OPEN-CELL AIRBAG LANDING DEVICE HAVING A CLOSED-CELL FOUNDATION

Abstract

An airbag landing device for absorbing an impact of a falling object is disclosed. The airbag landing device includes an inflatable base structure with at least one inflatable closed-cell chamber configured to hold a first fill volume of gas and an inflatable top structure disposed vertically on top of the inflatable base structure. The inflatable top structure includes a central, external chamber, and at least one inflatable open-cell chamber that is configured to sustain a second fill volume of gas. The airbag landing device includes a top cover over the inflatable top structure. The top cover overlays the central chamber to form an air pocket therebetween. At impact, the inflatable top structure exhausts a volume of gas from the air pocket and from the open-cell chamber of the inflatable top structure while the first fill volume of the at least one inflatable closed-cell chamber is maintained.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

The present application claims the filing benefit of U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 63/490,863, filed Mar. 17, 2023, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates generally to inflatable safety devices and, more particularly, to an airbag landing device for absorbing the impact of a falling object.

BACKGROUND

Impact cushions, such as airbags and foam landing cushions, are widely used to provide a safe and effective means of decelerating a falling object to a rest position. In particular, impact cushions have become popular in recreational sports and other activities where falls and impacts are common. For example, airbags are commonly used in conjunction with recreational activities, such as snowboarding, skiing, BMX riding, mountain biking, climbing, and other similar activities. Airbags are also used in conjunction with recreational slides and other similar applications.

Conventional impact cushions typically include a foam landing cushion or a foam pit that consists of a large pit filled with foam blocks. In that regard, participants can jump or fall onto the foam landing cushion or into the foam pit, which provides a soft and forgiving landing surface. Other conventional impact cushions include an inflatable airbag that is placed at a landing zone for recreational activities. Inflatable airbags may be more suitable for high-impact falls or landings compared to foam landing cushions. To this end, the inflatable airbag provides a soft landing surface that reduces the impact of a fall and helps to prevent injuries.

The current impact cushions available in the market, and in particular inflatable airbags, have their advantages, but they also come with limitations that affect their effectiveness and safety. For instance, inflatable airbags may not be capable of providing adequate protection for high-impact falls or landings, and they may not have sufficient backup safety measures. For example, if an inflatable airbag loses air intentionally or unintentionally, there is no safety feature that prevents an unsuspecting individual from being injured should they land on the deflated or partially deflated airbag. Lastly, foam-based impact cushions tend to be bulky, hard to transport, time-consuming and labor-intensive to set up, and therefore, costly to install and maintain.

To address these issues, there is a need for an inflatable airbag landing device that is portable, easy to set up, and provides effective deceleration of a falling object to a rest position. Furthermore, there is a need for an inflatable airbag landing device that includes backup safety measures to provide a safe and effective method of deceleration for a falling object, particularly for when the airbag landing device is not fully inflated.

SUMMARY

According to an embodiment of the present invention, an airbag landing device for absorbing high-impact falls of a falling object is disclosed. The airbag landing device includes an inflatable top structure disposed vertically on top of an inflatable base structure that provides a base or foundation of the airbag landing device. The inflatable base structure includes at least one inflatable closed-cell chamber that holds a first fill volume of gas and sustains the first fill volume of gas during use of the airbag landing device. The inflatable top structure is disposed vertically on top of the inflatable base structure to provide a landing surface for the falling object at impact. Thus, the inflatable top structure absorbs a majority of the impact of the falling object to bring the falling object to a rest position. The inflatable top structure includes at least one inflatable open-cell chamber that is fluidly isolated from the at least one inflatable closed-cell chamber of the inflatable base structure. The at least one inflatable open-cell chamber is configured to hold a fill volume of gas that is sustained at a desired air pressure. In that regard, the inflatable top structure includes an air inlet configured to receive airflow into the at least one inflatable open-cell chamber and at least one vent port configured to exhaust air out from the at least one inflatable open-cell chamber. The airbag landing device further includes a blower in fluid communication with the air inlet of the inflatable top structure, allowing air to be pumped through the air inlet and into the open-cell chamber. Specifically, the blower is configured to inflate the at least one inflatable open-cell chamber to the second air pressure during use of the airbag landing device. To this end, when impacted by the falling object, the inflatable top structure exhausts a volume of air from the at least one inflatable open-cell chamber through the at least one vent port to vary the fill volume and the air pressure of the at least one inflatable open-cell chamber while the fill volume and the first air pressure of the at least one inflatable closed-cell chamber is generally sustained.

According to one aspect, the airbag landing device may further include a top cover disposed over the inflatable top structure. The top cover provides the landing surface for the falling object at impact. According to another aspect, the inflatable top structure may include an inflatable upstanding wall portion that extends about a periphery of the inflatable top structure to define a central chamber. The upstanding wall portion includes at least one air passageway in fluid communication with the central chamber. In that regard, the top cover may be disposed over the inflatable top structure to cover the central chamber to form an air pocket therebetween. When impacted by the falling object, the inflatable top structure exhausts a volume of gas from the air pocket through the at least one air passageway. According to one aspect, the top cover may include at least one breather vent to facilitate the exhausting of gas.

According to another aspect, the inflatable top structure may include a plurality of inflatable columns. A cavity of each of the plurality of inflatable columns may form part of the open-cell chamber of the inflatable top structure. According to one aspect, the plurality of inflatable columns may be positioned within the central chamber.

According to yet another aspect, the at least one inflatable closed-cell chamber of the inflatable base structure may sustain a first air pressure and the at least one inflatable open-cell chamber of the inflatable top structure may sustain a second air pressure that is lower than the first air pressure. Furthermore, the second fill volume of the at least one inflatable open-cell chamber may be greater than the first fill volume of the at least one inflatable closed-cell chamber. According to yet another aspect, the blower may reinflate the open-cell chamber to the second fill volume after the airbag landing device absorbs the impact of the falling object.

According to one aspect, the inflatable base structure may extend a distance beyond a periphery of the inflatable top structure to expose a section of the inflatable base structure.

According to another aspect, the inflatable base structure may include an air inlet. The air inlet may include an inlet valve for sealing closed the at least one inflatable closed-cell chamber.

According to an aspect, the at least one vent port of the inflatable top structure may be disposed in an exterior sidewall of the inflatable top structure. Furthermore, the at least one vent port may include a valve flap for adjusting airflow through the least one vent port.

The airbag landing device according to any one of the aspects described above may be located in a recreational sports area for absorbing the impact of a falling object landing in the recreational sports landing area.

