Inflatable partition

Abstract

To provide a temporary inflatable partition which allows a region which is impossible or undesirable to be permanently partitioned, to be contained or separated.SOLUTION: An inflatable partition 100 includes a flexible film, an inflatable frame 104 and a support member 106 connected to the inflatable frame 104. The inflatable frame 104 has an inside edge and an outside edge extending along a periphery of the flexible film 102 and adjacent to the flexible film 102. The inflatable frame 104 also includes a sealing mechanism 120 extending along at least a part of the outside edge, and the inflatable frame 104 can inflate between a first state and a second state. A first structural member and a second structural member connected to the inflatable frame 104 and extending vertically from the upper part to the bottom part of the inflatable frame 104 define an opening part inside the inflatable partition 100.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an inflatable partition for creating a temporary, portable barrier. [Background technology]

[0002] Seats on transportation vehicles such as airplanes, buses, trains, and automobiles, and seats in venues such as concert halls and auditoriums, may be spaced closely together to bring passengers or attendees into close proximity. For example, pathogens such as SARS-CoV-2 / COVID-19 can spread between passengers or attendees through droplets produced as a result of breathing, coughing, sneezing, etc. The spread of such pathogens is particularly prevalent when physical distancing or other measures are not possible or used. Summary of the Invention

[0003] Embodiments according to the present disclosure offer many advantages. For example, embodiments according to the present disclosure allow for portable, inflatable, lightweight partitions to easily separate areas. Inflatable partitions establish temporary barriers that allow for containment and separation of areas where permanent separation is not possible or desirable.

[0004] In one aspect of the present disclosure, an inflatable partition includes a flexible membrane and an inflatable frame extending along the periphery of the flexible membrane. The inflatable frame has an inner edge adjacent to the flexible membrane and an outer edge. The inflatable frame includes a first side, a second side opposite the first side, a top connecting the first side and the second side, and a bottom opposite the top. The inflatable frame further includes a sealing mechanism extending along at least a portion of the outer edge. The inflatable frame is inflatable between a first state and a second state. The inflatable partition includes a support member coupled to the inflatable frame, a first structural member, and a second structural member. Each of the first structural member and the second structural member is coupled to the inflatable frame and extends vertically from the top to the bottom of the inflatable frame. The first structural member and the second structural member define an opening in the inflatable partition.

[0005] In some embodiments, the sealing feature includes a first sealing feature extending along a first side of the inflatable frame and a second sealing feature extending along a second side of the inflatable frame.

[0006] In some embodiments, the sealing feature includes a third sealing feature that extends along the top of the expandable frame.

[0007] In some embodiments, the first sealing mechanism includes a first sealing member and a second sealing member spaced apart from the first sealing member.

[0008] In some aspects, the first sealing member and the second sealing member are flexible strips extending outward from the outer edge of the inflatable frame, each of the first sealing member and the second sealing member configured to frictionally engage a surface such that the inflatable partition is releasably secured to the surface.

[0009] In some embodiments, the first sealing member and the second sealing member are silicone rubber.

[0010] In some embodiments, the sealing mechanism includes a first sealing member and a second sealing member spaced apart from the first sealing member, the first and second sealing members configured to frictionally engage the surface when the inflatable frame is inflated such that a negative pressure exists between the inflatable frame and the surface.

[0011] In some embodiments, the flexible membrane comprises a first flexible membrane and a second flexible membrane releasably coupled together to extend across the opening.

[0012] In some embodiments, the first flexible membrane has a first edge, the second flexible membrane has a second edge, and the first flexible membrane and the second flexible membrane are magnetically coupled together along the first edge and the second edge.

[0013] In some embodiments, the flexible membrane is transparent.

[0014] In some embodiments, the flexible membrane is foldable.

[0015] In some embodiments, the flexible membranes include a first flexible membrane extending from an inner edge of a first side of the inflatable frame to the first structural member, a second flexible membrane extending from the first structural member, a third flexible membrane extending from the second structural member, and a fourth flexible member extending from an inner edge of a second side of the inflatable frame to the second structural member, wherein the second and third flexible membranes are releasably coupled together to extend across the opening.

[0016] In some embodiments, the expandable frame is expandable between a first state comprising an uninflated state and a second state comprising an inflated state.

[0017] In some embodiments, the support member is inflatable and in fluid communication with the inflatable frame.

[0018] In some embodiments, the support members include a first support member, a second support member, a third support member, and a fourth support member, each of the first, second, third, and fourth support members extending perpendicular to the inflatable frame.

[0019] In some embodiments, the first, second, third, and fourth support members are evenly distributed along the bottom of the inflatable frame.

[0020] In some aspects, the expandable frame has a diameter that varies around the periphery of the flexible membrane when the expandable frame is expanded.

[0021] In some aspects, the inflatable partition further includes an inflation mechanism including a battery, a motor coupled to the battery, and a turbine coupled to the motor, and the inflatable frame is inflatable by the inflation mechanism.

[0022] In some aspects, the inflatable frame is inflatable by one or more of an external pump, a fan, and a compressed air cartridge.

[0023] In another aspect of the present disclosure, a transporter includes a body having an interior surface and an inflatable partition. The inflatable partition includes a flexible membrane and an inflatable frame extending along the periphery of the flexible membrane. The inflatable frame has an interior edge adjacent to the flexible membrane and an exterior edge. The inflatable frame includes a first side, a second side opposite the first side, a top connecting the first side and the second side, and a bottom opposite the top. The inflatable frame further includes a sealing mechanism extending along at least a portion of the exterior edge. The inflatable frame is inflatable between a first state and a second state. The inflatable partition includes a support member coupled to the inflatable frame, a first structural member, and a second structural member. Each of the first structural member and the second structural member is coupled to the inflatable frame and extends vertically from the top to the bottom of the inflatable frame, and the first structural member and the second structural member define an opening in the inflatable partition.

