US20110253256A1 - Balloon sealing systems and methods - Google Patents
Balloon sealing systems and methods Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20110253256A1 US20110253256A1 US13/087,135 US201113087135A US2011253256A1 US 20110253256 A1 US20110253256 A1 US 20110253256A1 US 201113087135 A US201113087135 A US 201113087135A US 2011253256 A1 US2011253256 A1 US 2011253256A1
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- United States
- Prior art keywords
- balloon
- fill
- sealing system
- heating element
- sealing
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- Abandoned
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- 238000007789 sealing Methods 0.000 title claims abstract description 149
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 title description 19
- 238000010438 heat treatment Methods 0.000 claims abstract description 50
- 230000003213 activating effect Effects 0.000 claims abstract description 5
- 230000007246 mechanism Effects 0.000 claims description 9
- XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N water Substances O XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 132
- 235000021178 picnic Nutrition 0.000 description 14
- 230000004913 activation Effects 0.000 description 9
- 235000013351 cheese Nutrition 0.000 description 7
- 229910052734 helium Inorganic materials 0.000 description 7
- 239000001307 helium Substances 0.000 description 7
- SWQJXJOGLNCZEY-UHFFFAOYSA-N helium atom Chemical compound [He] SWQJXJOGLNCZEY-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 7
- 230000008569 process Effects 0.000 description 6
- 241000220225 Malus Species 0.000 description 5
- 230000006978 adaptation Effects 0.000 description 3
- 238000010586 diagram Methods 0.000 description 3
- 230000004048 modification Effects 0.000 description 3
- 238000012986 modification Methods 0.000 description 3
- 239000007788 liquid Substances 0.000 description 2
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 description 2
- 230000004044 response Effects 0.000 description 2
- 239000000126 substance Substances 0.000 description 2
- 230000002123 temporal effect Effects 0.000 description 2
- 230000001960 triggered effect Effects 0.000 description 2
- 239000004809 Teflon Substances 0.000 description 1
- 229920006362 Teflon® Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 239000003570 air Substances 0.000 description 1
- 235000021016 apples Nutrition 0.000 description 1
- 238000007664 blowing Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000000694 effects Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000005611 electricity Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000012530 fluid Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000006872 improvement Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000013011 mating Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000004033 plastic Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000001681 protective effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000007704 transition Effects 0.000 description 1
Images
Classifications
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63H—TOYS, e.g. TOPS, DOLLS, HOOPS OR BUILDING BLOCKS
- A63H27/00—Toy aircraft; Other flying toys
- A63H27/10—Balloons
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63H—TOYS, e.g. TOPS, DOLLS, HOOPS OR BUILDING BLOCKS
- A63H27/00—Toy aircraft; Other flying toys
- A63H27/10—Balloons
- A63H2027/1041—Holding or sealing means, e.g. handling rods, clamps or plugs
Definitions
- the present invention generally relates to water balloon sealing systems.
- the present invention includes many aspects and features. Moreover, while many aspects and features relate to, and are described in, the context of balloon sealing systems and methods, the present invention is not limited to use only in balloon sealing systems and methods, as will become apparent from the following summaries and detailed descriptions of aspects, features, and one or more embodiments of the present invention.
- An exemplary such system includes a fill nozzle having a fill nozzle inlet adapted to fit a fill source outlet and accept a fill and a fill nozzle outlet adapted to attach to an opening of a balloon and ejection the fill, and a sealer having a heating element. Furthermore, the heating element is adapted to heat seal the balloon proximate said opening while the balloon is attached to the fill nozzle outlet.
- a feature of this aspect of the invention further includes a control valve for controlling flow of fill into the balloon.
- a variation of this feature further includes a fill sensor, wherein the fill sensor, upon sensing a trigger, activates the control valve.
- Another feature includes a fill sensor.
- the fill sensor senses when the balloon has acquired a predetermined quantity of fill.
- the fill sensor upon sensing a trigger, activates the sealer.
- the fill nozzle and the sealer are integrally formed.
- the fill is water.
- the fill is air.
- the fill is helium.
- An exemplary such system includes a housing having a top, a bottom, a front face, a back face, and two sides; a fill nozzle extending substantially through the housing, the fill nozzle having a fill nozzle inlet extending through the top of the housing and a fill nozzle outlet extending through the bottom of the housing; a sealer, including a first sealing arm extending from a first side of the two sides, and a second sealing arm extending from a second side of the two sides, one of the first sealing arm and second sealing arm including a heating element that emits heat when activated; and an on/off control for activating the heating element. Furthermore, upon being activated by the on/off control, the heating element emits a sufficient quantity of heat to heat seal a balloon attached to the fill nozzle outlet.
- the heating element includes an anti-stick covering.
- the other of the first sealing arm and the second sealing arm includes a narrow tip adapted to isolate a portion of the balloon to be heat sealed and push said portion against the heating element.
- the heating element is recessed in a safety guard.
- the heating element and narrow tip include an anti-stick covering.
- first sealing arm and the second sealing arm are joined at a hinge defining an axis of rotation about which the first sealing arm and the second sealing arm have limited rotation.
- first sealing arm and the second sealing arm each include an arm limiter.
- the system includes a programmable timer that deactivates the heating element after a predetermined amount of time.
- the system includes an adjustable timer switch to adjust the predetermined amount of time.
- the system includes an LED programmed to emit light while the heating element is activated.
- the heating element is powered by one or more batteries.
- the system includes a fill nozzle attachment mechanism.
- the system includes one or more removable face covers allowing access to internal components within the housing.
- An exemplary such method includes providing a water balloon sealing system, including a housing, a fill nozzle extending substantially through the housing, the fill nozzle having a fill nozzle inlet and a fill nozzle outlet, a sealer having a heating element, and an on/off control.
- Such a method further includes attaching the water balloon sealing system to a water source outlet via the fill nozzle inlet, attaching a balloon to the fill nozzle outlet, activating the water source outlet to cause water to flow from the water source outlet, through the fill nozzle, and into the balloon, deactivating the water source to sop water from flowing into the balloon, exposing a portion of the balloon proximate the fill nozzle outlet to the heating element, activatin the heating element via the on/off control, emitting heat from the heating element in sufficient quanity to heat seal the portion of the balloon proximate the fill nozzle, deactivating the heat element, and removing the balloon from the fill nozzle outlet.
- FIG. 1 is a schematic of a first preferred embodiment of a balloon sealing system in accordance with one or more aspects of the present invention
- FIG. 2 is a schematic of a second preferred embodiment of a balloon sealing system in accordance with one or more aspects of the present invention
- FIG. 3 is a schematic of a third preferred embodiment of a balloon sealing system in accordance with one or more aspects of the present invention.
- FIG. 4 is a schematic of a fourth preferred embodiment of a balloon sealing system in accordance with one or more aspects of the present invention.
- FIG. 5 is a schematic of a fifth preferred embodiment of a balloon sealing system in accordance with one or more aspects of the present invention.
- FIG. 6 is a schematic of a sixth preferred embodiment of a balloon sealing system in accordance with one or more aspects of the present invention.
- FIG. 7 is a schematic of a seventh preferred embodiment of a balloon sealing system in accordance with one or more aspects of the present invention.
- FIG. 8 is a schematic of a eighth preferred embodiment of a balloon sealing system in accordance with one or more aspects of the present invention.
- FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a ninth preferred embodiment of a balloon sealing system in accordance with one or more aspects of the present invention.
- FIG. 10 is a front view of the balloon sealing system of FIG. 9 ;
- FIG. 11 is a back view of the balloon sealing system of FIG. 9 ;
- FIG. 12 is a front view of the interior of the balloon sealing system of FIG. 9 ;
- FIG. 13 is a schematic circuit diagram of the balloon sealing system of FIG. 9 ;
- FIGS. 14-19 are illustrations of a preferred method of using the balloon sealing system of FIG. 9 with a water source outlet and a water balloon in accordance with one or more aspects of the present invention.
- any embodiment may incorporate only one or a plurality of the above-disclosed aspects of the invention and may further incorporate only one or a plurality of the above-disclosed features.
