Inflatable package

Abstract

The present invention relates to an inflatable container (100), comprising a body comprising a bottom end comprising a first opening; a top end comprising a second opening; a plurality of walls extending from the bottom end to the top end; an internal space defined by the plurality of walls and configured to allow insertion of at least one object within the internal space; one or more of the plurality of walls comprise an external surface; an internal surface; and a plurality of spaces defined between said external surface and said internal surface; said plurality of spaces defining a plurality of inflatable compartments; where the top end has an unfolded configuration and a folded configuration; where in the folded configuration, the internal space is reduced; and a plurality of releasable holders positioned on said external surface and configured for retaining the folded configuration.

Description

[0001] INFLATABLE PACKAGE

[0002] RELATED APPLICATION / S

[0003] This application claims the benefit of priority of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 623,273, filed on January 21,2024, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

[0004] FIELD AND BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0005] The present invention, in some embodiments thereof, relates to an inflatable package and, more particularly, but not exclusively, to a size-modifiable inflatable package.

[0006] Additional background art includes U.S. Patent No. US11155351B2 disclosing an inflatable package enclosure for use on an aerial vehicle including an inflatable exterior chamber, a first inner cavity positioned within the inflatable exterior chamber, an inflation valve positioned on the inflatable exterior chamber, and a handle on the inflatable exterior chamber for securing the inflatable package enclosure to the aerial vehicle, wherein when the inflatable exterior chamber is inflated and when a package is positioned in the first inner cavity, inner surfaces of the inflatable exterior chamber conform to outer surfaces of the package to secure the package within the inflatable exterior chamber.

[0007] U.S. Patent No. US10696464B2 disclosing an inflatable package wine bag includes a bottom wall, a first fixing structure, and a second fixing structure. The first fixing structure includes a first connecting portion and a first bending portion. The second fixing structure includes a second connecting portion and a second bending portion. The first bending portion includes a first inner side surface wall and a first opening, and the second bending portion includes a second inner side surface wall and a second opening.

[0008] U.S. Patent No. US8960436B1 disclosing an inflatable box and method of use thereof. The inflatable box may be designed in any shape or size and be made up of any rigid material. The box is uniquely designed to allow for a simple one-step process using a box with an integrated inflating tube and bottom liner to expand internally by inflation with a gaseous fluid, thereby three- dimensionally cushioning an article to be shipped. This completely protects the article and removes the need for peanuts, paper or other fillers in boxes used for shipping goods once the box is closed. The box may further include a bleed valve that releases the gaseous fluid if the inflating tube and / or bottom liner are over-inflated.

[0009] U.S. Patent No. US10098427B2 disclosing a soft-sided insulated container assembly is made of a flexible wall structure that is movable between a collapsed position and a deployed position. In one variation of the deployed position it resembles a tote-bag; in another variation of folding the deployed position corresponds to a generally box-like shape. The container includes a self-inflating wall structure that has an inner layer or skin, an outer layer or skin, and a resilient, open-cell insulating layer trapped between the two skins. A valve governs the ability to take in or to expel air. The outer layer may be thicker and more robust that the inner layer, the better to resist abrasion or punctures. The inner layer may be reflective. There may be a removable internal liner. That liner may be transparent.

[0010] A company called Infl8 (www(dot)inf!8(dot)co / ) has developed a protective and reusable packaging, configured for shipping fragile goods. The packaging is made of ultra-resistant fabric inflated with air for e-commerce merchants. Once deflated, the packaging can be sent back as a letter.

[0011] A product concept by Simon Chantrel (www(dot)en(dot)futuroprossimo(dot)it / 2022 / 01 / inflate-alternativa-riusabile-agli-imballaggi-per- le-commerce-sostenibile / ) discloses a reusable inflatable packaging having an inflatable mousse of polyurethane.

[0012] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0013] Following is a non-exclusive list including some examples of embodiments of the invention. The invention also includes embodiments which include fewer than all the features in an example and embodiments using features from multiple examples, also if not expressly listed below.

[0014] Example 1. An inflatable container, comprising: a. a body comprising: i. a bottom end comprising a first opening; ii. a top end comprising a second opening; iii. a plurality of walls extending from said bottom end to said top end; iv. an internal space defined by said plurality of walls and configured to allow insertion of at least one object within said internal space;

[0015] Characterized by: one or more of said plurality of walls comprise: v. an external surface; vi. an internal surface; and vii. a plurality of spaces defined between said external surface and said internal surface; said plurality of spaces defining a plurality of inflatable compartments; wherein said top end comprises an unfolded configuration and a folded configuration; wherein in said folded configuration, said internal space is reduced; b. a plurality of releasable holders positioned on said external surface and configured for retaining said folded configuration.

