WO1998001844A1 - Method and apparatus for balloon displays - Google Patents

Method and apparatus for balloon displays Download PDF

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Publication number
WO1998001844A1
WO1998001844A1 PCT/US1997/011942 US9711942W WO9801844A1 WO 1998001844 A1 WO1998001844 A1 WO 1998001844A1 US 9711942 W US9711942 W US 9711942W WO 9801844 A1 WO9801844 A1 WO 9801844A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
grid members
compartment
balloon
segments
flexible
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/US1997/011942
Other languages
French (fr)
Inventor
Christian M. Hoebener
Original Assignee
CONTINENTAL AMERICAN CORPORATION, doing business as PIONEER BALLOON COMPANY
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by CONTINENTAL AMERICAN CORPORATION, doing business as PIONEER BALLOON COMPANY filed Critical CONTINENTAL AMERICAN CORPORATION, doing business as PIONEER BALLOON COMPANY
Priority to AU40397/97A priority Critical patent/AU4039797A/en
Publication of WO1998001844A1 publication Critical patent/WO1998001844A1/en

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Classifications

    • G—PHYSICS
    • G09—EDUCATION; CRYPTOGRAPHY; DISPLAY; ADVERTISING; SEALS
    • G09F—DISPLAYING; ADVERTISING; SIGNS; LABELS OR NAME-PLATES; SEALS
    • G09F19/00—Advertising or display means not otherwise provided for
    • G09F19/008—Inflatable advertising means
    • 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
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G09—EDUCATION; CRYPTOGRAPHY; DISPLAY; ADVERTISING; SEALS
    • G09F—DISPLAYING; ADVERTISING; SIGNS; LABELS OR NAME-PLATES; SEALS
    • G09F19/00—Advertising or display means not otherwise provided for
    • 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

