Inflatable screen with integrated raising platform

Abstract

A device is provided for supporting a person on a platform and displaying images on a three-dimensional surface of an inflatable envelope with light-emitting elements forming a continuous image. A support structure is configured such that the inflatable envelope can be folded onto it when deflated. A pump in the support structure can be used for inflating the envelope. A platform for supporting a person is on a platform support structure having segments connected in series and capable of sliding into and out of each other, suitable for raising and lowering the platform.

Description

INFLATABLE SCREEN WITH INTEGRATED RAISING PLATFORM RELATED APPLICATION DATA

[0001] This application claims the benefit of priority of Belgium Patent Application Serial No. BE2025 / 5183, filed on March 28, 2025 and titled "Opblaasbaar beeldscherm met ge'integreerd verhoogbaar platform” (English translation: Inflatable Screen with Integrated Adjustable Platform), which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.FIELD OF DISCLOSURE

[0002] The disclosure relates to the technical field of inflatable structures, and more specifically, to inflatable screens. The disclosure also relates to mobile stage structures. BACKGROUND

[0003] In the state of the art, a mobile stage or platform is known. For example, U.S. Patent No. 5,152,109 describes a portable stage comprising a wheeled chassis suitable for being moved by car or truck. Mounted on the chassis is a storage compartment consisting of front and rear walls, opposing side walls, an upper roof, and a floor. Opposing telescopic towers are mounted on the front and rear of the chassis to provide right and left supports for the roof. The side walls of the compartment are pivotally mounted along the roofs side edges and can be extended outward to form an extended canopy in conjunction with the roof when the platform is deployed in its operating configuration. A control mechanism synchronously raises and lowers the side walls and tilts the raised canopy in an acoustically favorable direction. In the operating configuration, the portable stage's platform edges are tilted down so that they are flush with the compartment floor. The front edge hinges to create an extended stage in the extended position and incorporates a unique mechanism for raising and lowering the platform between performance and storage configurations. Setting up and taking down the stage is complex and time-consuming, making it unsuitable for short performances. Furthermore, its versatility is limited by the fact that it must be moved by car or truck.

[0004] Three-dimensional inflatable displays are also known. 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 view7the 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.1 Attorney Docket No. 15516-135WOU1

[0005] European Patent 2095185 describes a display 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.

[0006] U.S. Patent No. 8,578,657 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 can be filled with a liquid at a negative 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 liquid at a positive pressure above atmospheric pressure and removing liquid 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 between the flexible screen and the support structure.

[0007] However, these techniques for displaying an image on an inflatable structure have the disadvantage that the image is projected onto the inflatable structure itself, limiting its brightness and quality. 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. Furthermore, traditional inflatable displays, which can be moved by a single person, are not large enough to create a clearly visible image for a large audience, such as a concert or football match. This requires the use of devices that cannot be moved by a single person, which limits their applicability and complicates their use.SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0008] In a first aspect, the disclosure relates to a device for supporting a person and displaying images on a three-dimensional surface. The device comprises an inflatable2 Atorney Docket No. 15516-135WOU1envelope that substantially completely encloses a three-dimensional space and is provided with a first opening. A support structure contains a pump that supplies gas for inflating the envelope and a computer for controlling images on the envelope. The support structure has a horizontal top surface suitable for supporting the inflatable envelope in its folded state, with an opening that is gas-tightly connected to the first opening of the envelope. The exterior of the envelope is at least partially covered with light-emitting elements that form a continuous image when controlled by the control system. The support structure also comprises a platform support structure with adjustable height, comprising segments connected in series that can slide apart and together, driven by a drive on the support structure that is controlled by the control system. The platform is mounted on the top of the platform support structure, and the envelope has a second opening that is gas-tightly connected to the platform support structure. The device can be compactly stored on the support structure when the envelope is deflated and folded, and the segments of the platform support structure are nested together. The light-emitting elements are preferably P25 LED strips. The platform has a surface area of at least 0.8 square meters. The envelope has the shape of a hemisphere when inflated, with a diameter of at least 4 meters. The support structure preferably has removable sides, wheels, and weights for stabi lity. The control system can preferably communicate wirelessly with an external computer. In one embodiment, the support structure includes an audio system and a power supply.