[0016] Example 2. The inflatable container according to example 1, wherein said external surface is made of non-compliant material.

[0017] Example 3. The inflatable container according to example 1 or example 2, wherein said internal surface is made of compliant material.

[0018] Example 4. The inflatable container according to any one of examples 1-3, wherein at least one of said first opening or said second opening are permanently closed.

[0019] Example 5. The inflatable container according to any one of examples 1-4, wherein said first opening and / or said second opening further comprise a closing mechanism configured to reversibly close said first opening and / or said second opening.

[0020] Example 6. The inflatable container according to any one of examples 1-5, wherein said closing mechanism is a zipper.

[0021] Example 7. The inflatable container according to any one of examples 1-6, wherein said plurality of spaces are configured for receiving at least one gas and / or liquid.

[0022] Example 8. The inflatable container according to any one of examples 1-7, wherein said external surface comprises at least one valve configured for receiving and / or releasing at least one gas and / or liquid.

[0023] Example 9. The inflatable container according to any one of examples 1-8, wherein said plurality of spaces are interconnected with each other.

[0024] Example 10. The inflatable container according to any one of examples 1-9, wherein said inflatable container comprises an inflated configuration and a deflated configuration.

[0025] Example 11. The inflatable container according to any one of examples 1-10, wherein in said deflated configuration, said inflatable container is flat.

[0026] Example 12. The inflatable container according to any one of examples 1-11, wherein in said inflated configuration said internal surface is configured to conform a geometry of said at least one object.

[0027] Example 13. The inflatable container according to any one of examples 1-12, wherein in said folded configuration said top end and / or said bottom end are rolled on themselves.

[0028] Example 14. The inflatable container according to any one of examples 1-13, wherein in said folded configuration said top end and / or said bottom end are folded on top of a part of said external surface. Example 15. The inflatable container according to any one of examples 1-14, wherein in said folded configuration, interconnections between spaces from said plurality of spaces located within a rolled / folded section of said top end and / or said bottom end and spaces from said plurality of spaces that are not within said rolled / folded section are blocked.

[0029] Example 16. The inflatable container according to any one of examples 1-15, wherein said inflatable container is made of recycled materials.

[0030] Example 17. The inflatable container according to any one of examples 1-18, further comprising at least one temperature-controlled material located within said plurality of spaces.

[0031] Example 18. The inflatable container according to any one of examples 1-17, further comprising at least one temperature sensor configured for monitoring an internal temperature of said internal space.

[0032] Example 19. The inflatable container according to any one of examples 1-18, further comprising an internal frame configured to provide a determined geometry to said inflatable container.

[0033] Example 20. The inflatable container according to any one of examples 1-19, wherein both said external surface and said internal surface are made of non-compliant materials and said inflatable container further comprises an inflatable body configured to be inserted within said internal space.

[0034] Example 21. The inflatable container according to any one of examples 1-20, further comprising at least one label fixed on said external surface.

[0035] Example 22. The inflatable container according to example 21, wherein said at least one label comprises a returning address to where said inflatable container can be returned after being used.

[0036] Example 23. A method of using an inflatable container according to example 1, comprising: a. closing said first aperture or said second aperture of said inflatable container; b. inserting said at least one object within said internal space through an aperture that was left open from said first aperture or said second aperture; c. rolling and / or folding said top end or said bottom end until reaching a desired size; d. closing one or more holders configured for maintain said rolling and / or folding; e. inflating said inflatable container.

[0037] Example 24. The method according to example 23, wherein said desired size is a size that fits said at least one object positioned within said inflatable container. Example 25. The method according to example 23 or example 24, wherein said inflating comprises inflating until reaching a size of said at least one object positioned within said inflatable container.

[0038] Example 26. The method according to any one of examples 23-25, further comprising inserting at least one temperature-controlled material within walls of said inflatable container.

[0039] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and / or scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which the invention pertains. Although methods and materials similar or equivalent to those described herein can be used in the practice or testing of embodiments of the invention, exemplary methods and / or materials are described below. In case of conflict, the patent specification, including definitions, will control. In addition, the materials, methods, and examples are illustrative only and are not intended to be necessarily limiting.

