An inflatable movie screen is an inflatable framework with an attached

projection screen A projection screen is an installation consisting of a surface and a support structure used for displaying a projected image for the view of an audience. Projection screens may be permanently installed, as in a movie theater; painted on the w ...

. Inflatable screens are used for

outdoor movies An outdoor cinema consists of a digital or analog movie projector, scaffolded construction or inflatable movie screen, and sound system. History Outdoor cinemas first began at around 1916 in Berlin, Germany. During the 1920s, many "rooftop thea ...

film festival A film festival is an organized, extended presentation of films in one or more cinemas or screening venues, usually in a single city or region. Increasingly, film festivals show some films outdoors. Films may be of recent date and, depending up ...

drive-in theater A drive-in theater or drive-in cinema is a form of cinema structure consisting of a large outdoor movie screen, a projection booth, a concession stand, and a large parking area for automobiles. Within this enclosed area, customers can view mov ...

s, sports, social, fundraising and other events requiring outdoor projection.

Design

The projection frame is made from PVC-coated fabric layers joined by high-frequency welding or mechanical sewing. The projection surface can be made of PVC or spandex, with the latter providing for rear projection capabilities. The projection surface can be detachable for ease of care. The frame is inflated with a high-pressure air blower. Larger frames may require a three-phase blower. For bigger screens, the blower typically continues to operate, ensuring the screen remains fully inflated. For consumer market and smaller screen sizes, the screen is sealed and does not require a constantly operating air blower. Screens can be held upright with help of a supporting structure (A-frame or inflatable legs) or with the system of straps and counterweights. In comparison to traditional and heavy steel constructions, inflatable screens can be set up in a few hours or less, with the smallest screens taking one minute to inflate. This can be useful for environments where wind may be a factor. This is one of the major drawbacks of an inflatable screen. Even a small wind can make these fly like a kite without proper anchoring. Inflatable screens can be deflated quickly adding to their safety. Inflatable screens are lightweight and highly portable compared to other structures used to support screens like a truss or scaffold. A screen usually fits on a single pallet. A truss or steel system takes up an entire truck. Inflatable screens reach sizes up to . Another big disadvantage of inflatable screens is the noise created by the continuous blowers.

References

Display technology Film and video technology Inflatable manufactured goods {{film-tech-stub

Design

See also

References