Having Separately Inflatable Parts Patents (Class 446/221)
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Patent number: 11751907Abstract: A surgical access device has a cannula tube with a collar coupled to a proximal region of the cannula tube. A balloon is attached to the cannula tube. The collar includes a receptacle and an inflater is insertable into the receptacle. The inflater has a body with a chamber and a first compound. A cap is attached to one end of the body and has a cavity containing a second compound. A membrane is disposed between the body and the cap and is configured to keep the first and second compounds separate. A button extends through an opening of the cap and a piston is coupled to the button. The piston includes a spike extending away from the button and is translatable in the cap between a rest position and an actuated position. The actuated position is defined by a portion of the spike penetrating the membrane such that the first compound interacts with the second compound generating a gas that is communicated to the balloon via a groove of the cannula tube.Type: GrantFiled: April 13, 2021Date of Patent: September 12, 2023Assignee: Covidien LPInventors: Kevin M. Desjardin, Astley C. Lobo
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Patent number: 11033398Abstract: A shoulder implant for simulating a naturally occurring bursa proximal to or in lieu of a subacromial bursa, the shoulder implant comprising: an expandable member expandable to a size and/or a shape sufficient to fill a space beneath an acromion and/or a coracoid process of the shoulder, the space defines a filled volume less than a maximal volume occupied by the expandable member if fully expanded; and an amount of filler for filling the expandable member to the filled volume, such that, when implanted, the expandable member is configured to cushion and facilitate motion between a tendon and/or ligament of a rotator cuff, and a bone part in the shoulder.Type: GrantFiled: June 16, 2014Date of Patent: June 15, 2021Inventor: Shaul Shohat
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Patent number: 10252174Abstract: A balloon includes two joined plastic films. The balloon includes: a gas supply valve sandwiched between and joined to the first film and the second film; a first chamber receiving air supplied from the gas supply valve for expansion; and a second chamber communicating to the first chamber. The gas supply valve includes a gas passage that extends from a gas inlet positioned on an outer side of the second chamber to an inside of the first chamber through the second chamber. Part of the first film and the second film between the first chamber and the second chamber and between the gas passage and a peripheral edge of the balloon are joined together to form a first weld portion and a second weld portion. The first weld portion is formed on an opposite side of the second weld portion with the gas passage sandwiched therebetween.Type: GrantFiled: September 7, 2016Date of Patent: April 9, 2019Assignee: Takara Kosan Co., Ltd.Inventors: Takemi Morita, Mitsunori Yoshida, Akira Nakamura, Satoru Taniguchi, Takuya Ogura
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Patent number: 10052528Abstract: A sport training ball for use underwater includes a resilient spherical body. An internal chamber may be positioned within the resilient spherical body and configured to receive a low-density medium having a density less than water. A second internal chamber may be positioned within the resilient spherical body and configured to receive the low-density medium. A buoyancy reduction device may be positioned within the resilient spherical body and configured to have a density greater than or equal to water.Type: GrantFiled: August 5, 2015Date of Patent: August 21, 2018Inventor: MarShaan C. Johnson
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Patent number: 10016571Abstract: A hollow structure for a face mask includes an inner wall, an outer wall spaced from the inner wall to define a hollow area between the inner wall and the outer wall, and a bottom wall that couples the inner wall to the outer wall. A first portion and a second portion together define a closable opening into the hollow area. The second portion is coupled to the outer wall by a bi-stable membrane that allows the second portion to move between (1) a first, opened position in which the second portion is spaced from the first portion to allow access to the hollow area through the opening, and (2) a second, closed position in which the second position abuts the first portion to close the opening.Type: GrantFiled: October 3, 2014Date of Patent: July 10, 2018Assignee: RESMED R&D GERMANY GMBHInventors: Bernd Christoph Lang, Achim Biener, Johann Sebastian Burz, Johannes Nickol, Adel Nibu
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Patent number: 9855511Abstract: The invention includes methods and apparatus for bisected and/or partially bisected helium-free balloons that may be secured over an extended stationary structure such as an extended pole and/or lamp-post such that the secured balloon gives the appearance of being whole or un-bisected. Some embodiments may include an continuous and/or continuous air-fed balloon system. Additional embodiments include improved methods for elevating and/or coupling a bisected and/or partially bisected helium-free balloon an extended stationary structure such as an extended pole and/or lamp-post.Type: GrantFiled: April 7, 2016Date of Patent: January 2, 2018Assignee: BALLOON INNOVATIONS, INC.Inventors: Christopher J. Wicken, Gregg A. Wicken