[0024] In some embodiments, the sealing feature includes a first sealing feature extending along a first side of the inflatable frame and a second sealing feature extending along a second side of the inflatable frame.

[0025] In some embodiments, the first sealing mechanism includes a first sealing member and a second sealing member spaced apart from the first sealing member.

[0026] In some aspects, the first and second sealing members are flexible strips extending outward from the outer edges of the inflatable frame, each configured to frictionally engage a surface such that the inflatable partition is releasably secured to the inner surface.

[0027] In some embodiments, the sealing feature includes a third sealing feature that extends along the top of the expandable frame.

[0028] In some embodiments, the first sealing member and the second sealing member are silicone rubber.

[0029] In some embodiments, the sealing mechanism includes a first sealing member and a second sealing member spaced apart from the first sealing member, the first and second sealing members configured to frictionally engage the inner surface when the expandable frame is expanded such that a negative pressure exists between the expandable frame and the inner surface.

[0030] In some embodiments, the flexible membrane is transparent.

[0031] In some embodiments, the flexible membrane is foldable.

[0032] In some embodiments, the flexible membranes include a first flexible membrane extending from an inner edge of a first side of the inflatable frame to the first structural member, a second flexible membrane extending from the first structural member, a third flexible membrane extending from the second structural member, and a fourth flexible member extending from an inner edge of a second side of the inflatable frame to the second structural member, wherein the second and third flexible membranes are releasably coupled together to extend across the opening.

[0033] In some embodiments, the expandable frame is expandable between a first state comprising an uninflated state and a second state comprising an inflated state.

[0034] In some embodiments, the support member is inflatable and in fluid communication with the inflatable frame.

[0035] In some embodiments, the support members include a first support member, a second support member, a third support member, and a fourth support member, each of the first, second, third, and fourth support members extending perpendicular to the inflatable frame.

[0036] In some embodiments, the first, second, third, and fourth support members are evenly distributed along the bottom of the inflatable frame.

[0037] In some aspects, the expandable frame has a diameter that varies around the periphery of the flexible membrane when the expandable frame is expanded.

[0038] In some aspects, the inflatable partition further includes an inflation mechanism including a battery, a motor coupled to the battery, and a turbine coupled to the motor, and the inflatable frame is inflatable by the inflation mechanism.

[0039] In some aspects, the inflatable frame is inflatable by one or more of an external pump, a fan, and a compressed air cartridge.

[0040] In another aspect of the present disclosure, a method for establishing a temporary barrier includes providing an inflatable partition including a flexible membrane and an inflatable frame extending along a periphery of the flexible membrane. The inflatable frame has an inner edge adjacent to the flexible membrane and an outer edge. The inflatable frame includes a first side, a second side opposite the first side, a top connecting the first side and the second side, and a bottom opposite the top. The inflatable frame further includes a first sealing mechanism extending along the outer edge of the first side of the inflatable frame and a second sealing mechanism extending along the outer edge of the second side of the inflatable frame. The inflatable frame is inflatable between a first state and a second state. The method further includes deploying the inflatable partition from a folded configuration to an unfolded configuration and positioning the inflatable partition at a desired location in the temporary barrier such that the first side of the inflatable frame is adjacent to a first surface and the second side of the inflatable frame is adjacent to a second surface. The method also includes inflating an inflatable frame of the inflatable partition such that the first sealing mechanism frictionally engages the first surface and the second sealing mechanism frictionally engages the second surface.

[0041] In some aspects, inflating the inflatable frame of the inflatable partition includes activating an air pump coupled to the flexible membrane and in fluid communication with the inflatable frame.

[0042] In some embodiments, the method further includes creating a negative pressure between the first side and the first surface of the inflatable frame and between the second side and the second surface of the inflatable frame.

[0043] The present disclosure is described in conjunction with the following drawings, in which like numbers indicate like elements and in which: [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0044] [Figure 1] 1 is a schematic front perspective view of an inflatable partition for providing a temporary barrier, according to an embodiment. FIG. [Figure 2] 2 is a schematic front perspective view of the inflatable partition shown in FIG. 1 showing an opening in the flexible membrane, according to an embodiment. [Figure 3] 2 is a schematic partial perspective view of an inflatable frame of the inflatable partition shown in FIG. 1, according to an embodiment. [Figure 4] 1 is a schematic top cross-sectional partial view of an inflatable frame of an inflatable partition, according to an embodiment. FIG. [Figure 5] 2 is a schematic front view of the inflatable partition shown in FIG. 1 illustrating inflation airflow within the inflatable frame, according to an embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view of two inflatable partitions installed in a cabin area as a temporary physical barrier between adjacent seat rows, according to an embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 1 is a flow diagram of a method for establishing a temporary barrier, according to an embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0045] The foregoing and other features of the present disclosure will become more fully apparent from the following description and appended claims, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. It should be understood that these drawings depict only some embodiments according to the present disclosure and should not be considered limiting of the scope of the present disclosure, which is described with additional specificity and detail using the accompanying drawings. Dimensions disclosed in the drawings or elsewhere in this specification are for illustrative purposes only.