  • This invention relates to decorative designs utilizing balloons and, more particularly, to an apparatus which utilizes a grid and balloons for artistic, three-dimensional displays.
  • the present invention is to an apparatus for making three- dimensional balloon displays.
  • the apparatus is comprised of a grid array.
  • the grid array has at least one set of grid members, with each grid member shaped to form a compartment for receipt of at least one inflated balloon.
  • Each compartment has an interior and exterior side.
  • the balloons are maintained within the compartment by the pneumatic pressure within the inflated balloon exerted against the interior side of the compartment.
  • the compartments may be of any geometrical shape.
  • the apparatus is further comprised of a second set of grid members with each grid member shaped to form a compartment and a rigid frame attached to both sets of grid members.
  • the first and second sets of grid members are positioned such that the back side of the first set of grid members is proximate to and parallel to the front side of the second set of grid members.
  • the compartments shaped by the first set of grid members are symmetric to the compartments shaped by the second set of grid members, creating a three-dimensional compartment for receipt of at least one inflated balloon.
  • the rigid frame may be metal, plastic, wood or other suitable material.
  • the rigid frame contains openings for attaching other inanimate objects to the display apparatus, which may include additional apparatus of the present invention or other decorative devices such as frames, bridges, trellises, etc.
  • the frame can be strengthened through the use of electrical conduit as means for connecting sections of grid members.
  • the grid members are made of a flexible netting material such as nylon netting or coated steel wire.
  • the compartments formed by the netting grid members may be of any geometrical shape.
  • the use of netting gri ⁇ members permits the display to be positioned at different angles to vary its appearance.
  • the nylon netting is coated with water- based latex adhesive to increase the friction and grip to the latex or foil surface of a balloon lodged into a compartment.
  • This coating also functions to keep the netting clean and prevent fraying of the nylon when it is cut by a decorator into the various shapes desired.
  • the steel wire is coated with urethane to also increase the friction and grip to the latex or foil surface of a balloon lodged into a compartment.
  • Sections of the flexible netting grid members may be connected by clipping the sections together through the use of plastic clips or other similar means.
  • the clips are preferably transparent in color so as to not affect the aesthetic appearance of the display.
  • the netting grid members may also be connected to rigid or semi-rigid rods through the use of preferably translucent plastic clips. The rods can then be inserted into a base plate to hold the display upright.
  • the grid members are made of a flexible foam or plastic material, preferably closed-cell polyethylene foam.
  • the compartments are die-cut from a substrate of a planar sheet of the foam thereby creating foam grid members. Said compartments may be cut into any geometrical shape and in any pattern. It is preferred that a three-layer foam substrate be used to create the foam grid members. This three-layer structure significantly increases the strength of the display.
  • the inner layer of polyethylene closed- cell foam may have a density of about 1.7 pounds and a thickness of H inch and the outer layers may have a density of about 4 pounds and a thickness of V ⁇ inch.
  • holes and slits may be die-cut or otherwise formed in the foam grid members to hold balloons to increase the aesthetic appearance of the display. The neck of an inflated balloon is lodged into a hole by sliding it through the slit which opens to the compartment and leads to the hole.
  • Panels of the foam grid members may be affixed together through the use of acrylic adhesives, tape, clips or other similar means.
  • other objects such as rigid grid members, frames, bridges, trellises, etc. may be attached to or incorporate the present invention using the foam grid members embodiment.
  • lights may be positioned behind selected balloons to illuminate the outlines of various designs.
  • selected balloons may have a small explosive charge attached to burst selected balloons to provide a design of balloons and openings.
  • Fig. 1 illustrates a frontal view of display 10 with several balloons mounted therein.
  • Fig. 2 is a side view of a portion of display 10 with two balloons inserted in the compartments.
  • Fig. 3 is a side view of display 10 with two balloons inserted in the compartments and a third balloon between the first two balloons.
  • Fig. 4 is a perspective view of display 10 utilizing different color balloons to form a design.
  • Fig. 5 is a perspective view of display 10 as in Fig. 4, with additional balloons to add more dimension to the design.
  • Fig. 6 is a perspective view of pivotal joining device 30.
  • Fig. 6a is a perspective view of a junction device 60.
  • Fig. 7 shows the formation of a rigid grid member 114 using pivotal joining device 30 of Fig. 6.
  • Fig. 8 is a frontal view of display 10 wherein segments 112 are circular to form a grid array in a snowman design.
  • Fig. 9 illustrates the bending of display 10 to form a curved display.
  • Fig. 10 is a perspective view of applicants' alternative embodiment, display 100.
  • Fig. 11 is an expanded view of a corner of display 100.
  • Fig. 12 is a front perspective view of applicants' alternative embodiment, display 100, in use with Microfoil® aluminized film balloons (MICROFOIL® is a registered trademark of Continental American Corporation d/b/a Pioneer Balloon Company) .
  • FIG. 13 is a front perspective view of applicants' alternative embodiment, display 100, in use with latex balloons and attached to a second display 100.
  • Fig. 14 is a front perspective view of applicants' alternative embodiment, display 10 with several balloons mounted therein.
  • Fig. 15 is a front perspective view of display 10 in use with fourth clips 235 to create a diagonal appearance of flexible grid members 210.
  • Fig. 16 is a front perspective view of display 10 in use with third clips 234.
  • Fig. 17 is a right end perspective view of first clip 232.
  • Fig. 18 is a top perspective view of first clip 232.
  • Fig. 19 is a left end perspective view of first clip 232.
  • Fig. 20 is a side perspective view of first clip 232 Fig.
  • FIG. 21 is a left end perspective view of second clip 233.
  • Fig. 22 is a top perspective view of second clip 233.
  • Fig. 23 is a right end perspective view of second clip 233.
  • Fig. 24 is a right side perspective view of second clip 233.
  • Fig. 25 is a left side perspective view of second clip 233.
  • Fig. 26 is an end perspective view of third clip 234.
  • Fig. 27 is a top perspective view of third clip 234.
  • Fig. 28 is a right side perspective view of third clip 234.
  • Fig. 29 is a left side perspective view of third clip 234.
  • Fig. 30 is a top perspective view of fourth clip 235.
  • Fig. 31 is a side perspective view of fourth clip 235.
  • FIG. 32 is a frontal perspective view of display 10 having rigid grid members and used in conjunction with and attached to display 10 having flexible netting grid members.
  • Fig. 33 is a frontal perspective view of the alternative embodiment display 10 employing foam grid members in which the compartments are square-shaped.
  • Fig. 34 is a frontal perspective view of display 10 in which the compartments are circular-shaped and aligned in rows and columns.
  • Fig. 35 is a frontal perspective view of display 10 in which the circular compartments are in a random pattern.
  • Fig. 36 is a frontal perspective view of display 10 in which holes and slits are cut into the foam grid members for the insertion of balloons and lights.
  • Fig. 33 is a frontal perspective view of display 10 having rigid grid members and used in conjunction with and attached to display 10 having flexible netting grid members.
  • Fig. 33 is a frontal perspective view of the alternative embodiment display 10 employing foam grid members in which the compartments are square-shaped.
  • Fig. 34 is a
  • FIG. 37 is a cross-sectional view of the three-layer foam construction of the foam grid members in an alternative embodiment of display 10.
  • Fig. 38 is a side perspective view of clip 332 in the closed position.
  • Fig. 39 is a side perspective view of clip 332 in the open position.
  • Fig. 40 is a top perspective view of an S-shaped display 10 using formed aluminum rods.
  • Fig. 41 is a frontal perspective view of a fish-shaped display 10 in which sections of foam material are tucked into and affixed to said display.
  • Fig. 42 is a side perspective view of display 10 in use with a Microfoil® balloon.
  • Fig. 43 is a side perspective view of display 10 in which two panels are aligned so that one balloon is contained in corresponding compartments of said panels.
  • Fig. 44 is a frontal perspective view of an alternative design employing foam panel display 10 with other apparatus of the present invention.
  • Fig. 45 is a frontal perspective view of four foam panel displays 10
  • FIG. 1 DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS Throughout this description, small alphabetical numbers are generally used to indicate multiple items of the same kind.
  • applicants' display 10 is comprised of at least one set 110a of rigid grid members 114a-p. In other embodiments, additional or fewer grid members 114 may be used as reflected m Figs. 4 and 9.
  • Each grid member 114 is shaped to form a compartment 12 for receipt of at least one inflated balloon B.
  • Each compartment 12 has an interior side 116 and an exterior side 118.
  • compartment 12a has an exterior side 118a which is also a portion of interior side 116b and a portion of interior side 116d.
  • Fig. 1 DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS Throughout this description, small alphabetical numbers are generally used to indicate multiple items of the same kind.
