Bubble forming device using iris-like leaf mechanism, and related method

A bubble forming device, comprising:

• aligned first and second rims which cooperatively define a central bubble-forming aperture;
• a housing which at least partially encases the first and second rims, wherein the first rim is securely attached to the housing so as to be stationary;
• an actuator for rotatably moving the second rim relative to the first rim;
• a plurality of leaves each having a first end pivotally attached to the first rim and a second end pivotally attached to the second rim, the leaves having a generally arcuate configuration so as to selectively move into and out of the central bubble-forming aperture as the second rim is moved relative to the first rim, and at least one of the leaves having a protrusion which aids in closing the central aperture;
• and
• a pump connected to the actuator and in fluid communication with a bubble solution reservoir such that when the actuator rotatably moves the second rim, the pump is activated to discharge bubble solution to be dispensed onto the leaves.

A method of forming bubbles, comprising the steps of:

• providing a bubble forming device having aligned first and second rims which cooperatively define a central bubble-forming aperture, an actuator for rotatably moving the second rim relative to the first rim, and a plurality of leaves each having a first end pivotally attached to the first rim and a second end pivotally attached to the second rim;
• triggering the actuator to cause the second rim to rotate relative to the first rim which results in the leaves moving into the central bubble-forming aperture;
• dispensing bubble solution onto the leaves;
• forming a bubble film within the bubble-forming aperture by at least partially moving the leaves out of the central bubble-forming aperture;
• and
• supplying an air stream to the bubble film to produce bubbles.

A method of forming bubbles, comprising the steps of:

• providing a bubble forming device having aligned first and second rims which cooperatively define a central bubble-forming aperture, a lever connected to an outer edge of the second rim for rotatably moving the second rim relative to the first rim, and a plurality of leaves each having a first end pivotally attached to the first rim and a second end pivotally attached to the second rim;
• pulling the lever to cause the second rim to rotate relative to the first rim which results in the leaves moving into the central bubble-forming aperture;
• dispensing bubble solution onto the leaves by pumping bubble solution from a bubble solution reservoir associated with the device onto the leaves;
• draining excess bubble solution from the first and second rims and leaves into the bubble solution reservoir;
• forming a bubble film within the bubble-forming aperture by at least partially moving the leaves out of the central bubble-forming aperture;
• and
• supplying an air stream to the bubble film to produce bubbles.