[0009] In a second aspect, the disclosure relates to a method for displaying images on a three-dimensional surface using an apparatus comprising: a support structure having a horizontal top surface and a horizontal bottom surface; a platform support structure comprising serially connected interleaved extendable segments, the first segment being mounted to the support structure; a platform mounted to the last segment of the platform support structure; an inflatable envelope having first and second openings and being folded onto the top surface of the support structure, the first opening being operatively and gas-tightly connected to a pump provided on the support structure, and the second opening being gas-tightly connected to the last segment of the platform support structure; the method for displaying images on a three-dimensional surface comprising the steps of deploying the inflatable envelope without breaking the gas-tight connections so that the deployed inflatable envelope lies extended over the support structure; lifting the platform with the platform support structure by sliding the segments of the platform support structure apart using a drive provided on the support structure, inflating the inflatable envelope using the pump to a three-3 Atorney Docket No. 15516-135WOU1dimensional volume; controlling luminous elements provided on the outside of the inflatable envelope using a computer provided on the support structure; deflating the inflatable envelope; lowering the platform by sliding the segments of the platform support structure together using the drive; folding the deflated envelope onto the support structure without breaking any gas-tight connections.

[0010] In this way, performers can perform from a platform at an adjustable height, enhanced by a bright and sharp image due to the illuminated elements on the inflatable shell. The adjustable platform height ensures optimal visibility and audience interaction. Its easy transport and installation, along with its compact storage, make the setup particularly suitable for events such as concerts and festivals.DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0011] 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 precise arrangements and instrumentalities shown in the drawings, wherein:FIG. 1 is a perspective side view of a support structure with an inflatable envelope folded onto it;FIG. 2 is a perspective side view of the inflatable envelope folded onto the support structure and positioned on a surface;FIG. 3 is a side view of the inflatable envelope deployed on a stage; andFIG. 4 is a partially transparent perspective view of the envelope inflated and the platform raised.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0012] The disclosure relates to an inflatable device for displaying images on a three-dimensional surface, and platforms with an adjustable height.

[0013] To better understand the description, the following terms are explained.

[0014] The term “inflatable shelf’ or “envelope” refers to a flexible, airtight structure that can be fdled with gas to form a three-dimensional space and then be deflated and folded.

[0015] The term “supporting structure” refers to a spatial structure with a horizontal top surface and a horizontal bottom surface, and a volume in between within which objects, such as a computer or an air pump, can be retained.

[0016] The abbreviation “LED” refers to Light Emitting Diode.4 Atorney Docket No. 15516-135WOU1

[0017] The term “air supply system” means an integrated system designed to provide both low and high pressure air suitable for inflating casings and operating pneumatic telescopic mechanisms.

[0018] In a first aspect, the disclosure relates to an apparatus for supporting a person and displaying images on a three-dimensional surface, comprising: an inflatable envelope substantially enclosing a three-dimensional space and comprising a first opening; a support structure on which a pump is provided for supplying gas for inflating the inflatable envelope; a computer, provided on the support structure, for controlling an image on the inflatable envelope; the support structure comprising a horizontal top surface suitable for supporting the inflatable envelope in a folded state, having an opening therein to which the first opening of the inflatable envelope is connected with a substantially gas-tight seal and operatively connected to the pump so that gas is supplied from the support structure through the opening in the horizontal top surface and through the first opening of the inflatable envelope within the three-dimensional space enclosed by the inflatable envelope when the pump is operative, and characterized by the fact that the exterior of the inflatable envelope is at least partially provided with light-emitting elements, which form a single continuous image when controlled from the control system, and characterized by the fact that the support structure comprises a platform support structure having an adjustable height and a first and a second end, the platform support structure consisting of a plurality of series-connected segments which can be slid apart and together, and wherein the first end is mounted to the support structure and the second end is mounted to a platform, and wherein the inflatable envelope comprises a second opening connected to a substantially gas-tight seal at the second end of the platform support structure beneath the platform, so that the platform support structure is located substantially within the volume defined by the inflatable envelope when inflated, and wherein the extending apart and nesting together of the segments is driven by a drive provided on the support structure which is controlled by the control system.