[0046] Embodiments of the present disclosure are described herein. However, it should be understood that the disclosed embodiments are merely examples, and that other embodiments may take various alternative forms. The drawings are not necessarily to scale, and some features may be exaggerated or minimized to show details of particular components. Therefore, specific structural and functional details disclosed herein should not be construed as limiting, but merely as representative principles for teaching those skilled in the art how to utilize the present disclosure in various ways. As those skilled in the art will understand, various features illustrated and described with reference to any one of the drawings can be combined with features illustrated in one or more other drawings to produce embodiments not explicitly shown or described. The illustrated combinations of features provide representative embodiments for typical applications. However, various combinations and modifications of features consistent with the teachings of the present disclosure may be desired for particular applications or implementations.

[0047] Certain terms may be used in the following description for reference purposes only and are therefore not intended to be limiting. For example, terms such as "above" and "below" refer to directions in the drawings to which reference is made. Terms such as "front," "back," "fore," "aft," "left," "right," "rear," and "side" describe the orientation and / or location of components or portions of elements within a consistent but arbitrary frame of reference made clear by reference to text describing the component or element under discussion or to associated drawings. Furthermore, terms such as "first," "second," and "third" may be used to describe separate components. Such terms may include the words specifically mentioned above, derivatives thereof, and words of similar import.

[0048] In various embodiments, including the illustrated embodiment discussed herein, the inflatable partition includes an inflatable perimeter with a central membrane or septum. This configuration allows the inflatable partition to be easily and quickly inflated to a desired pressure inflation and configured to be positioned in a desired location. Additional features, such as motors and pumps, support members, magnetic slits, among others, are included in various embodiments depending on the intended use and location of the partition. Like reference numbers refer to like components throughout the various embodiments discussed herein.

[0049] 1 and 2 illustrate one embodiment of an inflatable partition 100. The inflatable partition 100 is a flexible member that can be deployed and inflated between a first, or uninflated, configuration and a second, or inflated, configuration. The inflatable partition 100 includes a flexible membrane 102 and an inflatable frame 104 that surrounds at least a portion of the flexible membrane 102. In various embodiments, the flexible membrane 102 is a foldable, flexible material, such as, but not limited to, plastic, that can be manually manipulated between a first configuration for storage and transportation, and deployed and inflated to a second configuration for use as a partition between adjacent areas. In some embodiments, the flexible membrane 102 is substantially rectangular. In various embodiments, the flexible membrane 102 is shaped to fit tightly against an interior wall or surface of a cabin, such as the cabin of an aircraft fuselage.

[0050] In some embodiments, flexible membrane 102 includes multiple sections that are connected together across the length and / or height of inflatable partition 100 to form a continuous divider. As shown in FIG. 1 , flexible membrane 102 includes first flexible membrane section 102A, second flexible membrane section 102B, third flexible membrane section 102C, and fourth flexible membrane section 102D. However, in some embodiments, first, second, third, and fourth flexible membrane sections 102A, 102B, 102C, and 102D are not distinct, separate sections, but rather identify regions of flexible membrane 102 that are separated by other components of inflatable partition 100.

[0051] In various embodiments, the flexible membrane 102 is substantially transparent, i.e., the flexible membrane 102 is see-through, allowing crew members, such as flight attendants, to see passengers in each zone separated by the inflatable partition 100. In other embodiments, the flexible membrane 102 is opaque, colored, frosted, or includes a design, logo, or other representation.

[0052] In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 1 , the inflatable partition 100 includes a first tensioning member 108 and a second tensioning member 109. In the illustrated embodiment, the first and second tensioning members 108, 109 are substantially parallel and extend between the top and bottom edges of the flexible membrane 102 to provide additional stability to the flexible membrane 102 when the inflatable partition 100 is in the second, or inflated, configuration. In various embodiments, the first and second tensioning members 108, 109 are inflatable members. In various embodiments, the first and second tensioning members 108, 109 are flexible straps or rods that are stiffer than the flexible membrane 102. In various embodiments, the first and second tensioning members 108, 109 are inflatable. The first and second tensioning members 108, 109 define a port or opening in the flexible membrane 102. The second and third flexible membrane portions 102B and 102C are releasably coupled by a coupling at seam 110. Seam 110 joins a first edge of second flexible membrane portion 102B and a second edge of third flexible membrane portion 102C. In various embodiments, the coupling is a magnetic coupling. In various embodiments, the coupling is, for example, without limitation, a reusable adhesive, a hook-and-loop fastener, or other type of mechanical closure or fastening.

[0053] The inflatable partition 100 also includes one or more support members 106 coupled to the inflatable frame 104. As shown in FIG. 2, the inflatable partition 100 includes four support members 106. In various embodiments, the support members 106 are inflatable members fluidly coupled to the bottom 104D of the inflatable frame 104. The support members 106 extend generally perpendicular to the inflatable frame 104 to support the inflatable frame 104 when the inflatable partition 100 is inflated and positioned in a desired position. In various embodiments, the inflatable partition 100 includes more or fewer support members 106 depending on various factors, such as, but not limited to, the size of the inflatable partition 100, the location of the inflatable partition 100, etc.

