VALVE FOR VESSEL

Abstract

The innovation described herein generally pertains to a valve for use in allowing material to flow into a vessel. The valve can be constructed from a cylinder of thin-film plastic and can be inserted into and adhered to the inside of a neck of the vessel. Pressure inside of the vessel causes the outlet of the valve to constrict or collapse, preventing material from flowing back through the valve from within the vessel when inflation pressure is removed.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application relates to and claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 62/836,815 filed on Apr. 22, 2019 entitled “VALVE FOR VESSEL”, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

TECHNICAL FIELD

In general, the present innovation relates to a valve, and more particularly to a one-way valve for use in inflating a vessel.

BACKGROUND

Vessels such as balloons are inflated by providing a pressure to create an airflow through an opening into the vessel. However, typical openings used with such vessels do not prevent the air that is added to the interior of the vessel from escaping once pressure is removed from the opening. Accordingly, an improved device, system, or methodology addressing these concerns is needed.

SUMMARY

In accordance with an embodiment of the subject innovation, a one-way valve is provided for use in allowing a material to flow into a vessel. In an example, the material can be gas that can be, but is not limited to, air or helium and the vessel can be a balloon fabricated from foil (e.g., mylar, etc.), nitrile, or latex. In a particular example, the valve can be constructed from a cylinder-shape of thin-film plastic and can be inserted into and adhered to the inside of a neck of the vessel. The valve can include an inlet and an outlet such that a flow of material into the vessel from the inlet can pass through the outlet. Further, such flow of material causes an increase in pressure inside of the vessel, wherein the increased pressure, when the flow of material from the inlet stops, constricts or collapses the outlet of the valve which prevents material flowing from the vessel.

In accordance with an embodiment of the subject innovation, a valve is provided that includes an inlet portion including an opening at a first end of the valve. The inlet portion extends along a first length, and at least a portion of the inlet portion is cylindrical. The valve further includes a tapered portion that tapers along a second length from a first thickness to a second thickness. The valve further includes an outlet portion having the second thickness, and extending along a third length to a second opening at a second end of the valve. The valve is configured to allow a flow of material, such as a volume of gas, in through the opening, the inlet portion, the tapered portion, the outlet portion, and the second opening into a vessel when an inflation pressure is applied. The flow of material into the vessel increases pressure inside the vessel from a first pressure to a second pressure, and the second pressure causes the outlet portion to constrict and close the second opening to prevent the material from flowing back through the valve from within the vessel when the inflation pressure is removed and the flow of material from the inlet portion stops.

These and other objects of this innovation will be evident when viewed in light of the drawings, detailed description and appended claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The innovation may take physical form in certain parts and arrangements of parts, a preferred embodiment of which will be described in detail in the specification and illustrated in the accompanying drawings which form a part hereof, and wherein:

FIG. 1 is a view of an exemplary valve disposed within a neck of a vessel, with the view of the vessel being a cross-section;

FIG. 2 is a flow chart of an exemplary method for constructing an exemplary valve;

FIG. 3 is a top view of a cylinder used in construction of a valve;

FIG. 4 is a side view of an exemplary valve with a tapered portion;

FIG. 5 is a front view of an exemplary valve;

FIG. 6 is a front view of an exemplary valve with an outlet portion;

FIG. 7 is a view of an exemplary valve disposed within a neck of a vessel, with the view of the vessel being a cross-section;

FIG. 8 is a view of an exemplary valve disposed within a neck of a vessel, with the view of the vessel being a cross-section;

FIG. 9 is a schematic representation of an embodiment of an apparatus for sealing the neck of a balloon;

FIG. 10 is another schematic representation of the apparatus displayed in FIG. 9;

FIG. 11 is an illustration of another embodiment of an apparatus for sealing the neck of a balloon;

FIG. 12 is an illustration of another embodiment of an apparatus for sealing the neck of a balloon;

FIG. 13 is an illustration of another embodiment of an apparatus for sealing the neck of a balloon;

FIG. 14 is an illustration of another embodiment of an apparatus for sealing the neck of a balloon;

FIG. 15 is an illustration of another embodiment of an apparatus for sealing the neck of a balloon;

FIG. 16A is an illustration of another embodiment of an apparatus for sealing the neck of a balloon;

FIG. 16B is an illustration of another embodiment of an apparatus for sealing the neck of a balloon;

FIG. 16C is an illustration of another embodiment of an apparatus for sealing the neck of a balloon;

FIG. 17 is an illustration of another embodiment of an apparatus for sealing the neck of a balloon;

FIG. 18 is an illustration of another embodiment of an apparatus for sealing the neck of a balloon; and

FIG. 19 is an illustration of another embodiment of an apparatus for sealing the neck of a balloon.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Embodiments of the innovation relate to methods and systems that relate to a one-way valve for use with inflating a vessel. The one-way valve can be disposed within a neck of a vessel. The arrangement of the valve within the neck of the vessel allows the vessel to be inflated by allowing a material to flow into the vessel, while also preventing material from flowing out of the vessel. The subject valve can be used in conjunction with any suitable vessel.

