goods, which can be reused a large number of times.

In certain embodiments, the inflatable cover 100 is constructed of waterproof components to prevent moisture, water, dirt, dust, or other debris from getting inside the sealed cover. As an additional measure to protect the good(s) from moisture, in certain embodiments, the inflatable cover 100 may include gels or desiccants to absorb any vapor or moisture.

In certain embodiments, the inflatable cover 100 may be outfitted with a number of security measures to prevent the loss or theft of the apparatus and its contents, including, but not limited to, a tracking device (e.g., GPS), an alarm, or a sensor that detects when the cover is opened and alerts the owner. These security measures may be connected to the wireless communication module described above. In such embodiments, the user may use their wireless device to receive updates on the status of the inflatable cover 100. For instance, the user may receive: (i) an update on the location of the inflatable cover 100, via the tracking device (GPS); (ii) an update on the pressure of the bladders 14, via the pressure sensors; (iii) an update on the temperature of the inflatable cover 100, via a temperature sensing module; (iv) an update on the security status of the inflatable cover 100, such as whether the inflatable cover 100 has been opened, or whether an alarm has been triggered; and any other status updates that may be desirable.

The apparatus may be manufactured in a variety of shapes and dimensions to accommodate various types of goods. For example, the apparatus could be square, rectangular, or circular to accommodate goods of different shapes. Moreover, the length, width, and depth of the apparatus could be varied in manufacturing to account for goods of different dimensions.

In certain embodiments, the apparatus may be outfitted with various equipment to make the apparatus easier to transport. For example, a shoulder strap could be added to the apparatus so that a person may carry it. As another example, a handle and wheels could be added so that the apparatus may be rolled like a suitcase. The handle and wheels could be integrated into the design and stowed while in transit, or adapted to connect to a rolling mechanism for ease of transport.

While, in the foregoing, the invention has been described by reference to certain specific embodiments, those of ordinary skill in the art would recognize a variety of different variations, modifications, and alterations of the described embodiments. All such variations, modifications, and alterations that would be apparent to those of skill in the art are within the scope hereof.

INFLATABLE COVER FOR TRANSPORTING GOODS

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