- any embodiment discussed and identified as being “preferred” is considered to be part of a best mode contemplated for carrying out the present invention.
- Other embodiments also may be discussed for additional illustrative purposes in providing a full and enabling disclosure of the present invention.
- any sequence(s) and/or temporal order of steps of various processes or methods that are described herein are illustrative and not restrictive. Accordingly, it should be understood that, although steps of various processes or methods may be shown and described as being in a sequence or temporal order, the steps of any such processes or methods are not limited to being carried out in any particular sequence or order, absent an indication otherwise. Indeed, the steps in such processes or methods generally may be carried out in various different sequences and orders while still falling within the scope of the present invention. Accordingly, it is intended that the scope of patent protection afforded the present invention is to be defined by the appended claims rather than the description set forth herein.
- FIG. 1 showing a schematic of a preferred embodiment of a balloon sealing system 10 in accordance with one or more aspects of the present invention.
- FIG. 1 illustrates the balloon sealing system 10 in use with a water balloon 12 and a water source outlet 14 .
- the balloon sealing system 10 comprises a sealer 16 , and a fill nozzle 18 .
- a fill nozzle 18 of the balloon sealing system 10 preferably includes an inlet and an outlet.
- the inlet is designed to mate with a water source outlet 14 .
- water source is meant to include any source of water including, but not limited to hoses, spigots, or home faucets.
- the balloon sealing system 10 may be adapted to be used with other fill sources.
- the outlet is designed to mate with a mouth and neck of the water balloon 12 .
- only one fill nozzle 18 is shown, it should be noted that alternative embodiments of the balloon sealing system may use multiple fill nozzles or may have one inlet and multiple outlets.
- the fill nozzle outlet preferably has a reduced circumference over which the mouth and neck of the water balloon 12 may be stretched.
- the fill nozzle outlet is tapered.
- the sealer 16 is shown as a two-sided arrow, it should be noted that one or both sides may contain heating elements. It should be noted that the sealer 16 and fill nozzle 18 are preferably integral. In use the mouth and neck of the water balloon 12 are stretched over the fill nozzle 18 that is attached to the water source outlet 14 . Then the water source outlet 14 is activated causing water to enter the balloon 12 . When the water balloon 12 is full of water, the water source outlet 14 is deactivated. The sealer 16 is then activated. In at least one preferred balloon sealing system 10 the activation includes pressing a button or squeezing two sides of the sealer 16 together so that one or more heating elements located thereon close on the mouth or neck of the water balloon 12 to seal it. The water balloon 12 may then be removed from the water source outlet 14 .
- FIG. 2 is a schematic depiction of a second preferred embodiment of a balloon sealing system 110 in accordance with one or more aspects of the present invention.
- the balloon sealing system 110 is shown in use with a water balloon 12 and a water source outlet 14 .
- the balloon sealing system 110 comprises a sealer 16 and a fill nozzle 18 , similar to balloon sealing system 10 , and further comprises a control valve 20 .
- the control valve 20 may be a distinct component or it may be integral with the fill nozzle 18 .
- the control valve 20 is able to easily stop and start the flow of water from the water source outlet 14 into the water balloon 12 .
- the control valve 20 includes an activated configuration, which allows for the flow of water therethrough, and a deactivated configuration, which prevents the flow of water therethough. In use, the mouth and neck of the water balloon 12 are stretched over the fill nozzle 18 that is attached to the water source outlet 14 . Even when the water source outlet 14 is activated, allowing water to flow therefrom, the control valve 20 , when deactivated, will prevent water from escaping the water source outlet 14 .
- control valve 20 can be activated causing water to flow from the water source outlet 14 and into the balloon 12 .
- the control valve 20 When desired, the control valve 20 can be activated causing water to flow from the water source outlet 14 and into the balloon 12 .
- the flow of water is stopped by deactivating the control valve 20 .
- the sealer 16 is then activated to seal the mouth or neck of the water balloon 12 .
- the water balloon 12 may then be removed from the water source outlet 14 .
- FIG. 4 is a schematic of a fourth preferred embodiment of a balloon sealing system 310 in accordance with one or more aspects of the present invention shown in use with a water balloon 12 and a water source outlet 14 .
- the balloon sealing system 310 comprises a sealer 16 , a fill nozzle 18 , a control valve 20 , and a fill sensor 322 .
- the fill sensor 322 is adapted to automatically deactivate the control valve 20 in response to a trigger. Exemplary such triggers include time, balloon volume, and balloon weight.
- the mouth and neck of the water balloon 12 are stretched over the fill nozzle 18 attached to the water source outlet 14 .
- the control valve 20 when deactivated, will prevent water from escaping the water source outlet 14 .
- the control valve 20 can be activated causing water to flow from the water source outlet 14 and into the balloon 12 .
- the fill sensor 322 triggers, deactivating the control valve 20 and stopping the flow of water into the balloon 12 .
- the sealer 16 is then activated to seal the mouth or neck of the water balloon 12 .
- the water balloon 12 may then be removed from the water source outlet 14 .
- FIG. 5 is a schematic of a fifth preferred embodiment of a balloon sealing system 410 in accordance with one or more aspects of the present invention, shown in use with a water balloon 12 and a water source outlet 14 .
- the balloon sealing system 410 comprises a sealer 16 , a fill nozzle 18 , a control valve 20 , and a fill sensor 422 .
- the fill sensor 422 is adapted to automatically deactivate the control valve 20 in response to a trigger, and subsequently activate the sealer 16 .
- Exemplary such triggers include time, balloon volume, and balloon weight.
- the mouth and neck of the water balloon 12 is stretched over the fill nozzle 18 attached to the water source outlet 14 .
- the control valve 20 when deactivated, will prevent water from escaping the water source outlet 14 .
- the control valve 20 can be activated causing water to flow from the water source outlet 14 and into the balloon 12 .
- the fill sensor 422 triggers, deactivating the control valve 20 and stopping the flow of water into the balloon 12 .
- the fill sensor 422 activates the sealer 16 to seal the mouth or neck of the water balloon 12 .
- the water balloon 12 may then be removed from the water source outlet 14 .
- FIG. 6 is a schematic of a sixth preferred embodiment of a balloon sealing system 510 in accordance with one or more aspects of the present invention shown in use with a water balloon 12 and a water source outlet 14 .
- the balloon sealing system 510 comprises various components, including a sealer 16 , a fill nozzle 18 , and a control valve 20 .
- a sealer 16 In the balloon sealing system 510 , two or more of the components are in circuit connection.
- FIG. 7 is a schematic of a seventh preferred embodiment of a balloon sealing system 610 in accordance with one or more aspects of the present invention.
- the balloon sealing system 610 comprises a multi-balloon sealer 616 , a plurality of fill nozzles 618 , and one or more control valves 620 .
- the balloon sealing system 610 is adapted to simultaneously fill and seal multiple water balloons 12 .
- the balloon sealing system 610 may include any of the features included in other disclosed embodiments.
- FIG. 8 is a schematic of an eighth preferred embodiment of a balloon sealing system 710 in accordance with one or more aspects of the present invention.
- the balloon sealing system 710 comprises a sealer 16 , a fill nozzle 18 , and a fill adapter 720 at least partially disposed in the fill nozzle 18 .
- the fill adapter 720 is a mouth piece adapted to allow a user to exhale air therethrough into the fill nozzle 18 , and, ultimately, into a balloon 12 in order to fill the balloon 12 with air.
- the fill adapter 720 is adapted to allow other gasses, such as helium, to enter the balloon 12 .
- a balloon sealing system may include variations of one or more of the various components of the balloon sealing systems shown and described herein, as well as other components.
- FIGS. 9-13 illustrate a ninth preferred embodiment of a balloon sealing system 810 in accordance with one or more aspects of the present invention.
- FIG. 9 is a perspective view of the balloon sealing system 810 .
- FIG. 10 is a front view of the balloon sealing system 810 of FIG. 9 .
- FIG. 11 is a back view of the balloon sealing system 810 of FIG. 9 .
- FIG. 12 is a front view of the interior of the balloon sealing system 810 of FIG. 9 .