[0054] The inflatable frame 104 extends along the outer edge of the flexible membrane 102. As shown in FIG. 1 , the inflatable frame 104 is inflatable and deflatable between a first, or deflated, state and a second, or inflated, state. The inflatable frame 104 is inflatable via any inflation means, including, for example, but not limited to, an inflation mechanism internal or external to the inflatable partition 100, such as a compressed air cartridge or cylinder, a handheld or electric pump, a battery-powered compressor or fan, etc. In various embodiments, the inflatable frame 104 has a diameter that varies around the circumference of the flexible membrane 102. As the diameter of the inflatable frame 104 gradually decreases from the bottom to the top of the inflatable partition 100, the time to deploy or inflate the inflatable partition 100 and the total weight of the inflatable partition 100 decrease. In other words, the diameter of the inflatable frame 104 is larger at the bottom than at the top of the inflatable partition 100. Additionally, the change in diameter of the inflatable frame 104 lowers the center of gravity of the inflatable partition 100, improving stability when the inflatable partition 100 is inflated and positioned in a desired location.

[0055] 1 and 2 , the inflatable frame 104 includes an inner edge 114 adjacent the flexible membrane 102 and an outer edge 124. In various embodiments, the inflatable frame 104 includes a first side 104A, a second side 104B opposite the first side, a top 104C connecting the first side 104A and the second side 104B, and a bottom 104D opposite the top 104C. In various embodiments, the top 104C is molded with one or more separate sections arranged in series, such as a first top 104C1, a second top 104C2, and a third top 104C3. The first side 104A, the second side 104B, and the top 104C are molded to align with and seal against a ceiling, surface, and / or wall of the intended use of the inflatable partition 100, as discussed in more detail herein.

[0056] In various embodiments, as shown in FIG. 1 and in more detail in FIGS. 3 and 4 , the inflatable frame 104 further includes a sealing feature 120. The sealing feature 120 extends along at least a portion of the outer edge 124 of the inflatable frame 104. In various embodiments, the sealing feature 120 extends along each of the first side 104A and the second side 104B of the inflatable frame 104. In various embodiments, the sealing feature 120 extends along the top portions 104C, including one or more of the first, second, and third top portions 104C1, 104C2, 104C3, of the inflatable frame 104. In various embodiments, the sealing feature 120 is split. That is, separate sealing features 120 extend along at least a portion of the outer edge 124 of the inflatable frame 104. In other words, the sealing feature 120, in some embodiments, is continuous along at least a portion of the outer edge 124 of the inflatable frame 104, while in some embodiments the sealing feature 120 includes multiple sealing features 120 extending along at least a portion of the outer edge 124 of the inflatable frame 104. In various embodiments, the multiple sealing features 120 are separated by dividers, such as silicone rubber dividers, to enable the localized generation of negative pressure within each sealing feature segment 120, as discussed in more detail herein.

[0057] 3 and 4 , in various embodiments, the inflatable frame 104 includes a first inflatable frame member 116 and a second inflatable frame member 118. The first and second inflatable frame members 116, 118 are joined together at a joint 117 to define the inflatable area 105 of the tubular structure of the inflatable frame 104. In various embodiments, at least a portion of each of the first and second inflatable frame members 116, 118 overlaps at the joint 117. In some embodiments, the first and second inflatable frame members 116, 118 are coupled together by, for example, but not limited to, an adhesive. In various embodiments, the flexible membrane 102 includes a joining tab 112. The joining tab 112 is coupled to the inflatable frame 104 using any coupling means, for example, but not limited to, an adhesive. In various embodiments, at least a portion 128 of the second inflatable frame member 118 overlaps and connects with an edge of the flexible membrane 102 to provide additional support for the connection between the flexible membrane 102 and the inflatable frame 104.

[0058] The sealing mechanism 120 includes a first sealing member 121 and a second sealing member 122 spaced apart from the first sealing member 121. In various embodiments, the first sealing member 121 and the second sealing member 122 are flexible strips extending outward from an outer edge 124 of the inflatable frame 104. Each of the first sealing member 121 and the second sealing member 122 is configured to frictionally engage a surface such that the inflatable partition 100 is releasably secured to the surface. At least a portion of the first sealing member 121 is coupled to the inflatable frame 104. Similarly, at least a portion of the second sealing member 122 is coupled to the inflatable frame 104. As shown in FIG. 4 , the first sealing member tab 123 is coupled to the first inflatable frame member 116 using any suitable coupling means, such as, for example, but not limited to, an adhesive. The second sealing member tab 125 is connected to the second inflatable frame member 118 using an adhesive or any other connecting means. As discussed in more detail herein, the first sealing member 121 and the second sealing member 122, along with the tubular structure of the inflatable frame 104, create a negative pressure zone between the inflatable frame 104 and the surface against which the inflatable partition 100 is positioned. The first and second sealing members 121, 122 also increase the contact area with the surface against which the inflatable partition 100 frictionally engages, supporting the inflatable partition 100 in a desired position.

[0059] As shown in FIG. 5 , the inflation mechanism 130 is coupled to the inflatable partition 100 and controlled by an operator to inflate and / or deflate the inflatable partition 100. In various embodiments, the inflation mechanism 130 includes a one-way valve. In various embodiments, the inflation mechanism 130 is, for example, without limitation, a pump, a compressed air cartridge or cylinder, or a fan. In various embodiments, the inflation mechanism 130 includes a battery, a motor coupled to the battery, and a turbine coupled to the motor, all contained within the inflation mechanism 130 coupled to the inflatable frame 104. In various embodiments, the inflation mechanism 130 is integrated into or coupled to the bottom 104D of the inflatable frame 104. While the inflation mechanism 130 is shown in one location on the inflatable partition 100, it should be understood that the inflation mechanism 130 can be located or coupled anywhere within the inflatable partition 100.