[0040] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS

[0041] Some embodiments of the invention are herein described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings. With specific reference now to the drawings in detail, it is stressed that the particulars shown are by way of example and for purposes of illustrative discussion of embodiments of the invention. In this regard, the description taken with the drawings makes apparent to those skilled in the art how embodiments of the invention may be practiced.

[0042] In the drawings:

[0043] Figure 1 is a schematic representation of an exemplary container, according to some embodiments of the invention;

[0044] Figures 2a-b are schematic representation of exemplary inflatable compartments that made the walls of an exemplary body of an exemplary compartment, according to some embodiments of the invention;

[0045] Figure 3 is a schematic representation of the exemplary capability of the internal side to conform to an object, according to some embodiments of the invention;

[0046] Figure 4 is a schematic representation of an exemplary container with an inflation connector, according to some embodiments of the invention;

[0047] Figure 5 is a schematic representation of an exemplary resizable container, according to some embodiments of the invention;

[0048] Figure 6 is a schematic representation exemplary resizing methods, according to some embodiments of the invention; Figure 7 is a schematic representation of gas blocking mechanism, according to some embodiments of the invention;

[0049] Figure 8 is a schematic representation of closing mechanism, according to some embodiments of the invention; and

[0050] Figures 9a-e are a schematic representation of an exemplary method of closing an exemplary container, according to some embodiments of the invention;

[0051] Figure 10 is a flowchart of the exemplary method of closing an exemplary container, according to some embodiments of the invention;

[0052] Figure 11 is a schematic representation of an exemplary two-part container, according to some embodiments of the invention; and

[0053] Figures 12a- 12e are schematic representations of an exemplary kit for accelerating the packaging process, according to some embodiments of the invention;

[0054] DESCRIPTION OF SPECIFIC EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION

[0055] The present invention, in some embodiments thereof, relates to an inflatable package and, more particularly, but not exclusively, to a size-modifiable inflatable package.

[0056] Overview

[0057] An aspect of some embodiments of the invention relates to a multiuse adaptable inflatable container. In some embodiments, multiuse refers to a container that can be used more than one time, more than two times, multiple times. In some embodiments, adaptable refers to the size of the container, which can be folded (adapted) to the size of the object within the container. In some embodiments, inflatable refers to one or more internal parts of the container that can be reversibly inflated to provide protection to the object within the container. In some embodiments, the container comprises one or more internal walls configured to be inflated. In some embodiments, inflating the one or more internal walls causes the surface of the one or more internal walls to enclose and hold in place an object contained within the inflatable container. In some embodiments, the one or more inflatable internal walls are configured to adapt to the form and / or geometry of the object contained within. In some embodiments, a potential advantage of configuring the one or more internal inflatable walls to adapt to the object contained within is that it potentially allows to protect the object from external damage without the need to use additional protective material. In some embodiments, the multiuse adaptable inflatable container is configured to be folded to a smaller size (referred also as “resized”). In some embodiments, a potential advantage of providing an adaptable (foldable) container is that it allows a same container to be used for objects having different sizes without the need to provide a different container (either bigger or smaller) and to allow a container to adapt to a size of an object thereby saving shipping space. In some embodiments, the internal inflatable walls are configured to be filled with a material configured to keep a certain temperature, for example, a phase changing material (PCM), for example a liquid that keeps the content within the container at a certain temperature, either cold or hot, for a certain period of time. In some embodiments, a potential advantage of providing a container with thermoliquids is that it allows shipping temperature sensitive objects while protecting them from damage. In some embodiments, the multiuse adaptable inflatable container comprises a temperature monitoring device configured to monitor the temperature of the contained object during the duration of the shipping. For example, if an object is temperature sensitive, the temperature monitoring device will monitor the temperature to assess whether the object has been exposed to higher temperatures and notify the receiver of this event. In some embodiments, the multiuse adaptable inflatable container is made of durable materials. In some embodiments, the container is made of recyclable materials, optionally plastic recyclable materials. In some embodiments, the inflatable internal walls are an independent part that is inserted into an external container. In some embodiments, the container comprises an internal removable frame that provides the package with a certain geometrical size. In some embodiments, a potential advantage of providing the package with a certain geometrical size is that it facilitates the storage of the package in a multi-package delivery event. In some embodiments, the multiuse adaptable inflatable container is configured to be coupled to a drone for drone delivery scenarios, for example by having one or more coupling elements (for example handles, hooks, rugged surfaces, etc.) on the surface of the multiuse adaptable inflatable container. In some embodiments, the multiuse adaptable inflatable container comprises an electronic seal configured to be opened only by the receiver. In some embodiments, if the multiuse adaptable inflatable container has been opened by any other person, the electronic seal is configured to notify the receiver.