- FIG. 13 is a schematic circuit diagram of the balloon sealing system 810 of FIG. 9 .
- the balloon sealing system 810 comprises a housing 812 , a fill nozzle 814 extending substantially through the housing 812 including a fill nozzle inlet 816 and a fill nozzle outlet 818 , internal components stored within the housing 812 , a first sealing arm 822 , and a second sealing arm 824 .
- the housing 812 includes a top, a bottom, a front face, a back face, and two sides. It should be noted that the term “top” is meant to be relative to the term “bottom” and the term “front” is meant to be relative to the term “back.”
- the front face includes a removable front face cover 826 that allows access to a printed circuit board 828 (hereinafter “PCB”).
- the removable front face cover 826 includes at least one LED opening 827 through which a light emitting diode 829 (hereinafter “LED”) is visible.
- the back face includes a removable back face cover 830 (shown removed) that allows access to the batteries 832 .
- the removable back face cover 830 includes an opening therethrough 831 allowing access to an adjustable timer switch 833 .
- the fill nozzle inlet 816 is located at the top of the housing 812 and is adapted to accept a fluid substance or “fill” from a fill source.
- Exemplary fill include liquid and/or gaseous material including water, air, and helium.
- the fill nozzle inlet 816 includes a threaded interior annular periphery that mates with the threaded exterior annular periphery of standard outlets for water sources. This threaded interior of the fill nozzle inlet 816 can be twisted on and off the water source outlets.
- the fill nozzle outlet 818 is located at the bottom of the housing 812 and is adapted be inserted into the mouth of a balloon and output fill into the balloon.
- a fill nozzle inlet attachment mechanism 817 may be used between the fill nozzle inlet 816 and a fill source.
- the fill nozzle attachment mechanism 817 is a clamps, or similar clamp-like mechanism. It should be noted that alternative fill nozzle inlet attachment mechanisms may be easily attached and reattached, may be size adjustable, or have other advantages over the traditional threaded interior annular periphery.
- the fill nozzle inlet attachment mechanism is a flip-lock clamp or quick-release clamp such as those commonly used to secure bicycle seats to their posts.
- the fill nozzle inlet attachment mechanism is a specialized clamp that is larger than known water source outlets, but has some adjustability (e.g.
- This specialized clamp has rubber or other protective (and waterproof) thereon.
- a simple on/off releaser latch may be used to do a final adjustment that would reduce the interior circumference of the specialized clamp from just larger than the water source outlet to a secure fit on the water source outlet.
- the balloon sealing system 810 further includes a first sealing arm 822 and a second sealing arm 824 , together defining a sealer.
- Each of the sealing arms 822 , 824 extends from a respective side of the housing 812 .
- the sealing arms 822 , 824 are approximately C-shaped and are joined to each other at their respective top ends at a hinge 834 defining an axis of rotation about which the sealing arms 822 , 824 rotate.
- Each of the sealing arms 822 , 824 is capable of limited rotation ranging from an open position in which the bottom end of the arm is rotated away from the other arm and a closed position in which the bottom end of the arm is rotated toward the other arm.
- FIGS. 10-12 illustrate the second sealing arm 824 in the open position and the first sealing arm 822 in the closed position.
- the hinge 834 and a top portion of each of the sealing arms 822 , 824 are concealed within the housing 812 .
- the remainder of the sealing arms 822 , 824 are exterior the housing 812 and disposed along the sides of the housing 812 .
- Each of the arms 822 , 824 further includes an arm limiter 836 .
- the arm limiter 836 extends from the interior of the arm 822 , 824 and follows the contours of the housing 812 .
- the arm limiter 836 prevents the arms 822 , 824 from touching the housing 812 or otherwise mating in an improper position. More specifically, the arm limiters 836 are positioned rest against the fill nozzle outlet 818 when the arms 822 , 824 are in the closed position.
- the bottom portion of the first sealing arm 822 includes a narrow tip 838 at the end thereof.
- the bottom portion of the second sealing arm 824 includes a heating element 840 at the end thereof.
- the heating element is surrounded by, and recessed in, a safety guard 842 .
- the recessed position of the heating element 840 defines a receptacle, and the narrow tip 838 is adapted to penetrate the receptacle and make contact with the heating element 840 .
- the heating element 840 includes a heating surface with dimensions of approximately 0.25 inches (0.63 centimeters) by 0.50 inches (1.27 centimeters).
- the narrow tip 838 and the heating element 840 include an anti-stick covering to prevent damage to the heating element 840 and a balloon during the sealing process.
- the absence of an anti-stick covering can cause the balloon to melt and stick to the narrow tip 838 and/or heating element 840 .
- the anti-stick covering comprises Teflon tape.
- the balloon sealing system 810 further includes an on/off control.
- the on/off control is a depressible activation button 844 on the side of the housing 812 .
- the activation button 844 is located below the first sealing arm 822 and is oriented such that as the first sealing arm 822 rotates into the closed potion, the interior surface of the first sealing arm 822 presses the activation button 844 inward, activating the heat source 840 .
- the activation button 844 is in electrical connection with one or more of the internal components.
- the balloon sealing system 810 includes internal components within the housing.
- FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram illustrating one or more preferred electronic circuits 852 used in the balloon sealing system 810 .
- the internal components include one or more batteries 832 as a source of power, an LED 829 for indicating that electricity is flowing to the heating element 840 , a PCB 828 including electrical circuitry, and an adjustable timer switch 833 to adjust the duration for which the heating element 840 is activated.
- two or more of these internal components are in circuit connection with one another.
- the balloon sealing system 810 includes one or more wires connecting the various internal components.
- the adjustable time switch 833 is programmable to adjust the duration of the heating element 840 activation based on balloon thickness.
- the one or more batteries 832 may be recharged with energy generated as water flows through the balloon sealing system 810 .
- FIGS. 14-19 illustrate a preferred method of using the balloon sealing system 810 in accordance with one or more aspects of the present invention.
- a method comprises providing the balloon sealing system 810 and a balloon 12 .
- the mouth and neck of the balloon 12 are attached to the fill nozzle outlet 818 of the balloon sealing system 810 as illustrated in FIG. 15 .
- the fill nozzle inlet 816 and the fill nozzle attachment mechanism 817 are attached to a water source outlet 14 as shown in FIG. 16 .
- the balloon sealing system 810 may be attached to a water source outlet 14 prior to attaching the balloon 12 to the fill nozzle outlet 818 .
- the water source outlet 14 may be activated allowing water to flow through the fill nozzle and into the balloon 12 .
- FIG. 17 shows the balloon 12 filled with water.
- the sealing arms 822 , 824 may then be lowered to the closed position as shown in FIG. 18 . Lowering the first sealing arm 822 causes the inner surface of the first sealing arm 822 to press the activation button 844 . As the activation button 844 presses inward, an electrical current begins to flow to the heating element 840 located at the bottom of the second sealing arm 824 , causing the heating element 840 to emit heat.
- pressing the activation button 844 starts a timer programmed to deactivate the heating element 840 after a predetermined amount of time.
- Lowering both the sealing arms 822 , 824 also causes the narrow tip 838 to force at least a portion of the neck of the balloon 12 into the receptacle, exposing the neck of the balloon 12 to heat emitted from the heating element 840 .
- This causes the neck of the balloon to partially melt and form a watertight seal 850 preventing the escape of water housed within the balloon 12 .
- the sealing arms 822 , 824 may be returned to the open position and the balloon 12 may be removed from the fill nozzle outlet 818 .
- FIG. 19 illustrates the balloon 12 with a watertight seal 850 after removal from the fizz nozzle outlet 818 .
- the fill nozzle inlet could be adapted to attach to an outlet of an alternative fill source (e.g. an air supply or a helium supply). More specifically, the fill nozzle inlet could be adapted to mate with the outlet of an alternative fill source such as the hose outlet of a helium tank or the mouth outlet of a person blowing (i.e. a user's mouth). Alternatively, a unique fill nozzle may be provided that is designed to attach to a hose of a helium tank and/or designed to be directly blown into (e.g. using a user's mouth).