[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 the display of a wide variety of images. 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] This setup combines a three-dimensional image with a height- adjustable platform. This combination allows artists, speakers, and performers not only to be visible to5 Atorney Docket No. 15516-135WOU1the audience from an elevated position but also to benefit from being surrounded by a dynamic display. The elevating platform can be easily adjusted to a desired height, allowing for optimal visibility and audience interaction, while the three-dimensional inflatable screen displays images and effects. Furthermore, the combination contributes to more efficient space utilization. Both the inflatable screen and the platform support structure can be stored compactly. This is particularly advantageous for mobile events or touring events, where logistics and space management are crucial.

[0021] In one embodiment, the platform support structure is a scissor lift or scissor mechanism. A scissor lift or scissor mechanism can lift the platform efficiently and stably while taking up minimal horizontal space. Furthermore, the system's compact folding design allows for easy storage or relocation of the platform when not in use, saving space and increasing transportability7.

[0022] In one embodiment, the platform support structure is a telescopic system consisting of cylindrical segments. In one embodiment, the segments are pneumatically extended using compressed air, with the segments themselves functioning as pistons. This eliminates the need for additional pistons by using the air pressure directly to extend the platform support structure. Compressed air is fed to the segments via an air supply system located on the support structure, where it exerts pressure on the inner walls and pushes the segments outward. In one embodiment, each segment includes electromagnetic valves, controlled by the control system, which regulate the air pressure and ensure synchronized and controlled extension of the segments. To retract the segments, the air pressure is reduced, allowing the segments to retract under their own weight or by an external force. In one embodiment, mechanical clamps lock the segments at the desired height to ensure stability. By extending the platform support structure pneumatically, rather than mechanically, the segments can also be compactly retracted, requiring minimal space and remaining compact on the support structure. In one embodiment, the air supply system used to supply compressed air to the segments is also used to inflate the inflatable shell. This eliminates the need for an additional pump, which no longer needs to be installed on the support structure.

[0023] In one embodiment, the segments of the platform support structure are connected to each other via gears. The segments are equipped with internal racks and linked gears. Each segment has a rack along one side, a linear series of teeth that acts like a rack. The gears, mounted at the end of each segment, mesh with the teeth of the rack of the adjacent segment. A central electric motor drives a main gear connected to the first rack, causing the6 Atorney Docket No. 15516-135WOU1rotation of the gear to cause the linear movement of the first segment. This movement is then transmitted to the linked gears and racks of the subsequent segments. By rotating the gears synchronously, all segments can extend or retract in a controlled and synchronized manner. This system ensures stable and precise adjustment of the segments, with the mechanical coupling between the gears and racks providing robust and reliable movement.

[0024] In one embodiment, wheels are provided at the bottom of the support structure so that the support structure is mobile and can therefore be easily moved.

[0025] In one embodiment, the support structure is beam-shaped or cylindrical, with the top surface of the beam-shape or cylindrical shape serving as a base on which the inflatable shell can be folded.

[0026] In one embodiment, the horizontal top surface 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.

[0027] In one embodiment, the horizontal top surface of the support structure has a length of a maximum of 4.7 m, and preferably a maximum of 5 m, and more preferably a maximum of 5.2 m, and even more preferably a maximum of 5.4 m, and even more preferably a maximum of 5.7 m. and even more preferably a maximum of 5.9 m, and even more preferably a maximum of 6.1 m.

[0028] In one embodiment, the horizontal top surface 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 at least 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.

[0029] In one embodiment, the horizontal top surface of the support structure has a width of a maximum of 0.8 m, and preferably a maximum of 1 m, and more preferably a maximum of 1.2 m, and even more preferably a maximum of 1.4 m, and even more preferably a maximum of 1.6 m. and even more preferably a maximum of 1.8 m, and even more preferably a maximum of 2 m.