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Patent number: 9622423Abstract: A balloon and floral centerpiece kit includes a plurality of interlocking extension members that secure together to form any number of different shapes. A base unit is removably secured to the bottommost extension member. The base unit including a main body, a lid and a shaft connection member. A topper is removably secured to the top end of the uppermost extension member. A plurality of balloons are removably secured along one or more of the plurality of interlocking extension members, the base unit and the topper. The kit also includes a plurality of generally T-shaped spikes, various decorative elements, a balloon pump, and assembly instructions.Type: GrantFiled: June 1, 2016Date of Patent: April 18, 2017Inventors: Guy Rexford, Randall Jones
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Patent number: 9574858Abstract: A rupturable bag assembly including a balloon, an outer wall, an inlet port, and a heat resistant shield. The balloon is fabricated from an elastic material. The outer wall is disposed around the balloon, the outer wall having a perimeter seam which parts abruptly at a predetermined tension. The inlet port passes through the outer wall into the balloon for inflating the balloon to produce the predetermined tension. The heat resistant shield is disposed within the balloon opposite the inlet port. The outer wall is constructed of a relatively inelastic material in comparison to the material used to construct the balloon. There is a dispersible medium disposed within the outer wall and/or the balloon.Type: GrantFiled: March 2, 2016Date of Patent: February 21, 2017Inventor: Curtis E. Graber
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Patent number: 9474984Abstract: A coupled balloon includes: a first balloon body, at least one second balloon body, through-holes formed in the balloon bodies via which the balloon bodies communicate with each other, and a double-sided bonding tape having a communication hole which is aligned with the through-holes, by which outward-surface-side peripheral edge portions of each of the through-holes are joined together. Inside of the balloon bodies include a heat seal layer, and outside thereof is formed by overlapping films configured from gas barrier layers. A valve for injecting a gas into one location on a peripheral edge of the first balloon body is interposed, and the peripheral edge other than an inner surface of the valve is thermally fused. A peripheral edge of the at least one second balloon body is thermally fused.Type: GrantFiled: September 11, 2015Date of Patent: October 25, 2016Assignee: S.A.G. BALLOONS., LTD.Inventor: Nobuhiko Yabe
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Patent number: 8926392Abstract: A system and method for increasing customer interest in containers. A set of actuating components are coupled to moveable elements of an active container, the moveable elements respond to operation of an actuating mechanism in a handle portion.Type: GrantFiled: April 10, 2013Date of Patent: January 6, 2015Inventor: Finn Alexander Strong
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Patent number: 8789565Abstract: An air manifold adapted for attaching to an air fill opening in a side of plastic, polymer balloons and receiving compressed air therein. The air manifold includes a hollow manifold body with a plurality of outwardly extending manifold air ports attached to and spaced around an outer circumference of the manifold body. The air ports are adapted for releasable or permanent attachment to the air fill openings in the side of the balloons. The manifold body also includes an air tube. The air tube has one end attached to and in fluid communication with the manifold body. An opposite end of the air tube is adapted for receiving the compressed air therethrough and into the manifold body. When the compressed air is received through the air tube and into the manifold body, the balloons attached to the manifold air ports are inflated for forming a balloon cluster around the manifold body thus providing an attractive and decorative display.Type: GrantFiled: June 27, 2011Date of Patent: July 29, 2014Assignee: Balloon Innovations, LLCInventor: Chris J. Wicken
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Patent number: 8756835Abstract: A clothing article for a foot including a sole including a sealed collapsible air cavity having disposed therein a return support for expanding a collapsed air cavity wherein the air cavity includes an outlet permitting a quantity of air to exit when the air cavity is collapsed; an upper, coupled to the sole, for covering a portion of the foot; an air-actuated active element coupled to the upper, the active element including a first mode and a second mode, the active element biased to the first mode and responsive to the quantity of air to transition from the first mode to the second mode; and a communication channel, coupled to the outlet and to the active element, for transferring the quantity of air from the air cavity to the active element.Type: GrantFiled: April 9, 2014Date of Patent: June 24, 2014Inventor: Finn Alexander Strong