[0060] 5 illustrates the flow of air through the tubular structure of the inflatable frame 104, according to an embodiment. In the embodiment shown, first and second tension members 108, 109 are inflatable members coupled to the inflatable frame 104 using one-way valves 131, 132, 133, 134. The one-way valves 131, 132, 133, 134 allow air flow from the inflation mechanism 130, through the first and second tension members 108, 109, and into the tubular structure of the inflatable frame 104.

[0061] In the illustrated embodiment, inflation mechanism 130 generates leftward air flow 141 (indicated by arrow 141) and rightward air flow 142 (indicated by arrow 142) through bottom 104D of inflatable frame 104. First side 104A of inflatable frame 104 is connected to bottom 104D at first sealing joint 135. Similarly, second side 104B of inflatable frame 104 is connected to bottom 104D at second sealing joint 136. Once a predetermined pressure within bottom 104D is achieved, air flows upward from bottom 104D through first and second tension members 108, 109 via one-way valves 131, 132, as indicated by arrows 143, 144. As a result, the first and second tension members 108, 109 expand at approximately the same rate, causing the flexible membrane 102 coupled to the first and second tension members 108, 109 to lift.

[0062] Once a predetermined pressure is achieved within the first and second tension members 108, 109, the one-way valves 133, 134 open. Air then enters the top 104C of the inflatable frame 104 through the one-way valves 133, 134. As indicated by arrows 145, 146, the air is distributed throughout the first side 104A, the second side 104B, and the top 104C of the inflatable frame 104. While FIG. 5 illustrates one embodiment of the inflatable partition 100 including multiple one-way valves for directing air through the inflatable frame 104, it will be understood that other configurations of one-way valves are possible, including more or fewer valves and different placements of the valves and connections between the tubular members of the inflatable frame 104.

[0063] In various embodiments, at least one of the inflatable frames 104 of the inflatable partition 100 comprises a compressible material that allows the inflatable frame 104 to at least partially self-expand when in fluid communication with the ambient air.

[0064] 6 illustrates two inflatable partitions 100 positioned within a vehicle, such as an aircraft cabin, to create a barrier between adjacent areas, such as adjacent seat rows. The inflatable partitions 100 are shown in a second, or deployed and / or inflated, configuration. One of the inflatable partitions 100 separates a first area 201 from a second area 202. The other inflatable partition 100 separates a second area 202 from a third area 203. The second area 202, in some embodiments, is a defined, isolated area from the remainder of the aircraft cabin.

[0065] As shown in Figure 6, the inflatable frame 104 is positioned adjacent to surfaces 251, 252 of the aircraft cabin interior. Because the inflatable partition 100 has dimensions slightly smaller than the cabin interior, the first and second sealing members 121, 122 of the sealing mechanism 120 close any gaps between the inflatable frame 104 and surfaces 251, 252. When the inflatable partition 100 is in the second, or inflated, configuration, the inflatable frame 104 is expanded by the pressure within its tubular structure. Air in the gaps between the first and second sealing members 121, 122 and surface 251 will be squeezed out by the pressure of the tubular structure of the inflatable frame 104 against surface 251, thus creating a negative pressure zone between the sealing mechanism 120 and surface 251. First and second sealing members 121, 122 frictionally engage surface 251 to help secure inflatable partition 100 in a desired position and seal the inflatable partition against surface 251. Additionally, magnetic or other coupling of flexible membrane 102 at seam 110 provides an additional sealing benefit while allowing ingress and egress into and out of area 202.

[0066] A method 700 for providing an inflatable partition as a temporary physical barrier is shown as a flow diagram in Figure 7. Method 700 may be utilized in connection with the inflatable partitions 100 discussed herein. The order of operations in method 700 is not limited to sequential execution as shown in Figure 7, but may be performed in one or more different orders, or steps may be performed simultaneously, as applicable in accordance with the present disclosure.

[0067] Beginning at 702, an inflatable partition is provided, such as inflatable partition 100. Next, at 704, inflatable partition 100 is deployed from a first, or folded, uninflated configuration to a second, or deployed configuration.

[0068] The method 700 continues at 706, where the inflatable frame 104 of the inflatable partition 100 is positioned at a desired location for the temporary barrier. In various embodiments, the desired location is between adjacent rows of seats, such as seats in an airplane, bus, train, car, truck, or other vehicle, as shown in FIG.

[0069] Next, at 708, the inflatable partition 100 is inflated by the inflation mechanism 130. Air or other fluids may be used to inflate the inflatable frame 104 as discussed herein. Additionally, any of a number of inflation mechanisms may be used to inflate the inflatable frame 104 as discussed herein.

[0070] As discussed herein, inflation of the inflatable partition 100 temporarily secures the inflatable frame 104 against a surface in a desired position using a combination of frictional engagement and negative pressure. In various embodiments, other means of securing the inflatable partition 100 in a desired position are used, including, for example, but not limited to, temporarily securing one or more of the support members 106 to an underside or floor in a desired position.

[0071] It should be emphasized that many variations and modifications can be made to the embodiments described herein, and that elements thereof should be understood to be within the scope of other acceptable examples. All such modifications and variations are intended to be included within the scope of this disclosure and protected by the following claims. Furthermore, any of the steps described herein can be performed simultaneously with the steps described herein or in a different order. Furthermore, it will be apparent that the features and attributes of specific embodiments disclosed herein can be combined in different ways to form additional embodiments, all of which are within the scope of this disclosure.