The term “vessel” as used herein including any other formatives of this word can be defined as any container that can hold a material which can include, but is not limited to, a gas or a liquid. For example, a vessel can include a rigid construction that is not malleable or a flexible construction. In particular, a vessel can be a balloon. In other examples, the vessel can be a jar, a jug, a bag, among others.

The term “inflate” as used herein including any other formatives of this word can be defined as an increase of pressure within a vessel from a flow of material. Inflating a vessel with a flow of material can cause the vessel to increase in pressure inside the vessel and, depending on the construction of the vessel, can cause the vessel to expand. In particular, if a flow of material is used to inflate a vessel that is a balloon, the vessel will expand as a result of the increase in pressure within the vessel.

With reference to the drawings, like reference numerals designate identical or corresponding parts throughout the several views. However, the inclusion of like elements in different views does not mean a given embodiment necessarily includes such elements or that all embodiments of the innovation include such elements. The examples and figures are illustrative only and not meant to limit the innovation, which is measured by the scope and spirit of the claims.

FIG. 1 illustrates an embodiment of a valve 100 disposed within the neck 116 of a vessel 102, wherein the neck 116 of the vessel 102 is located at a location in which an opening of the vessel 102 can receive a flow of material. In an embodiment, the vessel 102 can be a balloon. The valve 100 can include a first end 103 and a second end 105 opposite the first end 103. The valve 100 can have a length from the first end 103 to the second end 105. Proximate to the first end 103, the valve 100 includes an inlet portion 104 that extends along a first length 122 (as shown in FIG. 4). The inlet portion 104 is at least partially cylindrical and includes a first opening 106 at the first end 103 of the valve and couples to a tapered portion 108. The cylindrical shape of the inlet portion 104 allows the valve 100 to fit within a circular opening of the neck 116. It is to be appreciated that the inlet portion 104 can be shaped substantially similar to a portion of the neck 116 to fit inside the neck 116 as well as allow an outer surface 107 of the inlet portion 104 mate with an inner surface 117 of the neck 116. For example, the inlet portion 104 can be cylindrical in shape to mate inside the neck 116 of the vessel 102. As mentioned above, the valve 100 further includes the tapered portion 108 that is coupled to the inlet portion 104 at a location opposite of the first opening 106. In an example, the tapered portion 108, when viewed from a top view (see at least FIGS. 1, 5, and 6) can have a substantially similar width as the inlet portion 104. When viewed from a side view (see at least FIG. 4), the tapered portion 108 tapers and gradually constricts in thickness along a second length 124 from a first thickness 121 (located where the inlet portion 104 couples to the tapered portion 108) to a second thickness 123 (located where the tapered portion 108 couples to an outlet portion 110), wherein the second thickness 123 is smaller than the first thickness 121. The valve 100 can further include the outlet portion 110 that is coupled to the tapered portion 108 at a location of the second thickness 123. From a top view (see at least FIGS. 1, 5, and 6), the outlet portion 110 tapers inwards in width along a third length 126 (see FIGS. 4 and 5) to form a second opening 112 at the second end 105.

The valve 100 can be configured to allow a flow of material to fluidly travel from the first opening 106 to the second opening 112. In certain embodiments, the valve 100 can be fabricated from one piece of material. In another embodiment, the valve 100 can include a first piece that couples to a second piece, wherein the first piece includes the first length 122 and the second length 124 and the second piece includes the third length 126. It is to be appreciated that the first piece and the second piece can be coupled by a heat weld, a glue, or other coupling means.

As shown in FIG. 1, the valve 100 can be disposed within the neck 116 of a vessel 102, such as a balloon. The valve 100 can be coupled within the neck 116 of the vessel 102 with an adhesive 118. The adhesive 118 can be applied to an outer surface 107 of the inlet portion 104 to allow coupling to the inner surface 117 of the neck 116. In another example, the adhesive 118 can be applied to an inner surface 117 of the neck 116 to allow coupling to the outer surface 107 of the inlet portion 104. In still another example, the adhesive 118 can be a two-part adhesive with one part applied to the inner surface 117 of the neck 116 and a second part applied to the outer surface 107 of the inlet portion 104. It is to be appreciated that the adhesive 118 or connective means creates a leak-proof bond to prevent any material within the vessel from leaking out of the vessel from a space between the inner surface 117 of the neck 116 and the outer surface 107 of the inlet portion 104.