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Patent number: 8752308Abstract: A clothing article for a foot including a sole including a sealed collapsible air cavity having disposed therein a return support for expanding a collapsed air cavity wherein the air cavity includes an outlet permitting a quantity of air to exit when the air cavity is collapsed; an upper, coupled to the sole, for covering a portion of the foot; an air-actuated active element coupled to the upper, the active element including a first mode and a second mode, the active element biased to the first mode and responsive to the quantity of air to transition from the first mode to the second mode; and a communication channel, coupled to the outlet and to the active element, for transferring the quantity of air from the air cavity to the active element.Type: GrantFiled: August 17, 2012Date of Patent: June 17, 2014Inventor: Finn Alexander Strong
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Patent number: 8615966Abstract: A structure which is transformable by inflation from a collapsed condition for storage to an erect condition for use has an inflatable tubular framework and at least one flexible web attached to and extending between two or more regions of the framework. The inflatable framework is formed by at least one inner inflatable tubular element (A, B) of flexible, elastic, air-impermeable material and having an inflation valve (13,15) accommodated within an outer sleeve arrangement of a material which is flexible but substantially non-elastic and restrained therein upon inflation. The outer sleeve arrangement is configured to include at least one branch point and/or at least one abrupt bend and the configuration of the inner tubular element or elements (A, B) corresponds to that (branch points (a, b) and abrupt bends (z)) so that the inner tube or tubes will substantially fill the outer sleeve arrangement upon inflation.Type: GrantFiled: June 9, 2010Date of Patent: December 31, 2013Assignee: Finecard International LimitedInventor: Mark Thompson
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Patent number: 8485206Abstract: A sun shade designed for portability and selective angular orientation in a body of water. The device comprises an umbrella portion, together with at least two distally joined buoyant members to keep the umbrella from sinking. The umbrella portion's cover comprises generally opaque material to keep the sun's rays from penetrating. The user orients the expanded umbrella towards the sun and allows the umbrella to float on the buoyant members while the user is below the umbrella. The shape and selective angular orientation of the sun shade enable the user to block rays of the sun from 0° to 90° relative to the surface of the water.Type: GrantFiled: March 1, 2011Date of Patent: July 16, 2013Inventor: Janice Elaine Rose
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Patent number: 8266828Abstract: A clothing article for a foot including a sole including a sealed collapsible air cavity having disposed therein a return support for expanding a collapsed air cavity wherein the air cavity includes an outlet permitting a quantity of air to exit when the air cavity is collapsed; an upper, coupled to the sole, for covering a portion of the foot; an air-actuated active element coupled to the upper, the active element including a first mode and a second mode, the active element biased to the first mode and responsive to the quantity of air to transition from the first mode to the second mode; and a communication channel, coupled to the outlet and to the active element, for transferring the quantity of air from the air cavity to the active element.Type: GrantFiled: December 21, 2011Date of Patent: September 18, 2012Inventor: Finn Alexander Strong
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Patent number: 7854642Abstract: A balloon display that simulates motions of a lighter-than-air balloon includes a balloon holder and an inflated balloon. The balloon holder includes a neck fastening assembly, and the inflated balloon is secured to the balloon holder by the neck fastening assembly. A compression spring balloon support extends upwardly relative to the neck fastening assembly to support a majority of the inflated balloon above the neck fastening assembly. The inflated balloon is secured to the neck fastening assembly and supported by the compression spring balloon support such that the balloon slightly loads the compression spring balloon support and the balloon tends to move up and down, side to side, and front to back as the compression spring balloon support reacts to the load of the balloon.Type: GrantFiled: January 31, 2008Date of Patent: December 21, 2010Inventors: David C. Nelson, Wesley A. Schroeder
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Patent number: 7739817Abstract: An inflatable exhibition product includes a primary inflatable product, an auxiliary characteristic inflatable product received inside and communicating with the hollow body of the primary inflatable product and an air blower assembly mounted at the bottom of the hollow body and having a hollow casing provided therein an upper chamber to receive therein a top blade set and a lower chamber to receive therein a bottom blade set. Rotation of the bottom blade set is able to inflate the auxiliary characteristic inflatable product and the primary inflatable product and rotation of the top blade set is able to suck in the particles from the inlet and project them out to the interior of the hollow body from the outlet.Type: GrantFiled: February 22, 2007Date of Patent: June 22, 2010Assignee: Gemmy Industries CorporationInventor: Sheng-Hung Hsu