[0030] In one embodiment, the horizontal top surface of the support structure has a surface 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.7 Atorney Docket No. 15516-135WOU1

[0031] In one embodiment, the horizontal top surface of the support structure has a surface area of 4.9 square meters, and more preferably a maximum of 5.5 square meters, and even more preferably a maximum of 5.9 square meters, and even more preferably a maximum of 6.3 square meters, and even more preferably a maximum of 6.7 square meters, and even more preferably a maximum of 7.1 square meters, and even more preferably 7.5 square meters.

[0032] In one embodiment, the pump is integrated into the volume of the support structure. In one 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.

[0033] In one embodiment, the pump provides an air output of at least 800 CFM ( Cubic Feet per Minute) (22.6 m3 / min) and a minimum pressure of 2 PSI (Pounds per Square Inch) (6.9 kPa). These properties ensure that the envelope inflates quickly and efficiently and maintains sufficient pressure to keep the inflatable envelope firm and stable.

[0034] 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.

[0035] In another embodiment, the inflatable casing consists of multiple layers. This multi-layer construction minimizes the risk of leaks and increases durability and reliability. It provides additional protection against punctures and abrasion, which is essential for use in various environments, both indoors and outdoors. In a further embodiment, the inflatable casing comprises two layers: an inner layer and an outer layer, both made of TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane). TPU is airtight, strong, and suitable for adhering 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.

[0036] 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 1500 LEDs per m2, preferably 3000 LEDs per m2, and even more advantageously 4500 LEDs per m28 Atorney Docket No. 15516-135WOU1

[0037] In one embodiment, the light-emitting elements are P25 LEDs, which are provided in the form of LED strips on the outside of the inflatable shell. These LED strips 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 system can also be used outdoors when these LED strips are used as light-emitting elements.

[0038] In one embodiment, the light-emitting elements are SMD 5050 LEDs, SMD 3528 LEDs, RGBW LEDs, or high CRI LEDs.

[0039] 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 being completely covered with luminous elements, and with the maximum height of the support structure being at least equal to the maximum height of the inflated inflatable shell. Because luminous elements are provided over the entire curved exterior of the hemisphere. The largest possible image area is provided, and the images are clearly visible from multiple angles. This allows a larger audience to view the images simultaneously, making the design suitable for events and exhibitions with large crowds at various locations around the facility.

[0040] Moreover, this shape not only offers stability in windy conditions thanks to the relatively wade base and streamlined shape, but also creates a support surface that can easily bear the weight of the inflatable shell. When using LEDs as light-emitting elements, the inflatable shell becomes relatively heavy compared to other imaging techniques, such as projecting an image onto a light screen, and the spherical shape provides the necessary support to bear this weight. In one embodiment, the base has a diameter of at least 4 meters, preferably at least 6 meters, and even more preferably at least 7 meters.

[0041] 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. These anchor points contribute to the shell's stability, especially when used in windy outdoor environments.

[0042] In one embodiment, the support structure is provided with at least two removable sides on the outside, which, when not removed, are positioned upright on the edges of the horizontal top surface of the support structure, so that they at least partially define the horizontal top surface. These sides prevent anything from falling off the support structure and also provide protection against damage by deflecting external objects. The sides can be9 Atorney Docket No. 15516-135WOU1removed from the support structure before the inflatable shell can be unfolded. In one embodiment, the sides are formed from 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 has a height of at least 1.2 m with fold-out sides in the upright position, and preferably at least 1.4 m, and more preferably at least 1.6 m, and more preferably at least 1.8 m, and more preferably at least 2 m, and more preferably at least 2.2 m. In a further embodiment, the support structure with fold-out sides has a height of at most 1.4 m in the upright position, and preferably at most 1.6 m, and more preferably at most 1.8 m. and even more preferably at most 2 m, and even more preferably at most 2.2 m, and even more preferably at most 2.4 m.

[0043] 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 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 to 60 kg, which has the same dimensions as the bottom surface of the support structure. In another embodiment, a single weight w eighing 20 kg to 60 kg is placed in the center of the bottom of the support structure.

[0044] In one embodiment, the support structure includes an audio system, so that both image and sound can be provided simultaneously.