According to another embodiment of the invention, an airbag landing device for absorbing the impact of a falling object is disclosed. The airbag landing device includes an inflatable base structure that provides a base of the airbag landing device. The inflatable base structure includes at least one inflatable closed-cell chamber configured to sustain a first fill volume of gas during use of the airbag landing device. The airbag landing device includes an inflatable top structure disposed vertically on top of the inflatable base structure. The inflatable top structure includes an inflatable upstanding wall portion that extends about a periphery of the inflatable top structure to define a central chamber and further includes at least one air passageway in fluid communication with the central chamber. The inflatable top structure includes at least one inflatable open-cell chamber that is fluidly isolated from the at least one inflatable closed-cell chamber of the inflatable base structure to sustain a second fill volume of gas. The inflatable top structure includes an air inlet that receives airflow into the at least one inflatable open-cell chamber and at least one vent port that exhausts air out from the at least one inflatable open-cell chamber. The airbag landing device further includes a top cover disposed over the inflatable top structure to provide a landing surface for the falling object at impact. The top cover covers the central chamber to form an air pocket therebetween. A blower is in fluid communication with the air inlet of the inflatable top structure to inflate the at least one inflatable open-cell chamber and to maintain the second fill volume of gas during use of the airbag landing device. At impact by the falling object, the inflatable top structure exhausts a volume of gas from the air pocket through the at least one air passageway and from the at least one inflatable open-cell chamber through the at least one vent port to vary the second fill volume of the at least one inflatable open-cell chamber while the first fill volume of the at least one inflatable closed-cell chamber is sustained.

According to one aspect, the inflatable top structure may include a plurality of inflatable columns. A cavity of each of the plurality of inflatable columns may form part of the open-cell chamber of the inflatable top structure. According to another aspect, the plurality of inflatable columns may be positioned within the central chamber.

According to another aspect, the top cover may include at least one breather vent. In yet another aspect, the at least one vent port of the inflatable top structure may be disposed in an exterior sidewall of the inflatable top structure and may include a valve flap for adjusting airflow through the least one vent port.

The airbag landing device according to any one of the aspects described above may be located in a recreational sports area for absorbing the impact of a falling object landing in the recreational sports landing area.

Additional features and advantages will be set forth in the detailed description which follows, and in part will be readily apparent to those skilled in the technical field of inflatable safety devices, and in particular inflatable airbag landing devices. It is to be understood that the foregoing general description, the following detailed description, and the accompanying drawings are merely exemplary and intended to provide an overview or framework to understand the nature and character of the claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate one or more embodiments of the invention and, together with the general description given above and the detailed description given below, serve to describe the one or more embodiments of the invention. Features and attributes associated with any of the embodiments shown or described may be applied to other embodiments shown, described, or appreciated based on this disclosure.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an airbag landing device in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 2 a perspective view of the airbag landing device of FIG. 1, with a portion of a top cover removed to illustrate additional details of an inflatable top structure of the airbag landing device.

FIG. 3 is a partial disassembled view of the airbag landing device of FIGS. 1-2.

FIG. 4 is a disassembled cross-sectional view the airbag landing device of FIGS. 1-3.

FIG. 5 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the airbag landing device taken along line 5-5 of FIG. 2.

FIG. 6 is a schematic cross-sectional view of an exemplary vent port of the airbag landing device.

FIG. 7A is a schematic cross-sectional view of the airbag landing device taken along line 7A-7A of FIG. 2, illustrating airflow to inflate the inflatable top structure of the airbag landing device.

FIG. 7B is a view similar to FIG. 5, illustrating a state of the airbag landing device upon impact by a falling object.

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of an airbag landing device in accordance with another embodiment of the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Embodiments of the present invention are directed to an airbag landing device having an inflatable open-cell top structure disposed vertically on top of an inflatable closed-cell base structure that provides a base or foundation of the airbag landing device. The inflatable open-cell top structure and the inflatable closed-cell base structure of the airbag landing device are capable of withstanding the forces associated with high-impact falls of a falling object, such as an individual, for example. In that regard, the airbag landing device may be located in a recreational sports area, such as at the bottom exit of a large recreational slide. For example, a rider may be launched from the bottom exit of the recreational slide and into the air for aerial play before landing on the airbag landing device. The airbag landing device is positioned in the landing area to receive the impact of a falling rider. The airbag landing device cushions the rider's fall and prevents injury. The airbag landing device is portable and easy to set up or tear down due to the inflatability of both the top and base inflatable structures.

With respect to embodiments of the airbag landing device, closed-cell means that the inflatable base structure is not configured to vent or exhaust air during use of the airbag landing device in response to an impact from a falling object, such as one or more persons. To this end, the inflatable closed-cell base structure is inflated with a volume of air to a predetermined operating air pressure that is generally maintained during use of the airbag landing device. By open-cell, it is meant that the inflatable open-cell top structure is configured to vent and exhaust air during use of the airbag landing device. In that regard, the inflatable open-cell top structure may continuously exhaust air while an attached blower is operating to maintain an inflated state of the inflatable open-cell top structure. However, the inflatable open-cell top structure may exhaust significantly more air when impacted by a falling object. To that end, the inflatable open-cell top structure is configured to vent or exhaust a volume of air at impact by a falling object to cushion the fall of the falling object. The inflatable closed-cell base structure provides a backup or failsafe landing cushion should the inflatable open-cell top structure become inadvertently deflated, either partially or fully, before or during use of the airbag landing device. The airbag landing device may also include a top cover placed over the inflatable open-cell top structure to provide a landing surface for the falling object In that regard, the inflatable open-cell top structure may include a large external chamber, or indent, that results in an air pocket being formed between the top cover and the inflatable open-cell top structure. A volume of air in the air pocket operates as an additional air cushion to further dampen the impact of the falling object. That is, the air in the air pocket is configured to escape at a controlled rate from the inflatable open-cell top structure at impact, further absorbing and dissipating the force of the impact. These and other benefits of the present invention will be described in further detail below.

Referring now to the figures, FIGS. 1-7B illustrate an airbag landing device 10 according to one embodiment of the invention. The airbag landing device 10 may alternatively be referred to as an airbag impact cushion or airbag landing cushion. Regardless, the airbag landing device 10 is for cushioning the fall of a falling object, such as an individual, from an elevated height. In that regard, the airbag landing device 10 is configured to be located in a recreational sports area 12 where an individual may purposefully fall from an elevated height to land, such as a landing area at the bottom exit of a large recreational slide, for example.