- an alternative fill source e.g. an air supply or a helium supply
- the fill nozzle inlet could be adapted to mate with the outlet of an alternative fill source such as the hose outlet of a helium tank or the mouth outlet of a person blowing (i.e. a user's mouth).
- a unique fill nozzle may be provided that is designed to attach to a hose of a helium tank
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Abstract
A balloon sealing system includes a housing having a top, a bottom, a front face, a back face, and two sides; a fill nozzle extending substantially through the housing, the fill nozzle including a fill nozzle inlet extending through the top of the housing, and a fill nozzle outlet extending through the bottom of the housing; a sealer, including a first sealing arm extending from a first side of the two sides, and a second sealing arm extending from a second side of the two sides, one of the first sealing arm and second sealing arm including a heating element that emits heat when activated; and an on/off control for activating the heating element. Furthermore, upon being activated by the on/off control, the heating element emits a sufficient quantity of heat to heat seal a balloon attached to the fill nozzle outlet.
Description
- The present application is a U.S. nonprovisional patent application of, and claims priority under 35 U.S.C. §119(e) to, U.S. provisional patent application Ser. No. 61/325,121, filed Apr. 16, 2010, which provisional patent application is incorporated by reference herein. A copy of provisional patent application Ser. No. 61/325,121 is attached hereto as Appendix A.
- All of the material in this patent document is subject to copyright protection under the copyright laws of the United States and other countries. The copyright owner has no objection to the facsimile reproduction by anyone of the patent document or the patent disclosure, as it appears in official governmental records but, otherwise, all other copyright rights whatsoever are reserved.
- The present invention generally relates to water balloon sealing systems.
- Playing with water balloons is a fun and exciting activity. However, filling and tying water balloons is difficult and time consuming The balloon must be stretched around a water source, held in place on the water source while it is filled with water, removed from the water source while maintaining the water therein, and finally, the neck of the water balloon must be tied.
- Several solutions have been proposed to simplify this process. For instance, some water balloon packages include plastic fill nozzles that can be attached to the water source outlet. These fill nozzles attempt to reduce the circumference over which the mouth and neck of the water balloon needs to be stretched. U.S. Pat. No. 5,439,199 to Briggs et al. is directed to a water balloon filling valve that not only reduces the circumference, but also appears provide an easy “on/off” switch to selectively allow or disallow the flow of water from the filling valve. U.S. Pat. No. 7,322,073 to Cuisinier is directed to a Z-shaped water balloon clip. Cuisinier recognized and attempted to solve the difficulties accompanying tying knots in the neck of a water balloon by using a clip to seal off the water balloon.
- A need exists for improvement in water balloon sealing systems. This, and other needs, are addressed by one or more aspects of the present invention.
- The present invention includes many aspects and features. Moreover, while many aspects and features relate to, and are described in, the context of balloon sealing systems and methods, the present invention is not limited to use only in balloon sealing systems and methods, as will become apparent from the following summaries and detailed descriptions of aspects, features, and one or more embodiments of the present invention.
- Accordingly, one aspect of the present invention relates to balloon sealing system. An exemplary such system includes a fill nozzle having a fill nozzle inlet adapted to fit a fill source outlet and accept a fill and a fill nozzle outlet adapted to attach to an opening of a balloon and ejection the fill, and a sealer having a heating element. Furthermore, the heating element is adapted to heat seal the balloon proximate said opening while the balloon is attached to the fill nozzle outlet.
- A feature of this aspect of the invention further includes a control valve for controlling flow of fill into the balloon. A variation of this feature further includes a fill sensor, wherein the fill sensor, upon sensing a trigger, activates the control valve.
- Another feature includes a fill sensor. In a variation of this feature, the fill sensor senses when the balloon has acquired a predetermined quantity of fill. In another variation, the fill sensor, upon sensing a trigger, activates the sealer.
- In yet another feature, the fill nozzle and the sealer are integrally formed.
- In still another feature, the fill is water.
- In another feature, the fill is air.
- In yet another feature, the fill is helium.
- Another aspect of the invention relates to a balloon sealing system. An exemplary such system includes a housing having a top, a bottom, a front face, a back face, and two sides; a fill nozzle extending substantially through the housing, the fill nozzle having a fill nozzle inlet extending through the top of the housing and a fill nozzle outlet extending through the bottom of the housing; a sealer, including a first sealing arm extending from a first side of the two sides, and a second sealing arm extending from a second side of the two sides, one of the first sealing arm and second sealing arm including a heating element that emits heat when activated; and an on/off control for activating the heating element. Furthermore, upon being activated by the on/off control, the heating element emits a sufficient quantity of heat to heat seal a balloon attached to the fill nozzle outlet.
- In a feature of this aspect, the heating element includes an anti-stick covering.
- In yet another feature, the other of the first sealing arm and the second sealing arm includes a narrow tip adapted to isolate a portion of the balloon to be heat sealed and push said portion against the heating element.
- In a variation of this feature, the heating element is recessed in a safety guard.
- In another variation, the heating element and narrow tip include an anti-stick covering.
- In another feature of this aspect, the first sealing arm and the second sealing arm are joined at a hinge defining an axis of rotation about which the first sealing arm and the second sealing arm have limited rotation.
- In still another feature, the first sealing arm and the second sealing arm each include an arm limiter.
- In another feature, the system includes a programmable timer that deactivates the heating element after a predetermined amount of time.
- In a variation of this feature, the system includes an adjustable timer switch to adjust the predetermined amount of time.
- In another feature, the system includes an LED programmed to emit light while the heating element is activated.
- In yet another feature, the heating element is powered by one or more batteries.
- In still another feature, the system includes a fill nozzle attachment mechanism.
- In another feature still, the system includes one or more removable face covers allowing access to internal components within the housing.
- In another aspect of the present invention relates to a method of sealing a water balloon. An exemplary such method includes providing a water balloon sealing system, including a housing, a fill nozzle extending substantially through the housing, the fill nozzle having a fill nozzle inlet and a fill nozzle outlet, a sealer having a heating element, and an on/off control. Such a method further includes attaching the water balloon sealing system to a water source outlet via the fill nozzle inlet, attaching a balloon to the fill nozzle outlet, activating the water source outlet to cause water to flow from the water source outlet, through the fill nozzle, and into the balloon, deactivating the water source to sop water from flowing into the balloon, exposing a portion of the balloon proximate the fill nozzle outlet to the heating element, activatin the heating element via the on/off control, emitting heat from the heating element in sufficient quanity to heat seal the portion of the balloon proximate the fill nozzle, deactivating the heat element, and removing the balloon from the fill nozzle outlet.
- In addition to the aforementioned aspects and features of the present invention, it should be noted that the present invention further encompasses the various possible combinations and subcombinations of such aspects and features. Thus, for example, any aspect may be combined with an aforementioned feature in accordance with the present invention without requiring any other aspect or feature.