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Patent number: 7614171Abstract: A motive inflatable display has a first inflatable compartment, a second inflatable compartment, a third inflatable compartment, a blower and a two position and four opening valve. The second inflatable compartment and the third inflatable compartment are mounted on the first inflatable compartment. The blower is connected to the first inflatable compartment to expend the first inflatable compartment. The two position and four opening valve is connected to the inflatable compartments to expand or flatten the inflatable compartments in turn so that the compartments are able to upraise, down, wave and nod.Type: GrantFiled: March 21, 2007Date of Patent: November 10, 2009Assignee: Gemmy Industries CorporationInventor: Sheng-Hung Hsu
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Publication number: 20090264042Abstract: The present invention is an inflatable apparatus that has a fluid chamber. The inflatable side air chamber surrounds the fluid chamber. The inflatable side air chamber forms a fluid chamber pocket for receiving the fluid chamber. A sidewall of the inflatable side air chamber has retaining walls extending upward from the inflatable side air chamber for retaining children. A fill tube is disposed on the fluid chamber. An optional inflatable ramp adjacent to the fluid chamber leads to a slide for sliding to a slide exit. The ramp may have hand grips formed as straps and footholds may also be formed on the ramp. The retaining walls can be inflatable sidewalls that extend upward from the inflatable side air chamber.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 2, 2009Publication date: October 22, 2009Inventor: Samuel Chen
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Patent number: 7552555Abstract: The invention relates to a publicity medium which is intended to be used during outdoor or indoor commercial, sporting or other types of events. The device includes flexible panels, the panels being stretched over and/or fixed to a support structure. The support structure has an assembly of tubes which are inflated at a relative pressure of between 0.15 and 0.8 bars.Type: GrantFiled: May 6, 2003Date of Patent: June 30, 2009Inventors: Jean-Luc Pellecuer, Raphael Salles
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Patent number: 7507137Abstract: A balloon display comprised of at least one or at least two frameworks as specified in different embodiments. Each framework has apertures that circumscribe inflatable chambers. The inflatable chambers are arranged in at least one or at least two layers as specified in different embodiments. The inflatable chambers are secured in the apertures by any of a variety of means specified. Elements of the display may be arranged in a variety of relationships to one another as specified. Elements of the display are connected by any of a variety of means specified. The display is designed for viewing in any of a variety of directions specified in different embodiments.Type: GrantFiled: April 1, 2000Date of Patent: March 24, 2009Inventor: Graham Manly Rouse
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Publication number: 20080245396Abstract: A method for discharging a fluid in an inflated assembly. The method includes inflating a roller assembly having a roller, rotatably coupling the inflated roller assembly to an inflated structure, and discharging a fluid against the inflated roller assembly to cause the inflated roller to rotate. An inflated water toy comprising an inflated structure, and an inflated roller assembly rotatably supported by the inflated structure, and a conduit assembly for discharging a fluid against an inflated roller of the inflated roller assembly and for conducting fluid to other locations on the inflated structure for dispersing the liquid from the other locations.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 9, 2007Publication date: October 9, 2008Applicant: WHAM-O CorporationInventor: David J. Fitzgerald
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Publication number: 20080233831Abstract: A motive inflatable display has a first inflatable compartment, a second inflatable compartment, a third inflatable compartment, a blower and a two position and four opening valve. The second inflatable compartment and the third inflatable compartment are mounted on the first inflatable compartment. The blower is connected to the first inflatable compartment to expend the first inflatable compartment. The two position and four opening valve is connected to the inflatable compartments to expand or flatten the inflatable compartments in turn so that the compartments are able to upraise, down, wave and nod.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 21, 2007Publication date: September 25, 2008Inventor: Sheng-Hung Hsu