  • applicants' display 10 is comprised of at least one set 110a of rigid grid members 114a-p. In other embodiments, additional or fewer grid members 114 may be
  • balloon Bl is maintained in compartment 12g by the pneumatic pressure within balloon Bl exerted against interior side 116g of compartment 12g.
  • balloons B1-B4 are inserted into adjacent compartments 12f, 12], 12k and held in place by interior sides 116f, 116j and 116k.
  • Balloon SI is centrally located to balloons B1-B4. Balloon SI may be held in place by the pneumatic pressure of the air in balloons B1-B4, or may be tied at a portion of grid members 114f, 114h, 114j or 114k.
  • various color balloons may also be used to produce a design. As shown in Fig.
  • Display 10 may also utilize compartments 12 of the same or different sizes. Compartments 12 may be square, rectangular, round, or any desired geometric shape dependent on the shape of grid members 114. Referring to Fig. 8, grid members 114a-e are circular. Display 10 may be made of any rigid material, such as wire, plastic, or wood and also may be made of a flexible material so as to distort and bend into a desired shape as shown m Fig. 9. Fig.
  • FIG. 2 is a side view of a portion of display 10 showing two latex balloons Bl and B2 extending through compartments 12a-12b of grid members 114a, 114b.
  • latex balloons will distort to accommodate to the size of compartment 12. Consequently, in all embodiments, latex balloons will generally be larger on each side of compartment 12 of grid members 114 and will inflate to expand and touch adjacent balloons, concealing grid members 114.
  • Fig. 3 is the same as Fig. 2, with the addition of balloon S inserted between balloons Bl and B2. The tied end of balloon S is secured to grid member 114a between balloons Bl and B2. As discussed above in reference to Fig.
  • balloon S may also be inserted in compartment 12a along with balloon Bl, with the pneumatic pressure within balloons Bl and S and interior side 116a of compartment 12a holding balloons Bl and SI m place.
  • two balloons may also be tied together with the tied portion stretching across grid member 114.
  • a plurality of, for example, green balloons G are inserted through selected compartments 12 to form a Christmas tree.
  • Other non-green balloons N are placed in compartments 12 not occupied by green balloons. With the green and non-green balloons inserted in the correct compartments 12, a display representative of a Christmas tree is formed.
  • Fig. 5 illustrates the same basic design of a Christmas tree as in Fig. 4 with balloons S tied at intersections 164 of grid members 114.
  • Balloons S may be, for example, red balloons to represent ornaments or lights on the Christmas tree. Small electric lights (not illustrated) may be placed adjacent some of balloons S to illuminate them and to give the effect of lights.
  • Fig. 6 illustrates a pivotal joining device 30 which may be utilized in forming display 10.
  • Plate 31 is comprised of first face 120 and second face 122.
  • First fastener member 32 is comprised of segment receiving section 124 and pivotal attaching section 126.
  • Pivotal attaching section 126 of first fastener member 32 is pivotally attached to first face 120 of plate 31.
  • Second fastener member 33 is comprised of segment receiving section 128 and pivotal attaching section 130. Pivotal attaching section 130 of second fastener member 33 is pivotally attached to second face 122 of plate 31.
  • Fastener members 32 and 33 are preferably flexible so that segments 132 of grid members 114 may be inserted and held in place by the spring action of segment receiving sections 124 and 128.
  • a plurality of pivotal joining devices 30a-d are used to connect a plurality of segments 132a-d to form a display 10 having a plurality of compartments 12 into which inflated balloons are inserted. Display 10 as shown m Figs.
  • Fig. 1-5 may be constructed utilizing a plurality of segments 132 and pivotal joining devices 30.
  • Fig. 7 illustrates a display 10 having square or rectangular compartments 12, but triangular or other geometric shaped compartments may be assembled using pivotal joining devices 30 and segments 132.
  • Fig. 8 illustrates the use of circular grid members 114 joined by pivotal joining devices 30 (not shown) .
  • balloons may be inserted into compartments 12 of grid members 114 to form a snowman.
  • Fig. 6a shows a junction device 60 that can be used for the side of display 10.
  • Junction device 60 has channel 61 with an opening 63 to hold a segment 132.
  • channel 62 Extending at a right angle from channel 61 is channel 62 having an opening 64 to receive a segment 132.
  • Junction device 60 is useful in forming the outer sides of display 10.
  • the openings 63 and 64 in junction device 60 are to the side of a channel.
  • Channels 61 and 62 could be tubes with rods inserted in the ends of the channel.
  • Fig. 9 shows a flexible display 10 that may be shaped by twisting and curving to provide a decorative display 10 into which inflated balloons are inserted.
  • Flexible display 10 may be manufactured and sold in rolls so that sections may be cut from the roll to form a desired decorative display. To provide three-dimensional effects, several grid frames may be attached to each other, some of which may be flat, some rolled and some twisted.
  • Fig. 14 illustrates an alternative embodiment display 10 of the present invention which is comprised of at least one set of flexible netting grid members 210 which are made of a flexible netting material such as nylon netting or coated steel wire. In other embodiments, additional or fewer netting grid members 210 may be used as reflected in Figs. 15, 16 and 32.
  • Each netting grid member 210 is shaped to form a compartment 212 for receipt of at least one inflated balloon B.
  • Each compartment has an interior side 216 and an exterior side 218.
  • compartment 212a has an exterior side 218a which is also a portion of interior side 216a.
  • Fig. 14 illustrates an alternative embodiment display 10 of the present invention which is comprised of at least one set of flexible netting grid members 210 which are made of a flexible netting material such as nylon netting or coated steel wire. In other embodiments, additional or fewer netting grid members 210 may be used as reflected in Figs. 15, 16 and 32.
  • grid members 210 are made of a flexible netting material such as nylon netting or coated steel wire.
  • the nylon netting is coated with water-based latex adhesive to increase the friction and the grip to the latex or foil surface of a balloon lodged into a compartment. This coating also functions to keep the netting clean and prevent fraying of the nylon when it is cut by a decorator into the various shapes desired.
  • steel wire is used, it is coated with urethane to likewise increase the friction and grip to the latex or foil surface of a balloon lodged into a compartment. As illustrated in Fig.
  • balloons B1-B3 are inserted into adjacent compartments 212c and 212d and held in place by interior sides 216c and 216d.
  • a balloon may be placed between balloons B1-B3 in a similar manner, to balloon SI in Fig. 1.
  • Such a balloon may be held in place by the pneumatic pressure of the air in the balloons B1-B3 (and those surrounding them) , or may be tied or clipped at a segment of netting grid members 210a, 210b or 210c, such as flexible netting segments 242a, 242b or 242c.
  • Display 10 employing the flexible netting grid members may also utilize compartments 212 of the same or different sizes.
  • Compartments 212 may be square, rectangular, or any desired geometric shape dependent on the shape of netting grid members 210. Referring to Figs. 14-16, netting grid members 210 are square. Figs. 14, 15 and 16 illustrate rod 280 having either first clip 232, second clip 233, or third clip 234 attached thereto as means for affixing sections of flexible grid members 210 to rod 280. Rod 280 may be made of any rigid material, such as metal, wire, plastic, or wood and also may be made of a flexible material so as to distort and bend into any desired shape such as that shown in Fig. 32. First clip 232 is illustrated in Figs. 17-20 as well as Fig. 14, as mentioned above.
  • First clip 232 is preferably made of a rigid plastic material and is transparent in color so as to not affect the aesthetic appearance of display 10.
  • First clip 232 has orifice 240 which has a plurality of curvatures 241 which correspondingly fit various sizes of rod 280 as rod 280 is fed through clip 232. The location of clip 232 may be adjusted by simply sliding it along rod 280.
  • Clip 232 further has opening 242 in which a segment of flexible grid member 210 is seated so as to affix flexible grid member 210 to rod 280.
  • Second clip 233 is illustrated in Figs. 21-25.
  • Clip 233 is preferably made of a rigid plastic material and is transparent in color so as to not affect the aesthetic appearance of display 10.
  • Clip 233 has a larger orifice 250 than orifice 240 of clip 232 in order to engage rods 280 which are larger in diameter and do not fit within orifice 240.
  • Clip 233 is adjustably and detachably affixed to rod 280 by the relationship of a plurality of first teeth 251 and second teeth 252.
  • a segment of flexible grid members 210 is then affixed to rod 280 through the use of clip 233, seating the segment within curvature 253.
  • Third clip 234 is illustrated in Figs. 26-29.
  • Clip 234 is likewise preferably a rigid transparent plastic material.
  • Clip 234 has opening 260 in which rod 280 is detachably affixed. The position of clip 234 may then be adjusted by sliding it up or down rod 280.
  • Clip 234 is also comprised of at least two openings 261 and 262 in which segments of flexible grid me oers 210 are inserted to detachably connect flexible grid members 210 to rod 280.
  • Fourth clip 235 is illustrated in Figs. 30-31 and like clips 232, 233 and 234, is preferably made of transparent rigid plastic material. Similar to first clip 232, fourth clip 235 has orifice 270 having a plurality of curvatures 271 so as to fit various sizes of rod 280. Fourth clip 235 has at least two apertures 272 and 273 in which segments of flexible grid members are 210 seated to affix them to rod 280.
