Inflatable screen
An inflatable screen is an air-filled frame made of PVC-coated fabric into which a projection screen with a luminance factor ("gain factor") of 1 is suspended. Rear projection is possible with screens that can be up to 20 m × 10 m in size. Larger inflatable frames have one or more central support pillars.
A cold air blower, which keeps the internal pressure constant, ensures the stability of the frame. Other models with a sealed frame system do not require a permanent air supply.
A system of tensioning ropes and counterweights secures the fastening up to wind force 5 (Beaufort 5 on the Beaufort scale ), which is roughly equivalent to a maximum wind speed of 38 km / h. The inflatable screens can be attached free-standing almost anywhere, regardless of facades, scaffolding or other supporting structures. There is also the option of hanging the canvas or floating it on water. Over the years, projectors have become increasingly cheaper, more compact and at the same time more powerful.
The inflatable screens are mainly used in outdoor cinemas and outdoor events. Since 1994 they have changed the market by offering an inexpensive alternative to steel scaffolding that can be erected and dismantled more quickly. The number of open-air cinemas has increased steadily since the 1990s and has now become a trend in large cities and small towns.
Inflatable screens that require projectors are also used in outdoor advertising , except for events . Instead of the white canvas, a mega-poster printed with an advertising message is clamped into the inflatable frame . These special forms of advertising are set up particularly at festivals, trade fairs and on busy roads.
In addition to normal one-sided use, there is the possibility of using the inflatable screen twice. For this purpose, the canvas is covered opaque from both sides and can be played on from both sides at the same time. Since one side of the white canvas would fall to the floor when the canvas was drained, the canvas is wrapped in a canvas case as protection.