- One or more preferred embodiments of the present invention now will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein the same elements are referred to with the same reference numerals, and wherein,
-
FIG. 1 is a schematic of a first preferred embodiment of a balloon sealing system in accordance with one or more aspects of the present invention; -
FIG. 2 is a schematic of a second preferred embodiment of a balloon sealing system in accordance with one or more aspects of the present invention; -
FIG. 3 is a schematic of a third preferred embodiment of a balloon sealing system in accordance with one or more aspects of the present invention; -
FIG. 4 is a schematic of a fourth preferred embodiment of a balloon sealing system in accordance with one or more aspects of the present invention; -
FIG. 5 is a schematic of a fifth preferred embodiment of a balloon sealing system in accordance with one or more aspects of the present invention; -
FIG. 6 is a schematic of a sixth preferred embodiment of a balloon sealing system in accordance with one or more aspects of the present invention; -
FIG. 7 is a schematic of a seventh preferred embodiment of a balloon sealing system in accordance with one or more aspects of the present invention; -
FIG. 8 is a schematic of a eighth preferred embodiment of a balloon sealing system in accordance with one or more aspects of the present invention; -
FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a ninth preferred embodiment of a balloon sealing system in accordance with one or more aspects of the present invention; -
FIG. 10 is a front view of the balloon sealing system ofFIG. 9 ; -
FIG. 11 is a back view of the balloon sealing system ofFIG. 9 ; -
FIG. 12 is a front view of the interior of the balloon sealing system ofFIG. 9 ; -
FIG. 13 is a schematic circuit diagram of the balloon sealing system ofFIG. 9 ; and -
FIGS. 14-19 are illustrations of a preferred method of using the balloon sealing system ofFIG. 9 with a water source outlet and a water balloon in accordance with one or more aspects of the present invention. - As a preliminary matter, it will readily be understood by one having ordinary skill in the relevant art (“Ordinary Artisan”) that the present invention has broad utility and application. As should be understood, any embodiment may incorporate only one or a plurality of the above-disclosed aspects of the invention and may further incorporate only one or a plurality of the above-disclosed features. Furthermore, any embodiment discussed and identified as being “preferred” is considered to be part of a best mode contemplated for carrying out the present invention. Other embodiments also may be discussed for additional illustrative purposes in providing a full and enabling disclosure of the present invention. As should be understood, any embodiment may incorporate only one or a plurality of the above-disclosed aspects of the invention and may further incorporate only one or a plurality of the above-disclosed features. Moreover, many embodiments, such as adaptations, variations, modifications, and equivalent arrangements, will be implicitly disclosed by the embodiments described herein and fall within the scope of the present invention.
- Accordingly, while the present invention is described herein in detail in relation to one or more embodiments, it is to be understood that this disclosure is illustrative and exemplary of the present invention, and is made merely for the purposes of providing a full and enabling disclosure of the present invention. The detailed disclosure herein of one or more embodiments is not intended, nor is to be construed, to limit the scope of patent protection afforded the present invention, which scope is to be defined by the claims and the equivalents thereof. It is not intended that the scope of patent protection afforded the present invention be defined by reading into any claim a limitation found herein that does not explicitly appear in the claim itself.
- Thus, for example, any sequence(s) and/or temporal order of steps of various processes or methods that are described herein are illustrative and not restrictive. Accordingly, it should be understood that, although steps of various processes or methods may be shown and described as being in a sequence or temporal order, the steps of any such processes or methods are not limited to being carried out in any particular sequence or order, absent an indication otherwise. Indeed, the steps in such processes or methods generally may be carried out in various different sequences and orders while still falling within the scope of the present invention. Accordingly, it is intended that the scope of patent protection afforded the present invention is to be defined by the appended claims rather than the description set forth herein.
- Additionally, it is important to note that each term used herein refers to that which the Ordinary Artisan would understand such term to mean based on the contextual use of such term herein. To the extent that the meaning of a term used herein—as understood by the Ordinary Artisan based on the contextual use of such term—differs in any way from any particular dictionary definition of such term, it is intended that the meaning of the term as understood by the Ordinary Artisan should prevail.
- Regarding applicability of 35 U.S.C. §112, ¶6, no claim element is intended to be read in accordance with this statutory provision unless the explicit phrase “means for” or “step for” is actually used in such claim element, whereupon this statutory provision is intended to apply in the interpretation of such claim element.
- Furthermore, it is important to note that, as used herein, “a” and “an” each generally denotes “at least one,” but does not exclude a plurality unless the contextual use dictates otherwise. Thus, reference to “a picnic basket having an apple” describes “a picnic basket having at least one apple” as well as “a picnic basket having apples.” In contrast, reference to “a picnic basket having a single apple” describes “a picnic basket having only one apple.”
- When used herein to join a list of items, “or” denotes “at least one of the items,” but does not exclude a plurality of items of the list. Thus, reference to “a picnic basket having cheese or crackers” describes “a picnic basket having cheese without crackers”, “a picnic basket having crackers without cheese”, and “a picnic basket having both cheese and crackers.” Finally, when used herein to join a list of items, “and” denotes “all of the items of the list.” Thus, reference to “a picnic basket having cheese and crackers” describes “a picnic basket having cheese, wherein the picnic basket further has crackers,” as well as describes “a picnic basket having crackers, wherein the picnic basket further has cheese.”
- Referring now to the drawings, one or more preferred embodiments of the present invention are next described. The following description of one or more preferred embodiments is merely exemplary in nature and is in no way intended to limit the invention, its implementations, or uses.
- Turning now to
FIG. 1 , showing a schematic of a preferred embodiment of aballoon sealing system 10 in accordance with one or more aspects of the present invention.FIG. 1 illustrates theballoon sealing system 10 in use with awater balloon 12 and awater source outlet 14. Theballoon sealing system 10 comprises asealer 16, and afill nozzle 18. - The
sealer 16 is the central element of theballoon sealing system 10. Thesealer 12 uses a heating element to melt the mouth and neck of awater balloon 12, creating a waterproof seal preventing the escape of liquid housed within theballoon 12. Thesealer 16 eliminates the need for tying a knot in the neck of thewater balloon 12. In one or more preferred embodiments, thesealer 16 comprises two movable leads that transition between an on position and an off position. While in the on position, an electrical circuit is closed causing each of the leads to emit heat in an amount suitable to melt the neck of aballoon 12 to create a waterproof seal, but not enough heat to destroy theballoon 12. - A
fill nozzle 18 of theballoon sealing system 10 preferably includes an inlet and an outlet. The inlet is designed to mate with awater source outlet 14. It should be noted that the term “water source” is meant to include any source of water including, but not limited to hoses, spigots, or home faucets. As noted below, theballoon sealing system 10 may be adapted to be used with other fill sources. The outlet is designed to mate with a mouth and neck of thewater balloon 12. Although only onefill nozzle 18 is shown, it should be noted that alternative embodiments of the balloon sealing system may use multiple fill nozzles or may have one inlet and multiple outlets. - The fill nozzle outlet preferably has a reduced circumference over which the mouth and neck of the
water balloon 12 may be stretched. In one preferred embodiment the fill nozzle outlet is tapered. - Returning to
FIG. 1 , although thesealer 16 is shown as a two-sided arrow, it should be noted that one or both sides may contain heating elements. It should be noted that thesealer 16 and fillnozzle 18 are preferably integral. In use the mouth and neck of thewater balloon 12 are stretched over thefill nozzle 18 that is attached to thewater source outlet 14. Then thewater source outlet 14 is activated causing water to enter theballoon 12. When thewater balloon 12 is full of water, thewater source outlet 14 is deactivated. Thesealer 16 is then activated. In at least one preferredballoon sealing system 10 the activation includes pressing a button or squeezing two sides of thesealer 16 together so that one or more heating elements located thereon close on the mouth or neck of thewater balloon 12 to seal it. Thewater balloon 12 may then be removed from thewater source outlet 14. -
FIG. 2 is a schematic depiction of a second preferred embodiment of aballoon sealing system 110 in accordance with one or more aspects of the present invention. Theballoon sealing system 110 is shown in use with awater balloon 12 and awater source outlet 14. Theballoon sealing system 110 comprises asealer 16 and afill nozzle 18, similar toballoon sealing system 10, and further comprises acontrol valve 20. - The