[0045] In one embodiment, the platform includes a removable or collapsible railing. This railing serves as a handrail and prevents someone from falling off the platform.

[0046] 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. This wireless 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 v ersatility 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.10 Atorney Docket No. 15516-135WOU1

[0047] 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 optionally the audio system and the air supply system. In one embodiment, the power supply is a battery' with a capacity of at least 5000 mAh, preferably at least 15.000 mAh, and more preferably at least 30,000 mAh. In another embodiment, the power supply is a generator of at least 2000 W, and preferably at least 6000 W.

[0048] In one embodiment, the platform includes a control panel that controls the height of the platform and the inflation or deflation of the inflatable envelope.

[0049] In one embodiment, the support structure includes a connection for connection to an external energy supply such as the mains or external solar panels.

[0050] In a second aspect, the disclosure relates to a method for displaying images on a three-dimensional surface using an apparatus comprising: a support structure having a horizontal top surface and a horizontal bottom surface; a platform support structure comprising serially connected interleaved extendable segments, the first segment being mounted to the support structure; a platform mounted to the last segment of the platform support structure; an inflatable envelope having first and second openings and being folded onto the top surface of the support structure, the first opening being operatively and gas-tightly connected to a pump provided on the support structure, and the second opening being gas-tightly connected to the last segment of the platform support structure; the method for displaying images on a three-dimensional surface comprising the steps of deploying the inflatable envelope without breaking the substantially gas-tight connections, so that the deployed inflatable envelope lies extended over the support structure; raising the platform with the platform support structure by moving the segments of the platform support structure apart using a drive provided on the support structure; inflating the inflatable envelope using the pump to a three-dimensional volume; controlling luminous elements provided on the outside of the inflatable envelope using a computer provided on the support structure; deflating the inflatable envelope; lowering the platform by moving the segments of the platform support structure together using the drive; folding the deflated inflatable envelope onto the movable support structure without breaking any substantial gas-tight connections.

[0051] The support structure includes a pump that is gas-tightly connected to the opening in the inflatable shell. This connection does not need to be broken during the unfolding and folding of the shell, allowing the inflatable shell to be stored compactly on the support structure. The platform support structure can also be kept compact on the support11 Atorney Docket No. 15516-135WOU1structure thanks to the interlocking segments. Because everything is stored on the support structure, installation and dismantling are significantly simplified and accelerated. When in use, the support structure only needs to be placed at a desired location. Once on site, the inflatable shell can be easily unfolded and inflated by turning on the pump. The platform can be easily raised by turning on the drive of the support structure. This simple installation increases user-friendliness and reduces the risk of errors, resulting in more reliable operation. Furthermore, this design allows for a more efficient transport process, as the shell and platform support structure can be moved as a single, compact unit. This makes the system not only suitable for applications that require mobility and quick set-up, such as events, trade fairs and temporary exhibitions, but also makes the design suitable for short-term applications, such as a short message or advertising during the break of a sporting event or concert.

[0052] FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing an inflatable envelope (1) folded onto a support structure (3). The support structure (3) is a beam-shaped volume, equipped with wheels (4) at the bottom. The segments of the platform support structure (5) are nested together, and the inflatable envelope (1) is folded around the platform support structure (5), onto the horizontal top surface (2) of the beam-shaped volume, with the platform (6) mounted on top of the last segment of the platform support structure just above it. Sidewalls, such as metal or plastic grids (10), on the sides of the support structure (3) are configured upright, thus preventing the inflatable envelope (1) from falling off the horizontal top surface (2) of the support structure (3), and providing protection against impact from surrounding objects that could cause a puncture in the inflatable envelope (1). In this folded state, the device can be moved by one or more persons pushing it due to wheels (4). Its compact configuration, which is easy to manipulate by one person, allows the device to be used for both indoor and outdoor applications.