  • Fig. 32 illustrates the use of display 10 having rigid grid members used in conjunction with and attached to display 10 having flexible netting grid members.
  • display 10 is comprised of at least one panel 310 of flexible foam grid members 314. Additional or fewer grid members 314 may be used as reflected in Figs. 41 and 44. Each grid member 314 is shaped to form a compartment 312 for receipt of at least one inflated balloon B. Each compartment 312 has an interior side 316 and an exterior side 318.
  • a balloon is inflated and tied. In one method, tne tied portion is then inserted into compartment 312 such that the tied portion is hidden from view.
  • a Microfoil® balloon is used, the balloon is inserted so that the seam and valve opening are hidden from view, preferably by placing said seam and valve opening against interior side 316.
  • Fig. 42 is a bottom view of a Microfoil® balloon M within the foam grid member 314 which has been cut away to show the orientation of the seam and neck.
  • balloon B is maintained in compartment 312a by the pneumatic pressure within balloon B exerted against interior side 316a of compartment 312a.
  • ballloon B may be tied, cl ipped or inserted into f lexible foam segments 342a, 342b or 342c .
  • the flexible foam material is preferably closed-cell polyethylene foam but may be of any suitable similar material.
  • the polyethylene foam is preferred because it is low in cost, non-toxic, flame resistant and durable. Further, it does not absorb water and it has an exceptional tactile surface for handling and bonding.
  • Said closed-cell polyethylene foam is commercially available from Astro-Valcour, Inc. of Glen Falls, New York, and Sentinel Products Corp. of Hyannis, Massachusetts.
  • Compartments 312 and, correspondingly foam grid members 314, are preferably created by die-cutting panel 310 comprising a planar sheet of polyethylene foam. A steel rule die or a water jet may be used.
  • the compartment 312 may be of any geometrical shape and in organized or offset patterns. Preferably, as shown in Fig.
  • a three-layer panel 310a is employed in which, for example, the inner layer 320 of polyethylene foam has a density of about 1.7 pounds and a thickness of about H inch and the outer layers 321 have a density of about 4 pounds and a thickness of about VB inch. Other densities and widths that allow for flexibility of foam grid members 314 and display 10 may also be used. When foam grid members 314 are formed using this three- layer embodiment, the strength and durability of the display 10 and of foam grid members 314 are significantly increased.
  • Three- layer panel 310a is formed by simply heat bonding outer layers 321 to the top and bottom of inner layer 320. No adhesive is necessary.
  • the single layer panel 310 and three layer panel 310a are preferably translucent m color which is an important feature if back lighting is used to nullify the appearance of foam grid members 314 and highlight the appearance of the balloons.
  • Three-layer panel 310a is particularly well-suited for balloon displays using Microfoil® balloons.
  • the seam and neck of a Microfoil® balloon can be concealed in the low density inner layer 320 to improve the aesthetic appearance of tne display 10, as illustrated in Fig. 42.
  • the relationship of inner layer 320 and outer layers 321 creates a pocket effect for the seam and neck of a Microfoil® balloon and the neck of a latex balloon to hide the same from view and also to further secure the balloon in compartment 312.
  • balloon B is inserted into compartment 312 and held m place by the pneumatic pressure against interior sides 316a.
  • Various sized and colored balloons may be used to create a design.
  • the flexible foam panels 310 and 310a may be die-cut such that the compartments form a design or the panels themselves are in a particular design.
  • Fig. 41 is an example of one such design of a fish.
  • panels 310 and 310a may be die-cut into compartment design formats and then heat-formed into three-dimensional shapes.
  • the foam panels 310 and 310a can be hand or machine formed into various shapes and then held in place by aluminum rods 280, preferably trapped against inner layer 320 through the use of clips, ties or other attachment means either between sections of panel 310a or between a balloon and foam grid member 3]
  • Clip 332 as shown in Figs. 38 and 39, is the suggested attachment for foam grid member 314 to foam grid member 314 connection as well as foam grid member 314 to rod 280 to foam grid member 314 connection.
  • Clip 332 is preferred over cable ties to prevent ripping of the foam. Numerous design variations can be incorporated into foam display 10. First, as shown in Fig. 36, apertures 360 may be cut into the foam at intersections or the edges of foam grid memoers 314 for the insertion of lights.
  • slots 365 and holes 370 can be cut into interior sides 316 of foam grid members 314 as means for securing the necks of balloons to panel 310 or 310a.
  • pieces of foam, with or without compartments 312 cut therein, may be tucked between balloon B and foam grid member 314 to create a perpendicular attachment to display 10.
  • FIG. 41 several pieces 380 of foam are affixed in this manner to create the fins of the fish.
  • a graphic 385 can also be applied to panel 310 as illustrated by the head of the fish in Fig. 41.
  • a designer could use two panels 310 or 310a parallel to and proximate to each other in which each balloon B is held in two corresponding compartments 312.
  • Fifth as shown in Fig. 40, flexible foam panels 310 and 310a can be deformed to create a curved display 10.
  • Pre-formed aluminum rods 390 are then affixed with clips 332 or other similar means to the foam grid members 314 to maintain the curved shape.
  • Sixth, as shown in Fig. 45, the sides of panels 310 and 310a can be affixed together through the use of acrylic adhesive 395 to form a larger display 10.
  • FIG. 44 illustrates an alternative embodiment 100 of applicants' invention.
  • Display 100 is comprised of a second set 110b of grid members 166.
  • Second set 110b of grid members 166 have a front side 136 and a back side 138.
  • Grid members 166 are each shaped to form compartments 14.
  • Display 100 is further comprised of a rigid frame 140.
  • First set 110a of grid members 114 and second set 110b of grid members 166 are rigidly attached to rigid frame 140 such that back side 144 of first set 110a of grid members 114 is proximate to and parallel to front side 136 of second set 110b of grid members 166.
  • Compartments 12, shaped by first set 110a of grid members 114, are symmetric to compartments 14, shaped by second set 110b of grid members 166, creating three-dimensional compartments 146 for receipt of at least one inflated balloon.
  • display 100 can also utilize three-dimensional compartments 146 of the same or different sizes.
  • Three dimensional compartments 146 may be square, rectangular, round or any desired geometric shape dependent on the shape of grid members 114 and 166 and the distance between first set 110a and second set 110b, the preferred shape being about 6" by about 6" by about 14" squares.
  • Rigid frame 140 is comprised of at least three arm memoers 152 rigidly joined in a generally triangular shape, and in the preferred embodiment four arm members 152 rigidly join in a generally rectangular shape.
  • a square shape is considered to be included within a rectangular shape.
  • Arm members 152 each nave first end 154, second end 156 and midsection 158.
  • first set 110a of grid members 114 are comprised of first set of rod-shaped segments 148 and second set of rod-shaped segments 150.
  • first set of rod-shaped segments 148 and second set of rod-shaped segments 150 are rigidly attached to mid-sections 158a-d of arms 152a-d such that first set of rod-shaped segments 148 are perpendicular to second set of rod-shaped segments 150 creating a majority of rectangular shaped compartments 12.
  • Second set 110b of grid members 166 are similarly comprised and attached to rigid frame 140.
  • Rod-shaped segments 148 and 150, as well as the rod-shaped segments of second set 110b of grid members 166 are comprised of substantially rigid material such as plastic coated or painted wire, wooden slats, plastic or other materials which are substantially rigid, the preferred being painted wire.
  • the rod- shaped segments are attached by welding, nails or other attaching means complimentary to the material used in making the rod-shaped segments .
  • display 100 may be used with either latex L or Microfoil® M balloons or a combination of both (not shown) .
  • midsection 158 of rigid frame 140 contains openings 160 for receiving fastening means 162 (see Fig. 13) for securing a second display 100 or other inanimate objects to display 100 as shown in Fig. 13. Openings 160 may be of various shapes and sizes for ease of fastening.
  • Fastening means 162 may be bolts, screws, clips or other materials which secure display 100 to an inanimate object. Figs.
  • Display 100 may be supported by feet fixedly attached to arms 152 of rigid frame 140.
  • the feet may be t- shaped or any other suitably designed shape that will add stability to display 100.
  • a balloon is inflated and tied.
  • the tied portion is then inserted between set 110a of grid members 114 and second set 110b of grid members 166 into three-dimensional compartment 146.
  • the tied off portion of the balloon is pulled through the bottom edge of three-dimensional compartment 146 such that balloon B is held by three-dimensional compartment 146.
  • Microfoil® balloons are used, a similar procedure is used wherein the tab of the Microfoil balloon is pulled through three-dimensional compartment 146 as discussed above.
  • balloon B is simply pushed into three- dimensional compartments 14 6 and the tied port ion i s then tucked into three-dimensional compartments 14 6 such that i t i s h i dden from view .