[0058] In some embodiments, once the multiuse adaptable inflatable container is received by the receiver, the received deflates and folds the multiuse adaptable inflatable container, exposes a preattached return label and sends it back to be reused. In some embodiments, the receiver can use himself the multiuse adaptable inflatable container to send another item to another receiver without the need to send back the multiuse adaptable inflatable container.

[0059] In some embodiments, a potential advantage of the container is that the combination of cushioning (protection), lightweight construction, and thermal properties makes the air-filled container particularly suited for fragile, temperature- sensitive, and potentially hazardous goods. The scalable design of the container and the ability to minimize the use of material while maximizing protection further enhance the applicability of the container across diverse industries such as electronics, pharmaceuticals, and liquid container shipping.

[0060] Before explaining at least one embodiment of the invention in detail, it is to be understood that the invention is not necessarily limited in its application to the details of construction and the arrangement of the components and / or methods set forth in the following description and / or illustrated in the drawings and / or the Examples. The invention is capable of other embodiments or of being practiced or carried out in various ways.

[0061] Referring now to Figure 1, showing a schematic representation of an exemplary multiuse adaptable inflatable container (referred hereinafter just as “container”), according to some embodiments of the invention. In some embodiments, an exemplary container 100 comprises a body 102 having a bottom end 104 and a top end 106. In some embodiments, the bottom end 104 is a closed end. In some embodiments, the top end 106 is an open end configured to allow a user to insert within the body 102 an object 108 in need to be shipped. In some embodiments, the container comprises a closing mechanism 110 (for example a zipper or any other mechanism) configured to close the opening at the top end 106 and / or one or more holding mechanisms 112 (see below for more information).

[0062] In some embodiments, the body 102 is made of plastic, optionally made of recycled plastic. In some embodiments, exemplary materials include one or more of PVC, Nylon, TPU, PET, PES, PP, PE, Teflon, PU and Silicone. In some embodiments, exemplary sizes of exemplary container are, for example according to sizes, XS: 20x40x8 cm, Small: 35x55x10 cm, Medium: 75x35x15 cm, Large: 85x35x25 cm and XL: 95x45x35 cm.

[0063] In some embodiments, the walls of the body 102 on the internal side comprise a plurality of inflatable compartments, as will be further explained below.

[0064] Referring now to Figures 2a-b, showing a schematic representation of exemplary inflatable compartments that made the walls of an exemplary body of an exemplary compartment, according to some embodiments of the invention. In some embodiments, a wall 202 of an exemplary container 100 is made of a plurality of inflatable compartments 204 interconnected with each other (interconnection not shown). In some embodiments, when not inflated (or deflated), the wall is configured to have a flat configuration. In some embodiments, when deflated (in the deflated configuration), the whole container is flat. In some embodiments, once deflated, the flat container can be folded into a smaller size. In some embodiments, when inflated, the wall is configured to have a 3D configuration, as schematically shown in Figures 2a-2b. In some embodiments, optionally, in the inflated configuration, the length of the walls contracts, for example from LI to L2, as schematically shown in Figure 2a. In some embodiments, the compartments have a horizontal orientation, meaning in parallel to the directional axis of the bottom end 104 and the top end 106. In some embodiments, the compartments have a vertical orientation, meaning perpendicular to the directional axis of the bottom end 104 and the top end 106. In some embodiments, an exemplary container comprises a combination of compartments having horizontal orientations, vertical orientations and / or diagonal orientations. In some embodiments, the configuration of the inflatable compartments can be of different sizes and shapes (squares, circles, and others), and can be in straight lines or zig-zag or any other suitable configuration.

[0065] In some embodiments, one side of the wall 202, more precisely an external side of the wall 202, is made of a non-compliant material, while the other side of the wall 202 is made of compliant material. In some embodiments, the non-compliant material comprises some flexibility that allows the container to be folded when not in use. For example, referring now to Figure 2b, at the deflated state, the wall 202 is flat, while at the inflated state, only the internal side of the wall 202 will change the tridimensional configuration, while the external side will remain flat. This concept is schematically shown in Figure 2b. In some embodiments, the level of deformation of the internal side is variable, for example, it can deform to conform the geometrical form of the object being inserted within the container.

