Inflatable screen

Abstract

A device for displaying images on a three-dimensional surface is provided that includes an inflatable envelope that almost completely encloses a three-dimensional space. The envelop has an opening that is connected in a gas-tight manner to a support structure. The support structure contains a pump for inflating the envelope and is configured to store the envelope when deflated. The exterior of the envelope contains luminous elements that, controlled by a control system, form a continuous image with bright contrast. The envelope is expanded and inflated by the pump, and the luminous elements are controlled to display images. For storing and transporting, the luminous elements can be switched off, the envelope deflated and then folded onto the support structure.

Description

INFLATABLE SCREENRELATED APPLICATION DATA

[0001] This application claims the benefit of priority of Belgium Patent Application Serial No. BE2025 / 5182, filed on March 28, 2025, and titled “Opblaasbaar beeldscherm” (English translation: Inflatable Screen), which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.FIELD OF DISCLOSURE

[0002] The disclosure relates to inflatable structures, and in particular to an inflatable displays.BACKGROUND

[0003] Three-dimensional displays, which display moving or static images across the surface of a three-dimensional geometric shape, have an inherent advantage over flat, planar displays in that they can be viewed from more than one vantage point simultaneously. This allows a dispersed audience to view the images without the display needing a predetermined orientation relative to the audience. Three-dimensional displays are typically spherical or spheroidal in shape, but other three-dimensional geometric shapes, such as cylindrical, are also known.

[0004] EP2095185 describes a device for displaying images on a three-dimensional surface, comprising a flexible inflatable projection screen with an inner surface that substantially encloses a three-dimensional space and includes an opening, and a base unit with a projection screen receiving opening to which the opening of the inflatable projection screen is coupled with an airtight seal, so that gas can be supplied from the base unit through the openings. The base unit includes a pump for supplying gas through the coupled openings to inflate the inflatable projection screen, and an image projection device operable to project images onto the inner surface of the inflatable projection screen in use, when the inflatable projection screen is inflated. The base unit is configured to receive and contain the inflatable projection screen when the projection screen is deflated.

[0005] U.S. Pat. No. 8578657 describes an inflatable support structure enclosing an area capable of being filled with a gas at a positive pressure above atmospheric pressure. A flexible screen is attached to the support structure; an area between the flexible screen and the support structure is capable of being filled with agas at anegative pressure below atmospheric pressure, thereby maintaining the flexible screen in a shape suitable for image projection. One method according to embodiments comprises inflating an inflatable support structure with a gas at a1 Attorney Docket No. 15516-134WOU1positive pressure above atmospheric pressure and removing gas from an area between the support structure and a flexible screen attached to the support structure to maintain the flexible screen in a shape suitable for image projection, with the liquid at a negative pressure below atmospheric pressure being between the flexible screen and the support structure.

[0006] U.S. Pat. No. 4103369 describes a portable device comprising an inflatable enclosure, a screen inside the enclosure for projecting an image, a blower for supplying compressed air to inflate the enclosure through a duct connecting the blower to the interior of the enclosure, ventilation means located near the attachment of the upper portion of the enclosure to its floor portion, and a carry ing bag containing the blower and into which the other parts of the structure can be placed for transport when the enclosure is deflated.

[0007] However, the aforementioned techniques for displaying an image on an inflatable structure have the disadvantage that the image is projected onto the inflatable structure, which limits the brightness and quality of the image. This makes current techniques unsuitable for use in locations with high ambient light, such as on a stage or an outdoor sports field. Furthermore, the limited image quality also limits the variety of images that can be displayed, which indirectly limits their applicability.

[0008] Traditional inflatable screens, which can be moved by a single person, are also not large enough to create a clearly visible image for a large audience, such as a concert or soccer match. This requires the use of devices that cannot be moved by a single person, which limits their versatility and complicates their use.SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0009] In a first aspect, the disclosure relates to a device for displaying images on a three-dimensional surface. This device comprises an inflatable envelope that almost completely encloses a three-dimensional space and has an opening. A support structure with a pump supplies gas for inflating the envelope. A computer, provided on the support structure, directs images onto the inflatable envelope. The support structure has a base suitable for supporting the inflatable envelope and includes an opening that is gas-tightly connected to the opening of the envelope and operatively connected to the pump. This ensures that gas is supplied from the support structure through the opening when the pump is operating. The support structure is configured to receive and retain the deflated envelope. The exterior of the inflatable envelope is at least partially provided with light-emitting elements that form a single continuous image when controlled by the control system. The use of light-emitting elements produces a bright image with clear contrast.2 Attorney Docket No. 15516-134WOU1

[0010] In a second aspect, the disclosure relates to a method of arranging a device according to the first aspect, comprising the steps of unfolding the envelope stored on the base of the support structure so that the envelope lies extended partly on the base of the support structure and partly on the surrounding ground; controlling the pump using a control system provided on the support structure to pump air into the envelope through the opening; and controlling the luminous elements using the control system.