control valve 20 may be a distinct component or it may be integral with thefill nozzle 18. Thecontrol valve 20 is able to easily stop and start the flow of water from thewater source outlet 14 into thewater balloon 12. Thecontrol valve 20 includes an activated configuration, which allows for the flow of water therethrough, and a deactivated configuration, which prevents the flow of water therethough. In use, the mouth and neck of thewater balloon 12 are stretched over thefill nozzle 18 that is attached to thewater source outlet 14. Even when thewater source outlet 14 is activated, allowing water to flow therefrom, thecontrol valve 20, when deactivated, will prevent water from escaping thewater source outlet 14. When desired, thecontrol valve 20 can be activated causing water to flow from thewater source outlet 14 and into theballoon 12. When thewater balloon 12 is full of water, the flow of water is stopped by deactivating thecontrol valve 20. Thesealer 16 is then activated to seal the mouth or neck of thewater balloon 12. Thewater balloon 12 may then be removed from thewater source outlet 14. -
FIG. 3 is a schematic depiction of a third preferred embodiment of aballoon sealing system 210. Theballoon sealing system 210 is shown in use with awater balloon 12 and awater source outlet 14. Theballoon sealing system 210 comprises asealer 16, afill nozzle 18, and afill sensor 222. Thefill sensor 222 provides an indication that thewater balloon 12 is full of water and, therefore, that thewater source outlet 14 should be deactivated to prevent overfilling. Thefill sensor 222 may be triggered by time, weight, size, or any other relevant factor. In at least one preferred embodiment, thefill sensor 222 is adjustable so that the user may determine, for example, how heavy or how big thewater balloon 12 should be. Thefill sensor 222 could be particularly useful to automate theballoon sealing system 210. - In use, the mouth and neck of the
water balloon 12 are stretched over thefill nozzle 18 that is attached to thewater source outlet 14. Then thewater source outlet 14 is activated causing water to enter theballoon 12. When thewater balloon 12 is full of water, thefill sensor 222 activates thesealer 16 to seal the mouth or neck of thewater balloon 12. It should be noted that thefill sensor 222 may be triggered using weight or size. Furthermore, thefill sensor 222 may provide an audible or visible alarm to notify the user to deactivate thewater source outlet 14 prior to thesealer 16 being activated. Thewater balloon 12 may then be removed from thewater source outlet 14. -
FIG. 4 is a schematic of a fourth preferred embodiment of aballoon sealing system 310 in accordance with one or more aspects of the present invention shown in use with awater balloon 12 and awater source outlet 14. Theballoon sealing system 310 comprises asealer 16, afill nozzle 18, acontrol valve 20, and a fill sensor 322. The fill sensor 322 is adapted to automatically deactivate thecontrol valve 20 in response to a trigger. Exemplary such triggers include time, balloon volume, and balloon weight. - In use, the mouth and neck of the
water balloon 12 are stretched over thefill nozzle 18 attached to thewater source outlet 14. Even when thewater source outlet 14 is activated, allowing water to flow therefrom, thecontrol valve 20, when deactivated, will prevent water from escaping thewater source outlet 14. When desired, thecontrol valve 20 can be activated causing water to flow from thewater source outlet 14 and into theballoon 12. At some point while theballoon 12 is being filled, the fill sensor 322 triggers, deactivating thecontrol valve 20 and stopping the flow of water into theballoon 12. Thesealer 16 is then activated to seal the mouth or neck of thewater balloon 12. Thewater balloon 12 may then be removed from thewater source outlet 14. -
FIG. 5 is a schematic of a fifth preferred embodiment of aballoon sealing system 410 in accordance with one or more aspects of the present invention, shown in use with awater balloon 12 and awater source outlet 14. Theballoon sealing system 410 comprises asealer 16, afill nozzle 18, acontrol valve 20, and a fill sensor 422. The fill sensor 422 is adapted to automatically deactivate thecontrol valve 20 in response to a trigger, and subsequently activate thesealer 16. Exemplary such triggers include time, balloon volume, and balloon weight. - In use, the mouth and neck of the
water balloon 12 is stretched over thefill nozzle 18 attached to thewater source outlet 14. Even when thewater source outlet 14 is activated, allowing water to flow therefrom, thecontrol valve 20, when deactivated, will prevent water from escaping thewater source outlet 14. When desired, thecontrol valve 20 can be activated causing water to flow from thewater source outlet 14 and into theballoon 12. At some point while theballoon 12 is being filled, the fill sensor 422 triggers, deactivating thecontrol valve 20 and stopping the flow of water into theballoon 12. Furthermore, the fill sensor 422 activates thesealer 16 to seal the mouth or neck of thewater balloon 12. Finally, thewater balloon 12 may then be removed from thewater source outlet 14. -
FIG. 6 is a schematic of a sixth preferred embodiment of aballoon sealing system 510 in accordance with one or more aspects of the present invention shown in use with awater balloon 12 and awater source outlet 14. Theballoon sealing system 510 comprises various components, including asealer 16, afill nozzle 18, and acontrol valve 20. In theballoon sealing system 510, two or more of the components are in circuit connection. -
FIG. 7 is a schematic of a seventh preferred embodiment of aballoon sealing system 610 in accordance with one or more aspects of the present invention. Theballoon sealing system 610 comprises amulti-balloon sealer 616, a plurality offill nozzles 618, and one ormore control valves 620. Theballoon sealing system 610 is adapted to simultaneously fill and seal multiple water balloons 12. Theballoon sealing system 610 may include any of the features included in other disclosed embodiments. -
FIG. 8 is a schematic of an eighth preferred embodiment of aballoon sealing system 710 in accordance with one or more aspects of the present invention. Theballoon sealing system 710 comprises asealer 16, afill nozzle 18, and afill adapter 720 at least partially disposed in thefill nozzle 18. In at least one preferred embodiment, thefill adapter 720 is a mouth piece adapted to allow a user to exhale air therethrough into thefill nozzle 18, and, ultimately, into aballoon 12 in order to fill theballoon 12 with air. In alternative embodiments, thefill adapter 720 is adapted to allow other gasses, such as helium, to enter theballoon 12. - In one or more alternative preferred embodiments, a balloon sealing system may include variations of one or more of the various components of the balloon sealing systems shown and described herein, as well as other components.
-
FIGS. 9-13 illustrate a ninth preferred embodiment of aballoon sealing system 810 in accordance with one or more aspects of the present invention.FIG. 9 is a perspective view of theballoon sealing system 810.FIG. 10 is a front view of theballoon sealing system 810 ofFIG. 9 .FIG. 11 is a back view of theballoon sealing system 810 ofFIG. 9 .FIG. 12 is a front view of the interior of theballoon sealing system 810 ofFIG. 9 .FIG. 13 is a schematic circuit diagram of theballoon sealing system 810 ofFIG. 9 . - As shown in
FIG. 9 , theballoon sealing system 810 comprises ahousing 812, a fill nozzle 814 extending substantially through thehousing 812 including afill nozzle inlet 816 and afill nozzle outlet 818, internal components stored within thehousing 812, afirst sealing arm 822, and asecond sealing arm 824. - The
housing 812 includes a top, a bottom, a front face, a back face, and two sides. It should be noted that the term “top” is meant to be relative to the term “bottom” and the term “front” is meant to be relative to the term “back.” As best seen inFIGS. 9 and 10 , the front face includes a removablefront face cover 826 that allows access to a printed circuit board 828 (hereinafter “PCB”). The removablefront face cover 826 includes at least oneLED opening 827 through which a light emitting diode 829 (hereinafter “LED”) is visible. As best seen inFIG. 11 , the back face includes a removable back face cover 830 (shown removed) that allows access to thebatteries 832. The removableback face cover 830 includes anopening therethrough 831 allowing access to anadjustable timer switch 833. - The
fill nozzle inlet 816 is located at the top of thehousing 812 and is adapted to accept a fluid substance or “fill” from a fill source. Exemplary fill include liquid and/or gaseous material including water, air, and helium. In one or more preferred embodiments, thefill nozzle inlet 816 includes a threaded interior annular periphery that mates with the threaded exterior annular periphery of standard outlets for water sources. This threaded interior of thefill nozzle inlet 816 can be twisted on and off the water source outlets. Thefill nozzle outlet 818 is located at the bottom of thehousing 812 and is adapted be inserted into the mouth of a balloon and output fill into the balloon. - In one or more embodiments, a fill nozzle
inlet attachment mechanism 817 may be used between thefill nozzle inlet 816 and a fill source. In at least one preferred embodiment, the fillnozzle attachment mechanism 817 is a clamps, or similar clamp-like mechanism. It should be noted that alternative fill nozzle inlet attachment mechanisms may be easily attached and reattached, may be size adjustable, or have other advantages over the traditional threaded interior annular periphery. In one or more preferred embodiments, the fill nozzle inlet attachment mechanism is a flip-lock clamp or quick-release clamp such as those commonly used to secure bicycle seats to their posts. In at least one variation the fill nozzle inlet attachment mechanism is a specialized clamp that is larger than known water source outlets, but has some adjustability (e.g. by screws). The internal annular surface of this specialized clamp has rubber or other protective (and waterproof) thereon. A simple on/off releaser latch may be used to do a final adjustment that would reduce the interior circumference of the specialized clamp from just larger than the water source outlet to a secure fit on the water source outlet. - The