[0066] Referring now to Figure 3, showing a schematic representation of the exemplary capability of the internal side to conform to an object, according to some embodiments of the invention. In some embodiments, the internal side of the container is configured to be inflated and conform the form and / or geometry of the object being inserted within the container, independently of the geometrical form of the object. For example, whether it is a bottle, a round object (for example a ball) or an object having an irregular form, the internal side will conform to the geometry in the inflated configuration, whether the container is adjusted or not. In Figure 3, mid-section, it can be seen that the container is being adjusted to the size of the object, while in the bottom part, the adjusted container is inflated to hold and protect the object contained within the container.

[0067] Referring now to Figure 4, showing a schematic representation of an exemplary container with an inflation connector, according to some embodiments of the invention. In some embodiments, the external side of the container comprises at least one inflation connector 402 configured to allow receiving and / or releasing a gas to / from within the walls of the container 100. In Figure 4, a pump 404 is shown. In some embodiments, inflation can be performed “mechanically” using a pump or can be inflated “manually” (a user inflating the container with his mouth, optionally using a dedicated straw). In some embodiments, any kind of gas can be used to inflate the container, for example air. In some embodiments, inflation can be performed by utilizing a dedicated inflation cartridge. In some embodiments, once a user wants to inflate the container, he actuates the cartridge that releases a gas within the container and inflates the walls. In some embodiments, the cartridge comprises a replaceable tank.

[0068] In some embodiments, the container is filled with a material configured to keep a certain temperature, for example, a phase changing material (PCM), for example a liquid that keeps the content within the container at a certain temperature, either cold or hot, for a certain period of time.

[0069] Exemplary size adaptation of an exemplary container

[0070] Known containers in the art come in fixed sizes. This means that in the case a user has a small object (or a big object), he is forced to do one of two things: either fill the container with additional protective material (for example bubbles, peanuts, etc.) or acquire a new container having a more suitable size.

[0071] In some embodiments, the exemplary container is configured to be adapted to a smaller size. Referring now to Figure 5, showing a schematic representation of an exemplary resizable container, according to some embodiments of the invention. Figure 5 schematically show how two different objects, one small (marked with the letter “S”) and one medium (marked with the letter “M”) can be shipped using a same exemplary container. In some embodiments, the top end 106 of an exemplary container is configured to be closed and then further folded in order to match the size of the object being positioned within the container. For example, as shown in Figure 5, the top end 106 is folded (in this case “rolled up”) until it reaches the object. As can be seen in Figure 5, more folding is required for the small object than for the medium object. In any case, the exemplary container is resized to match the size of the object within.

[0072] Referring now to Figure 6, showing schematic representations of exemplary resizing methods, according to some embodiments of the invention. In some embodiments, exemplary resizing mechanisms comprise either a rolling mechanism 602 and / or a folding mechanism 604. In some embodiments, the exemplary container is resized by rolling the top end 106 on itself until reaching the desirable size. In some embodiments, the exemplary container is resized by folding the top end 106 on top of the external surface of the container until reaching the desirable size.

[0073] In some embodiments, the resizing mechanisms are configured to block 702 the passage of gases inflating the internal walls of the container to the areas that have been rolled or folded, as schematically shown in Figure 7. In some embodiments, the container is first folded / rolled and then it is inflated.

[0074] Referring now to Figure 8, showing a schematic representation of closing mechanism, according to some embodiments of the invention. In some embodiments, folding or rolling the top end 106 is kept due to one of more elements positioned on the external surface of the container. For example, an exemplary container comprises one or more holders configured to keep the folded / rolled container from de-folding / de-rolling. For example, a plurality of Hook-and-loop fasteners 112 or hook-and-pile fasteners or touch fasteners (often referred to by the genericized trademark Velcro®), are positioned on the external surface of the container and are configured to keep the container in the folded / rolled configuration.

[0075] Exemplary methods

[0076] Referring now to Figures 9a-e, showing a schematic representation of an exemplary method of closing an exemplary container, according to some embodiments of the invention; and also referring to Figure 10, showing a flowchart of the exemplary method of closing an exemplary container, according to some embodiments of the invention.