Referring now to FIGS. 1 and 2, the airbag landing device 10 includes an inflatable top structure 14 disposed vertically on top of an inflatable base structure 16 that provides the foundation or base of the airbag landing device 10. The inflatable top structure 14 and the inflatable base structure 16 are fluidly isolated so as to be separately inflatable, as will be described in further detail below. The airbag landing device 10 further includes a top cover 18 configured to cover the inflatable top structure 14. The top cover 18 may provide increased wear resistance and a landing surface 20 for the falling object at impact.

The inflatable base structure 16 is configured to contact, or be placed adjacent, the floor or surface on which the airbag landing device 10 is arranged for use. To that end, the inflatable base structure 16 may include a plurality of tie-downs 22 for securing the airbag landing device 10 to the floor or surface on which the airbag landing device 10 is arranged for use. In the embodiment shown, the tie-downs 22 are in the form of D-shaped metal rings, otherwise referred to as D-rings. In other embodiments, the tie-downs 22 may include hooks, ratchet straps, or other means for securing the inflatable base structure 16 to the floor or surface on which the airbag landing device 10 is arranged for use.

As briefly described above, the inflatable top structure 14 is an open-cell structure configured to continuously exhaust or vent air during use. In that regard, the inflatable top structure 14 is configured to be connected to an air source, such as a blower 24, that provides a continuous supply of air to the inflatable top structure 14 to maintain an inflated shape of the inflatable top structure 14 when the blower 24 is activated. As shown in FIG. 2, the inflatable top structure 14 includes several vent ports 26 configured to control the release of air from within the inflatable top structure 14. Additionally, the inflatable top structure 14 includes a plurality of air passageways 28 that facilitate the release of air from an air pocket that is formed between the inflatable top structure 14 and the top cover 18, as will be described in further detail below.

The top cover 18 is configured to be disposed over the inflatable top structure 14 during use, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2. For example, the top cover 18 may fit tightly over the inflatable top structure 14. In one embodiment, the top cover 18 may be secured to the inflatable base structure 16 with clips or chords, for example, to hold the top cover 18 against the inflatable top structure 14. In any event, the top cover 18 includes a top sheet 30 that defines the landing surface 20 and a side sheet 32 that extends downward from the top sheet 30 to form an open end 34 of the top cover 18 (e.g., FIG. 3). The top cover 18 is not inflatable and is generally impermeable to air according to one embodiment. The top sheet 30 may have a logo, branding, or other markings or illustrations, such as a marking that indicates an ideal landing spot on the landing surface 20, for example. The side sheet 32 is configured to generally surround the inflatable top structure 14, as shown in FIG. 1.

To facilitate the release of air from parts of the inflatable top structure 14 at impact, the top cover 18 includes a plurality of vents 36. In that regard, the vents 36 allow airflow through the top cover 18 to prevent its ballooning at impact. As shown, the vents 36 are spaced apart about the side sheet 32 of the top cover 18. Each vent 36 may be considered a breather vent and is defined by an opening 38 formed in the side sheet 32 and a mesh insert or cover 40 positioned over the opening 38. The mesh insert or cover 40 may enhance the durability of the vent opening 38, for example. Alternatively, the vents 36 may comprise a plurality of small perforations in the side sheet 32 rather than a single opening 38 including a mesh insert or cover 40. In either case, while the vents 36 are each shown as being circular in shape, it will be understood that the vents 36 may be other shapes, such as square or rectangular, for example. As shown in FIG. 2, the vents 36 may be configured to align with the one or more of the vent ports 26 and/or air passageways 28 in the inflatable top structure 14. When aligned, each vent 36 may be sized to overlay a portion or the entirety of the respective one or more of the vent ports 26 or air passageways 28. However, the vents 36 do not need to be aligned with the vent ports 26 or air passageways 28 to allow air to exhaust from the inflatable top structure 14 at impact. To this end, the vents 36 may be located at other locations about the top cover 18, such as on the top sheet 30, for example.

With reference to FIGS. 1-3, the inflatable top structure 14 is attached to the top of the inflatable base structure 16 to provide the inflatable top structure 14 and the inflatable base structure 16 with a one-piece configuration. In the embodiment shown, the inflatable top structure 14 is attached to the inflatable base 16 structure using a combination of strips of hook-and-loop fasteners (also known as Velcro®) and adhesive. With reference to FIG. 3, a first plurality of elongated attachment strips 42 are positioned on a top surface 44 of the inflatable base structure 16. The first plurality of strips 42 are arranged on the top surface 44 such that they extend lengthwise between a first and a second end 46, 48 of the airbag landing device 10. The first plurality of strips 42 may include loops of soft, flexible material, for example. A second plurality of elongated attachment strips 50 are positioned on a base surface 52 of the inflatable top structure 14. The second plurality of attachment strips 50 are arranged on the base surface 52 so that they extend lengthwise between the first and second ends 46, 48 of the airbag landing device 10. The second plurality of attachment strips 50 may include a plurality of small hooks or bristles, for example.

Each of the first and second plurality of attachment strips 42, 50 may be aligned side-by-side in an abutting relationship or spaced apart. The first and second plurality of attachment strips 42, 50 may be attached to the top surface 44 of the inflatable base structure 16 and the base surface 52 of the inflatable top structure 14, respectively, by sewing or stitching. However, other suitable joining methods, such as welding, radio frequency (RF) welding, hot air welding, or gluing, are also possible. The inflatable top structure 14 is placed on top of the inflatable base structure 16 to connect the first and second plurality of attachment strips 42, 50. The first and second plurality of attachment strips 42, 50 may be surrounded or encircled by an amount of adhesive 54 to enclose the attachment strips 42, 50 between the inflatable top structure 14 and the inflatable base structure 16. The first and second plurality of attachment strips 42, 50 may each be surrounded by an amount of adhesive 54. Alternatively, only one of the first and second plurality of attachment strips 42, 50 may be surrounded by an amount of adhesive 54. The spaces between adjacent attachment strips 42, 50, if present, may also include adhesive 54. In either case, the adhesive 54 enhances the attachment of the inflatable top structure 14 and the inflatable base structure 16. The combination of the attachment strips 42, 50 and the adhesive prevents 54 movement of the inflatable top structure 14 relative to the inflatable base structure 16.

In an alternative embodiment, the inflatable top structure 14 may be attached to the inflatable base structure 16 by one or more of sewing, stitching, welding, radio-frequency (RF) welding, hot-air welding, gluing, or other suitable joining methods used to join two or more materials together, as will be understood by a person of skill in the art. In one embodiment, the inflatable base structure 16 and the inflatable top structure 14 may share a common wall. The shared wall may separate, or fluidly isolate, the interior of the inflatable top structure 14 from the interior of the inflatable base structure 16, for example.