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Publication number: 20080166942Abstract: An inflating member coupling apparatus includes a number of inflating members each having an air valve, and a number of coupling devices each having a base member which includes one or more apertures for engaging with the air valves of the inflating members and for coupling the coupling devices to the inflating members easily and quickly without additional tools or fasteners. The coupling device includes one or more flaps extended from the base member and having the apertures formed in the flaps, and a slit communicating with the aperture for allowing the aperture of the base member to be selectively opened and for allowing the air valve to be detachably engaged into the aperture of the base member.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 9, 2007Publication date: July 10, 2008Inventor: I Lee Hou
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Publication number: 20080166943Abstract: An inflating member coupling assembly includes a number of inflating members each having one or more orifices, and a number of strings each having a retaining device attached to a free end portion for engaging with the orifices of the inflating members and for coupling the retaining devices of the strings to the inflating members easily and quickly without additional tools or fasteners. It is preferable that the retaining devices of the strings each include an opening and a spring-biased latch openably engaged in the opening for detachably coupling the retaining devices of the strings to the inflating members respectively.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 9, 2007Publication date: July 10, 2008Inventor: I Lee Hou
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Patent number: 7390541Abstract: A rotating inflatable ornament has a main chamber, a bottom chamber, a blower, a rotating chamber, a rotating device and a joint tube. The bottom chamber is attached to the main chamber. The blower is mounted in the bottom chamber and fills the bottom chamber with air. The rotating chamber is mounted in the main chamber and has a main air tube and multiple inflatable adornments. The main air tube communicates with the bottom chamber. The rotating device is attached rotatably to the main chamber. The joint tube has an outer tube, an inner tube and a motor. The outer tube is attached to the bottom chamber. The inner tube is mounted rotatably in the outer tube and is attached to the main air tube. The motor rotates the rotating chamber to give a lively impression.Type: GrantFiled: September 21, 2005Date of Patent: June 24, 2008Inventor: Sheng-Hung Hsu
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Publication number: 20080081537Abstract: A firecracker simulating device includes a plate, an actuating device attached to the plate and extended outwardly from the plate, a number of balloons are strung together, and a forcing device may be used for forcing the balloons to engage with the actuating device, to have the balloons to be pierced by the actuating device, and to generate sounds of explosion. The balloons may be strung together with a wire. The wire may be engaged through an opening of the plate and pulled by the users. A bar may be attached to the plate, for attaching the plate to supporting members, and includes a ring, the wire may be engaged through the ring. A weight member or a flag may be attached to the wire.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 14, 2004Publication date: April 3, 2008Inventor: Jung Te Tsai
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Patent number: 7322137Abstract: The invention is directed to an inflatable display that has a plurality of inflation modules. The modules are inflated by a fan element. More specifically, a first inflation module is formed from a permeable material and configured to represent a predetermined shape or design when inflated, such as a snowman, Santa Claus, Easter Bunny, Uncle Sam or another seasonal or holiday character. The first inflation module is surrounded by a non-permeable material creating an enclosure around the first inflation module and forming a second inflation module. The first inflation module is formed with at least one exhaust port in its base, which has two purposes. First, the exhaust port acts to inflate the second inflation module.Type: GrantFiled: May 11, 2005Date of Patent: January 29, 2008Assignee: Chrisha Creations, Ltd.Inventor: William Machala
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Patent number: 7267851Abstract: A rotating inflatable ornament has a main chamber, a bottom chamber, a rotating chamber, a rotating device, a joint tube and a blower. The bottom chamber is attached to a bottom of the main chamber. The rotating chamber is mounted in the main chamber and has a main air-entering tube, multiple jet tubes and multiple inflatable adornments. The main air-entering tube communicates with the bottom chamber. The rotating device is attached rotatably to the main chamber. The joint tube is attached to the main air-entering tube and is mounted rotatably in the bottom chamber. The blower is mounted in the bottom chamber and fills air into the bottom chamber. The air coming out of the jet tubes makes the rotating chamber rotate.Type: GrantFiled: September 21, 2005Date of Patent: September 11, 2007Assignee: Gemmy Industries CorporationInventors: Sheng-Hung Hsu, Andrew G. Avinger