[0077] In some embodiments, the method comprises one or more of the following actions:

[0078] 1. Inserting an object within the container (1002) - not shown in Figures 9a-e.

[0079] 2. Closing the aperture on the top end 106 (1004) using the closing mechanism 110 (for example a zipper or any other mechanism configured to close the opening in the top end 106) - as schematically shown for example in Figure 9a.

[0080] 3. Rolling / Folding the top end 106 until reaching the desired size (usually according to the size of the object inserted in the container) (1006) - as schematically shown for example in Figure 9b.

[0081] 4. Closing the holders 112 to keep the container from opening (1008) - as schematically shown for example in Figures 9c and 9d.

[0082] 5. Inflating the internal walls of the package (1010) - as schematically shown for example in Figure 9e.

[0083] Exemplary temperature-controlled container

[0084] In some embodiments, the exemplary container is configured to provide a temperature- controlled environment inside the container. In some embodiments, additionally or alternatively to gas, the walls of the container are filled, or at least partially filled, with a liquid and / or a gel configured to modify the internal temperature of the container, for example, to reduce or increase and keep the temperature inside the counter, for example to a temperature from about 60 degrees Celsius to about -20 degrees Celsius. In some embodiments, the air or gas compartments serve as insulation layer, and the temperature control liquid or gel is part of an independent container attached to the previous air compartment. In some embodiments, as mentioned above, the temperature control can be for cold objects or for hot objects, meaning the material used are configured to keep either a low temperature (for example 4 degrees or -20 degrees) or a high temperature (for example 20 degrees, or 40 degrees, or higher).

[0085] Exemplary sensors in an exemplary container

[0086] In some embodiments, an exemplary container comprises one or more sensors. For example, the container comprises a temperature sensor configured to monitor the temperature inside the container. In some embodiments, when thermos-sensible materials are sent using the exemplary container, the temperature sensor monitors the temperature inside the container along the whole shipping period to assess whether the materials were exposed to extreme temperatures. In some embodiments, the user is notified when extreme temperatures were sensed or whether no abnormal temperatures were sensed.

[0087] Exemplary two-part container

[0088] Referring now to Figure 11, showing a schematic representation of an exemplary two-part container, according to some embodiments of the invention. In some embodiments, an exemplary container 1100 comprises two distinct parts: and external element 1102 and an inflatable internal element 1104.

[0089] In some embodiments, the inflatable internal element 1104 is inserted within the external element 1102 providing a container that works similarly to the ones disclosed for example in Figure 1-8, 9a-e and 10. In some embodiments, the exemplary container 1100 comprises a dedicated connector to allow access to the air-valve located in the internal element 1124.

[0090] Exemplary kit for accelerating the packaging process

[0091] Referring now to Figures 12a- 12e showing an exemplary kit for accelerating the packaging process, according to some embodiments of the invention. In some embodiments, in order to facilitate and / or accelerate the insertion of products 1204 into exemplary containers 1202, a dedicated kit is used. Figure 12a schematically shows a container 1202 and two tools of the kit: a frame 1206 and a pusher 1208. In some embodiments, the frame 1206 is configured to be folded. In some embodiments, the frame id made of plastic, cardboard or any other suitable material. In some embodiments, a product 1204 is inserted into the frame 1206, as schematically shown in Figure 12b. In some embodiments, the frame 1206 is folded to enclose the product 1202, as schematically shown in Figure 12c. In some embodiments, either with or without the use of the pusher 1208, the user pushes both the product 1204 and the frame 1206 within the container 1202, as schematically shown in Figure 12d. In some embodiments, the user then extracts the frame 1206 and the pusher 1208 from the container 1202, which is now ready to be closed and inflated, as schematically shown in Figure 12e.

[0092] In some embodiments, the frame is left inside the container to provide the container with a geometrical form.

[0093] Exemplary feedback element

[0094] In some embodiments, the container comprises a feedback element configured to allow the receiver to provide feedback regarding the shipment, the product or anything related to the package. In some embodiments, the feedback element is a fillable card or an electronic element attached to the container.

[0095] Exemplary containers adapted for drone deliveries

[0096] In some embodiments, the exemplary containers comprise one or more external elements that allow the container to be reversibly attached to a drone. In some embodiments, the one or more external elements can be handles, hooks, rigged surfaces, or any combination thereof.