The inlet portion 104, the tapered portion 108, and the outlet portion 110 create a continuous channel through which a flow of material can fluidly travel. When a flow of material such as a volume of gas provided by an inflation pressure enters through the first opening 106 (e.g. a blowing up of a vessel such as a balloon), the valve 100 can allow the flow of material (e.g. air, helium, nitrogen, carbon dioxide, etc.) to enter the first opening 106, through the inlet portion 104, through the tapered portion 108, through the outlet portion 110, and out through the second opening 112 into an interior 120 of the vessel 102. When the flow of material passes through the valve 100 and into the interior 120 of the vessel 102, the pressure inside the vessel 102 increases from a first pressure to a second pressure, wherein the second pressure is higher than the first pressure. For example, if a user is inflating a balloon by blowing air with the user's mouth to pass through the valve 100, the air flows through the valve 100 and into the interior 120 of the balloon, increasing the pressure within the balloon from a first pressure to a second pressure that is higher than the first pressure. The increased pressure within the vessel 102 on the outlet portion 110 of the valve 100 causes the outlet portion 110 to constrict or collapse onto itself which closes and seals the second opening 112 and seals the vessel 102 from losing any flow of material from within the interior 120 when the user stops blowing air into the valve 100. In this manner, the valve 100 creates a self-sealing vessel utilizing the flow of material passing through the valve 100 into the vessel 102 and the pressure within the vessel from the flow of material to seal the second opening 112. When a subsequent flow of material flows in through the valve 100, the flow of material causes the outlet portion 110 to re-open and allow the flow of material to enter the interior 120 of the vessel 102 once again. It is to be appreciated that the subsequent flow of material flows in through the valve 100, the flow of material pressure is higher than the pressure within the vessel 102 in order to re-open the outlet portion 110.

Turning now to FIG. 2, an exemplary method of constructing the valve 100 is presented. The method steps shown in FIG. 2 correspond with the representations of the valve 100 in FIGS. 3-6. At reference numeral 20, a cylinder 200 of material is provided as shown in FIG. 3. In certain embodiments, the cylinder 200 is made of a thin film plastic material such as Polyethylene or Polyester (BoPET). It should be appreciated that the cylinder 200 can be made of other plastic materials as well. In certain embodiments, the thin film plastic material has a thickness in the range of 0.04 millimeters (mm) to 0.065 mm. In certain embodiments, the cylinder 200 has a diameter of 11 mm. The cylinder 200 can be provided as a pre-formed continuous cylinder or it can be constructed from a sheet of thin film plastic with two ends connected by, for example, a heat weld or an adhesive. In still further embodiments, the valve 100 can be constructed from multiple pieces connected together with further heat welds or adhesive.

At reference numeral 22, the second end 105 of the cylinder 200 is pinched or compressed to begin forming the outlet portion 110 as displayed in FIG. 4. The pinched/compressed portion of the cylinder 200 becomes the outlet portion 110 while the tapered portion 108 forms naturally as the inlet portion 104 transitions to the outlet portion 110. As shown in FIG. 4, a cross-section of the tapered portion 108 and the outlet portion 110 together form an upside-down funnel shape while the inlet portion 104 maintains its generally cylindrical shape. The inlet portion 104 extends along a first length 122, the tapered portion 108 extends along a second length 124 from a first thickness 121 to a second thickness 123, and the outlet portion (having the second thickness 123) extends along a third length 126 to the second opening 112.

At reference numeral 24, heat welds 114 are applied to weld portions of the front face of the pinched outlet portion 110 to the rear face of the pinched outlet portion 110 in order to form the width of the outlet portion 110, as displayed in FIG. 5. The heat welds 114 are formed in such a manner to taper the width of the pinched outlet portion 110 from the tapered portion 108 to the second opening 112. The heat welds 114 can taper inwards from opposing lateral sides of the pinched portion of the cylinder 200. The heat welds 114 can follow paths that taper inwards linearly, or they can taper inwards on a curve as in the embodiment shown in FIG. 5. The heat welds 114 decrease the width of the outlet portion 110 as it extends towards the second end 105 of the valve 100 such that the second opening 112 has a smaller width than the first opening 106. Ultimately, the second opening 112 has a smaller width and a smaller thickness than the first opening 106. Optionally, the excess material on the outside of the heat welds 114 can be trimmed. A resulting valve 100 is displayed in FIG. 6, after the optional trimming step. It is to be appreciated that forming the taper of the pinched outlet portion 110 from the tapered portion 108 can be performed by any suitable technique with the subject innovation and such technique can be chosen with sound engineering judgment without departing from the intended scope of coverage of the embodiments of the subject innovation. For example, the forming of the taper can be performed with a heat weld (as discussed), an adhesive, a melting, among others.