With continued reference to FIGS. 1-3, the inflatable top structure 14 is arranged on top of the inflatable base structure 16 so that a majority of the base surface 52 of the inflatable top structure 14 is in contact with or adjacent to the top surface 44 of the inflatable base structure 16. In other words, 50% or more, and preferably 90% or more, of the base surface 52 of the inflatable top structure 14 is arranged over the top surface 44 of the inflatable base structure 16. This way, the inflatable base structure 16 most effectively provides a backup or failsafe landing cushion in case the inflatable top structure 14 becomes inadvertently deflated before or during the use of the airbag landing device 10. For the same reason, it is also important that the inflatable top structure 14 and the inflatable base structure 16 be separately inflatable.

As best shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, an outer perimeter, or periphery of the inflatable base structure 16 is generally larger compared to an outer perimeter, or periphery of the inflatable top structure 14. Stated differently, a footprint of the inflatable base structure 16 is larger compared to a footprint of the inflatable top structure 14. Thus, the inflatable base structure 16 generally defines a footprint of the airbag landing device 10. As shown, the inflatable base structure 16 extends a distance beyond the periphery of the inflatable top structure 14 to expose a section 56 of the inflatable base structure 16. The exposed section 56 may be used as a step for an individual exiting from the inflatable top structure 14 after landing on the airbag landing device 10, for example. In the embodiment shown, the exposed section 56 of the inflatable base structure 16 is located at a longitudinal end of the airbag landing device 10, such as the first end 46. In the embodiment shown, the inflatable base structure 16 has a longitudinal length that is longer than a longitudinal length of the inflatable top structure 14, which results in the exposed section 56. However, the exposed section 56 may extend a distance beyond any portion of the periphery of one, two, three, or all sides of the inflatable top structure 14.

Turning now with reference to FIGS. 3 and 4, additional details of the inflatable base structure 16 will now be described. In that regard, the inflatable base structure 16 includes a top wall 58, a base wall 60, and a peripheral sidewall 62 that extends between the top wall 58 and the base wall 60 to define an interior volume 64 (e.g., FIG. 4) suitable for containing a medium under pressure, such as air, for example. The top wall 58 defines the top surface 44 of the inflatable base structure 16, as described above. In the embodiment shown, the interior volume 64 of the inflatable base structure 16 defines the at least one inflatable closed-cell chamber, and thus will be referred hereinafter as closed-cell chamber 64. While not shown, the interior volume 64 of the inflatable base structure 16 may define a plurality of inflatable closed-cell chambers. Portions of the inflatable base structure 16 may be constructed of canvas, nylon, plastic, polyvinyl chloride (PVC), thermoplastic rubber (TPR), ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA), thermoplastic polyurethane elastomer (TPU), neoprene-coated fabric or other suitable materials known in the art for inflatable structures.

The inflatable base structure 16 includes at least one air inlet opening 66 to allow air to enter the closed-cell chamber 64 and to prevent air from escaping from the closed-cell chamber 64. As shown, the inflatable base structure 16 may include a single air inlet opening 66. The opening 66 is formed in the sidewall 62 of the inflatable base structure 16, and a cover, cap, plug, or valve is disposed in the opening 66. In the embodiment shown, the opening includes a valve 68. The valve 68 may be configured to receive an air pump, such as a high compression air pump, configured to inflate and deflate the inflatable base structure 16, for example. To this end, the valve 68 is used to seal closed the air inlet 66 to hold the volume of air and sustain the air pressure within the closed-cell chamber 64 of the inflatable base structure 16, particularly during use of the airbag landing device 10. The valve 68 may include a pressure sensor configured to detect air leaks. In this regard, it is important that the air pressure within the closed-cell chamber 64 of the inflatable base structure 16 be maintained during use as the inflatable base structure 16 provides a backup or failsafe landing cushion should the inflatable top structure 14 become inadvertently deflated before or during use of the airbag landing device 10. As will be described in further detail below, the closed-cell chamber 64 of the inflatable base structure 16 is configured to sustain a high operating air pressure. In the embodiment shown, the inflatable base structure 16 is generally cuboid in shape and the top wall 58, base wall 60, and sidewall 62 are generally flat. However other suitable polygonal or circular shapes of the inflatable base structure 16 are possible.

As shown in e.g., FIG. 4, the inflatable base structure 16 is constructed of an airtight double wall drop-stitch fabric. That is, the top wall 58, base wall 60, and sidewall 62 of the inflatable base structure 16 may be formed of an airtight double wall drop-stitch fabric. In that regard, the closed-cell chamber 64 of inflatable base structure 16 includes internal webbing that extends generally between the top wall 58 and the base wall 60 of the inflatable base structure 16. As shown, the internal webbing of the inflatable base structure 16 may comprise of a plurality of web strands 70, which may be a textile such as pile fibers, that extend vertically within the closed-cell chamber 64 of the inflatable base structure 16, spanning from the top wall 58 to the base wall 60. The web strands 70 extend within the closed-cell chamber 64 of the inflatable base structure 16 (i.e., the interior of the inflatable base structure 16), but do not section or divide the inflatable closed-cell chamber 64 into sub-chambers due to their small size. Rather, air is permitted to flow around the web strands 70 and fill the interstitial openings between the web strands 70 to thereby fill the interior of the inflatable base structure 16, being the inflatable closed-cell chamber 64.

The inflatable base structure 16 may include thousands of web strands 70 arranged within the closed-cell chamber 64. The internal webbing 70 provides for a relatively stable connection between the top wall 58 and the base wall 60 of the inflatable base structure 16. As a result, the inflatable base structure 16, and in particular the inflatable closed-cell chamber 64, can sustain a high fill or air pressure without deforming. Furthermore, the web strands 70 are capable of being tensioned without sustaining damage. In that regard, when the interior of the inflatable base 16 structure is pressurized, pressure will build up against the top wall 58, base wall 60, and sidewall 62. The web strands 70 limit the top wall 58 and the base wall 60 of the inflatable structure from expanding too far apart. This ensures that the top wall 58 and the base wall 60 maintain a relatively flat profile and surface.

With reference to FIGS. 1-4, additional details of the inflatable top structure 14 will now be described. In that regard, the inflatable top structure 14 includes an inflatable body 72 that defines an interior volume 74 suitable for containing a medium under pressure, such as air, for example. The inflatable body 72 includes an inflatable upstanding wall portion 76 that extends about the periphery of the inflatable top structure 14 to define a central, external recess or chamber 78, as shown in FIG. 2. Within the central chamber 78, there are a plurality of inflatable columns 80 that are surrounded by the upstanding wall portion 76. The inflatable body 72, which includes the inflatable upstanding wall portion 76 and the plurality of inflatable columns 80, defines the interior volume 74 of the inflatable top structure 14.