[0097] Exemplary electronic seals

[0098] In some embodiments, the container comprises an electronic seal configured to monitor the aperture of the container. In some embodiments, the electronic sela can be opened by the receiver alone. In some embodiments, if the container has been opened by other than the receiver, a message is sent to the necessary people (the senders and / or the receivers).

[0099] Exemplary tamper-proof mechanisms

[0100] In some embodiments, the container comprises a tamper-proof mechanism, for example, if the container has been tampered in any way, the air within the container is released, thereby providing a proof of tampering to the receiver.

[0101] Exemplary means and methods of returnability of the exemplary containers

[0102] In some embodiments, the exemplary multiuse adaptable inflatable container is configured to facilitate the returnability of the container. In some embodiments, the container is configured to be deflated and folded to a smaller size when needed to be returned. In some embodiments, the container comprises a built-in label that is exposed once the container is returned. For example, once the receiver has received the package, the receiver deflates the container, folds the container to a smaller size and exposes the built-in label. After this, the receiver just sends the folded-deflated container via mail back to the sender or to a dedicated facility where the containers are prepped for the next shipping cycle.

[0103] Exemplary multi-layer container

[0104] In some embodiments, an exemplary container is made of a plurality of layers (same as described above). For example, one or more of an external layer, an inflatable internal layer and an internal frame. In some embodiments, the layers are completely independent from each other. In some embodiments, the layers are combined, for example, the external layer and the internal inflatable layer are one and the same; or for example, the internal inflatable layer and the frame are one and the same. In some embodiments, the container comprises all three layers in one - an external layer with an inflatable internal wall that comprises a certain geometry.

[0105] As used herein with reference to quantity or value, the term “about” means “within ± 10 % of’.

[0106] The terms “comprises”, “comprising”, “includes”, “including”, “has”, “having” and their conjugates mean “including but not limited to”.

[0107] The term “consisting of’ means “including and limited to”.

[0108] The term “consisting essentially of’ means that the composition, method or structure may include additional ingredients, steps and / or parts, but only if the additional ingredients, steps and / or parts do not materially alter the basic and novel characteristics of the claimed composition, method or structure.

[0109] As used herein, the singular forms “a”, “an” and “the” include plural references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. For example, the term “a compound” or “at least one compound” may include a plurality of compounds, including mixtures thereof.

[0110] Throughout this application, embodiments of this invention may be presented with reference to a range format. It should be understood that the description in range format is merely for convenience and brevity and should not be construed as an inflexible limitation on the scope of the invention. Accordingly, the description of a range should be considered to have specifically disclosed all the possible subranges as well as individual numerical values within that range. For example, description of a range such as “from 1 to 6” should be considered to have specifically disclosed subranges such as “from 1 to 3”, “from 1 to 4”, “from 1 to 5”, “from 2 to 4”, “from 2 to 6”, “from 3 to 6”, etc.; as well as individual numbers within that range, for example, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6. This applies regardless of the breadth of the range.

[0111] Whenever a numerical range is indicated herein (for example “10-15”, “10 to 15”, or any pair of numbers linked by these another such range indication), it is meant to include any number (fractional or integral) within the indicated range limits, including the range limits, unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. The phrases “range / ranging / ranges between” a first indicate number and a second indicate number and “range / ranging / ranges from” a first indicate number “to”, “up to”, “until” or “through” (or another such range-indicating term) a second indicate number are used herein interchangeably and are meant to include the first and second indicated numbers and all the fractional and integral numbers therebetween.

[0112] Unless otherwise indicated, numbers used herein and any number ranges based thereon are approximations within the accuracy of reasonable measurement and rounding errors as understood by persons skilled in the art.

[0113] It is appreciated that certain features of the invention, which are, for clarity, described in the context of separate embodiments, may also be provided in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, various features of the invention, which are, for brevity, described in the context of a single embodiment, may also be provided separately or in any suitable subcombination or as suitable in any other described embodiment of the invention. Certain features described in the context of various embodiments are not to be considered essential features of those embodiments, unless the embodiment is inoperative without those elements.

[0114] Although the invention has been described in conjunction with specific embodiments thereof, it is evident that many alternatives, modifications and variations will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Accordingly, it is intended to embrace all such alternatives, modifications and variations that fall within the spirit and broad scope of the appended claims.