After the valve 100 is constructed (e.g. as shown in FIG. 5, or FIG. 6 if excess film is trimmed), the valve 100 can be inserted into the neck 116 of the vessel 102. In certain embodiments, the inner surface 117 of the neck 116 may be treated and cleaned to remove any substances or chemicals that remain on the inner surface 117 from the vessel production process. In one embodiment, an adhesive 118 is applied to at least a portion of the outer surface 107 of the inlet portion 104. The adhesive 118 can be selected so that the adhesive 118 creates a strong leak-proof bond between the vessel material (e.g. latex, nitrile, foil, etc.) and the valve 100 material to prevent any material within the vessel from leaking out of the vessel from a space between the inner surface 117 of the neck 116 and the outer surface 107 of the inlet portion 104. For example, the adhesive 118 can be selected so that the adhesive 118 creates a strong leak-proof bond between natural rubber latex of a balloon and the plastic film material used to construct the valve 100 (e.g. polyethylene or Polyester (BoPET/mylar)). Additionally, if the valve 100 is designed to come into contact with a user's mouth (e.g. used in conjunction with a balloon), then the adhesive 118 may be selected as a type that is classified as non-toxic. Examples of suitable adhesives 118 include isoprene, neoprene, cyanoacrylate, among others. In certain embodiments, the adhesive 118 can be applied to the inside of the neck 116 rather than the valve 100. In still further embodiments, adhesive 118 can be applied to both the inside of the neck 116 and the inlet portion 104 of the valve 100. In still further embodiments, a two-part adhesive can be used. In these embodiments, a first component of the two-part adhesive can be applied to the outer surface 107 of the inlet portion 104, and a second component of the two-part adhesive can be applied to the inner surface 117 of the neck 116 of the vessel 102. The use of two-part adhesive prevents the adhesive 118 from beginning to cure until the valve 100 has been inserted into the neck 116.

Once the adhesive 118 is applied to the outer surface 107 of the inlet portion 104 of the valve 100 and/or the inner surface 117 of the neck 116, the valve 100 can be inserted into the neck 116 of the vessel. In an embodiment, the neck 116 can be stretched outward to fit the valve 100 in place. After the valve 100 is in place within the neck 116, a force can be applied to press the inlet portion 104 of the valve 100 against the inside surface of the neck 116 to help the adhesive 118 create a leak-proof bond. In an example, excess adhesive 118 can be wiped away and removed.

In other embodiments, the valve can be placed into the neck 116 prior to applying an adhesive 118. In these embodiments, an application tube or straw is inserted between the inner surface 117 of the neck 116 and the outer surface 107 of the inlet portion 104. The adhesive 118 can then be applied using the application tube/straw around the entire perimeter of the neck 116/valve 100 contact surface to create the leak-proof bond.

In certain embodiments, the vessel 102 can be partially inflated to facilitate insertion of the valve 100 into the neck 116. In such an embodiment, a tube can be inserted through the valve 100 so that one end of the tube is within the interior 120 of the vessel 102 and the other end of the tube is outside of the vessel and the valve 100. Inflation pressure can be applied directly to the vessel 102 or it can be applied through the tube. After the valve 100 has been inserted and secured within the neck 116, the vessel 102 can be compressed to force any material (e.g. air, helium, other gas, etc.) out of the vessel 102 through the tube. For example, a balloon can be flattened to let any air out of the interior 120 of the balloon through the tube. After the balloon is flattened, the tube can be removed. The benefit of this compression processes is to make sure the balloon is flattened prior to being packaged and/or transported for sale.

Turning now to FIG. 7, another embodiment of a valve 700 is shown. It is to be appreciated that the features of valve 100 can be included or incorporated into the valve 700. Valve 700 can also include a ring 730 disposed inside of the inlet portion 704, and defining the first opening 706. The ring 730 can be made of any rigid or semi-rigid material such as a plastic or a metal or a combination thereof. The ring 730 can be secured to the inside of the inlet portion 704 using, for example, a heat weld or an adhesive. The neck 116 of the vessel 102 can be stretched over the inlet portion 704 and the ring 730 so that friction between the inlet portion 704 supported by the ring 730 and the neck 116 maintain the valve 700 disposed within the neck 116. In this embodiment, adhesive 718 may or may not be used. Another added benefit provided by the ring 730 is that the ring 730 provides rigidity to the first opening 706 to facilitate an inflation process.