With reference to FIG. 4, the inflatable body 72 further includes a base wall 82, a top wall 84, and an outer or peripheral sidewall 86 that extends between the top wall 84 and the base wall 82. The base wall 82 defines the base surface 52 of the inflatable top structure 14, as described above. The inflatable body 72 includes an inner sidewall 88 that extends from the top wall 84 to a recessed wall 90 (e.g., FIG. 4). The recessed wall 90 defines the base of the central chamber 78 and the inner sidewall 88 defines a depth of the central chamber 78. The plurality of inflatable columns 80 are arranged on the recessed wall 90 so as to project in an upward direction from the recessed wall 90, particularly when inflated. The inner sidewall 88 is spaced from the outer sidewall 86 by the top wall 84 to define a width of the upstanding wall portion 76 (i.e., a distance between the outer sidewall 86 and the inner sidewall 88). The width of the upstanding wall portion 76 may be varied to change the size of the central chamber 78, for example.

The interior volume 74 defines the at least one inflatable open-cell chamber that is capable of both being inflated with a volume of air and sustaining a certain level of air pressure without deflating or losing its shape. The interior volume 74 of the inflatable top structure 14 will be referred hereinafter as open-cell chamber 74. In particular, the inflatable open-cell chamber 74 is a single hollow chamber. That is, there are no partitions, baffles, or other dividers that separate the open-cell chamber 74 into sub-chambers, channels, or sections. In an alternative embodiment, the interior volume of the inflatable top structure 14 may include partitions, baffles, or other dividers that separate the open-cell chamber 74 into sub-chambers, channels, or sections. In the embodiment shown, the inflatable top structure 14 is generally cuboid in shape, with the top wall 84, base wall 82, and outer sidewall 86 being generally flat. However, other suitable polygonal or circular shapes of the inflatable top structure 14 are possible.

As best shown in FIG. 4, each of the plurality of inflatable columns 80 includes a tubular wall 92 that extends from an open end 94 to a closed top 96 to define an inflatable space or cavity 98 for receiving air. The open end 94 of each inflatable column 80 is connected to an opening 100 in the recessed wall 90 of the inflatable top structure 14 such that the cavity 98 of each inflatable column 80 forms part of the interior volume 74 of the inflatable top structure 14. As shown, each opening 100 in the recessed wall 90 and the open end 94 of a respective inflatable column 80 are similarly sized. To this end, the recessed wall 90 and the plurality of inflatable columns 80 may be formed as a single, unitary piece. Each inflatable column 80 extends a height from the recessed wall 90 of the inflatable body 72 to the closed top end 96, particularly when inflated. When the inflatable columns 80 are inflated, as shown, the height of each inflatable column 80 may be substantially the same as a height of the upstanding wall portion 76. In that regard, the closed top end 96 of each inflatable column 80 may be generally planar with the top wall 84 of the inflatable body 72. To that end, the closed top end 96 of each inflatable column 80 may be generally flat. The top end 96 of each inflatable column 80, along with the top wall 84, may collectively define a top surface of the inflatable top structure 14 that is configured to receive the top sheet 30 of the top cover 18, as shown in FIG. 5. The result is a generally flat landing surface 20.

As best shown in FIG. 2, the plurality of inflatable columns 80 are spaced apart so as to be arranged in an array of parallel columns and rows. Each inflatable column 80 is generally cylindrical in shape and generally circular in transverse cross-section. While the diameter and the height of each inflatable column 80 may be varied, the inflatable columns 80 are spaced apart from each other and the upstanding wall portion 76 to define air gaps or spaces 102 therebetween, as shown in e.g., FIG. 4. Once the top cover 18 is placed over the inflatable top structure 14, the chamber 78, and in particular the collective spaces 102 between each inflatable column 80 and the upstanding wall portion 76, forms an air pocket 104 (e.g., FIG. 5) that provides an air cushion to further cushion the falling object at impact. During impact, air is released from the air pocket 104 to further dampen the impact of the falling object, as will be described in further detail below.

To facilitate the release of air from the air pocket 104 at impact, the inflatable top structure 14 includes the plurality of air passageways 28, as mentioned above. As shown in FIG. 2, the air passageways 28 are spaced apart around the upstanding wall portion 76 of the inflatable top structure 14. Specifically, the air passageways 28 are formed in the upstanding wall portion 76 to create a passageway that extends through the upstanding wall portion 76 to allow air within the air pocket 104 to escape to the exterior of the inflatable top portion 14. That is, the air passageways 28 are in fluid communication with the central chamber 78 to allow airflow into or out from the central chamber 78. As shown in FIG. 4, each air passageway 28 extends from a first opening 106 formed in the inner sidewall 88 of the upstanding wall portion 76 to a second opening 108 formed in the outer sidewall 86 of the upstanding wall portion 76. Each air passageway 28 forms a fixed-size opening and does not include any airflow limiters, such as valves, for example. Each air passageway 28 may be generally “D”-shaped in transverse cross-section, however other circular or polygonal transverse cross-sectional shapes are possible. As shown in FIG. 5, when the top cover 18 is positioned over the inflatable top structure 14, one or more of the vents 36 may be configured to align with respective air passageways 28. That way, air may escape from the air pocket 104, through the air passageway 28 and out from the aligned vent 36 with the least amount of resistance to airflow. However, as described above, the vents 36 do not need to be aligned with the air passageways 28 to allow air to exhaust from the air pocket 104 at impact. In that regard, air may exhaust through the air passageways 28 to a space between the exterior sidewall 86 and the side sheet 32 of the top cover 18 before being exhausted through a vent 36 or out from the open end 34 of the top cover 18, for example.

As described above, the inflatable top structure 14 is configured to be connected to an air source, such as a blower 24, that provides a continuous supply of air to the open-cell chamber 74 to maintain an inflated shape of the inflatable top structure 14. In that regard, the inflatable top structure 14 may include a flexible conduit 110 that extends from a first end 112 connected to an opening 114 in the sidewall 86 (e.g., FIG. 7A) to the inflatable open-cell chamber 74 to an opposite second, open end 116 of the conduit 110 (e.g., FIG. 3). As shown in FIG. 2, the open end 116 of the conduit 110 is configured to be connected to the blower 24. The blower 24 is configured to intermittently or continuously pumped air through the conduit 110 and into the open-cell chamber 74, as indicated by directional arrows A1 in FIG. 7A. In one embodiment, the flexible conduit 110 may include a valve and the blower 24 may fill the inflatable top structure 14 between impacts. For example, the inflatable top structure 14 may be filled with air, the valve closed, and the blower 24 removed before impact. After impact, the blower 24 may be reconnected to the inflatable top structure 14 and the valve opened so that the blower 24 may reinflate the inflatable top structure 14.