[0072] Conditional language used herein, such as, among others, "can," "would," "might," "could," "for example," and the like, is generally intended to mean that certain embodiments include certain features, elements, and / or steps, while other embodiments do not, unless otherwise specified or interpreted within the context of use. Thus, such conditional language generally does not intend that features, elements, and / or states are more or less required in one or more embodiments, or that one or more embodiments necessarily include logic for determining whether or not those features, elements, and / or states should be included or performed in any particular embodiment, with or without author input or prompting.

[0073] Additionally, the following terms may be used herein: Unless the context clearly dictates otherwise, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" include plural referents. Thus, for example, a reference to an item includes a reference to one or more items. The term "a" refers to one, two, or more and generally applies to the selection of part or all of a quantity. The term "plurality" refers to two or more of an item. The terms "about" or "approximately" mean that quantities, dimensions, sizes, constructions, parameters, shapes, and other characteristics need not be exact but may be approximated and / or increased or decreased as necessary to reflect other factors known to those skilled in the art, such as allowable tolerances, conversion factors, rounding, measurement errors, and the like. The term "substantially" means that the referenced characteristic, parameter, or value need not be exactly achieved, but that deviations or variations, including, for example, tolerances, measurement errors, measurement accuracy limits, and factors known to those skilled in the art, may occur to an extent that cannot eliminate the influence brought about by the characteristic.

[0074] Furthermore, the present disclosure includes embodiments according to the following clauses:

[0075] Clause 1. An inflatable partition (100), a flexible membrane (102); an inflatable frame (104) extending along the periphery of a flexible membrane (102), the inflatable frame (104) having an inner edge (114) adjacent the flexible membrane (102) and an outer edge (124), the inflatable frame (104) including a first side (104A), a second side (104B) opposite the first side (104A), a top (104C) connecting the first and second sides, and a bottom (104D) opposite the top (104C), the inflatable frame further including a sealing mechanism (120) extending along at least a portion of the outer edge (124), the inflatable frame (104) being inflatable between a first state and a second state; a support member (106) connected to the inflatable frame (104); a first component (108) and a second component (109), each of which is coupled to the inflatable frame (104) and extends vertically from the top (104C) to the bottom (104D) of the inflatable frame (104), the first component (108) and the second component (109), the first component (108) and the second component (109) defining an opening (111) in the inflatable partition (100); an inflatable partition (100) including:

[0076] Clause 2. The inflatable partition (100) of clause 1, wherein the sealing mechanism (120) includes a first sealing mechanism (120) extending along a first side (104A) of the inflatable frame (104) and a second sealing mechanism (120) extending along a second side (104B) of the inflatable frame (104).

[0077] Clause 3. The inflatable partition (100) of clause 2, wherein the sealing mechanism (120) includes a third sealing mechanism (120) extending along the top portion (104C) of the inflatable frame (104).

[0078] Clause 4. The inflatable partition (100) of clause 2, wherein the first sealing mechanism (120) includes a first sealing member (121) and a second sealing member (122) spaced from the first sealing member (121).

[0079] Clause 5. An inflatable partition (100) as described in Clause 4, wherein the first sealing member and the second sealing member are flexible strips extending outward from the outer edge (124) of the inflatable frame (104), and each of the first sealing member and the second sealing member is configured to frictionally engage the surface (251) so as to releasably secure the inflatable partition (100) to the surface (251).

[0080] Clause 6. The inflatable partition (100) of clause 4, wherein the first and second sealing members are silicone rubber.

[0081] Clause 7. The inflatable partition (100) of clause 1, wherein the sealing mechanism (120) includes a first sealing member (121) and a second sealing member (122) spaced apart from the first sealing member (121), and the first sealing member and the second sealing member are configured to frictionally engage the surface (251) when the inflatable frame (104) is inflated such that a negative pressure condition exists between the inflatable frame (104) and the surface (251).

[0082] Clause 8. The inflatable partition (100) of clause 1, wherein the flexible membrane (102) comprises a first flexible membrane (102B) and a second flexible membrane (102C) releasably coupled together to extend across the opening (111).

[0083] Clause 9. The inflatable partition (100) of clause 8, wherein the first flexible membrane (102B) has a first edge and the second flexible membrane (102C) has a second edge, and the first flexible membrane and the second flexible membrane are magnetically coupled together along the first edge and the second edge.

[0084] Clause 10. The inflatable partition (100) of clause 1, wherein the flexible membrane (102) is transparent.

[0085] Clause 11. The inflatable partition (100) according to clause 1, wherein the flexible membrane (102) is foldable.

[0086] Clause 12. The inflatable partition (100) of clause 1, wherein the flexible membrane (102) includes a first flexible membrane (102A) extending from the inner edge (114) of the first side (104A) of the inflatable frame (104) to the first component (108), a second flexible membrane (102B) extending from the first component (108), a third flexible membrane (102C) extending from the second component (109), and a fourth flexible membrane extending from the inner edge (114) of the second side (104B) of the inflatable frame (104) to the second component (109), wherein the second flexible membrane and the third flexible membrane are releasably connected together to extend across the opening (111).

[0087] Clause 13. The inflatable partition (100) of clause 1, wherein the inflatable frame (104) is inflatable between a first state comprising an uninflated state and a second state comprising an inflated state.

[0088] Clause 14. The inflatable partition (100) of clause 1, wherein the support member (106) is inflatable and fluidly connected to the inflatable frame (104).

[0089] Clause 15. The inflatable partition (100) of clause 14, wherein the support members (106) include a first support member, a second support member, a third support member, and a fourth support member, each of the first, second, third, and fourth support members (106) extending perpendicular to the inflatable frame (104).