Turning now to FIG. 8, another embodiment of a valve 800 is shown. It is to be appreciated that the features of valve 100 can be included or incorporated into the valve 800. Valve 800 can be inserted into the neck 116 of the vessel such that a portion of the inlet portion 804 can be rolled outwards and upwards with the neck 116 material in order to secure the valve 800 in place within the neck 116. In this embodiment, adhesive 818 and/or a ring 730 may or may not be used.

Turning now to FIGS. 9 and 10, another embodiment of a sealing apparatus 900 for a vessel (e.g. a balloon 102) is presented. Sealing apparatus 900 includes a layer of adhesive 902 applied directly to the inside of the neck 116. Adhesive 902 can be chosen using sound engineering judgment without departing from the scope of the subject innovation, and can include, for example, rubber cement, cyanoacrylate, super glue, or epoxy. On top of the adhesive 902 is a liner cylinder 904 of any suitable semi-ridged material such as paper, cardboard, or plastic. The liner cylinder 904 prevents the adhesive from sealing the neck 116 prior to or during inflation of the vessel 102. After inflation, the neck 116 can be pinched closed to prevent deflation. In another embodiment the neck 116 can be stretched, which tears the liner cylinder 904 along a perforation and reveals a portion of the layer of adhesive 902. The neck 116 can be pinched closed, allowing the layer of adhesive 902 to adhere to itself within the neck 116 and create a seal. In one embodiment, the portion of material making up the neck 116 can be impregnated with an adhesive 902. In this embodiment, stress on the neck 116 material, such as stretching or twisting of the neck 116, can activate a release of the adhesive 902. The neck 116 can be pinched closed, allowing the adhesive 902 to adhere to itself within the neck 116 and create a seal. In still another embodiment, adhesive putty can be integrated onto the inner surface of the neck 116. Similarly, the neck 116 can be pinched closed, allowing the adhesive putty to adhere to itself within the neck 116 and create a seal.

Turning now to FIG. 11, another embodiment of a sealing apparatus 1100 for a vessel (e.g. a balloon 102) is presented. Sealing apparatus 1100 includes a twistable tube. The twistable tube can be made from any materially that is plastically deformable such as metal or plastic. The sealing apparatus 1100 includes an aperture configured to receive the neck 116 of the vessel. The neck 116 can be fed through the aperture and through the tube. After inflation, the tube can be twisted, causing the tube to plastically deform, crimp the neck 116 and create a seal.

Turning now to FIG. 12, another embodiment of a sealing apparatus 1200 for a vessel (e.g. a balloon 102) is presented. Sealing apparatus 1200 includes a first wing nut 1202, a second wing nut 1204, and a pair of wires 1206. The wing nuts 1202, 1204, each include a center aperture and a pair of finger grips. The first wing nut 1202 is connected with the second wing nut 1204 by the pair of wires 1206 such that the center apertures of the wing nuts 1202, 1204 are axially aligned. The neck 116 of the vessel can be fed through the center apertures of the first wing nut 1202 and the second wing nut 1204 such that each of the wires 1206 are on opposing sides of the neck 116. After inflation of the vessel, the first wing nut 1202 and the second wing nut 1204 can be twisted in opposite directions to crimp the neck 116 between the pair of wires 1206 and create a seal.

Turning now to FIG. 13, another embodiment of a sealing apparatus 1300 for a vessel (e.g. a balloon 102) is presented. Sealing apparatus 1300 includes a first tube portion 1302, and a second tube portion 1304 axially aligned, and separated by a crease portion 1306. The sealing apparatus 1300 can be constructed of a bendable material such as a metal or a plastic. After inflation of the vessel, the first tube portion 1302 and the second tube portion 1304 can be bent inwards towards each other. The sealing apparatus 1300 bends at the crease portion 1306 and can crimp the neck 116 to create a seal.

Turning now to FIG. 14, another embodiment of a sealing apparatus 1300 for a vessel such as a balloon 102 is presented. Sealing apparatus 1400 includes a crimp ring with an aperture configured to receive the neck 116 of the vessel. The neck 116 can be fed through the aperture. The crimp ring can be constructed of a deformable material such as a metal or a plastic. After inflation of the vessel, the crimp ring can be compressed to crimp the neck 116 and create a seal.