[0011] In a third aspect, the disclosure relates to a method of storing a device according to the first aspect, comprising the steps of: switching off the light-emitting elements; deflating the inflated envelope until it lies flat and extended over the support structure and the surrounding ground; and folding the envelope onto the base of the support structure.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0012] For the purpose of illustrating the disclosure, the drawings show aspects of one or more embodiments of the disclosure. However, it should be understood that the present disclosure is not limited to the precise arrangements and instrumentalities shown in the drawings, wherein:FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an inflatable screen in a folded state on a support structure in accordance w ith an aspect of the present disclosure;FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the screen in the folded position and with the sides of the support structure extended;FIG. 3 illustrates a schematic representation of the screen during deployment of the inflatable envelope;FIG. 4 illustrates a schematic representation of the screen in the unfolded position;FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the screen in an inflated state; andFIG. 6 is a perspective, partially transparent view of the screen in its deployed and inflated state, showing the corresponding location of the support structure.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0013] The disclosure relates to an inflatable device for displaying images on a three-dimensional surface.

[0014] To better understand the description, the following terms are explained.

[0015] The term “inflatable shell” or “envelope” refers to a flexible, airtight structure that can be filled with gas to form a three-dimensional space and then be deflated and folded.3 Attorney Docket No. 15516-134WOU1

[0016] The term “support structure'’ refers to a spatial structure with a base and a horizontal subsurface, and in between a volume within which objects, such as a computer or a pump, can be contained.

[0017] The abbreviation “LED” refers to Light Emitting Diode.

[0018] In a first aspect, the disclosure relates to an image display device includes a plurality of light emitting elements, a deformable, inflatable shell having at least one opening, the shell having an outer surface and an interior, and the light emitting elements being secured to the outer surface of the shell, a support structure including a pump, the pump being coupled to the shell via the opening, and the pump being configured to generate an airflow toward the interior of the inflatable shell, a control system, preferably in the support structure, for controlling and energizing the plurality of light emitting elements. The support structure includes a base, and the envelope is expandable in an uninflated state to a base area which extends beyond the base of the support structure, preferably with a base area at least 2, more preferably at least 4, times greater than the area of the base, and the envelope is stowable in an uninflated state on the support structure to within the boundaries of the base.

[0019] The luminous elements, placed on the outside of the inflatable shell, create a continuous image with sharp contrast and high brightness, allowing for highly detailed images. This allows for a w ide variety of images to be displayed. This high image quality makes the device ideal for applications such as events, trade shows, sporting events, concerts, and advertising, where a clear and impressive visual image is essential.

[0020] In one embodiment, the support structure is equipped with wheels at the bottom so that it can be more easily moved. In another embodiment, the top of the support structure has a surface that can retain the folded inflatable shell. In another embodiment, the support structure is beam-shaped or cylindrical.

[0021] In one embodiment, the base of the support structure has a length of at least 4.5 m, and preferably at least 4.8 m, and more preferably at least 5 m, and even more preferably at least 5.2 m, and even more preferably at least 5.5 m, and even more preferably at least 5.7 m, and even more preferably at least 5.9 m.

[0022] In one embodiment, the base of the support structure has a length of a maximum of 6.1 m, and preferably a maximum of 5.9 m, and more preferably a maximum of 5.7 m, and even more preferably a maximum of 5.4 m, and even more preferably a maximum of 5.2 m, and even more preferably a maximum of 5 m, and even more preferably a maximum of 4.7 m.

[0023] In one embodiment, the base of the support structure has a width of at least 0.6 m, and preferably at least 0.8 m, and more preferably at least 1 m, and even more preferably at4 Attorney Docket No. 15516-134WOU1least 1.2 m, and even more preferably at least 1.4 m, and even more preferably at least 1.6 m, and even more preferably at least 1.8 m.