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Abstract

A three-dimensional balloon display (10) comprising a grid array comprised of at least one set of grid members (114), each set of grid members (114) having a front side and a back side. The grid members (114) are each shaped to form a compartment (12) for receipt of at least one inflated balloon (B). The compartments (12) have an interior side (116) and an exterior side (118). An inflated balloon (B) is maintained in the compartment (12) by the pneumatic pressure within the inflated balloon (B) exerted against the interior side (116) of the compartment (12) to create the three-dimensional display (10). In an alternative embodiment, a second set of grid members (110b) is aligned with the first set of grid members (110a) to create a three-dimensional compartment (146) for receipt of the inflated balloon (B). In another alternative embodiment, the grid members (210) are made of a flexible material such as polyethylene foam, nylon netting, coated steel wire, plastic or other like materials which allow for the display (10) to be curved or twisted at various angles to vary the appearance of the display (10). Sections of these flexible materials may be affixed together through the use of adhesives, clips or other attachment means. Further, the sections may be affixed to support rods or to rigid grid arrays to form an upright display (10).

Description

METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR BALLOON DISPLAYS
FIELD OF THE INVENTION This invention relates to decorative designs utilizing balloons and, more particularly, to an apparatus which utilizes a grid and balloons for artistic, three-dimensional displays.
RELATED APPLICATIONS This is a continuation-m-part of Application Serial Number 08/190,444 filed February 1, 1994 and Application Serial Number 08/289,669 filed August 12, 1994.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION The current practice of using balloons for decorative purposes normally requires a plurality of balloons tied together, forming animated objects and other decorative motifs. For example, in U.S. Patents 4,850,926, 4,927,400 and 4,941,856, rigid, rod-like forms are used to stretch inflated balloons to deform them and connect several balloons together for multiple balloon displays. Each balloon in the display is inflated. U.S. Patent 5,141,463 utilizes a rigid rod in the balloon or meir-orane and the membrane is then inflated. U.S. Patent 4,226,902 utilizes a flat back on which a gas-tight envelope is mounted and inflated. Other prior art methods include inserting balloons within balloons and inflating the inner as well as the outer balloon. In each case cited above, the outer envelope of the decorative object must be airtight to allow inflation of the outer envelope. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present invention is to an apparatus for making three- dimensional balloon displays. The apparatus is comprised of a grid array. The grid array has at least one set of grid members, with each grid member shaped to form a compartment for receipt of at least one inflated balloon. Each compartment has an interior and exterior side. The balloons are maintained within the compartment by the pneumatic pressure within the inflated balloon exerted against the interior side of the compartment. The compartments may be of any geometrical shape. Additionally, one or more balloons may be inserted in each compartment, each balloon being of the same or different color to form a distinct design. In a first alternative embodiment, the apparatus is further comprised of a second set of grid members with each grid member shaped to form a compartment and a rigid frame attached to both sets of grid members. In this alternative embodiment, the first and second sets of grid members are positioned such that the back side of the first set of grid members is proximate to and parallel to the front side of the second set of grid members. The compartments shaped by the first set of grid members are symmetric to the compartments shaped by the second set of grid members, creating a three-dimensional compartment for receipt of at least one inflated balloon. The rigid frame may be metal, plastic, wood or other suitable material. In the preferred embodiment, the rigid frame contains openings for attaching other inanimate objects to the display apparatus, which may include additional apparatus of the present invention or other decorative devices such as frames, bridges, trellises, etc. The frame can be strengthened through the use of electrical conduit as means for connecting sections of grid members. In a second alternative embodiment, the grid members are made of a flexible netting material such as nylon netting or coated steel wire. The compartments formed by the netting grid members may be of any geometrical shape. The use of netting griα members permits the display to be positioned at different angles to vary its appearance. The nylon netting is coated with water- based latex adhesive to increase the friction and grip to the latex or foil surface of a balloon lodged into a compartment. This coating also functions to keep the netting clean and prevent fraying of the nylon when it is cut by a decorator into the various shapes desired. The steel wire is coated with urethane to also increase the friction and grip to the latex or foil surface of a balloon lodged into a compartment. Sections of the flexible netting grid members may be connected by clipping the sections together through the use of plastic clips or other similar means. The clips are preferably transparent in color so as to not affect the aesthetic appearance of the display. The netting grid members may also be connected to rigid or semi-rigid rods through the use of preferably translucent plastic clips. The rods can then be inserted into a base plate to hold the display upright. In the preferred embodiment, other objects such as rigid grid members, foam grid members, frames, bridges, trellises, etc. may be attached to or incorporate the present invention using the flexible netting grid members embodiment. In a third alternative embodiment, the grid members are made of a flexible foam or plastic material, preferably closed-cell polyethylene foam. Preferably, the compartments are die-cut from a substrate of a planar sheet of the foam thereby creating foam grid members. Said compartments may be cut into any geometrical shape and in any pattern. It is preferred that a three-layer foam substrate be used to create the foam grid members. This three-layer structure significantly increases the strength of the display. For example, the inner layer of polyethylene closed- cell foam may have a density of about 1.7 pounds and a thickness of H inch and the outer layers may have a density of about 4 pounds and a thickness of Vβ inch. Additionally, holes and slits may be die-cut or otherwise formed in the foam grid members to hold balloons to increase the aesthetic appearance of the display. The neck of an inflated balloon is lodged into a hole by sliding it through the slit which opens to the compartment and leads to the hole. Panels of the foam grid members may be affixed together through the use of acrylic adhesives, tape, clips or other similar means. In the preferred embodiment, other objects such as rigid grid members, frames, bridges, trellises, etc. may be attached to or incorporate the present invention using the foam grid members embodiment. For all above embodiments, once the balloons are placed in the compartments, lights may be positioned behind selected balloons to illuminate the outlines of various designs. Also, selected balloons may have a small explosive charge attached to burst selected balloons to provide a design of balloons and openings. The technical advance represented by the invention, as well as the objects thereof, will become apparent from the following description of a preferred embodiment of the invention when considered in conjunction with the accompanying drawings and the novel features set forth in the appended claims.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Fig. 1 illustrates a frontal view of display 10 with several balloons mounted therein. Fig. 2 is a side view of a portion of display 10 with two balloons inserted in the compartments. Fig. 3 is a side view of display 10 with two balloons inserted in the compartments and a third balloon between the first two balloons. Fig. 4 is a perspective view of display 10 utilizing different color balloons to form a design. Fig. 5 is a perspective view of display 10 as in Fig. 4, with additional balloons to add more dimension to the design. Fig. 6 is a perspective view of pivotal joining device 30. Fig. 6a is a perspective view of a junction device 60. Fig. 7 shows the formation of a rigid grid member 114 using pivotal joining device 30 of Fig. 6. Fig. 8 is a frontal view of display 10 wherein segments 112 are circular to form a grid array in a snowman design. Fig. 9 illustrates the bending of display 10 to form a curved display. Fig. 10 is a perspective view of applicants' alternative embodiment, display 100. Fig. 11 is an expanded view of a corner of display 100. Fig. 12 is a front perspective view of applicants' alternative embodiment, display 100, in use with Microfoil® aluminized film balloons (MICROFOIL® is a registered trademark of Continental American Corporation d/b/a Pioneer Balloon Company) . Fig. 13 is a front perspective view of applicants' alternative embodiment, display 100, in use with latex balloons and attached to a second display 100. Fig. 14 is a front perspective view of applicants' alternative embodiment, display 10 with several balloons mounted therein. Fig. 15 is a front perspective view of display 10 in use with fourth clips 235 to create a diagonal appearance of flexible grid members 210. Fig. 16 is a front perspective view of display 10 in use with third clips 234. Fig. 17 is a right end perspective view of first clip 232. Fig. 18 is a top perspective view of first clip 232. Fig. 19 is a left end perspective view of first clip 232. Fig. 20 is a side perspective view of first clip 232 Fig. 21 is a left end perspective view of second clip 233. Fig. 22 is a top perspective view of second clip 233. Fig. 23 is a right end perspective view of second clip 233. Fig. 24 is a right side perspective view of second clip 233. Fig. 25 is a left side perspective view of second clip 233. Fig. 26 is an end perspective view of third clip 234. Fig. 27 is a top perspective view of third clip 234. Fig. 28 is a right side perspective view of third clip 234. Fig. 29 is a left side perspective view of third clip 234. Fig. 30 is a top perspective view of fourth clip 235. Fig. 31 is a side perspective view of fourth clip 235. Fig. 32 is a frontal perspective view of display 10 having rigid grid members and used in conjunction with and attached to display 10 having flexible netting grid members. Fig. 33 is a frontal perspective view of the alternative embodiment display 10 employing foam grid members in which the compartments are square-shaped. Fig. 34 is a frontal perspective view of display 10 in which the compartments are circular-shaped and aligned in rows and columns. Fig. 35 is a frontal perspective view of display 10 in which the circular compartments are in a random pattern. Fig. 36 is a frontal perspective view of display 10 in which holes and slits are cut into the foam grid members for the insertion of balloons and lights. Fig. 37 is a cross-sectional view of the three-layer foam construction of the foam grid members in an alternative embodiment of display 10. Fig. 38 is a side perspective view of clip 332 in the closed position. Fig. 39 is a side perspective view of clip 332 in the open position. Fig. 40 is a top perspective view of an S-shaped display 10 using formed aluminum rods. Fig. 41 is a frontal perspective view of a fish-shaped display 10 in which sections of foam material are tucked into and affixed to said display. Fig. 42 is a side perspective view of display 10 in use with a Microfoil® balloon. Fig. 43 is a side perspective view of display 10 in which two panels are aligned so that one balloon is contained in corresponding compartments of said panels. Fig. 44 is a frontal perspective view of an alternative design employing foam panel display 10 with other apparatus of the present invention. Fig. 45 is a frontal perspective view of four foam panel displays 10 affixed together by acrylic adhesive to form a larger foam panel display 10.
DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS Throughout this description, small alphabetical numbers are generally used to indicate multiple items of the same kind. Referring to Fig. 1, applicants' display 10 is comprised of at least one set 110a of rigid grid members 114a-p. In other embodiments, additional or fewer grid members 114 may be used as reflected m Figs. 4 and 9. Each grid member 114 is shaped to form a compartment 12 for receipt of at least one inflated balloon B. Each compartment 12 has an interior side 116 and an exterior side 118. In Fig. 1, compartment 12a has an exterior side 118a which is also a portion of interior side 116b and a portion of interior side 116d. In Fig. 1, balloon Bl is maintained in compartment 12g by the pneumatic pressure within balloon Bl exerted against interior side 116g of compartment 12g. As illustrated in Fig. 1, balloons B1-B4 are inserted into adjacent compartments 12f, 12], 12k and held in place by interior sides 116f, 116j and 116k. Balloon SI is centrally located to balloons B1-B4. Balloon SI may be held in place by the pneumatic pressure of the air in balloons B1-B4, or may be tied at a portion of grid members 114f, 114h, 114j or 114k. In addition to utilizing various size balloons, various color balloons may also be used to produce a design. As shown in Fig. 4, a plurality of different color balloons are inserted m various compartments 12 to produce a Christmas tree design. Other designs of animate and inanimate objects may also be designed. Display 10 may also utilize compartments 12 of the same or different sizes. Compartments 12 may be square, rectangular, round, or any desired geometric shape dependent on the shape of grid members 114. Referring to Fig. 8, grid members 114a-e are circular. Display 10 may be made of any rigid material, such as wire, plastic, or wood and also may be made of a flexible material so as to distort and bend into a desired shape as shown m Fig. 9. Fig. 2 is a side view of a portion of display 10 showing two latex balloons Bl and B2 extending through compartments 12a-12b of grid members 114a, 114b. As shown in Fig. 2, latex balloons will distort to accommodate to the size of compartment 12. Consequently, in all embodiments, latex balloons will generally be larger on each side of compartment 12 of grid members 114 and will inflate to expand and touch adjacent balloons, concealing grid members 114. Fig. 3 is the same as Fig. 2, with the addition of balloon S inserted between balloons Bl and B2. The tied end of balloon S is secured to grid member 114a between balloons Bl and B2. As discussed above in reference to Fig. 1, balloon S may also be inserted in compartment 12a along with balloon Bl, with the pneumatic pressure within balloons Bl and S and interior side 116a of compartment 12a holding balloons Bl and SI m place. Although not shown, two balloons may also be tied together with the tied portion stretching across grid member 114. In the display of Fig. 4, a plurality of, for example, green balloons G (as reflected by the shading) are inserted through selected compartments 12 to form a Christmas tree. Other non-green balloons N (nonshaded balloons) are placed in compartments 12 not occupied by green balloons. With the green and non-green balloons inserted in the correct compartments 12, a display representative of a Christmas tree is formed. Any other animate or inanimate objects may be displayed by placing balloons of different colors in proper compartments 12 to outline the desired object. Fig. 5 illustrates the same basic design of a Christmas tree as in Fig. 4 with balloons S tied at intersections 164 of grid members 114. Balloons S may be, for example, red balloons to represent ornaments or lights on the Christmas tree. Small electric lights (not illustrated) may be placed adjacent some of balloons S to illuminate them and to give the effect of lights. Fig. 6 illustrates a pivotal joining device 30 which may be utilized in forming display 10. Plate 31 is comprised of first face 120 and second face 122. First fastener member 32 is comprised of segment receiving section 124 and pivotal attaching section 126. Pivotal attaching section 126 of first fastener member 32 is pivotally attached to first face 120 of plate 31. Second fastener member 33 is comprised of segment receiving section 128 and pivotal attaching section 130. Pivotal attaching section 130 of second fastener member 33 is pivotally attached to second face 122 of plate 31. Fastener members 32 and 33 are preferably flexible so that segments 132 of grid members 114 may be inserted and held in place by the spring action of segment receiving sections 124 and 128. As shown in Fig. 7, a plurality of pivotal joining devices 30a-d are used to connect a plurality of segments 132a-d to form a display 10 having a plurality of compartments 12 into which inflated balloons are inserted. Display 10 as shown m Figs. 1-5 may be constructed utilizing a plurality of segments 132 and pivotal joining devices 30. Fig. 7 illustrates a display 10 having square or rectangular compartments 12, but triangular or other geometric shaped compartments may be assembled using pivotal joining devices 30 and segments 132. For example, Fig. 8 illustrates the use of circular grid members 114 joined by pivotal joining devices 30 (not shown) . In display 10 as illustrated in Fig. 8, balloons may be inserted into compartments 12 of grid members 114 to form a snowman. Fig. 6a shows a junction device 60 that can be used for the side of display 10. Junction device 60 has channel 61 with an opening 63 to hold a segment 132. Extending at a right angle from channel 61 is channel 62 having an opening 64 to receive a segment 132. Junction device 60 is useful in forming the outer sides of display 10. The openings 63 and 64 in junction device 60 are to the side of a channel. Channels 61 and 62 could be tubes with rods inserted in the ends of the channel. Fig. 9 shows a flexible display 10 that may be shaped by twisting and curving to provide a decorative display 10 into which inflated balloons are inserted. Flexible display 10 may be manufactured and sold in rolls so that sections may be cut from the roll to form a desired decorative display. To provide three-dimensional effects, several grid frames may be attached to each other, some of which may be flat, some rolled and some twisted. Balloons are then inserted in various grid openings to produce the desired display. Fig. 14 illustrates an alternative embodiment display 10 of the present invention which is comprised of at least one set of flexible netting grid members 210 which are made of a flexible netting material such as nylon netting or coated steel wire. In other embodiments, additional or fewer netting grid members 210 may be used as reflected in Figs. 15, 16 and 32. Each netting grid member 210 is shaped to form a compartment 212 for receipt of at least one inflated balloon B. Each compartment has an interior side 216 and an exterior side 218. In Fig. 14, compartment 212a has an exterior side 218a which is also a portion of interior side 216a. In Fig. 14, balloon Bl is maintained in compartment 212b by the pneumatic pressure within balloon Bl exerted against interior side 216b of compartment 212b. Preferably, grid members 210 are made of a flexible netting material such as nylon netting or coated steel wire. The nylon netting is coated with water-based latex adhesive to increase the friction and the grip to the latex or foil surface of a balloon lodged into a compartment. This coating also functions to keep the netting clean and prevent fraying of the nylon when it is cut by a decorator into the various shapes desired. Alternatively, if steel wire is used, it is coated with urethane to likewise increase the friction and grip to the latex or foil surface of a balloon lodged into a compartment. As illustrated in Fig. 14, balloons B1-B3 are inserted into adjacent compartments 212c and 212d and held in place by interior sides 216c and 216d. Although not shown, a balloon may be placed between balloons B1-B3 in a similar manner, to balloon SI in Fig. 1. Such a balloon may be held in place by the pneumatic pressure of the air in the balloons B1-B3 (and those surrounding them) , or may be tied or clipped at a segment of netting grid members 210a, 210b or 210c, such as flexible netting segments 242a, 242b or 242c. Display 10 employing the flexible netting grid members may also utilize compartments 212 of the same or different sizes. Compartments 212 may be square, rectangular, or any desired geometric shape dependent on the shape of netting grid members 210. Referring to Figs. 14-16, netting grid members 210 are square. Figs. 14, 15 and 16 illustrate rod 280 having either first clip 232, second clip 233, or third clip 234 attached thereto as means for affixing sections of flexible grid members 210 to rod 280. Rod 280 may be made of any rigid material, such as metal, wire, plastic, or wood and also may be made of a flexible material so as to distort and bend into any desired shape such as that shown in Fig. 32. First clip 232 is illustrated in Figs. 17-20 as well as Fig. 14, as mentioned above. First clip 232 is preferably made of a rigid plastic material and is transparent in color so as to not affect the aesthetic appearance of display 10. First clip 232 has orifice 240 which has a plurality of curvatures 241 which correspondingly fit various sizes of rod 280 as rod 280 is fed through clip 232. The location of clip 232 may be adjusted by simply sliding it along rod 280. Clip 232 further has opening 242 in which a segment of flexible grid member 210 is seated so as to affix flexible grid member 210 to rod 280. Second clip 233 is illustrated in Figs. 21-25. Clip 233 is preferably made of a rigid plastic material and is transparent in color so as to not affect the aesthetic appearance of display 10. Clip 233 has a larger orifice 250 than orifice 240 of clip 232 in order to engage rods 280 which are larger in diameter and do not fit within orifice 240. Clip 233 is adjustably and detachably affixed to rod 280 by the relationship of a plurality of first teeth 251 and second teeth 252. A segment of flexible grid members 210 is then affixed to rod 280 through the use of clip 233, seating the segment within curvature 253. Third clip 234 is illustrated in Figs. 26-29. Clip 234 is likewise preferably a rigid transparent plastic material. Clip 234 has opening 260 in which rod 280 is detachably affixed. The position of clip 234 may then be adjusted by sliding it up or down rod 280. Clip 234 is also comprised of at least two openings 261 and 262 in which