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Patent number: 7216446Abstract: The invention is directed to an inflatable display that has a plurality of inflatable compartments. A first inflatable compartment is continuously inflated by a first fan element and at least a second inflatable compartment is periodically inflated by a second fan element. The inflatable display may be produced from permeable material and configured to represent a predetermined shape or design when inflated, such as a witch and caldron, Santa Claus and a chimney, or the Easter Bunny and an Easter egg. Further, the inflatable display may include a string of lights enclosed within a plastic shell to avoid damaging the inflatable display material by heat or fire. Also, the period associated with the operational inflation/deflation may be controlled by a variable controller connected to the second fan element.Type: GrantFiled: May 11, 2005Date of Patent: May 15, 2007Assignee: Chrisha Creations, Ltd.Inventor: William Machala
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Patent number: 7104864Abstract: A system for the construction of life size play structures includes a multiplicity of inflatable building blocks, each being a member of a finite set of different multi-sided block types. Each such type is a cylinder having the cross section of a regular polyhedron, and the length of each side of each polyhedron is identical. The blocks are attached to each other by means of a rotating joint which aligns each contiguous side of each block with the contiguous side of the adjoining block, but which does not allow each such to translate relative to the adjoining block. The joints are constructed at fixed locations along the sides according to specific dimensional ratios. Stiffening means are used to maintain the dimensional integrity of each block, and to maintain the uniformity of the system from block to block.Type: GrantFiled: July 15, 2004Date of Patent: September 12, 2006Inventor: Dick Liou
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Patent number: 7056184Abstract: An apparatus comprising one or more inflatable three-dimensional humanoid figures for use in background scenes associated with still photography, motion pictures and video productions which are low in cost, lightweight, easy to use, easy to store, easy to transport and provides a greater range of viewing angles. It is also envisioned that this invention can be used for corporate conventions requiring the illusion of a large number of participants, in advertising and other functions where the illusion of large numbers of people enhance the overall objective of the functions.Type: GrantFiled: October 29, 2003Date of Patent: June 6, 2006Assignee: Crowd In A Box CorporationInventor: John David Stanley Stanier
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Patent number: 6942538Abstract: A method for using one or more inflatable three-dimensional humanoid figures for use in background scenes associated with still photography, motion pictures and video productions which are low in cost, lightweight, easy to use, easy to store, easy to transport and provides a greater range of viewing angles. It is also envisioned that this invention can be used for corporate conventions requiring the illusion of a large number of participants, in advertising and other functions where the illusion of large numbers of people enhance the overall objective of the functions.Type: GrantFiled: October 29, 2003Date of Patent: September 13, 2005Assignee: Crowd in a Box CorporationInventor: John David Stanley Stanier
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Patent number: 6881119Abstract: A toy or article containing an elastomeric and deformable bladder therein that facilitates in actuating a component of the toy or article such as a tail or an arm when squeezed or otherwise deformed is disclosed. The actuatable toy generally comprises a deformable bladder containing a fluid substance and is deformable proximate to the actuatable component upon application of pressure thereon. In addition, the actuatable toy comprises a flexible outer covering enclosing the deformable bladder, where at least a portion of the outer covering comprises a movable material disposed proximate to the actuatable component of the toy, whereupon actuating of the movable material and deformation of the bladder facilitate actuation of the actuatable component upon application of pressure on the toy.Type: GrantFiled: January 5, 2004Date of Patent: April 19, 2005Assignee: Treasure Bay, Inc.Inventors: Don J. Panec, Scott Stillinger, Ron LaRonge
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Patent number: 6814644Abstract: A valve and retainer assembly particularly useful for latex balloons is provided consisting of a valve body and a disk valve. The valve body has a retainer portion where the neck and mouth of a latex balloon may be received to affix the balloon to the valve body. A hollow stem communicates with the retainer portion, and a one-way valve allows gas to be introduced through the stem portion into the balloon affixed to the retainer portion. Once the balloon is filled the pressure of the gas within the balloon seals the valve closed to prevent gas from exiting the balloon.Type: GrantFiled: August 30, 2002Date of Patent: November 9, 2004Assignee: Premium Balloon Accessories, Inc.Inventors: David C. Nelson, Martin A. Meluch