The inflatable top structure 14 further includes at least one vent port 26 configured to exhaust air from the inflatable open-cell chamber 74 during use, as briefly described above. The at least one vent port 26 results in the inflatable top structure 14 having the open-cell configuration. In particular, the at least one vent port 26 regulates the amount of airflow from the open-cell chamber 74 to ensure a controlled partial deflation of the of the inflatable top structure 14 to absorb the impact of a falling object. In the embodiment shown, the inflatable top structure 14 may include a plurality of vent ports 26 formed in the exterior sidewall 86 of the body 72 of the inflatable top structure 14. In that regard, the vent ports 26 are spaced apart about the exterior sidewall 86 of the body 72 of the inflatable top structure 14 at locations generally between the base wall 82 and the recessed wall 90. In particular, the vent ports 26 are located at a lower position (i.e., closer to the base wall 82) along the exterior sidewall 86 compared to the air passageways 28, as can be seen in FIG. 2, for example. In that regard, one or more of the vent ports 26 may be located directly below a respective air passageway 28, as shown. That way, when the top cover 18 is positioned over the inflatable top structure 14, one or more of the vents 36 may be configured to align with a respective air passageway 28 and a respective vent port 26, or pair of vent ports 26. Accordingly, air may escape from both the air passageway 28 and the vent port(s) 26 via the same aligned vent 36 with minimal resistance to airflow. However, one or more vent ports 26 may be offset from the air passageways 28 and/or located elsewhere about the inflatable top structure 14. To this end, there may be the same amount, fewer, or more vent ports 26 compared to air passageways 28.

With reference to FIG. 5, each vent port 26 includes one or more valved openings 118 formed in the inflatable top structure 14 that allow air to be expelled from the open-cell chamber 74 during use. In particular, each opening 118 is generally rectangular in shape and is formed in the exterior sidewall 86 of the body 72 of the inflatable top structure 14. Each opening 118 includes a valve, such as a valve flap 120 configured to cover or partially cover the opening 118 to selectively control the release of air from the open-cell chamber 74 of the inflatable top structure 14. In the embodiment shown, the vent ports 26 are arranged in pairs at locations about the inflatable top structure 14. However, in an alternative embodiment, each location may only include a single vent port 26, or three or more vent ports 26, for example.

Each valve flap 120 provides the ability to adjust and regulate the amount of air that is expelled from the open-cell chamber 74 through the vent port 26 during use. As shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, each valve flap 120 comprises a flexible, durable flap member 122 that is positioned over the opening 118. The flap member 122 is slightly larger than the opening 118 so that it may completely cover and seal the opening 118. Each flap member 122 extends from a first end 124 attached to the exterior wall 86 of the inflatable top structure 14 to a second end 126. The second end 126 and peripheral sides 128 of the flap member 122 are selectively attachable to the exterior wall 86 to vary the size of the vent port opening 118. In that regard, the second end 126 and the sides 128 of the flap member 122 may include strips of hook fasteners which form part of a hook-and-loop fastening system (also known as Velcro®). The exterior sidewall 86 of the inflatable top structure 14 may have corresponding strips of loop fasteners to receive the second end 126 and sides 128 of the flap member 122 to couple the flap member 122 to the exterior wall 86 of the inflatable top structure 14. This allows a user to seal closed the opening 118 or to open the flap member 122 to varying degrees, depending on the desired amount of airflow through the vent port opening 26. Furthermore, an outer surface 130 of the flap member 122 may also include loop fasteners, for example, to allow the second end 126 to be rolled and secured to the outer surface 130, as shown in FIG. 6. In that regard, the flap member 122 may be rolled more or less depending on the desired size of the vent port opening 26. To this end, a larger vent port opening 26 allows more air to exhaust from the open-cell chamber 74 and a smaller vent port opening 26 allows less (i.e., restricts) airflow from the open-cell chamber 74 during use.

As a result of the vented configuration of the inflatable top structure 14, air may flow continuously through the open-cell chamber 74 of the inflatable top structure 14 during use. Thus, the blower 24 connected to the inflatable top structure 14 may run continuously or intermittently to maintain the fill volume and operating air pressure of the inflatable top structure 14 to thereby maintain its inflated shape during use. The operating air pressure of the open-cell chamber 74 of the inflatable top structure 14 is generally lower compared to the operating pressure of the closed-cell chamber 64 of the inflatable base structure 16. For example, the operating pressure of the open-cell chamber 74 of the inflatable top structure 14 may be within a range of between about 3 psi to about 10 psi while the operating pressure of the closed-cell chamber 64 of the inflatable base structure 16 may be within a range of between about 8 psi to 15 psi. However, when impacted by a falling object during use, the inflatable top structure 14 is configured to exhaust a volume of air from the open-cell chamber 74 through the at least one vent port 26 to temporarily vary the fill volume and the operating air pressure of the open-cell chamber 74 to cushion the fall of the falling object, as will be described in further detail below. To this end, the blower 24 is configured to reinflate the open-cell chamber 74 to the correct fill volume and operating air pressure between impacts.

As best shown in FIG. 4, the inflatable base structure 16 includes a thickness T1, which is a distance measured between the base wall 60 and the top wall 58 of the inflatable base structure 16. Similarly, the inflatable top structure 14 includes a thickness T2, which is a distance measured between the base wall 82 and the top wall 84 of the inflatable top structure 14. As shown, the thickness T2 of the inflatable top structure 14 is greater than the thickness T1 of the inflatable base structure 16. For example, the thickness T2 of the inflatable top structure 14 may be at least three times greater than the thickness T1 of the inflatable base structure 16. As a result, the fill volume of the inflatable top structure 14 is greater than the fill volume of the inflatable base structure 16. For example, the fill volume of the inflatable top structure 14 may be at least three times greater than the fill volume of the inflatable base structure 16.