[0024] In one embodiment, the base of the support structure has a width of a maximum of 2 m, and preferably a maximum of 1.8 m, and more preferably a maximum of 1.6 m, and even more preferably a maximum of 1.4 m, and even more preferably a maximum of 1.2 m, and even more preferably a maximum of 1 m, and even more preferably a maximum of 0.8 m.

[0025] In one embodiment, the base of the support structure has an area of at least 4.5 square meters, and preferably at least 4.9 square meters, and even more preferably at least 5.5 square meters, and even more preferably at least 5.9 square meters, and even more preferably at least 6.3 square meters, and even more preferably at least 6.7 square meters, and even more preferably at least 7.1 square meters.

[0026] In one embodiment, the base of the support structure has a surface area of 7.5 square meters, and more preferably a maximum of 7.1 square meters, and even more preferably a maximum of 6.7 square meters, and even more preferably a maximum of 6.3 square meters, and even more preferably a maximum of 5.9 square meters, and even more preferably a maximum of 5.5 square meters, and even more preferably 4.9 square meters.

[0027] In one embodiment, the light-emitting elements are Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs) provided on the outer surface of the envelope with a minimum surface density of 1,500 LEDs per m2., and preferably 3,000 LEDs per m2., and even more preferably 4,500 LEDs per m2.

[0028] In one embodiment, the pump is integrated into the volume of the support structure. In another embodiment, the opening in the inflatable shell is provided with a rigid flange, which is connected gas-tight to an air hose via a connecting sleeve, made of rubber or silicone, for example. The flange is preferably attached to the sleeve with stainless steel clamps, while the air hose is connected to the pump.

[0029] In one embodiment, the pump delivers an air flow of at least 0.37 m3 / s and a pressure of at least 13 kPa. These properties ensure that the envelope can be inflated quickly and efficiently and that sufficient pressure can be maintained to keep the inflatable envelope firm and stable in the inflated state.

[0030] In one embodiment, the inflatable shell is made of PVC, TPU, Hypalon . or vinyl. These materials offer excellent weather resistance, durability, and are gas-tight. Furthermore, these materials have good adhesion properties suitable for attaching luminous elements and adequate thermal conductivity, allowing them to quickly dissipate the heat generated by the luminous elements. This contributes to the performance and longevity of the luminous elements.5 Attorney Docket No. 15516-134WOU1

[0031] In one embodiment, the inflatable envelope consists of multiple layers. This multilayer construction minimizes the risk of leaks and increases durability and reliability. In a further embodiment, the inflatable envelope comprises two layers: an inner layer and an outer layer , both made of TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane). TPU is airtight, strong, and suitable for attaching LEDs. It retains its properties in thin layers, allowing a thin and easily collapsible layer to be used for both the inner and outer layers.

[0032] In one embodiment, the light-emitting elements are LEDs, which are located on the outside of the inflatable shell. The LEDs provide high-quality illumination with excellent light quality and offer a wide range of colors. They are energy-efficient and can be easily bent and shaped, allowing them to easily move with the curves of the inflatable shell during inflation and deflation. Furthermore, they are weatherproof, meaning the installation can also be used outdoors when these LEDs are used as light-emitting elements.

[0033] In one embodiment, the light-emitting elements are formed by LED strips. Using LED strips, which contain multiple LEDs per strip, allows the image to be created more quickly. This significantly accelerates the casing’s manufacturing process.

[0034] In one embodiment, the light-emitting elements are SMD 5050 LEDs , SMD 3528 LEDs, RGBW LEDs, or high CRI LEDs.

[0035] In one embodiment, the inflatable shell has the shape of a hemisphere when inflated, with the flat portion serving as the base and the exterior of the curved portion completely covered with luminous elements. This shape and the complete coverage of luminous elements provide the largest possible image surface, making the images clearly visible from multiple angles. This allows a larger audience to view the images simultaneously, making the device suitable for events and exhibitions where many people are gathered in various locations around the device. Furthermore, this shape not only provides stability in windy conditions thanks to the relatively wide base and streamlined shape, but also creates a support surface that can easily bear the weight of the inflatable shell. When using LEDs as luminous elements, the inflatable shell becomes relatively heavy compared to other imaging techniques, such as projecting an image onto alight screen, and the hemisphere shape provides the necessary support to bear this weight.