Turning now to FIG. 15, a valve 1500 may be inserted, built-in, or adhered to the inside surface of the neck 116. The valve 1500 may be a one-way valve such as a Boston style valve. The valve 1500 includes a first portion 1502 that receives air flow as it enters through the neck 116. The first portion 1502 of the valve 1500 terminates with an aperture 1504 that is in fluid communication with the inside of the balloon. The valve 1500 also includes a flap 1506 that is biased towards the aperture 1504 such that the flap 1506 covers the aperture 1504 to prevent fluid communication between the first portion 1502 and the inside of the balloon. The flap 1506 may be constructed of a flexible material such as a rubber. The flap 1506 deflects or flexes outwards towards the inside of the balloon when an increased air pressure is exerted on the flap 1506 due to air flowing inwards through the neck 116. The flexing or deflecting of the flap 1506 allows the air flowing inwards into the neck 116 to enter into the interior of the vessel 102. When the air flow through the neck 116 ceases, the flap 1506 flexes or deflects to its initial position covering the aperture 1504 and preventing air from flowing out of the vessel 102 interior back through the neck 116.

In certain embodiments, the neck 116 of the vessel 102 can be looped or fed through various embodiments of clips as shown in FIGS. 16A-16C. In a first embodiment as shown in FIG. 16A, a first clip 1600 can include a loop portion 1602 and a tortuous portion 1604. The neck 116 of the vessel 102 can first be fed through the loop portion 1602. While in this position, the vessel 102 can be inflated through the neck 116. After the vessel 102 is inflated, a user can manually pinch off the neck 116 to prevent air from escaping. A user may then weave the neck 116 through the tortuous portion 1604. The tortuous portion 1604 of the first clip 1600 crimps or pinches the neck 116 closed at one or more positions along the neck 116 and prevents air from escaping the vessel 102 through the neck 116.

In a second embodiment as shown in FIG. 16B, a second clip 1606 includes a first loop portion 1608, a second loop portion 1610, and one or more slots 1612. The neck 116 may be fed through the first loop portion 1608 and then back through the second loop portion 1610. While in this position, the vessel 102 can be inflated through the neck 116. After the vessel 102 is inflated, a user can manually pinch off the neck 116 to prevent air from escaping. A user may then stretch the neck 116 through the one or more slots 1612. The bend created in the neck 116 by being stretched through the one or more slots 1612 crimps or pinches the neck 116 closed at one or more positions along the neck 116 and prevents air from escaping the vessel 102 through the neck 116.

In a third embodiment as shown in FIG. 16C, a third clip 1614 can be constructed of a flexible material such as a rubber. The third clip 1614 includes a slot 1616. The slot 1616 can be straight or curved. In the third clip's 1614 normal shape at rest, the slot 1616 is in a closed position. The slot 1616 can be opened by pinching opposite ends of the third clip 1614 on opposing sides of the slot 1616 and bending the opposite ends of the third clip 1614 inwards towards each other as shown in FIG. 16C. When the slot 1616 is opened up, the neck 116 can be fed through the slot 1616. When the third clip 1614 is no longer pinched, the slot 1616 closes and pinches the neck 116 closed. In this manner, while the neck 116 is inside the slot 1616, a user may pinch opposite ends of the third clip 1614 and bend the opposite ends of the third clip 1614 inwards towards one another to open up the slot 1616. While the slot is opened, the user may inflate the vessel 102 by passing air through the neck 116. The user may then release the bend of the third clip 1614 so that the third clip 1614 returns to its normal position with the slot closed 1616. The closed slot 1616 pinches the neck 116 and prevents air from escaping the vessel 102 through the neck 116.

Turning now to FIG. 17, in one embodiment, the neck 116 may be inserted through the center of a spring 1700 such that the spring 1700 surrounds the neck 116. When the vessel 102 is in a deflated state, the spring 1700 is at rest and air may flow through the neck 116. As the vessel 102 is inflated by applying air pressure to the opening of the neck 116, the vessel 102 is inflated. As the vessel 102 inflates, downward pressure from the vessel 102 causes the spring 1700 to compress and constrict and/or crimp the neck 116. As the spring 1700 compresses and the neck 116 constricts and/or is crimped, airflow into and out of the vessel 102 is cut off. As a result, the compression of the spring 1700 prevents air from escaping the vessel 102 through the neck 116.

Turning now to FIG. 18, in another embodiment, the vessel 102 can include a ball 1800 located inside of the vessel 102. The ball 1800 may be inserted into the vessel 102 during the vessel's 102 manufacturing process, or it may be inserted into the vessel 102 after manufacturing. Optionally, the ball can include a string 1802 attached to the ball 1800 that can extend through the neck 116 and outside of the vessel 102. The string 1802 allows a user to pull the ball into a position covering the neck's 116 passageway to prevent air from flowing into or out of the vessel 102. The neck 116 can further include one or more ribs 1804 to help trap or nest the ball 1800 in the neck 116. In one example, as the vessel 102 is inflated, the pressure of the air entering through the neck 116 causes the ball 1800 to move away from the neck 116 and into the vessel 102. After the vessel 102 is inflated and the air pressure source is removed from the neck 116, the air pressure created by the air attempting to flow out of the vessel 102 through the neck 116 causes the ball 1800 to be sucked towards the neck 116. The ball 1800 may then nest on or inside the neck passageway or within the one or more ribs 1804. In embodiments where a string 1802 is attached to the ball 1800, the user may hold the string throughout the inflation process to ensure that the ball 1800 remains in place within the vessel 102 during inflation and pulled into place on or within the neck 116 after vessel 102 inflation. As a result of the ball 1800 nesting on or in the neck 116, air is prevented from escaping the vessel 102 through the neck 116.