Having now described certain details of the airbag landing device 10, a method of using the airbag landing device 10 will now be described. In that regard, the airbag landing device 10 is configured to be located in a recreational sports area 12 where an individual may purposefully fall from an elevated height to land, such as a landing area at the bottom exit of a large recreational slide. In particular, the airbag landing device 10 is arranged in the landing area and the inflatable base structure 16 and the inflatable top structure 14 inflated. The inflatable base structure 16 may be inflated by filling its closed-cell chamber 64 with a specific amount, or fill volume, of air at a specific operating pressure. The inflatable base structure 16 may be inflated or filled using a high compression pump, for example. The valve 68 is used to seal closed the air inlet 66 to sustain the fill volume and air pressure within the closed-cell chamber 64 of the inflatable base structure 16, particularly during use of the airbag landing device 10. To this end, the inflatable base structure 16 is configured to sustain the fill volume and air pressure within the closed-cell chamber 64 for long periods of time. For example, once the closed-cell chamber 64 of the inflatable base structure 16 is inflated, the closed-cell chamber 64 may only need to be filled with air occasionally, such as once a month, for example, to maintain the desired fill volume and air pressure.

The inflatable top structure 14 is connected to the blower 24 which is used to inflate the open-cell chamber 74 of the inflatable top structure 14 to provide the inflatable top structure 14 with its inflated shape. The top cover 18 may be disposed over the inflatable top structure 14 either before or after the inflatable top structure 14 is inflated. FIG. 7A illustrates the airbag landing device 10 in an inflated state, such as before or between impacts. The blower 24 may run continuously to pump air into the open-cell chamber 74, as indicated by directional arrows A1, to ensure that the inflatable top structure 14 remains fully inflated. At the same time, the open-cell chamber 74 continuously expels air through the one or more vent ports 26, as indicated by directional arrows A2. As shown by arrows A2, air exhausted from the vent ports 26 may exhaust through vents 36 in the top cover 18 and/or from the open end 34 of the top cover 18, for example. While in the inflated state between impacts, air generally may not exit the air pocket 104 formed between the top cover 18 and the inflatable top structure 14 through the air passageways 28. In that regard, the air pocket 104 maintains an expanded state between impacts, as shown in FIG. 7A. The blower 24 may be operated continuously to sustain an air fill volume and an air pressure within open-cell chamber 74 of the inflatable top structure 14. As described above, the fill volume of the open-cell chamber 74 of the inflatable top structure 14 is greater than the fill volume of the closed-cell chamber 64 of the inflatable base structure 16. However, the operating pressure of the open-cell chamber 74 of the inflatable top structure 14 is less than the operating pressure within the closed-cell chamber 64 of the inflatable base structure 16.

Once the inflatable base structure 16 and the inflatable top structure 14 are inflated, as described above, the airbag landing device 10 is ready to absorb an impact of a falling object. FIG. 7B illustrates the airbag landing device 10 in an impact state, where the airbag landing device 10 is actively receiving and cushioning an impact from a falling object, as indicated by directional arrow A3. At impact, the body 72 of the inflatable top structure 14, including a number of the inflatable columns 80 and portions of the upstanding sidewall portion 76, is compressed varying degrees depending on the closeness of the structure to the impact A3. To cushion the impact A3, the inflatable top structure 14 is configured to simultaneously vent or exhaust a volume of air from both the open-cell chamber 74 and the air pocket 104 formed between the inflatable top structure 14 and the top cover 18.

As shown by directional arrows A4 in FIG. 7B, air is forced from the open-cell chamber 74 of the inflatable top structure 14 and exhausted via the one or more vent ports 26 to vary the fill volume and air pressure of the inflatable open-cell chamber 74. Specifically, a volume of air escapes relatively quickly over a short period of time from the open-cell chamber 74 to temporarily decrease the fill volume and vary the operating pressure therein. Air is also expelled from the air pocket 104 formed between the top cover 18 and the chamber 78 of the inflatable top structure 14 upon impact, as indicated by directional arrows A5. In particular, as the air pocket 104 undergoes compression at impact, air is released from the air pocket 104 via the one or more air passageways 28. More precisely, a significant volume of air escapes rapidly over a brief period, temporarily reducing the air volume within the air pocket 104. To that end, FIG. 7B depicts the air pocket 104 in an impact state, having a reduced air volume when compared to the expanded state depicted in FIG. 7A. The collective air exhausted from the inflatable top structure 14 at impact may pass through or around the top cover 18, as illustrated by directional arrows A6 in FIG. 7B.

The blower 24 is configured to reinflate the open-cell chamber 74 to its designated fill volume and restore the air pressure to the required operating pressure after the airbag landing device 10 has absorbed the impact A3 of a falling object. In that regard, it may take a few seconds for the blower 24 to reinflate the inflatable top structure 14 to its inflated shape. As the inflated top structure 14 is reinflated between impacts, the air pocket 104 is also restored to its expanded state, as shown in FIG. 7A. To that end, air may be drawn inward through or around the top cover 18 via the vents 36 and open end 34 to fill the air pocket 104 with air.

The inflatable base structure 16 does not exhaust air at impact. In particular, the fill volume and air pressure of the closed-cell chamber 64 of the inflatable base structure 16 remains substantially unchanged between impacts. To this end, the inflatable base structure 16 holds a volume of air at a high air pressure that acts within the closed-cell chamber 64 as support to provide a relatively firm foundation for the airbag landing device 10. Furthermore, the inflatable base structure 16 provides a backup or failsafe landing cushion in case the inflatable top structure 14 becomes inadvertently deflated before or during use of the airbag landing device 10. The inflatable base structure 16 may also be deflated, making it easier to transport and store the airbag landing device 10.

Referring now to FIG. 8, wherein like numerals represent like features compared to the embodiments described above with respect to FIGS. 1-7B, an airbag landing device 140 is shown in accordance with another embodiment of the invention. The primary differences between the airbag landing device 140 of this embodiment and the airbag landing device 10 of the previously described embodiment is the configuration of the inflatable base structure 16. In that regard, the inflatable base structure 16 extends a distance beyond the periphery of the inflatable top structure 14 to expose several sections 142a-142c of the inflatable base structure 16. The sections 142a-142c collectively define a step 144 that may be used by an individual to exit from the inflatable top structure 14 after landing on the airbag landing device 10, for example. As shown, one section 142a of the step 144 is exposed at the first end of the airbag landing device 140. The other sections 142b, 142c of the step 144 are exposed from sides of the airbag landing device 140. Each section 142b, 142c extends for only a portion of the side of the airbag landing device 140. However, in another embodiment, each section 142b, 142c may extend for the full length of the airbag landing device 140. In one embodiment, the step 144 may be “L”-shaped, with one section of the step 144 being located at one longitudinal end of the airbag landing device 140 and another section being located along one side. In another embodiment, the step 144 may surround the entire periphery of the airbag landing device 140. Furthermore, sections that form the step 144 may be spaced apart so as not to form a continuous step 144. For example, there may be a step 144 on both sides of the airbag landing device 140, but not on the longitudinal ends, or vice versa.

