Padded container device for works of art

Abstract

A padded container for works of art, characterized in that it comprises a plurality of elongated bodies (1), each of which comprises at least one independent air chamber inside, said bodies (1) being fixed together along their longer sides and along one of their shorter sides, forming a closed structure; further comprising a main inflation valve (2) disposed in one of the bodies (1) located at one end of the container, said main valve (2) being pneumatically connected to the air chambers of the remaining bodies (1) by means of interconnection between adjacent bodies (1), each interconnection having a non-return valve configured to allow the passage of air during inflation and prevent its return.

Description

Padded container device for works of art OBJECT OF THE INVENTION The object of the present invention, as its title indicates, is a padded container for works of art. This innovation offers advantages previously unknown within current techniques. The present invention is characterized by the special functional and constructive characteristics of the elements that form part of the device, so that they all contribute to the achievement of a padded container device for works of art that guarantees the protection and preservation of works of art, which combines an inflatable structure with advanced protection characteristics. TECHNICAL SECTOR Therefore, the present invention is circumscribed within the scope of containers or cases intended for works of art. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION With reference to the current state of the art, it should be noted that, although various designs of containers for works of art are known, the existence of any other that presents structural and constitutive technical characteristics equal or similar to those presented by the invention claimed herein is unknown. EXPLANATION OF THE INVENTION The invention relates to a padded container for works of art, specifically designed for their protection. This device combines innovative and functional features to ensure the safety and preservation of artworks during storage or transport. It has been conceived as an advanced solution against the risks of physical, environmental, and handling damage. Specifically, the invention proposes, as previously mentioned, a padded container for works of art comprising a plurality of elongated bodies, each with at least one independent air chamber inside. These bodies are joined repeatedly, both along their longer sides and along one of their shorter sides. This configuration of interconnected elongated bodies gives the device dimensional and shaping flexibility, allowing the container to adapt, through deformation of the inflatable bodies, to different sizes and shapes of artworks during use, from canvases and sculptures to more complex three-dimensional pieces. The resulting container provides uniform and efficient protection. This design is particularly useful for cultural institutions, museums, galleries, collectors, and artists who handle a wide variety of pieces with unique dimensions and characteristics. A key feature of the device is the functional independence of the air chambers in each unit. Each chamber is designed to operate autonomously, meaning that if one chamber is damaged or leaks, the others remain intact and functional. This approach not only enhances the system's reliability but also extends its lifespan, reducing the risks associated with transporting or storing the artworks. This independence is complemented by a valve system. The device comprises a main inflation valve located in one of the bodies at one end of the container. The main valve is pneumatically connected to the air chambers of the other bodies via interconnecting means between adjacent bodies. At each interconnection between one body and the next, a non-return valve is provided, configured to allow air to flow in the inflation direction and prevent air from flowing back, so that a loss of pressure in one body does not cause the others to deflate. The valve system design not only simplifies the inflation process but also minimizes maintenance. If a specific chamber is damaged, the entire container doesn't need to be replaced, as it will continue to function, resulting in a cost-effective and practical solution for users. The user receives the device uninflated, making it easier to transport and store, taking up less space, and then the user inflates it. Another essential component of the device is the flap located at the open end, designed to securely close the container. This flap may include fastening means that ensure a tight and reliable closure. Depending on the specific design, these systems may include adhesives, zip fasteners, zippers, snaps, snaps, or hook-and-loop fasteners. For situations requiring an additional level of protection, airtight sealing systems are available. This airtight capability provides an effective barrier against external elements such as water, dust, and contaminants. Furthermore, it helps maintain a controlled environment within the container, which is crucial for preserving items sensitive to changes in environmental conditions. The device's design not only aims to physically protect artworks from impacts or vibrations during transport or storage, but also addresses the need to preserve ideal environmental conditions. The container's airtight seal allows for constant humidity levels inside, which is crucial for particularly vulnerable pieces such as oil paintings, historical photographs, or antique textiles. This environmental control is especially useful in situations where artworks must be transported across diverse climates or stored for extended periods. By minimizing exposure to adverse environmental factors, the device significantly contributes to preserving the aesthetic and historical value of the pieces. The padded art container offers an innovative solution for a wide range of applications. Museums and cultural institutions can use it to transport temporary collections or store pieces in optimal conditions. Private collectors can also benefit from this technology to protect their art investments during moves or events. Unless otherwise stated, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the meanings commonly understood by a person skilled in the art to which this invention pertains. Similar or equivalent procedures and materials to those described herein may be used in the practice of this invention. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS To complete the description being made and in order to aid in a better understanding of the characteristics of the invention, this descriptive report is accompanied, as an integral part thereof, by figures in which, for illustrative and non-limiting purposes, the following has been represented: Figure 1 is a perspective representation of the padded container device for works of art, with flap (3) open. Figure 2 is a perspective representation of the padded container device for works of art, with the flap (3) closed and with a work of art inside. PREFERRED EMBODIMENT OF THE INVENTION In view of the figures, a preferred, though not limiting, embodiment of the proposed invention is described below, which consists of a padded container device for works of art. As shown in the figures, the padded container for works of art comprises a plurality of elongated bodies (1), each of which contains at least one independent air chamber. These bodies (1) are joined together by their longer sides and one of their shorter sides, forming a closed structure. This structure allows the container, once inflated, to conform to the artwork and adapt to its dimensions and geometry through the elastic deformation of the bodies (1). The independence of the air chambers is a key feature; each elongated body (1) comprises its own air chamber, ensuring that if one of them leaks or is damaged, the others remain intact and functional. Additionally, the padded art container comprises a main inflation valve (2) located in one of the bodies (1) at one end of the container. The main valve (2) is pneumatically connected to the air chambers of the remaining bodies (1) by means of interconnections between adjacent bodies (1). Each interconnection includes a non-return valve that allows air to flow during inflation but prevents backflow, thus keeping the bodies (1) inflated independently. Each body (1) comprises a non-return valve arranged in the interconnecting medium that pneumatically connects it to the adjacent body (1), allowing inflation in only one direction. The incorporation of non-return valves in each body (1) also contributes to the functional independence of the air chambers. Furthermore, at one end, the container device comprises a flap (3) designed to close the device. This flap (3) includes fastening means that ensure a secure and tight closure. Depending on the embodiment, these fastening means may be adhesives, zip fasteners, zippers, snaps, snaps, hook and loop fasteners, and other similar solutions. Depending on the specific design and the required level of protection, these closure systems may be airtight, providing an effective barrier against external agents such as water, dust, and contaminants. The device's airtight seal not only protects artworks from adverse environmental conditions but also helps maintain a controlled environment inside the container. This is especially useful for pieces sensitive to changes in humidity or temperature, such as paintings, photographs, or textiles. Preferably, the padded container device for works of art is made of a transparent, semi-transparent, translucent or semi-translucent material, allowing the user to see the artwork inside. Having sufficiently described the nature of the present invention, as well as the manner of putting it into practice, it is not considered necessary to make its explanation more extensive so that any expert in the field may understand its scope and the advantages that derive from it, it being noted that, within its essentiality, it may be put into practice in other modes of embodiment that differ in detail from the one indicated as an example, and which will also achieve the protection sought provided that its fundamental principle is not altered, changed or modified.

Claims

1. A padded container device for works of art, characterized in that it comprises a plurality of elongated bodies (1), each of which comprises at least one independent air chamber inside, said bodies (1) being fixed together along their longer sides and along one of their shorter sides, forming a closed structure; further comprising a main inflation valve (2) disposed in one of the bodies (1) located at one end of the container, said main valve (2) being pneumatically connected to the air chambers of the remaining bodies (1) by means of interconnection between adjacent bodies (1), each interconnection having a non-return valve configured to allow the passage of air during inflation and prevent its return. 2.A padded container for works of art, according to the preceding claim, characterized in that it comprises a flap (3) at one end that closes the device.

3. A padded container for works of art, according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the flap (3) comprises fastening means.

4. A padded container for works of art, according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the fastening means are of the following types: adhesives, zip fasteners, zippers, snaps, clasps, hook and loop fasteners.

5. A padded container for works of art, according to claim 3, characterized in that the fastening means are airtight.

6. A padded container for works of art, according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that it is made of a transparent, semi-transparent, translucent, or semi-translucent material.