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Patent number: 6764201Abstract: An inflatable figure assembly is disclosed that has an inflatable, semi-permeable body and a base unit with a continuously operating fan. The body is releasably secured to the base unit with a zipper that facilitates manufacture and interchangeability of a plurality of different bodies with the base unit. Internal lighting is optionally provided.Type: GrantFiled: March 3, 2003Date of Patent: July 20, 2004Assignee: Gemmy Industries CorporationInventor: Tsai Chi-Cheng
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Patent number: 6758715Abstract: A balloon device includes a plurality of aesthetically discrete balloon members, wherein at least a first one of the aesthetically discrete inflatable members defines a first aesthetic moiety, at least a second balloon member defines a second aesthetic moiety; and a connecting member connecting member that connects the balloon members has an appearance that maintains an aesthetic separation between the first and second aesthetic moieties. The connecting member may be transparent, translucent, or have a color that matches the color of a background where the balloon device is intended to be displayed.Type: GrantFiled: June 21, 2002Date of Patent: July 6, 2004Inventor: Emily M. Banks
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Patent number: 6679007Abstract: An inflatable play structure is provided, comprising a plurality of inflatable tubular elements, each tubular element comprising an elongated flexible wall forming an enclosed gas chamber with a self-sealing nozzle and a plurality of external attachments, a plurality of wall brackets comprising base members and upwardly extending poles, a roof bracket comprising a peak member connected to two base members by poles, and a tent-shaped roof element. The inflatable play structure is ideal for educational play, in particular educational play regarding piece-by-piece construction similar to the building of a conventional log cabin or house.Type: GrantFiled: May 13, 2002Date of Patent: January 20, 2004Inventors: David Russell Minchew, Amanda Minchew
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Patent number: 6672932Abstract: A toy or article containing an elastomeric and deformable bladder therein that facilitates in actuating a component of the toy or article such as a tail or an arm when squeezed or otherwise deformed is disclosed. The actuatable toy generally comprises a deformable bladder containing a fluid substance and is deformable proximate to the actuatable component upon application of pressure thereon. In addition, the actuatable toy comprises a flexible outer covering enclosing the deformable bladder, where at least a portion of the outer covering comprises a movable material disposed proximate to the actuatable component of the toy, whereupon actuating of the movable material and deformation of the bladder facilitate actuation of the actuatable component upon application of pressure on the toy.Type: GrantFiled: January 14, 2002Date of Patent: January 6, 2004Assignee: Treasure Bay, Inc.Inventors: Don J. Panec, Scott Stillinger, Ron LaRonge
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Publication number: 20030236049Abstract: A balloon device includes a plurality of aesthetically discrete balloon members, wherein at least a first one of the aesthetically discrete inflatable members defines a first aesthetic moiety, at least a second balloon member defines a second aesthetic moiety; and a connecting member connecting member that connects the balloon members has an appearance that maintains an aesthetic separation between the first and second aesthetic moieties. The connecting member may be transparent, translucent, or have a color that matches the color of a background where the balloon device is intended to be displayed.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 21, 2002Publication date: December 25, 2003Inventor: Emily M. Banks
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Patent number: 6634921Abstract: An amusement or stress reduction method and device adapted to dispense gas bags for popping. A strip of material is attached to one end of a tubular container and a plurality of gas bags are inserted serially into the container, causing the strip of material to loop under the plurality of gas bags in a U-shaped manner. The second end of the strip of material is located adjacent to the secured end at the container opening. A user pulls the free end of the strip to forcibly eject one or more gas bags from the container. The bags can then be popped by stomping or the like. Various configurations, markings, and constructions can be used with the gas bags, container, and strip.Type: GrantFiled: July 18, 2002Date of Patent: October 21, 2003Assignee: Common Sense Systems, Inc.Inventor: Robert Stanley Coulthard, Jr.
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Patent number: 6575805Abstract: A non-latex balloon is shown and includes an inflatable inner portion. Inflatable outer portions communicate with the inner portion and are secured thereto in an assembled state to provide a substantially vertical message face.Type: GrantFiled: July 30, 2002Date of Patent: June 10, 2003Assignee: Anagram International, Inc.Inventors: Paul A. Ansolabehere, Joseph A. Bourgeault, Robert E. Greenwald, Robert E. Yedowitz, Jr.