Turning now to FIG. 19, in another embodiment, the end of the neck 116 contains a portion of material that is inverted into the neck 116 to create a collapsible valve 1900 within the neck 116. In certain embodiments, the collapsible valve 1900 can be substantially cone-shaped. The collapsible valve 116 can be formed of the same material as the vessel 102 and/or the neck 116, including but not limited to, latex, foil, nitrile, or mylar. The collapsible valve 116 can also include a mechanical feature such as a resilient member that biases the collapsible valve 116 to collapse by folding onto itself one or more times, or compressing in an “accordion” manner. In one example, while the vessel 102 is being inflated, air pressure created by air entering into the vessel 102 through the neck 116 applies a force on the collapsible valve 1900 and causes the collapsible valve 1900 to straighten and extend. When the collapsible valve 1900 straightens and extends, the collapsible valve 1900 provides a pathway for air to enter into the vessel 102 through the neck 116 and collapsible valve 1900. When the air pressure applied as part of the inflation process is removed, the collapsible valve 1900 collapses or folds onto itself and prevents air from escaping the vessel 102 through the neck 116.

The aforementioned systems, components, and the like have been described with respect to interaction between several components and/or elements. It should be appreciated that such devices and elements can include those elements or sub-elements specified therein, some of the specified elements or sub-elements, and/or additional elements. Further yet, one or more elements and/or sub-elements may be combined into a single component to provide aggregate functionality. The elements may also interact with one or more other elements not specifically described herein.

The above examples are merely illustrative of several possible embodiments of various aspects of the present innovation, wherein equivalent alterations and/or modifications will occur to others skilled in the art upon reading and understanding this specification and the annexed drawings. In particular regard to the various functions performed by the above described components (assemblies, devices, and the like), the terms (including a reference to a “means”) used to describe such components are intended to correspond, unless otherwise indicated, to any component which performs the specified function of the described component (e.g., that is functionally equivalent), even though not structurally equivalent to the disclosed structure which performs the function in the illustrated implementations of the innovation. In addition although a particular feature of the innovation may have been disclosed with respect to only one of several implementations, such feature may be combined with one or more other features of the other implementations as may be desired and advantageous for any given or particular application. Also, to the extent that the terms “including”, “includes”, “having”, “has”, “with”, or variants thereof are used in the detailed description and/or in the claims, such terms are intended to be inclusive in a manner similar to the term “comprising.”

This written description uses examples to disclose the innovation, including the best mode, and also to enable one of ordinary skill in the art to practice the innovation, including making and using any devices or systems and performing any incorporated methods. The patentable scope of the innovation is defined by the claims, and may include other examples that occur to those skilled in the art. Such other examples are intended to be within the scope of the claims if they have structural elements that are not different from the literal language of the claims, or if they include equivalent structural elements with insubstantial differences from the literal language of the claims.

In the specification and claims, reference will be made to a number of terms that have the following meanings. The singular forms “a”, “an” and “the” include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Approximating language, as used herein throughout the specification and claims, may be applied to modify a quantitative representation that could permissibly vary without resulting in a change in the basic function to which it is related. Accordingly, a value modified by a term such as “about” is not to be limited to the precise value specified. In some instances, the approximating language may correspond to the precision of an instrument for measuring the value. Moreover, unless specifically stated otherwise, a use of the terms “first,” “second,” etc., do not denote an order or importance, but rather the terms “first,” “second,” etc., are used to distinguish one element from another.

As used herein, the terms “may” and “may be” indicate a possibility of an occurrence within a set of circumstances; a possession of a specified property, characteristic or function; and/or qualify another verb by expressing one or more of an ability, capability, or possibility associated with the qualified verb. Accordingly, usage of “may” and “may be” indicates that a modified term is apparently appropriate, capable, or suitable for an indicated capacity, function, or usage, while taking into account that in some circumstances the modified term may sometimes not be appropriate, capable, or suitable. For example, in some circumstances an event or capacity can be expected, while in other circumstances the event or capacity cannot occur—this distinction is captured by the terms “may” and “may be.”