[0036] In one embodiment, the base of the inflatable shell has a diameter of at least 4 meters, preferably at least 6 meters, and even more preferably at least 7 meters.

[0037] In one embodiment, the inflatable shell comprises at least three loops or eyelets, evenly spaced around the perimeter of the base, which can be anchored to an external point.6 Attorney Docket No. 15516-134WOU1These anchor points contribute to the shell's stability, especially when used in windy outdoor environments.

[0038] In one embodiment, the support structure is provided with at least two laterally extending sides on the outside, which, when not deployed, rest on the edges of the base of the support structure, thus at least partially defining the base. These sides prevent the folded envelope from falling off the support structure and also provide protection against damage by deflecting external objects. When deployed, the sides also serve as support for the inflated inflatable envelope. In one embodiment, the sides are formed of metal bars or a metal grid. In another embodiment, the sides are made of plastic bars, a plastic grid, or a metal or plastic frame with a net stretched between them. In a further embodiment, the support structure with fold-out sides has a height of at least 1.2 m in an upright position, and preferably at least 1.4 m in a vertical position, and more preferably at least 1.6 m in a vertical position, and more preferably at least 1.8 m in a vertical position, and more preferably at least 2 m in a vertical position, and more preferably at least 2.2 m in a vertical position. In a further embodiment, the support structure with fold-out sides has a height of up to 2.4 m in a vertical position, and preferably at most 2.2 m in a vertical position, and more preferably at most 2 m in a vertical position, and even more preferably at most 1.8 m in a vertical position, and even more preferably at most 1.6 m in a vertical position, and even more preferably at most 1.4 m in a vertical position.

[0039] In one embodiment, the support structure includes weights to stabilize the inflatable shell when inflated. These weights allow the device to be used outdoors, even in strong winds. In one embodiment, four weights weighing 5 kg to 15 kg are evenly distributed across the bottom of the support structure. In another embodiment, the bottom of the support structure is provided with a single plate weighing 20 kg to 60 kg, which has the same dimensions as the bottom surface of the support structure. In another embodiment, a single weight weighing 20 to 60 kg is placed in the center of the bottom of the support structure.

[0040] In one embodiment, the support structure includes an audio system, so that both image and sound can be provided simultaneously.

[0041] In one embodiment, the operating system includes a module for wireless communication with an external computer. In a further embodiment, this module is used to communicate visual information from the external computer to the module, which then controls the light-emitting elements based on the visual information. If the device includes an audio system, the module is also used to communicate audio information from the external computer to the module, which then controls the audio system based on the audio information. This7 Attorney Docket No. 15516-134WOU1wireless communication allows for more efficient and flexible control of visual and, if applicable, audio. Using wireless technology, users can easily connect the device to various devices, such as laptops, tablets, and smartphones. This ensures the device's versatility in various situations, allowing for quick and easy adjustments to the visual and audio content. In a further embodiment, the module includes a Wi-Fi adapter, and the visual and, if applicable, audio information is communicated via a Wi-Fi network.

[0042] In one embodiment, the support structure comprises a power supply suitable for supplying the necessary energy to the light-emitting elements, the pump, the control system, and possibly the audio system. In a further embodiment, the power supply comprises a battery with a capacity of at least 5000 mAh, preferably at least 10,000 mAh, and more preferably at least 10,000 mAh. In a further embodiment, the power supply comprises a generator of at least 1000 W, and preferably at least 4000 W.

[0043] In one embodiment, the support structure includes a connection for connecting to an external energy supply such as electrical service or external solar panels.

[0044] In a second aspect, the disclosure relates to a method of arranging an image display device, the device comprising a deformable, inflatable envelope stored in a folded state on a base of a support structure and comprising at least one opening operatively connected to a pump provided on the support structure, the envelope comprising an outer surface and an interior, and light-emitting elements attached to the outer surface of the envelope; the method comprising the steps of: unfolding the envelope stored on the base of the support structure, without breaking the connection between the pump and the envelope, so that the envelope lies extended partly on the base of the support structure and partly on the surrounding ground; controlling the pump using a control system provided on the support structure to pump air into the envelope through the opening; and controlling the light-emitting elements using the control system.