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Publication number: 20030045202Abstract: A display device for displaying lighter-than-air novelty balloons includes an elongated base with a rear wall and a front wall extending therefrom to form a channel for receiving and retaining balloon weights. The display device is formed from a plastic material and at least one of front or rear walls are flexible with respect to the other. A gap between the upper edge portion of the front wall and the upper edge portion of the rear wall, which has a smaller width that the base of the channel receives and retains balloon weights in a resilient manner. The outer side of the base is adapted to being attached to a display object by an adhesive, a magnetic member, or fasteners. A display rack for displaying lighter-than-air novelty balloons includes a pole for attaching a plurality of the display devices thereto in a vertical orientation. A support base provides support for the pole and maintains the pole in an upright position.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 31, 2001Publication date: March 6, 2003Inventors: Samuel B. Komar, Steven B. Frank
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Publication number: 20030003840Abstract: An inflatable play structure comprises at least one inflatable house defining a cavity for accommodating a child and an inflatable tunnel detachably attached to the house. The house includes two side walls and front and rear walls connected together to form a continuous wall, and support tubes placed at each corner of the two side walls and front and rear walls. The house has a first access opening and a first one flap extending from a lower portion of the wall having a pair of hook and loop fasteners. The inflatable tunnel has two arched tubes erected from and affixed to a bottom wall defining a first opening and a second opening. The tunnel includes at least one open window and a second flap extending along the bottom wall and having a pair of hook and loop fasteners aligned with corresponding hook and loop fasteners of the house.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 17, 2002Publication date: January 2, 2003Inventors: Yaw-Yuan Hsu, Chin-Hsiang Pan, Kun Chao Hsu
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Patent number: 6488557Abstract: A balloon inflation apparatus for inflating balloons is provided. A balloon plug having a resilient body with an outer perimeter designed to engage the inside of the neck of a balloon. The balloon plug is interconnected to a spool. A pierceable central portion is provided. The inflation apparatus includes an inflation station supported by a support frame. The inflation station includes an engagement opening for retaining a balloon plug with a balloon engaged therewith. The station also includes an inflation needle which has a retracted position and an inflation position that extends through the pierceable central portion of a balloon plug retained by the plug connector when the needle is in the inflation position. The inflation station also includes an actuator to move the needle between the retracted and inflation positions.Type: GrantFiled: March 31, 2000Date of Patent: December 3, 2002Assignee: Argo Consulting, Inc.Inventors: David K. Elliott, Charles E. Vaillant
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Patent number: 6439950Abstract: An inflatable toy comprises a simple and durable pump, comprising a bladder or other hand-operated source of air pressure, which inflates a balloon, typically shrouded in an expansible fabric, decorated with a character or the like, so that the character is distorted in an amusing manner when inflated. A first check valve allows air to pass from the bladder to the balloon when the bladder is squeezed, while a second check valve allows the bladder to refill itself while preventing air from being released from the balloon when hand pressure on the bladder is relaxed. A user-operated deflation valve allows pressure to be controllably released from the balloon. In one embodiment, the user-operated deflation valve is located such that the inflation bladder can be squeezed and the deflation valve operated without changing the position of the toy in one's hand, further increasing the user's enjoyment of the toy.Type: GrantFiled: June 30, 2000Date of Patent: August 27, 2002Assignee: Goldman Toy Group, Inc.Inventors: Michael J. Goldman, Leonard R. Clark, Jr., Colin Merlo, Christopher F. Lauria
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Patent number: 6332823Abstract: A structural and/or decorative display is made by connecting inflatable balloon chambers into a network. The network of inflatable chambers may be generated as a balloon system comprised of at least two essentially identical balloonlets each of which has at least two openings and is in fluid communication with at least one other identical balloonlet. The set of inflatable chambers may be framed into a network by a matrix of apertures expanded from a sheet of material with a pattern of overlapping cuts. The network of inflatable chambers may be comprised of a balloon system of balloonlets framed by an overlapping cut expandable matrix.Type: GrantFiled: April 24, 1998Date of Patent: December 25, 2001Inventor: Graham M Rouse, Jr.
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Patent number: 6112703Abstract: A chewable pet toy is provided with an outer shell molded from a durable semi-rigid material such as vinyl plastic. The shell partially covers an inner bladder formed of a less durable and softer material such as latex rubber. The bladder can be held within the sleeve with a simple resilient interference fit.Type: GrantFiled: June 22, 1999Date of Patent: September 5, 2000Assignee: JW Pet Company, Inc.Inventor: Simon Handelsman
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Patent number: 6050874Abstract: A coupling strip for connecting a plurality of balloons in adjacent sequential position to one another in fascial and inexpensive manner consisting of an elongate flexible strip, made from plastic, cloth or other lightweight flexible material and in which the length thereof is determined by the number of sequential adjacent balloons one wishes to couple together for decorative or for any other purpose of notice and in which the width thereof is sufficient only to carry an aperture between the edges, the coupling strip consisting of a sequence of such apertures, spaced from one another substantially throughout the length of the coupling strip, for receiving the neck of a balloon. The apertures may be spaced at any desired distance from one another so as to facilitate insertion of a balloon neck in either a budding relation to an adjacent balloon or at any desired distance therefrom throughout the length of the coupling strip.Type: GrantFiled: February 27, 1997Date of Patent: April 18, 2000Inventor: Mary Kae Ries