[0090] Clause 16. The inflatable partition (100) of clause 15, wherein the first, second, third, and fourth support members (106) are evenly distributed along the bottom (104D) of the inflatable frame (104).

[0091] Clause 17. The inflatable partition (100) of clause 1, wherein the inflatable frame (104), when inflated, has a constant diameter around the periphery of the flexible membrane (102).

[0092] Clause 18. The inflatable partition (100) of clause 1, further comprising an expansion mechanism (130) including a battery, a motor coupled to the battery, and a turbine coupled to the motor, wherein the inflatable frame (104) is inflatable by the expansion mechanism (130).

[0093] Clause 19. The inflatable partition (100) of clause 1, wherein the inflatable frame (104) is inflatable by one or more of an external pump, a fan, and a compressed air cartridge.

[0094] Article 20. A transporter, a body having an inner surface (251); An inflatable partition (100), a flexible membrane (102); an inflatable frame (104) extending along the periphery of a flexible membrane (102), the inflatable frame (104) having an inner edge (114) adjacent the flexible membrane (102) and an outer edge (124), the inflatable frame (104) including a first side (104A), a second side (104B) opposite the first side (104A), a top (104C) connecting the first side and the second side (104B), and a bottom (104D) opposite the top (104C), and further including a sealing mechanism (120) extending along at least a portion (128) of the outer edge (124), the inflatable frame (104) being inflatable between a first state and a second state; a support member (106) connected to the inflatable frame (104); a first component (108) and a second component (109), each of which is coupled to the inflatable frame (104) and extends vertically from the top (104C) to the bottom (104D) of the inflatable frame (104), the first component (108) and the second component (109), the first component (108) and the second component (109) defining an opening (111) in the inflatable partition (100); Including inflatable partitions and , transporters.

[0095] Clause 21. The vehicle of clause 20, wherein the sealing mechanism (120) includes a first sealing mechanism (120) extending along a first side (104A) of the inflatable frame (104) and a second sealing mechanism (120) extending along a second side (104B) of the inflatable frame (104).

[0096] Clause 22. The vehicle of clause 21, wherein the first sealing mechanism (120) comprises a first sealing member (121) and a second sealing member (122) spaced from the first sealing member (121).

[0097] Clause 23. A transporter as described in clause 22, wherein the first sealing member and the second sealing member are flexible strips extending outward from the outer edge (124) of the inflatable frame (104), and each of the first sealing member and the second sealing member is configured to frictionally engage the inner surface (251) such that the inflatable partition (100) is releasably secured to the surface (251).

[0098] Clause 24. The vehicle of clause 23, wherein the sealing mechanism (120) includes a third sealing mechanism (120) extending along the top portion (104C) of the inflatable frame (104).

[0099] Clause 25. The vehicle of clause 24, wherein the first and second sealing members are silicone rubber.

[0100] Clause 26. A transporter as described in clause 20, wherein the sealing mechanism (120) includes a first sealing member (121) and a second sealing member (122) spaced apart from the first sealing member (121), and the first sealing member and the second sealing member are configured to frictionally engage the inner surface (251) when the expandable frame (104) is expanded such that a negative pressure condition exists between the expandable frame (104) and the surface (251).

[0101] Clause 27. The transporter according to clause 20, wherein the flexible membrane (102) is transparent.

[0102] Clause 28. A transporter according to clause 20, wherein the flexible membrane (102) is foldable.

[0103] Clause 29. A transporter as described in Clause 20, wherein the flexible membrane (102) comprises a first flexible membrane (102) extending from the inner edge (114) of the first side (104A) of the inflatable frame (104) to the first component (108), a second flexible membrane (102) extending from the first component (108), a third flexible membrane (102) extending from the second component (109), and a fourth flexible membrane extending from the inner edge (114) of the second side (104B) of the inflatable frame (104) to the second component (109), wherein the second flexible membrane and the third flexible membrane are releasably connected together to extend across the opening (111).

[0104] Clause 30. The vehicle of clause 20, wherein the inflatable frame (104) is inflatable between a first state comprising an uninflated state and a second state comprising an inflated state.

[0105] Clause 31. The vehicle of clause 20, wherein the support member (106) is inflatable and fluidly connected to the inflatable frame (104).

[0106] Clause 32. A transporter as described in Clause 31, wherein the support members (106) include a first support member, a second support member, a third support member, and a fourth support member, each of the first, second, third, and fourth support members (106) extending perpendicular to the inflatable frame (104).

[0107] Clause 33. The vehicle of clause 32, wherein the first, second, third, and fourth support members (106) are evenly distributed along the bottom (104D) of the inflatable frame (104).

[0108] Clause 34. A vehicle as described in clause 20, wherein the inflatable frame (104) has a constant diameter around the periphery of the flexible membrane (102) when inflated.

[0109] Clause 35. The vehicle of clause 20, further comprising an expansion mechanism (130) including a battery, a motor coupled to the battery, and a turbine coupled to the motor, wherein the expandable frame (104) is expandable by the expansion mechanism (130).

[0110] Clause 36. The vehicle of clause 20, wherein the inflatable frame (104) is inflatable by one or more of an external pump, a fan, and a compressed air cartridge.