balloon sealing system 810 further includes afirst sealing arm 822 and asecond sealing arm 824, together defining a sealer. Each of the sealingarms housing 812. As most clearly shown inFIG. 12 , the sealingarms hinge 834 defining an axis of rotation about which the sealingarms arms FIG. 9 illustrates both sealingarms FIGS. 10-12 illustrate thesecond sealing arm 824 in the open position and thefirst sealing arm 822 in the closed position. Thehinge 834 and a top portion of each of the sealingarms housing 812. The remainder of the sealingarms housing 812 and disposed along the sides of thehousing 812. - Each of the
arms arm limiter 836. Thearm limiter 836 extends from the interior of thearm housing 812. Thearm limiter 836 prevents thearms housing 812 or otherwise mating in an improper position. More specifically, thearm limiters 836 are positioned rest against thefill nozzle outlet 818 when thearms - The bottom portion of the
first sealing arm 822 includes anarrow tip 838 at the end thereof. The bottom portion of thesecond sealing arm 824 includes aheating element 840 at the end thereof. The heating element is surrounded by, and recessed in, asafety guard 842. The recessed position of theheating element 840 defines a receptacle, and thenarrow tip 838 is adapted to penetrate the receptacle and make contact with theheating element 840. In at least one preferred embodiment, theheating element 840 includes a heating surface with dimensions of approximately 0.25 inches (0.63 centimeters) by 0.50 inches (1.27 centimeters). In at least one preferred embodiment, thenarrow tip 838 and theheating element 840 include an anti-stick covering to prevent damage to theheating element 840 and a balloon during the sealing process. The absence of an anti-stick covering can cause the balloon to melt and stick to thenarrow tip 838 and/orheating element 840. In one preferred embodiment, the anti-stick covering comprises Teflon tape. - The
balloon sealing system 810 further includes an on/off control. In at least one preferred embodiment, the on/off control is adepressible activation button 844 on the side of thehousing 812. Theactivation button 844 is located below thefirst sealing arm 822 and is oriented such that as thefirst sealing arm 822 rotates into the closed potion, the interior surface of thefirst sealing arm 822 presses theactivation button 844 inward, activating theheat source 840. Theactivation button 844 is in electrical connection with one or more of the internal components. - As best shown in
FIGS. 10-12 , theballoon sealing system 810 includes internal components within the housing. Furthermore,FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram illustrating one or more preferredelectronic circuits 852 used in theballoon sealing system 810. As seen in these figures, the internal components include one ormore batteries 832 as a source of power, anLED 829 for indicating that electricity is flowing to theheating element 840, aPCB 828 including electrical circuitry, and anadjustable timer switch 833 to adjust the duration for which theheating element 840 is activated. As best seen inFIG. 13 , two or more of these internal components are in circuit connection with one another. In addition to these internal components, theballoon sealing system 810 includes one or more wires connecting the various internal components. In at least one preferred embodiment, theadjustable time switch 833 is programmable to adjust the duration of theheating element 840 activation based on balloon thickness. In at least one contemplated embodiment, the one ormore batteries 832 may be recharged with energy generated as water flows through theballoon sealing system 810. -
FIGS. 14-19 illustrate a preferred method of using theballoon sealing system 810 in accordance with one or more aspects of the present invention. As shown inFIG. 14 , such a method comprises providing theballoon sealing system 810 and aballoon 12. The mouth and neck of theballoon 12 are attached to thefill nozzle outlet 818 of theballoon sealing system 810 as illustrated inFIG. 15 . Additionally, thefill nozzle inlet 816 and the fillnozzle attachment mechanism 817 are attached to awater source outlet 14 as shown inFIG. 16 . It will be appreciated that theballoon sealing system 810 may be attached to awater source outlet 14 prior to attaching theballoon 12 to thefill nozzle outlet 818. - Once the
balloon sealing system 810 is secured to thewater source outlet 14, thewater source outlet 14 may be activated allowing water to flow through the fill nozzle and into theballoon 12.FIG. 17 shows theballoon 12 filled with water. After theballoon 12 is full, the sealingarms FIG. 18 . Lowering thefirst sealing arm 822 causes the inner surface of thefirst sealing arm 822 to press theactivation button 844. As theactivation button 844 presses inward, an electrical current begins to flow to theheating element 840 located at the bottom of thesecond sealing arm 824, causing theheating element 840 to emit heat. In one or more preferred embodiments, pressing theactivation button 844 starts a timer programmed to deactivate theheating element 840 after a predetermined amount of time. Lowering both the sealingarms narrow tip 838 to force at least a portion of the neck of theballoon 12 into the receptacle, exposing the neck of theballoon 12 to heat emitted from theheating element 840. This causes the neck of the balloon to partially melt and form awatertight seal 850 preventing the escape of water housed within theballoon 12. Finally, the sealingarms balloon 12 may be removed from thefill nozzle outlet 818.FIG. 19 illustrates theballoon 12 with awatertight seal 850 after removal from thefizz nozzle outlet 818. - It should be noted that although the sealing systems described herein are discussed in terms of filling water balloons, alternative sealing systems could be adapted to function with air balloons and/or helium balloons. For example, the fill nozzle inlet could be adapted to attach to an outlet of an alternative fill source (e.g. an air supply or a helium supply). More specifically, the fill nozzle inlet could be adapted to mate with the outlet of an alternative fill source such as the hose outlet of a helium tank or the mouth outlet of a person blowing (i.e. a user's mouth). Alternatively, a unique fill nozzle may be provided that is designed to attach to a hose of a helium tank and/or designed to be directly blown into (e.g. using a user's mouth).
- Based on the foregoing description, it will be readily understood by those persons skilled in the art that the present invention is susceptible of broad utility and application. Many embodiments and adaptations of the present invention other than those specifically described herein, as well as many variations, modifications, and equivalent arrangements, will be apparent from or reasonably suggested by the present invention and the foregoing descriptions thereof, without departing from the substance or scope of the present invention. Accordingly, while the present invention has been described herein in detail in relation to one or more preferred embodiments, it is to be understood that this disclosure is only illustrative and exemplary of the present invention and is made merely for the purpose of providing a full and enabling disclosure of the invention. The foregoing disclosure is not intended to be construed to limit the present invention or otherwise exclude any such other embodiments, adaptations, variations, modifications or equivalent arrangements, the present invention being limited only by the claims appended hereto and the equivalents thereof.
Claims (21)
1. A balloon sealing system, comprising:
(a) a fill nozzle including (i) a fill nozzle inlet adapted to fit a fill source outlet and accept a fill, and (ii) a fill nozzle outlet adapted to attach to an opening of a balloon and ejection the fill; and
(b) a sealer including a heating element;
(c) wherein the heating element is adapted to heat seal the balloon proximate said opening while the balloon is attached to the fill nozzle outlet.
2. The balloon sealing system of claim 1 , further comprising a control valve for controlling flow of fill into the balloon;
3. The balloon sealing system of claim 2 , further comprising a fill sensor, wherein the fill sensor, upon sensing a trigger, activates the control valve.
4. The balloon sealing system of claim 1 , further comprising a fill sensor.
5. The balloon sealing system of claim 4 , wherein the fill sensor senses when the balloon has acquired a predetermined quantity of fill.
6. The balloon sealing system of claim 4 , wherein the fill sensor, upon sensing a trigger, activates the sealer.
7. The balloon sealing system of claim 1 , wherein the fill nozzle and the sealer are integrally formed.
8-10. (canceled)
11. A balloon sealing system, comprising:
(a) a housing having a top, a bottom, a front face, a back face, and two sides;
(b) a fill nozzle extending substantially through the housing, the fill nozzle including (i) a fill nozzle inlet extending through the top of the housing, and (ii) a fill nozzle outlet extending through the bottom of the housing;
(c) a sealer, including a first sealing arm extending from a first side of the two sides, and a second sealing arm extending from a second side of the two sides, one of the first sealing arm and second sealing arm including a heating element that emits heat when activated; and
(d) an on/off control for activating the heating element;
(e) wherein, upon being activated by the on/off control, the heating element emits a sufficient quantity of heat to heat seal a balloon attached to the fill nozzle outlet.