segments of flexible grid me oers 210 are inserted to detachably connect flexible grid members 210 to rod 280. Fourth clip 235 is illustrated in Figs. 30-31 and like clips 232, 233 and 234, is preferably made of transparent rigid plastic material. Similar to first clip 232, fourth clip 235 has orifice 270 having a plurality of curvatures 271 so as to fit various sizes of rod 280. Fourth clip 235 has at least two apertures 272 and 273 in which segments of flexible grid members are 210 seated to affix them to rod 280. Fig. 32 illustrates the use of display 10 having rigid grid members used in conjunction with and attached to display 10 having flexible netting grid members. Referring to Figs. 33-37 and 40-45, display 10 is comprised of at least one panel 310 of flexible foam grid members 314. Additional or fewer grid members 314 may be used as reflected in Figs. 41 and 44. Each grid member 314 is shaped to form a compartment 312 for receipt of at least one inflated balloon B. Each compartment 312 has an interior side 316 and an exterior side 318. To use display 10 employing the flexible foam grid members, a balloon is inflated and tied. In one method, tne tied portion is then inserted into compartment 312 such that the tied portion is hidden from view. If a Microfoil® balloon is used, the balloon is inserted so that the seam and valve opening are hidden from view, preferably by placing said seam and valve opening against interior side 316. Such placement is illustrated in Fig. 42 which is a bottom view of a Microfoil® balloon M within the foam grid member 314 which has been cut away to show the orientation of the seam and neck. In Fig. 33, balloon B is maintained in compartment 312a by the pneumatic pressure within balloon B exerted against interior side 316a of compartment 312a. Alternatively, ballloon B may be tied, cl ipped or inserted into f lexible foam segments 342a, 342b or 342c . The flexible foam material is preferably closed-cell polyethylene foam but may be of any suitable similar material. The polyethylene foam is preferred because it is low in cost, non-toxic, flame resistant and durable. Further, it does not absorb water and it has an exceptional tactile surface for handling and bonding. Said closed-cell polyethylene foam is commercially available from Astro-Valcour, Inc. of Glen Falls, New York, and Sentinel Products Corp. of Hyannis, Massachusetts. Compartments 312 and, correspondingly foam grid members 314, are preferably created by die-cutting panel 310 comprising a planar sheet of polyethylene foam. A steel rule die or a water jet may be used. The compartment 312 may be of any geometrical shape and in organized or offset patterns. Preferably, as shown in Fig. 37, a three-layer panel 310a is employed in which, for example, the inner layer 320 of polyethylene foam has a density of about 1.7 pounds and a thickness of about H inch and the outer layers 321 have a density of about 4 pounds and a thickness of about VB inch. Other densities and widths that allow for flexibility of foam grid members 314 and display 10 may also be used. When foam grid members 314 are formed using this three- layer embodiment, the strength and durability of the display 10 and of foam grid members 314 are significantly increased. Three- layer panel 310a is formed by simply heat bonding outer layers 321 to the top and bottom of inner layer 320. No adhesive is necessary. The single layer panel 310 and three layer panel 310a are preferably translucent m color which is an important feature if back lighting is used to nullify the appearance of foam grid members 314 and highlight the appearance of the balloons. Three-layer panel 310a is particularly well-suited for balloon displays using Microfoil® balloons. The seam and neck of a Microfoil® balloon can be concealed in the low density inner layer 320 to improve the aesthetic appearance of tne display 10, as illustrated in Fig. 42. Further, due to the different densities, the relationship of inner layer 320 and outer layers 321 creates a pocket effect for the seam and neck of a Microfoil® balloon and the neck of a latex balloon to hide the same from view and also to further secure the balloon in compartment 312. As illustrated in Fig. 33, balloon B is inserted into compartment 312 and held m place by the pneumatic pressure against interior sides 316a. Various sized and colored balloons may be used to create a design. Likewise, the flexible foam panels 310 and 310a may be die-cut such that the compartments form a design or the panels themselves are in a particular design. Fig. 41 is an example of one such design of a fish. Further, panels 310 and 310a may be die-cut into compartment design formats and then heat-formed into three-dimensional shapes. The foam panels 310 and 310a can be hand or machine formed into various shapes and then held in place by aluminum rods 280, preferably trapped against inner layer 320 through the use of clips, ties or other attachment means either between sections of panel 310a or between a balloon and foam grid member 3] Clip 332, as shown in Figs. 38 and 39, is the suggested attachment for foam grid member 314 to foam grid member 314 connection as well as foam grid member 314 to rod 280 to foam grid member 314 connection. Clip 332 is preferred over cable ties to prevent ripping of the foam. Numerous design variations can be incorporated into foam display 10. First, as shown in Fig. 36, apertures 360 may be cut into the foam at intersections or the edges of foam grid memoers 314 for the insertion of lights. Second, as shown in Fig. 36, slots 365 and holes 370 can be cut into interior sides 316 of foam grid members 314 as means for securing the necks of balloons to panel 310 or 310a. Third, pieces of foam, with or without compartments 312 cut therein, may be tucked between balloon B and foam grid member 314 to create a perpendicular attachment to display 10. For example, as shown in Fig. 41, several pieces 380 of foam are affixed in this manner to create the fins of the fish. A graphic 385 can also be applied to panel 310 as illustrated by the head of the fish in Fig. 41. Fourth, as shown in Fig. 43, a designer could use two panels 310 or 310a parallel to and proximate to each other in which each balloon B is held in two corresponding compartments 312. Fifth, as shown in Fig. 40, flexible foam panels 310 and 310a can be deformed to create a curved display 10. Pre-formed aluminum rods 390 are then affixed with clips 332 or other similar means to the foam grid members 314 to maintain the curved shape. Sixth, as shown in Fig. 45, the sides of panels 310 and 310a can be affixed together through the use of acrylic adhesive 395 to form a larger display 10. Other applications of the flexible foam embodiment include: aerial displays, pool displays, fountain displays, framed sculptures, pre-formed sculptures, designs incorporating business logos, aerial balloon corrals to hold inflated balloons, point of purchase displays, point of sale displays, and table centerpieces. One such combination is illustrated in Fig. 44. Fig. 10 illustrates an alternative embodiment 100 of applicants' invention. Display 100 is comprised of a second set 110b of grid members 166. Second set 110b of grid members 166 have a front side 136 and a back side 138. Grid members 166 are each shaped to form compartments 14. Display 100 is further comprised of a rigid frame 140. First set 110a of grid members 114 and second set 110b of grid members 166 are rigidly attached to rigid frame 140 such that back side 144 of first set 110a of grid members 114 is proximate to and parallel to front side 136 of second set 110b of grid members 166. Compartments 12, shaped by first set 110a of grid members 114, are symmetric to compartments 14, shaped by second set 110b of grid members 166, creating three-dimensional compartments 146 for receipt of at least one inflated balloon. Like display 10, display 100 can also utilize three-dimensional compartments 146 of the same or different sizes. Three dimensional compartments 146 may be square, rectangular, round or any desired geometric shape dependent on the shape of grid members 114 and 166 and the distance between first set 110a and second set 110b, the preferred shape being about 6" by about 6" by about 14" squares. Rigid frame 140 is comprised of at least three arm memoers 152 rigidly joined in a generally triangular shape, and in the preferred embodiment four arm members 152 rigidly join in a generally rectangular shape. A square shape is considered to be included within a rectangular shape. Arm members 152 each nave first end 154, second end 156 and midsection 158. In Figs. 10-13, first set 110a of grid members 114 are comprised of first set of rod-shaped segments 148 and second set of rod-shaped segments 150. As shown in Fig. 10, first set of rod-shaped segments 148 and second set of rod-shaped segments 150 are rigidly attached to mid-sections 158a-d of arms 152a-d such that first set of rod-shaped segments 148 are perpendicular to second set of rod-shaped segments 150 creating a majority of rectangular shaped compartments 12. Second set 110b of grid members 166 are similarly comprised and attached to rigid frame 140. Rod-shaped segments 148 and 150, as well as the rod-shaped segments of second set 110b of grid members 166, are comprised of substantially rigid material such as plastic coated or painted wire, wooden slats, plastic or other materials which are substantially rigid, the preferred being painted wire. The rod- shaped segments are attached by welding, nails or other attaching means complimentary to the material used in making the rod-shaped segments . As shown m Fig. 12 and Fig. 13, display 100 may be used with either latex L or Microfoil® M balloons or a combination of both (not shown) . As illustrated in Fig. 11, midsection 158 of rigid frame 140 contains openings 160 for receiving fastening means 162 (see Fig. 13) for securing a second display 100 or other inanimate objects to display 100 as shown in Fig. 13. Openings 160 may be of various shapes and sizes for ease of fastening. Fastening means 162 may be bolts, screws, clips or other materials which secure display 100 to an inanimate object. Figs. 12 and 13 illustrate a free-standing embodiment of display 100. Display 100 may be supported by feet fixedly attached to arms 152 of rigid frame 140. The feet may be t- shaped or any other suitably designed shape that will add stability to display 100. To use display 100, a balloon is inflated and tied. In one method, the tied portion is then inserted between set 110a of grid members 114 and second set 110b of grid members 166 into three-dimensional compartment 146. The tied off portion of the balloon is pulled through the bottom edge of three-dimensional compartment 146 such that balloon B is held by three-dimensional compartment 146. If Microfoil® balloons are used, a similar procedure is used wherein the tab of the Microfoil balloon is pulled through three-dimensional compartment 146 as discussed above. In another method, balloon B is simply pushed into three- dimensional compartments 14 6 and the tied port ion i s then tucked into three-dimensional compartments 14 6 such that i t i s hidden from view . The foregoing is considered illustrative only of the principles of the invention. Further, since numerous modifications may readily occur to those skilled in the art, it is not desired to limit the invention to the exact construction shown and described and, accordingly, all suitable modifications and equivalents may be resorted to, falling within the scope of the invention.