[0115] It is the intent of the applicant(s) that all publications, patents and patent applications referred to in this specification are to be incorporated in their entirety by reference into the specification, as if each individual publication, patent or patent application was specifically and individually noted when referenced that it is to be incorporated herein by reference. In addition, citation or identification of any reference in this application shall not be construed as an admission that such reference is available as prior art to the present invention. To the extent that section headings are used, they should not be construed as necessarily limiting. In addition, any priority document(s) of this application is / are hereby incorporated herein by reference in its / their entirety.

Claims

WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1. An inflatable container, comprising: a. a body comprising: i. a bottom end comprising a first opening; ii. a top end comprising a second opening; iii. a plurality of walls extending from said bottom end to said top end; iv. an internal space defined by said plurality of walls and configured to allow insertion of at least one object within said internal space;Characterized by: one or more of said plurality of walls comprise: v. an external surface; vi. an internal surface; and vii. a plurality of spaces defined between said external surface and said internal surface; said plurality of spaces defining a plurality of inflatable compartments; wherein said top end comprises an unfolded configuration and a folded configuration; wherein in said folded configuration, said internal space is reduced; b. a plurality of releasable holders positioned on said external surface and configured for retaining said folded configuration.

2. The inflatable container according to claim 1, wherein said external surface is made of non-compliant material.

3. The inflatable container according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein said internal surface is made of compliant material.

4. The inflatable container according to any one of claims 1-3, wherein at least one of said first opening or said second opening are permanently closed.

5. The inflatable container according to any one of claims 1-4, wherein said first opening and / or said second opening further comprise a closing mechanism configured to reversibly close said first opening and / or said second opening.

6. The inflatable container according to claim 5, wherein said closing mechanism is a zipper.

7. The inflatable container according to any one of claims 1-6, wherein said plurality of spaces are configured for receiving at least one gas and / or liquid.

8. The inflatable container according to any one of claims 1-7, wherein said external surface comprises at least one valve configured for receiving and / or releasing at least one gas and / or liquid.

9. The inflatable container according to any one of claims 1-8, wherein said plurality of spaces are interconnected with each other.

10. The inflatable container according to any one of claims 1-9, wherein said inflatable container comprises an inflated configuration and a deflated configuration.

11. The inflatable container according to claim 10, wherein in said deflated configuration, said inflatable container is flat.

12. The inflatable container according to claim 10, wherein in said inflated configuration said internal surface is configured to conform a geometry of said at least one object.

13. The inflatable container according to any one of claims 1-12, wherein in said folded configuration said top end and / or said bottom end are rolled on themselves.

14. The inflatable container according to any one of claims 1-13, wherein in said folded configuration said top end and / or said bottom end are folded on top of a part of said external surface.

15. The inflatable container according to any one of claims 1-14, wherein in said folded configuration, interconnections between spaces from said plurality of spaces located within a rolled / folded section of said top end and / or said bottom end and spaces from said plurality of spaces that are not within said rolled / folded section are blocked.

16. The inflatable container according to any one of claims 1-15, wherein said inflatable container is made of recycled materials.

17. The inflatable container according to any one of claims 1-16, further comprising at least one temperature-controlled material located within said plurality of spaces.

18. The inflatable container according to any one of claims 1-17, further comprising at least one temperature sensor configured for monitoring an internal temperature of said internal space.

19. The inflatable container according to any one of claims 1-18, further comprising an internal frame configured to provide a determined geometry to said inflatable container.

20. The inflatable container according to any one of claims 1-19, wherein both said external surface and said internal surface are made of non-compliant materials and said inflatable container further comprises an inflatable body configured to be inserted within said internal space.

21. The inflatable container according to any one of claims 1-20, further comprising at least one label fixed on said external surface.

22. The inflatable container according to claim 21, wherein said at least one label comprises a returning address to where said inflatable container can be returned after being used.

23. A method of using an inflatable container according to claim 1, comprising: a. closing said first aperture or said second aperture of said inflatable container; b. inserting said at least one object within said internal space through an aperture that was left open from said first aperture or said second aperture; c. rolling and / or folding said top end or said bottom end until reaching a desired size; d. closing one or more holders configured for maintain said rolling and / or folding; e. inflating said inflatable container.

24. The method according to claim 23, wherein said desired size is a size that fits said at least one object positioned within said inflatable container.

25. The method according to claim 23 or claim 24, wherein said inflating comprises inflating until reaching a size of said at least one object positioned within said inflatable container.

26. The method according to any one of claims 23-25, further comprising inserting at least one temperature-controlled material within walls of said inflatable container.

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