12. The balloon sealing system of claim 11 , wherein the heating element includes an anti-stick covering.
13. The balloon sealing system of claim 11 , wherein the other of the first sealing arm and the second sealing arm includes a narrow tip adapted to isolate a portion of the balloon to be heat sealed and push said portion against the heating element.
14. The balloon sealing system of claim 13 , wherein the heating element is recessed in a safety guard.
15. The balloon sealing system of claim 13 , wherein each of the heating element and the narrow tip includes an anti-stick covering.
16. The balloon sealing system of claim 11 , wherein the first sealing arm and the second sealing arm are joined at a hinge defining an axis of rotation about which the first sealing arm and the second sealing arm have limited rotation.
17. The balloon sealing system of claim 11 , wherein the first sealing arm and the second sealing arm each include an arm limiter.
18. The balloon sealing system of claim 11 , further comprising a programmable timer that deactivates the heating element after a predetermined amount of time.
19. The balloon sealing system of claim 16 , further comprising an adjustable timer switch to adjust the predetermined amount of time.
20. The balloon sealing system of claim 11 , further comprising an LED programmed to emit light while the heating element is activated.
21. The balloon sealing system of claim 11 , wherein the heating element is powered by one or more batteries.
22. The balloon sealing system of claim 11 , further comprising a fill nozzle attachment mechanism.
23. The balloon sealing system of claim 11 , further comprising one or more removable face covers allowing access to internal components within the housing.
Priority Applications (1)
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US13/087,135 US20110253256A1 (en) | 2010-04-16 | 2011-04-14 | Balloon sealing systems and methods |
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US13/087,135 US20110253256A1 (en) | 2010-04-16 | 2011-04-14 | Balloon sealing systems and methods |
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US13/087,135 Abandoned US20110253256A1 (en) | 2010-04-16 | 2011-04-14 | Balloon sealing systems and methods |
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US8307612B1 (en) * | 2011-04-22 | 2012-11-13 | Wayne Sikorcin | Balloon filling and tying device |
WO2013123067A1 (en) * | 2012-02-13 | 2013-08-22 | Harris Jerome Anzio | Method and system for automatically filling bladder members |
KR101509427B1 (en) | 2014-04-08 | 2015-04-09 | 강운형 | Recommending method of plastic surgery |
US9051066B1 (en) * | 2014-02-07 | 2015-06-09 | Tinnus Enterprises, Llc | System and method for filling containers with fluids |
USD793484S1 (en) * | 2015-11-20 | 2017-08-01 | Telebrands Corp. | Device for filling multiple water balloons |
USD793485S1 (en) * | 2015-11-20 | 2017-08-01 | Telebrands Corp. | Device for filling multiple water balloons |
USD793483S1 (en) * | 2015-11-20 | 2017-08-01 | Telebrands Corp. | Device for filling multiple water balloons |
US9776744B2 (en) | 2015-06-19 | 2017-10-03 | Telebrands Corp. | Container sealing device |
US9783327B2 (en) | 2015-06-19 | 2017-10-10 | Telebrands Corp. | Container sealing device |
US20180079535A1 (en) | 2015-06-19 | 2018-03-22 | Telebrands Corp. | Container sealing device |
US10493370B2 (en) | 2016-06-21 | 2019-12-03 | Tinnus Enterprises, Llc | System and method for filling containers with fluids and sealing the filled containers |
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US8307612B1 (en) * | 2011-04-22 | 2012-11-13 | Wayne Sikorcin | Balloon filling and tying device |
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Cited By (29)
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US8307612B1 (en) * | 2011-04-22 | 2012-11-13 | Wayne Sikorcin | Balloon filling and tying device |
WO2013123067A1 (en) * | 2012-02-13 | 2013-08-22 | Harris Jerome Anzio | Method and system for automatically filling bladder members |
CN104428043A (en) * | 2012-02-13 | 2015-03-18 | 杰罗米·安齐奥·哈里斯 | Method and system for automatically filling bladder members |
US9533779B2 (en) | 2014-02-07 | 2017-01-03 | Tinnus Enterprises, Llc | System and method for filling containers with fluids |
US11866209B2 (en) * | 2014-02-07 | 2024-01-09 | Tinnus Enterprises, Llc | System and method for filling containers with fluids |
US9242749B2 (en) * | 2014-02-07 | 2016-01-26 | Tinnus Enterprises, Llc | System and method for filling containers with fluids |
US9315282B2 (en) | 2014-02-07 | 2016-04-19 | Tinnus Enterprises, Llc | System and method for filling containers with fluids |
US9527612B2 (en) | 2014-02-07 | 2016-12-27 | Tinnus Enterprises, Llc | System and method for filling containers with fluids |
EP3431010A1 (en) * | 2014-02-07 | 2019-01-23 | Tinnus Enterprises, LLC | Apparatus, system and method for filling containers with fluids |
US9682789B2 (en) | 2014-02-07 | 2017-06-20 | Tinnus Enterprises, Llc | System and method for filling containers with fluids |
US9051066B1 (en) * | 2014-02-07 | 2015-06-09 | Tinnus Enterprises, Llc | System and method for filling containers with fluids |
EP4179982A1 (en) * | 2014-02-07 | 2023-05-17 | Tinnus Enterprises, LLC | Apparatus, system and method for filling containers with fluids |
US11465786B2 (en) * | 2014-02-07 | 2022-10-11 | Tinnus Enterprises, Llc | System and method for filling containers with fluids |
US20210094711A1 (en) * | 2014-02-07 | 2021-04-01 | Tinnus Enterprises, Llc | System and method for filling containers with fluids |
EP3431010B1 (en) | 2014-02-07 | 2020-06-24 | Tinnus Enterprises, LLC | Apparatus, system and method for filling containers with fluids |
US10894620B2 (en) | 2014-02-07 | 2021-01-19 | Tinnus Enterprises Llc | System and method for filling containers with fluids |
US9950817B2 (en) | 2014-02-07 | 2018-04-24 | Tinnus Enterprises, Llc | System and method for filling containers with fluids |
KR101509427B1 (en) | 2014-04-08 | 2015-04-09 | 강운형 | Recommending method of plastic surgery |
US9783327B2 (en) | 2015-06-19 | 2017-10-10 | Telebrands Corp. | Container sealing device |
US10227146B2 (en) | 2015-06-19 | 2019-03-12 | Telebrands Corp. | Container sealing device |
US10259600B2 (en) | 2015-06-19 | 2019-04-16 | Telebrands Corp. | Container sealing device |
US10279936B2 (en) | 2015-06-19 | 2019-05-07 | Telebrands Corp. | System, device, and method for filling at least one balloon |
US10065754B2 (en) | 2015-06-19 | 2018-09-04 | Telebrands Corp. | Container sealing device |
US20180079535A1 (en) | 2015-06-19 | 2018-03-22 | Telebrands Corp. | Container sealing device |
US9776744B2 (en) | 2015-06-19 | 2017-10-03 | Telebrands Corp. | Container sealing device |
USD793483S1 (en) * | 2015-11-20 | 2017-08-01 | Telebrands Corp. | Device for filling multiple water balloons |
USD793485S1 (en) * | 2015-11-20 | 2017-08-01 | Telebrands Corp. | Device for filling multiple water balloons |
USD793484S1 (en) * | 2015-11-20 | 2017-08-01 | Telebrands Corp. | Device for filling multiple water balloons |
US10493370B2 (en) | 2016-06-21 | 2019-12-03 | Tinnus Enterprises, Llc | System and method for filling containers with fluids and sealing the filled containers |
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Legal Events
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Owner name: EDISON NATION, LLC, NORTH CAROLINA Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNOR:FINLEY, MICHAEL S.;REEL/FRAME:028399/0066 Effective date: 20120608 |
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STCB | Information on status: application discontinuation |
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