Claims

C L A I M SWhat is claimed and desired to be filed as Letters Patent is as follows:
1. A balloon display apparatus in combination with balloons, comprising: a. a grid array comprised of at least one set of grid members, said set of grid members having a front side and a back side; b. said grid members each shaped to form a compartment having depth for receipt of at least one inflated balloon, said balloon being deformably squeezed into said compartment; c. said compartments having an interior side and an exterior side, said inflated balloon being maintained deformed and squeezed in said compartment by the pneumatic pressure within said inflated balloon exerted against said interior side of said compartment to create a balloon display; and d. adjacent grid members meeting at an intersection.
2. The apparatus of Claim 1 wherein said set of grid members are formed by a plurality of segments.
3. The apparatus of Claim 2 wherein said segments are circular shaped.
4. The apparatus of Claim 2 wherein said segments are rod- shaped.
5. The apparatus of Claim 3 wherein said rod-shaped segments are the same length and circumference.
6. The apparatus of Claim 4 wherein said roα-shaped segments are divided into two sets; a. said segments in said first set of segments positioned about an equal distance apart; b. said segments in said second set of segments positioned about an equal distance apart; c. said first set of segments positioned generally perpendicular to said second set of segments.
7. The apparatus of Claim 2 wherein said segments are connected by pivotal joining devices, said pivotal joining devices comprised of: a. a plate with a first face and a second face; b. a first fastener member with a segment receiving section and a pivotal attaching section, said pivotal attaching section of said first fastener member pivotally attached to said first face of said plate; and c. a second fastener member with a segment receiving section and a pivotal attaching section; said pivotal attaching section of said second fastener member pivotally attached to said second face of said plate.
8. The apparatus of Claim 1 further comprising: a. a second set of grid members having a front side and a back side, said grid members each shaped to form a compartment, said adjacent grid members meeting at an intersection; and b. a rigid frame attached to said first and second sets of grid members such that said back side of said first set of grid members is proximate to and parallel to said front side of said second set of grid members, and said compartments shaped by said first set of grid members are symmetric to said compartments shaped by said second set of grid members creating a three-dimensional compartment for receipt of at least one inflated balloon.
9. The apparatus of Claim 8 wherein said compartments are commensurably sized to said inflated balloons.
10. The apparatus of Claim 8 wherein a. said first and said second sets of grid members are each comprised of: i. a first set of rod-shaped segments; and ii. a second set of rod-shaped segments; b. said rigid frame comprised of: i. at least three arm members rigidly joined, said arm members having a first and second end and a mid-section; and c. said first and second sets of rod-shaped segments attached to said mid-sections of said arm members such that said first set of rod-shaped segments are generally perpendicular to said second set of rod- shaped segments creating a majority of said three- dimensional compartments.
11. The apparatus of Claim 10 wherein said mid-section of said arm members contains openings for receiving a fastening member for securing an inanimate object to said apparatus.
12. A balloon display apparatus in combination with balloons, comprising: a. a grid array comprised of at least one set of grid members, said grid members having a front side and a back side; b. said grid members each shaped to form a compartment having depth for receipt of at least one inflated balloon, said balloon being deformably squeezed into said compartment; c. said compartments having an interior side and an exterior side, said inflated balloon being maintained in said compartment by the pneumatic pressure within said inflated balloon exerted against said interior side of said compartment to create said balloon display; d. said set of grid members comprised of segments connected by pivotal joining devices; and e. said pivotal joining devices comprised of: i. a plate with a first face and a second face; ii. a first fastener member with a segment receiving section and a pivotal attaching section, said pivotal attaching section of said first fastener member pivotally attached to said first face of said plate; and in. a second fastener member with a segment receiving section and a pivotal attaching section, said pivotal attaching section of said second fastener member pivotally attached to said second face of said plate.
13. A balloon display apparatus in combination with balloons, comprising: a. a grid array comprised of at least two sets of grid members, said sets of grid members having a front side and a back side; b. said first set of grid members each shaped to form a compartment with said adjacent grid members meeting at an intersection; c. said second set of grid members each shaped to form a compartment with said adjacent grid members meeting at an intersection; d. said compartments having an interior side and an exterior side; e. a rigid frame attached to said first and said second sets of grid members such that said back side of said first set of grid members is proximate to and parallel to said front side of said second set of grid members, and said compartments shaped by said first set of grid members are symmetric to said compartments shaped by said second set of grid members creating a three- dimensional compartment for receipt of at least one inflated balloon- and f. said inflated balloon being maintained in said three- dimensional compartment by the pneumatic pressure within said inflated balloon exerted against said interior sides of said compartments to create said balloon display.
14. The apparatus of Claim 13 wherein a. said first set and said second set of griα members are comprised of: l. a first set of rod-shaped segments; and ii. a second set of rod-shaped segments; b. said rigid frame comprised of at least four arm members rigidly joined in a geometrical shape, said arm members having a first and second end and a mid-section; and c. said first and second sets of rod-shaped segments attached to said mid-sections of said arm members such that said first set of rod-shaped segments are generally perpendicular to said second set of rod- shaped segments creating a majority of said three- dimensional compartments.
15. The apparatus of Claim 14 wherein said mid-section of said arm members contains openings for receiving a coupling member for securing an inanimate object to said apparatus.
16. The apparatus of Claim 14 further comprising at least one foot member attached to said apparatus to add stability to said apparatus.
17. A balloon display apparatus in combination with balloons, comprising: a. a grid array comprised of at least one set of grid members, said set of grid members having a front side and a back side; b. said grid members each shaped to form a compartment having depth for receipt of at least one inflated balloon, said balloon being deformably squeezed into said compartment; c. said compartment having an interior side and an exterior side, said inflated balloon being maintained in said compartment by the pneumatic pressure within said inflated balloon exerted against said interior side of said compartment to create a balloon display; d. adjacent grid members meeting at an intersection; and e. a rigid frame attached to said set of grid members.
18. The apparatus of Claim 1 wherein said grid members are made of a flexible material.
19. The apparatus of Claim 18 further comprising a frame attached to said set of flexible grid members to add stability and form to said display.
20. The apparatus of Claim 18 wherein said flexible grid members are formed by a plurality of flexible segments.
21. The apparatus of Claim 18 wherein said flexible segments are circular shaped.
22. The apparatus of Claim 18 wherein said flexible segments are the same length and circumference.
23. The apparatus of Claim 18 wherein said compartments are circular shaped.
24. The apparatus of Claim 18 wherein sections of said flexible grid members are connected together by clips.
25. The apparatus of Claim 22 wherein said flexible segments are divided into two sets; a. said flexible segments in said first set positioned about an equal distance apart; b. said segments in said second set positioned about an equal distance apart; and c. said first set of said flexible segments positioned generally perpendicular to said second set of said flexible segments.
26. The apparatus of claim 18 wherein said flexible grid members are comprised of nylon netting.
27. The apparatus of Claim 26 wherein said nylon netting is coated with a water-based latex adhesive to increase the friction and grip to the surface of said balloon within said compartment, said coating assists in keeping said nylon netting dirt-free and prevents fraying when said nylon netting is cut.
28. The apparatus of Claim 18 wherein said flexible grid members are comprised of steel wire.
29. The apparatus of Claim 28 wherein said steel wire is coated with urethane to increase the friction and grip to the surface of said balloon withm said compartment.
30. The apparatus of Claim 19 wherein said frame comprises rigid rods having clips connected thereto to affix said flexible segments to said rigid rods.
31. The apparatus of Claim 30 wherein said rigid rods are inserted into a base plate to hold the display upright.
32. The apparatus of Claim 19 wherein said frame comprises deformed rods having clips connected thereto to affix said flexible segments to said deformed rods to create a design shape .
33. The apparatus of Claim 18 wherein said flexible grid members are made of closed cell polyethylene foam.
34. The apparatus of Claim 33 wherein said foam ranges in density from about 1.7 pounds to 6 pounds.
35. The apparatus of Claim 18 wherein said flexible grid members are made of plastic.
36. A balloon display apparatus in combination with balloons, comprising: a. A grid array comprised of at least one set of flexible foam grid members, said members having a front side and a back side; b. said members each shaped to form a compartment having depth for receipt of at least one inflated balloon, said balloon being deformably squeezed into said compartment; c. said compartment commensurably sized to said inflated balloon; d. said compartment having an interior side and an exterior side, said inflated balloon being maintained in said compartment by the pneumatic pressure withm said inflated balloon exerted against said interior side of said compartment to create a balloon display; and e. adjacent flexible foam grid members meeting at an intersection.
37. A balloon display apparatus in combination with balloons, comprising: a. a planar panel of flexible material which has been die- cut to form at least one set of flexible grid members, said set of flexible grid members having a front side and a back side; b. said flexible grid members each die-cut and shaped to form a compartment having depth for receipt of at least one inflated balloon, said balloon being deformably squeezed into said compartment ; c. said compartment having an interior side and an exterior side and commensurably sized to said inflated balloon, said inflated balloon being maintained in said compartment by the pneumatic pressure withm said inflated balloon exerted against said interior side of said compartment to create a balloon display; and d. adjacent flexible grid members and compartments meeting at an intersection.
38. The apparatus of Claim 37 wherein said flexible material is comprised of closed cell polyethylene foam.
39. The apparatus of Claim 38 wherein said panel comprises three layers of said foam.
40. The apparatus of Claim 39 wherein said three-layered panel comprises a low density inner layer and high density outer layers.
41. The apparatus of Claim 40 wherein said outer layers are heat bonded to the top and bottom of said inner layer.
42. The apparatus of Claim 37 wherein said flexible material is plastic.
43. The apparatus of Claim 37 further comprising means for affixing inanimate objects to said intersections to enhance the aesthetic appearance of said display.
44. The apparatus of Claim 37 further comprising at least one hole at said intersection to allow for the attachment of inanimate objects to said display.
45. The apparatus of Claim 37 further comprising: a. at least one slot in said interior side of said flexible grid members; b. a hole connected to said slot and adjacent to said intersection; and c. an inflated balloon affixed to said display by sliding the neck of the balloon through the slot and securing said neck into said hole.
46. The apparatus of Claim 37 further comprising at least one curved rigid rod affixed to said panel to bend said panel of flexible grid members.
47 The apparatus of Claim 37 further comprising at least two of said panels affixed end to end by acrylic adhesive.
48. The apparatus of Claim 40 wherein said inner layer has a density of about 1.7 pounds and said outer layers have a density of about 4 pounds.
49. The apparatus of Claim 40 wherein said inner layer has a thickness of about inch and said outer layers have a thickness of abut 1/8 inch.
50. The apparatus of Claim 8 wherein said grid members are comprised of a flexible foam material.
PCT/US1997/011942 1996-07-08 1997-07-08 Method and apparatus for balloon displays WO1998001844A1 (en)

Priority Applications (1)

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Applications Claiming Priority (2)

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US67693796A 1996-07-08 1996-07-08
US08/676,937 1996-07-08

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Cited By (2)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US6631811B2 (en) 2001-08-31 2003-10-14 Cti Industries Corporation Display device for inflated buoyant novelty balloons
US6745904B1 (en) 2000-01-06 2004-06-08 Cti Industries Corporation Display rack for inflated buoyant novelty balloons

Citations (2)

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Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US1642022A (en) * 1925-03-03 1927-09-13 James H Groh Sign
US2247635A (en) * 1939-02-23 1941-07-01 Charles C Illers Dart game

Patent Citations (2)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US1642022A (en) * 1925-03-03 1927-09-13 James H Groh Sign
US2247635A (en) * 1939-02-23 1941-07-01 Charles C Illers Dart game

Cited By (2)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US6745904B1 (en) 2000-01-06 2004-06-08 Cti Industries Corporation Display rack for inflated buoyant novelty balloons
US6631811B2 (en) 2001-08-31 2003-10-14 Cti Industries Corporation Display device for inflated buoyant novelty balloons

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