[0053] Once the device, in the configuration shown in FIG. 1, has been moved to a desired location, the sides (10) can be removed, and the wheels (4) can optionally be locked to prevent the device from rolling away in windy conditions or when positioned on a slope. FIG. 2 illustrates the configuration then obtained, in which the device is placed on a platform (9). A railing (7) may be included on top of the platform (6) to provide a support for a person standing on the platform (6). The device is connected by a cable to an external power supply, such as electrical service, a generator, or a battery. The folded inflatable envelope (1) can then be deployed onto the support structure (3), resulting in the configuration illustrated in12 Atorney Docket No. 15516-135WOU1FIG. 3. The inflatable shell (1) now lies over the support structure (3) and the platform support structure (5). An air supply system is provided within the volume of the support structure (3), which pneumatically pushes the segments of the platform support structure (5) apart. Simultaneously, this air supply system inflates the inflatable shell (1) with air into a hemisphere shape, resulting in the configuration shown in FIG. 4. In FIG. 4, the left half of the inflatable shell (1) is indicated only by a dotted outline, and the support structure (3) and the platform support structure (5), located beneath and within the inflatable shell, respectively, are also shown. The air supply system is permanently connected to the inflatable shell (1) via an air hose that emerges from the horizontal top surface (2) of the support structure (3) and terminates within the inflatable shell (1). Therefore, the air supply system only needs to be turned on to inflate the inflatable shell (1), and no other actions are required to connect the air supply system to the inflatable shell (1). The air supply system can be turned on using a manual switch on the support structure (3), or using an application on a mobile phone or tablet, which is communicatively connected to the air supply system via a computer provided in the volume of the support structure (3). The platform support structure (5) is placed in the middle of the base plane of the hemisphere on the horizontal top surface (2) of the support structure (3), so that the platform (6), when lifted by the platform support structure (5) to the same height as the highest point of the inflated inflatable shell, is at the highest point of the hemisphere on the curved portion of the hemisphere. In FIG. 4, these LED strips are indicated by a grid pattern. The device, as shown in FIG. 4, is fully installed, and a person can perform on top of the platform (6), visually supported by images displayed on the outside of the inflatable shell (1). The P25 LED strips (8) are controlled by the control system provided in the beam-shaped volume of the support structure (3). The control system is wirelessly connected to an external computer, such as a mobile phone or tablet, which uses this connection to provide image information to the control system, which then uses this image information to control the LED strips (8) so that the correct image is displayed. During use, the air supply system continues to supply air to the inflatable shell (1), while small openings in the inflatable shell (1) allow air to escape from the inflatable shell, creating an air space within the inflatable shell which dissipates the heat generated by the P25 LED strips (8). Various weights may be provided within the beamshaped volume of the support structure (3) to prevent the device from being displaced by any gusts of wind.13 Atorney Docket No. 15516-135WOU1

[0054] After use, the inflatable shell (1) is deflated by turning off the air supply system and opening a valve provided in the inflatable shell (1) or in the air pump. Electromagnetic valves in the segments of the platform support structure (5) are then opened by a control system command, causing the air to escape from the segments, the segments to collapse, and the platform to lower. When complete, the configuration shown in FIG. 3 is again obtained. The inflatable shell (1) is then folded back onto the horizontal top surface (2) of the support structure (3), again obtaining the configuration shown in FIG. 2. The inflatable shell (1) consists of a thin inner and an outer layer, both made of TPU, allowing it to be folded compactly. The platform railing is now removed and the sides (10) are placed back onto the horizontal top surface of the support structure (3), as shown in FIG. 1.14 Atorney Docket No. 15516-135WOU1

Claims

What is claimed is:

1. A device for displaying images, comprising:a multitude of light-emitting elements;an inflatable shell having at least one opening, the shell comprising an outer surface and an interior, wherein the multitude of light-emitting elements are attached to the outer surface of the shell;a support structure having a pump, the pump being coupleable to the inflatable shell through the at least one opening, and the pump being configured to generate an airflow into the interior of the inflatable shell when coupled to the inflatable shell; a control system in the support structure configured to control the multitude of lightemitting elements; anda platform support structure coupled to the support structure, the platform support structure having a vertically adjustable length between a first and second end, the first end being mounted to the support structure within the inflatable shell, wherein a platform sized and configured to support a user is mounted to the second end, wherein the inflatable shell comprises a second opening connected to a substantially gas-tight seal at the second end of the platform support structure beneath the platform such that the platform support structure is substantially located within the volume defined by the inflatable shell when the inflatable shell is inflated, and wherein an actuator is provided on the support structure adapted to adjust the vertically adjustable length of the platform support structure.