[0045] The support structure is positioned at the desired location, after which the inflatable shell can be easily unfolded and inflated with a single pump action. This simple installation reduces the risk of errors and increases system reliability . Furthermore, the compact design, in which the shell and support structure are transported as a single unit, ensures a more efficient transport process, making the system particularly suitable for applications requiring mobility and quick setup, such as events and temporary exhibitions. The integrated luminous elements, controlled directly by the control system, eliminate the need for external lighting or wiring, reducing setup and disassembly times. This makes the system particularly suitable for8 Attorney Docket No. 15516-134WOU1applications requiring mobility and quick setup, such as events, trade fairs, and temporary exhibitions.

[0046] In a third aspect, the disclosure relates to a method of storing an image display device, the device comprising an inflated enclosure lying partly on a base of a support structure and partly on a surrounding piece of ground, and comprising at least one opening operatively connected to a pump provided on the support structure, the enclosure having an exterior surface and an interior, and light-emitting elements attached to the exterior surface of the enclosure; the method comprising the steps of turning off the light-emitting elements; deflating the inflated enclosure until it lies flat and extended over the support structure and the surrounding ground; and folding the enclosure onto the base of the support structure.

[0047] Folding the casing onto the base of the support structure is easy, making the entire system compact and ready for transport or storage. This process requires minimal effort and allows for quick storage without the need for additional tools. It contributes to the durability of the installation through careful component management, making the system suitable for situations requiring frequent setup and dismantling, such as events or temporary venues. Combined with the rapid setup, this method provides a complete system that is both user-friendly and efficient in both installation and dismantling.

[0048] FIG. 1 illustrates a schematic view of the inflatable shell (1) folded onto the support structure (9). The support structure (9) is a beam-shaped volume (4) equipped with wheels (3) at the bottom. The inflatable shell (1) is folded onto the base of the beam-shaped volume (4). Fold-out sides (2), such as metal or plastic grids, on both long sides of the support structure (9) are configured upright, preventing the inflatable shell (1) from falling off the base of the support structure (9) and providing protection against impact from surrounding objects that could puncture the inflatable shell (1). In this folded state, the device can be moved by one or more people pushing so it rolls on its wheels (3). Its compact configuration, which is easily handled by one person, allows the device to be used for both indoor and outdoor applications.

[0049] Once the device, in the configuration shown in FIG. 1 , has been driven to a desired location, the fold-out sides (2) can be unfolded sideways, and the wheels (3) can optionally be locked to prevent the device from rolling away in windy conditions or when positioned on a slope. The resulting configuration is shown in FIG. 2. The device is then connected to an external power supply, such as electrical senice, a generator, or a battery, using a cable. The folded inflatable shell (1) can then be deployed onto the support structure (9) as shown in FIG.3. The unfolded fold-out sides (2) now serve as support for the unfolded inflatable shell (1).9 Attorney Docket No. 15516-134WOU1The folded inflatable shell (1) is unfolded as shown by the arrows (5,6), after which it lies stretched out over the support structure (9) and the surrounding ground, as shown in FIG. 4.

[0050] After unfolding the inflatable envelope (1), it is inflated. This is done with a pump located in the beam-shaped volume (4). This pump is connected to the inflatable envelope (1) via an air hose that extends from the base of the support structure (9) and exits inside the inflatable envelope (1). Therefore, the pump only needs to be turned on to inflate the inflatable envelope (1). and no other actions are required to connect the pump to the inflatable envelope (1). The pump can be turned on using a manual switch on the support structure (9), or using an application on a mobile phone or tablet, which is communicatively connected to the pump via the control system located in the beam-shaped volume (4). The pump may provide an air output of at least 800 CFM (Cubic Feet per Minute) (22.6 m3 / min), allowing the inflatable envelope (1) to be inflated in 5 minutes. This inflated configuration is shown in FIG. 5. The inflatable shell is preferably shaped like a hemisphere, allow ing the audience to see parts of the image from all sides. This makes the design ideal for displaying a stadium image, where people can sit 360 degrees around the image and at different heights.

[0051] P25 LED strips (7) are located on the curved portion of the hemisphere. In FIG. 5, these LED strips are indicated by a grid pattern. These LEDs (7) are controlled by the control system located in the beam-shaped volume (4). This computer is wirelessly connected to an external computer, such as a mobile phone or tablet, which provides image information to the control system via this connection. During use, the pump continues to supply air to the inflatable shell (1), while small openings in the inflatable shell (1) allow' air to escape, creating an air space within the inflatable shell that dissipates the heat generated by the LEDs (7). FIG.6 illustrates the device in an inflated state, with half of the inflatable shell (1) shown transparent, and the position of the support structure (9) in the inflated configuration. Various weights may be located within the beam-shaped volume (4) to prevent the device from shifting in the event of wind gusts.