The best mode for carrying out the innovation has been described for purposes of illustrating the best mode known to the applicant at the time and enable one of ordinary skill in the art to practice the innovation, including making and using devices or systems and performing incorporated methods. The examples are illustrative only and not meant to limit the innovation, as measured by the scope and merit of the claims. The innovation has been described with reference to preferred and alternate embodiments. Obviously, modifications and alterations will occur to others upon the reading and understanding of the specification. It is intended to include all such modifications and alterations insofar as they come within the scope of the appended claims or the equivalents thereof. The patentable scope of the innovation is defined by the claims, and may include other examples that occur to one of ordinary skill in the art. Such other examples are intended to be within the scope of the claims if they have structural elements that do not differentiate from the literal language of the claims, or if they include equivalent structural elements with insubstantial differences from the literal language of the claims.

Claims

1. A valve comprising:

an inlet portion including a first opening at a first end of the valve, and extending along a first length, wherein at least a portion of the inlet portion is cylindrical;

a tapered portion that tapers along a second length from a first thickness to a second thickness; and

an outlet portion having the second thickness, and extending along a third length to a second opening at a second end of the valve; wherein

the valve is configured to allow a material to flow through the first opening, the inlet portion, the tapered portion, the outlet portion, and the second opening into a vessel when an inflation pressure is applied at the first opening, wherein the material flowing into the vessel increases pressure inside the vessel from a first pressure to a second pressure, and the second pressure causes the outlet portion to constrict and close the second opening to prevent material from flowing back through the valve from within the vessel when the inflation pressure is removed.

2. The valve of claim 1, wherein the valve is constructed from a single piece of thin-film plastic.

3. The valve of claim 1, wherein the outlet portion has a width that tapers from a first width to a second width.

4. The valve of claim 3, wherein the width of the outlet portion is at least partially defined by a heat weld.

5. The valve of claim 1, further comprising an adhesive applied to an outside surface of the inlet portion.

6. The valve of claim 5, wherein the adhesive attaches the valve to an inside surface of a neck of the vessel.

7. The valve of claim 1, wherein the vessel is a latex or nitrile balloon.

8. The valve of claim 1, further comprising a ring disposed inside of the inlet portion and defining the first opening.

9. The valve of claim 1, wherein the inlet portion comprises a portion of material that is rolled upwards with a neck of the vessel to secure the valve in place within the neck.

10. A vessel comprising:

a neck; and

a valve disposed within the neck, the valve comprising: an inlet portion including a first opening at a first end of the valve, and extending along a first length, wherein at least a portion of the inlet portion is cylindrical; a tapered portion that tapers along a second length from a first thickness to a second thickness; and an outlet portion having the second thickness, and extending along a third length to a second opening at a second end of the valve; wherein the valve is configured to allow a material to flow through the opening, the inlet portion, the tapered portion, the outlet portion, and the second opening into the vessel when an inflation pressure is applied at the first opening, wherein the material flowing into the vessel increases pressure inside the vessel from a first pressure to a second pressure, and the second pressure causes the outlet portion to constrict and close the second opening to prevent material from flowing back through the valve from within the vessel when the inflation pressure is removed.

11. The vessel of claim 10, further comprising an adhesive applied to an outside surface of the inlet portion.

12. The vessel of claim 11, wherein the adhesive attaches the valve to an inside surface of the neck.

13. The valve of claim 10, wherein the vessel is a latex or nitrile balloon.

14. The vessel of claim 10, wherein the valve further comprises a ring disposed inside of the inlet portion and defining the first opening.

15. The vessel of claim 14, wherein a portion of the neck is stretched over the ring to secure the valve in place within the neck.

16. The vessel of claim 10, wherein a portion of the inlet portion of the valve is rolled upwards with a portion of the neck to secure the valve in place within the neck.

17. A method of constructing a valve, comprising:

providing a cylinder having a first end comprising an inlet portion having a first thickness, and a second end opposite the first end;

pinching the second end of the cylinder to form an outlet portion having an opening, wherein the outlet portion has a second thickness less than the first thickness; and

applying a pair of heat welds to a front face of the outlet portion to weld the front face of the outlet portion to a rear face of the outlet portion to taper a width of the outlet portion.

18. The method of claim 17, further comprising trimming excess material from outside the heat welds at the second end of the valve.

19. The method of claim 17, further comprising:

applying an adhesive to at least one of an outer surface of the inlet portion or an inner surface of a neck of a vessel;

inserting the valve into the neck of the vessel; and

securing the valve within the neck of the vessel with the adhesive.

20. The method of claim 19, further comprising:

inserting a tube through the valve so that a first end of the tube is within an interior of the vessel and a second end of the tube is outside of the vessel; and

compressing the vessel, after securing the valve and inserting the tube, to force material out of the vessel through the tube.