[0111] Clause 37. A method (700) for establishing a temporary barrier, comprising: The present invention provides an inflatable partition (100) including a flexible membrane (102) and an inflatable frame (104) extending along a periphery of the flexible membrane (102), the inflatable frame (104) having an inner edge (114) adjacent the flexible membrane (102) and an outer edge (124), the inflatable frame (104) having a first side (104A), a second side (104B) opposite the first side (104A), and a top (104C) connecting the first side and the second side (104B). and a bottom (104D) opposite the top (104C), wherein the inflatable frame (104) further includes a first sealing mechanism extending along an outer edge (124) of a first side (104A) of the inflatable frame (104) and a second sealing mechanism (120) extending along an outer edge (124) of a second side (104B) of the inflatable frame (104), wherein the inflatable frame (104) is inflatable between a first state and a second state; deploying the inflatable partition (100) from a folded configuration to an deployed configuration; positioning the inflatable partition (100) at a desired location on the temporary barrier such that a first side (104A) of the inflatable frame (104) is adjacent to the first surface (251) and a second side (104B) of the inflatable frame (104) is adjacent to the second surface (251); inflating the inflatable frame (104) of the inflatable partition (100) so that the first sealing mechanism (120) frictionally engages the first surface (251) and the second sealing mechanism (120) frictionally engages the second surface (251); A method comprising:

[0112] Clause 38. The method (700) of clause 37, wherein inflating the inflatable frame (104) of the inflatable partition (100) includes activating an air pump coupled to the flexible membrane (102) and in fluid communication with the inflatable frame (104).

[0113] Clause 39. The method (700) of clause 37, further comprising creating a negative pressure between the first side (104A) of the inflatable frame (104) and the first surface (251), and between the second side (104B) of the inflatable frame (104) and the second surface (251).

[0114] While exemplary embodiments have been described above, these embodiments are not intended to describe every possible form encompassed by the scope of the claims. The terms used herein are words of description rather than limitation, and it is understood that various changes can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure. As noted above, features of various embodiments can be combined to form additional exemplary aspects of the present disclosure that may not be explicitly described or illustrated. While various embodiments may be described as offering advantages or being preferred over other embodiments or prior art implementations with respect to one or more desired characteristics, those skilled in the art will recognize that, depending on the particular application and implementation, one or more features or characteristics may be compromised to achieve desirable attributes of the overall system. These attributes include, but are not limited to, cost, strength, durability, life cycle cost, marketability, appearance, packaging, size, maintainability, weight, manufacturability, ease of assembly, and the like. Thus, embodiments described as less desirable than other embodiments or prior art implementations with respect to one or more characteristics are not outside the scope of the present disclosure and may be desirable for particular applications.

Claims

1. A transporter comprising: a body having an inner surface (251); An inflatable partition (100), comprising: a flexible membrane (102); an inflatable frame (104) extending along the periphery of the flexible membrane (102), the inflatable frame (104) having an inner edge (114) adjacent the flexible membrane (102) and an outer edge (124), the inflatable frame including a first side (104A), a second side (104B) opposite the first side (104A), a top (104C) connecting the first side and the second side (104B), and a bottom (104D) opposite the top (104C), and further including a sealing mechanism (120) extending along at least a portion (128) of the outer edge (124), the inflatable frame (104) being inflatable between a first state and a second state; a support member (106) connected to the inflatable frame (104); a first component (108) and a second component (109), each of the first component (108) and the second component (109) coupled to the inflatable frame (104) and extending vertically from the top (104C) to the bottom (104D) of the inflatable frame (104), the first component (108) and the second component (109) defining an opening (111) in the inflatable partition (100); Including inflatable partitions and , transporters.

2. 2. The vehicle of claim 1, wherein the sealing feature (120) includes a first sealing feature (120) extending along the first side (104A) of the inflatable frame (104) and a second sealing feature (120) extending along the second side (104B) of the inflatable frame (104).

3. 3. The transporter of claim 2, wherein the first sealing mechanism (120) includes a first sealing member (121) and a second sealing member (122) spaced from the first sealing member (121).

4. 4. The vehicle of claim 3, wherein the first sealing member and the second sealing member are flexible strips extending outward from the outer edge (124) of the inflatable frame (104), and each of the first sealing member and the second sealing member is configured to frictionally engage an inner surface (251) such that the inflatable partition (100) is releasably secured to the inner surface (251).

5. The vehicle of claim 4, wherein the sealing mechanism (120) includes a third sealing mechanism (120) extending along the top portion (104C) of the inflatable frame (104).

6. 6. The transporter of any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the sealing mechanism (120) comprises a first sealing member (121) and a second sealing member (122) spaced apart from the first sealing member (121), the first sealing member and the second sealing member configured to frictionally engage the inner surface (251) when the inflatable frame (104) is inflated such that a negative pressure condition exists between the inflatable frame (104) and the inner surface (251).

7. 7. The transporter of any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the flexible membranes (102) include a first flexible membrane (102) extending from the inner edge (114) of the first side (104A) of the inflatable frame (104) to the first component (108), a second flexible membrane (102) extending from the first component (108), a third flexible membrane (102) extending from the second component (109), and a fourth flexible membrane (102) extending from the inner edge (114) of the second side (104B) of the inflatable frame (104) to the second component (109), the second flexible membrane and the third flexible membrane being releasably coupled together to extend across the opening (111).

8. 8. The vehicle of any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the inflatable frame (104) is inflatable between the first state comprising an uninflated state and the second state comprising an inflated state.

9. The vehicle of any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the support member (106) is inflatable and fluidly connected to the inflatable frame (104).

10. 10. The vehicle of any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the inflatable frame (104) has a constant diameter around the periphery of the flexible membrane (102) when inflated.

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