[0052] After use, the inflatable shell (1) is deflated by turning off the pump and opening a valve provided in the inflatable shell (1) or in the pump. The configuration shown in FIG. 4 is again obtained, after which the inflatable shell (1) is folded back onto the base of the beamshaped volume (4), so that the configuration shown in FIG. 2 is obtained. The inflatable shell (1) consists of a thin inner and outer layer, both made for example of TPU, allowing it to be folded compactly. The deployable sides (2) are then folded back into an upright position, after which the device can be driven away from its location.10 Attorney Docket No. 15516-134WOU1

Claims

What is claimed is:

1. A device for displaying images, comprising:a deformable, inflatable shell having at least one opening, the shell comprising an outer surface and an interior;a plurality of light-emitting elements attached to the outer surface of the shell;a support structure having a base area and a pump, wherein the pump is coupled to the inflatable shell through the opening and configured to generate an airflow into the interior of the inflatable shell; anda control system configured to control the plurality of light-emitting elements, wherein the inflatable shell is expandable to form an uninflated unfolded state having a base area which extends beyond the base area of the support structure, the base area of the expanded inflatable shell being at least two times greater than the base area of the support structure, and wherein the inflatable shell is stowable in an uninflated folded state on the support structure to within the boundaries of the base area of the support structure.

2. The device according to claim 1, wherein the light-emitting elements are Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs) with a minimum surface density of 1500 LEDs per m2.

3. The device according to claim 1, wherein the inflatable shell, when inflated, has a shape of a hemisphere with a flat portion and a curved portion, the flat portion serving as a base and the exterior of the curved portion being covered with the light-emitting elements.

4. The device according to claim 3, wherein the base of the inflated inflatable shell has a diameter of at least 7 m.

5. The device according to claim 1. wherein the inflatable shell comprises multiple layers.

6. The device according to claim 1 , wherein the support structure includes at least two laterally fold-out sides, which, when not folded out, extend upward from edges of the base of the support structure.

7. The device according to claim 1, wherein the control system comprises a module for communicating wirelessly with an external computer.

8. The device according to claim 1, wherein the support structure includes an audio system configured to provide sound and controlled by the control system.

9. The device according to claim 1, wherein the support structure includes a power supply configured to supply power to at least the pump, the control system, and the light-emitting elements.11 Attorney Docket No. 15516-134WOU110. A method of providing an image display device, the device comprising an inflatable shell stored in a folded state on a base of a support structure and comprising at least one opening operatively connected to a pump provided on the support structure, the inflatable shell comprising an exterior surface with a plurality of light-emitting elements attached and an interior, the method comprising:unfolding the shell stored on the base of the support structure, without breaking the connection between the pump and the casing, so that the shell lies stretched out partly on the base of the support structure and partly on the surrounding ground; controlling the pump using a control system provided on the support structure to pump air into the shell through the opening; andcontrolling the light-emitting elements using the control system.

11. The method according to claim 10, further comprising the step of unfolding, before the step of unfolding the shell, at least two laterally fold-out side members provided on edges of the base of the support structure from an upright position to an outward position such that , the laterally fold-out side members have one side on the ground and have the opposite side hingedly connected to the support structure.

12. A method of storing an image display device, the device comprising an inflated shell lying partially on a base of a support structure and partially on a surrounding piece of ground, and including at least one opening operatively connected to a pump provided on the support structure, the shell having an exterior surface with a plurality of light emitting elements attached and an interior, the method comprising:turning off the light emitting elements;deflating the inflated shell until it lies flat and extended over the supporting structure and surrounding ground; andfolding the deflated shell onto the base of the supporting structure.

13. A method according to claim 12, further comprising the step of repositioning at least two lateral side members from an outward position to an upright position after the step of folding the shell onto the support structure, wherein the lateral side members are hingedly attached at one end to an edge of the base and lie with the opposite end on the ground in the outward position, and wherein the lateral side members are upright on edges of the base of the support structure in the upright position.

14. The method of claim 12, further comprising the step of covering the shell folded onto the base of the support structure with a cover.12 Attorney Docket No. 15516-134WOU1

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