2. The device of claim 1, wherein the platform support structure is a telescopic system comprising cylindrical segments connected in series.

3. The device of claim 1 or 2, wherein the platform has an area of at least 1.2 square meters.

4. The device of any of claims 1-3, wherein the inflatable shell has a shape of a hemisphere when inflated, wherein the flat part of the hemisphere forms a base and the outside of the curved part is covered with the light-emitting elements, and wherein the maximum height of the platform support structure is at least equal to the maximum height of the inflated inflatable shell.

5. The device according to claim 4, wherein the base of the inflated inflatable shell has a diameter of at least 7 meters.15 Atorney Docket No. 15516-135WOU16. The device of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the support structure includes at least two removable sidewalls which, when not removed, extend upward from edges of the horizontal top surface of the support structure.

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

8. to the device of claim 2, wherein the support structure is configured to receive and retain the inflatable shell and the platform support structure when the inflatable shell is deflated and the segments of the platform support structure are nested together, while a portion of the inflatable shell remains connected to the support structure and the second opening of the inflatable shell remains connected to the second end of the platform support structure.

9. A device according to any preceding claim, wherein the light-emitting elements are Light Emitting Diodes ( LEDs ), having a minimum surface density on the inflatable shell when inflated of 4500 LEDs per m210. A device according to any preceding claim, wherein the support structure comprises an audio system configured to provide sound and controlled by the control system.I L A device according to any preceding claim, wherein the support structure comprises a power supply connected to the pump, the control system, the actuator for the platform support structure, and the light-emitting elements.

12. A method of providing an image display device, the device comprising a deformable inflatable envelope stored in a collapsed state on a base of a support structure, the inflatable envelope including a first opening adapted to be connected to a pump provided on the support structure, the envelope comprising an outer surface and an inner surface, wherein a pl urality of light emitting elements are attached to the outer surface of the envelope, wherein the support structure includes a platform support structure having a vertically adjustable length between a first and second end, the first end being mounted to the support structure and the second end being mounted to a platform, wherein the inflatable envelope includes a second opening connected to a substantially gas-tight seal at the second end of the platform support structure beneath the platform, so that the platform support structure is located substantially within the volume defined by the inflatable envelope when inflated, and wherein the support structure includes a drive adapted to adjust the vertically adjustable length of the platform support structure, the method comprising:16 Atorney Docket No. 15516-135WOU1unfolding the envelope such that the envelop covers the support structure; lifting the platform by adjusting the vertical length of the platform support structure with the drive provided on the support structure;controlling the pump to pump air into the envelope through the first opening; and controlling the light-emitting elements using the control system to form an image on at least a portion of the outer surface of the inflatable envelope.The method according to claim 11 , further comprising carrying a person on the platform. A method according to claim 11 or 12, wherein the inflatable envelope has a hemispherical shape when inflated, and wherein controlling the light-emitting elements forms an image on substantially the entire curved portion of the hemispherical shape. A method for storing an image display device, the device comprising a deformable inflatable envelope inflated and encompassing a support structure, the envelope comprising a first opening adapted to connect to a pump provided on the support structure, the envelope comprising an exterior surface and an interior, wherein light emitting elements are attached to the exterior surface of the envelope, wherein the support structure includes a platform support structure having a vertically adjustable length between a first and second end, the first end being mounted to the support structure and the second end being mounted to a platform, wherein the inflatable envelope includes a second opening connected with a substantially gas-tight seal to the second end of the platform support structure beneath the platform so that the platform support structure is located substantially within the volume defined by the inflatable envelope, and wherein an actuator is on the support structure and adapted to adjust the vertically adjustable length of the platform support structure, the method comprising:turning off the light emitting elements;deflating the inflated envelope;lowering the platform by adjusting the vertical length of the platform support structure with a drive provided on the support structure; andfolding of the envelope onto the support structure.17 Atorney Docket No. 15516-135WOU1

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