While the invention has been illustrated by the description of various embodiments thereof, and while the embodiments have been described in considerable detail, it is not intended to restrict or in any way limit the scope of the appended claims to such detail. Thus, the various features discussed herein may be used alone or in any combination. Additional advantages and modifications will readily appear to those skilled in the art. The invention in its broader aspects is therefore not limited to the specific details and illustrative examples shown and described. Accordingly, departures may be made from such details without departing from the scope of the general inventive concept.

Claims

1. An airbag landing device for absorbing an impact of a falling object, comprising:

an inflatable base structure providing a base of the airbag landing device, the inflatable base structure including at least one inflatable closed-cell chamber configured to hold a first fill volume of gas to sustain the first fill volume of gas during use of the airbag landing device;

an inflatable top structure disposed vertically on top of the inflatable base structure to provide a landing surface for the falling object at impact, the inflatable top structure including at least one inflatable open-cell chamber that is fluidly isolated from the at least one inflatable closed-cell chamber of the inflatable base structure and being configured to sustain a second fill volume of gas, the inflatable top structure including an air inlet configured to receive airflow into the at least one inflatable open-cell chamber and at least one vent port configured to exhaust air out from the at least one inflatable open-cell chamber; and

a blower in fluid communication with the air inlet of the inflatable top structure and being configured to inflate the at least one inflatable open-cell chamber and to maintain the second fill volume of gas during use of the airbag landing device;

wherein upon impact by the falling object, the inflatable top structure exhausts a volume of gas from the at least one inflatable open-cell chamber through the at least one vent port to vary the second fill volume of the at least one inflatable open-cell chamber while the first fill volume of the at least one inflatable closed-cell chamber is sustained.

2. The airbag landing device of claim 1, further comprising a top cover disposed over the inflatable top structure, the top cover providing the landing surface for the falling object at impact.

3. The airbag landing device of claim 2, wherein the inflatable top structure further comprises:

an inflatable upstanding wall portion that extends about a periphery of the inflatable top structure to define a central chamber, the upstanding wall portion including at least one air passageway in fluid communication with the central chamber;

wherein the top cover is configured to cover the central chamber to form an air pocket therebetween; and

wherein upon impact by the falling object, the inflatable top structure exhausts a volume of gas from the air pocket through the at least one air passageway.

4. The airbag landing device of claim 3, wherein the inflatable top structure further comprises a plurality of inflatable columns, wherein a cavity of each of the plurality of inflatable columns forms part of the open-cell chamber of the inflatable top structure.

5. The airbag landing device of claim 4, wherein the plurality of inflatable columns are positioned within the central chamber.

6. The airbag landing device of claim 3, wherein the top cover includes at least one breather vent.

7. The airbag landing device of claim 1, wherein the at least one inflatable closed-cell chamber of the inflatable base structure is configured to sustain a first air pressure and the at least one inflatable open-cell chamber of the inflatable top structure is configured to sustain a second air pressure that is lower than the first air pressure.

8. The airbag landing device of claim 1, wherein the second fill volume of the at least one inflatable open-cell chamber is greater than the first fill volume of the at least one inflatable closed-cell chamber.

9. The airbag landing device of claim 1, wherein the inflatable base structure extends a distance beyond a periphery of the inflatable top structure to expose a section of the inflatable base structure.

10. The airbag landing device of claim 1, wherein the blower is configured to reinflate the open-cell chamber to the second fill volume after the airbag landing device absorbs the impact of the falling object.

11. The airbag landing device of claim 1, wherein the inflatable base structure includes an air inlet including an inlet valve for sealing closed the at least one inflatable closed-cell chamber.

12. The airbag landing device of claim 1, wherein the at least one vent port of the inflatable top structure is disposed in an exterior sidewall of the inflatable top structure.

13. The airbag landing device of claim 1, wherein the at least one vent port includes a valve flap for adjusting airflow through the least one vent port.

14. A recreational sports area comprising the airbag landing device of claim 1 for absorbing the impact of a falling object landing in the recreational sports landing area.

15. An airbag landing device for absorbing an impact of a falling object, comprising:

an inflatable base structure providing a base of the airbag landing device, the inflatable base structure including at least one inflatable closed-cell chamber configured to sustain a first fill volume of gas during use of the airbag landing device;

an inflatable top structure disposed vertically on top of the inflatable base structure, the inflatable top structure including an inflatable upstanding wall portion that extends about a periphery of the inflatable top structure to define a central chamber, the upstanding wall portion including at least one air passageway in fluid communication with the central chamber, and at least one inflatable open-cell chamber that is fluidly isolated from the at least one inflatable closed-cell chamber of the inflatable base structure and being configured to sustain a second fill volume of gas, the inflatable top structure including an air inlet configured to receive airflow into the at least one inflatable open-cell chamber and at least one vent port configured to exhaust air out from the at least one inflatable open-cell chamber;

a top cover disposed over the inflatable top structure to provide a landing surface for the falling object at impact, the top cover being configured to cover the central chamber to form an air pocket therebetween; and

a blower in fluid communication with the air inlet of the inflatable top structure and being configured to inflate the at least one inflatable open-cell chamber and to maintain the second fill volume of gas during use of the airbag landing device;

wherein upon impact by the falling object, the inflatable top structure exhausts a volume of gas from the air pocket through the at least one air passageway and from the at least one inflatable open-cell chamber through the at least one vent port to vary the second fill volume of the at least one inflatable open-cell chamber while the first fill volume of the at least one inflatable closed-cell chamber is sustained.

16. The airbag landing device of claim 15, wherein the inflatable top structure further comprises a plurality of inflatable columns, wherein a cavity of each of the plurality of inflatable columns forms part of the open-cell chamber of the inflatable top structure.

17. The airbag landing device of claim 16, wherein the plurality of inflatable columns are positioned within the central chamber.

18. The airbag landing device of claim 15, wherein the top cover includes at least one breather vent.

19. The airbag landing device of claim 15, wherein the at least one vent port of the inflatable top structure is disposed in an exterior sidewall of the inflatable top structure and includes a valve flap for adjusting airflow through the least one vent port.

20. A recreational sports area comprising the airbag landing device of claim 15 for absorbing an impact of a falling object landing in the recreational sports landing area.