CA1085235A - Thermal immersion protection jacket - Google Patents
Thermal immersion protection jacketInfo
- Publication number
- CA1085235A CA1085235A CA317,497A CA317497A CA1085235A CA 1085235 A CA1085235 A CA 1085235A CA 317497 A CA317497 A CA 317497A CA 1085235 A CA1085235 A CA 1085235A
- Authority
- CA
- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- garment
- liner
- wearer
- flap
- fabric shell
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Expired
Links
- 238000007654 immersion Methods 0.000 title claims abstract description 6
- 239000004744 fabric Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 23
- XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N water Substances O XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 claims abstract description 12
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 11
- 210000002414 leg Anatomy 0.000 claims abstract description 8
- 230000000717 retained effect Effects 0.000 claims abstract description 7
- 238000009413 insulation Methods 0.000 claims abstract description 5
- 210000004013 groin Anatomy 0.000 claims abstract description 4
- 230000001681 protective effect Effects 0.000 claims abstract description 4
- 210000000689 upper leg Anatomy 0.000 claims abstract description 4
- 239000000543 intermediate Substances 0.000 claims 1
- 210000000707 wrist Anatomy 0.000 abstract 1
- 210000000038 chest Anatomy 0.000 description 8
- 239000004677 Nylon Substances 0.000 description 3
- 210000004027 cell Anatomy 0.000 description 3
- 229920001778 nylon Polymers 0.000 description 3
- CURLTUGMZLYLDI-UHFFFAOYSA-N Carbon dioxide Chemical compound O=C=O CURLTUGMZLYLDI-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 2
- 238000005188 flotation Methods 0.000 description 2
- 239000006261 foam material Substances 0.000 description 2
- 206010013647 Drowning Diseases 0.000 description 1
- 208000003443 Unconsciousness Diseases 0.000 description 1
- 210000000577 adipose tissue Anatomy 0.000 description 1
- 229910002092 carbon dioxide Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- 239000001569 carbon dioxide Substances 0.000 description 1
- 210000003850 cellular structure Anatomy 0.000 description 1
- 230000000295 complement effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000010276 construction Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000014759 maintenance of location Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000012986 modification Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000004048 modification Effects 0.000 description 1
- 210000003205 muscle Anatomy 0.000 description 1
- 229920001084 poly(chloroprene) Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 229920000728 polyester Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 238000009958 sewing Methods 0.000 description 1
- 229920002994 synthetic fiber Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 210000000779 thoracic wall Anatomy 0.000 description 1
Classifications
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A41—WEARING APPAREL
- A41D—OUTERWEAR; PROTECTIVE GARMENTS; ACCESSORIES
- A41D13/00—Professional, industrial or sporting protective garments, e.g. surgeons' gowns or garments protecting against blows or punches
- A41D13/012—Professional, industrial or sporting protective garments, e.g. surgeons' gowns or garments protecting against blows or punches for aquatic activities, e.g. with buoyancy aids
- A41D13/0125—Professional, industrial or sporting protective garments, e.g. surgeons' gowns or garments protecting against blows or punches for aquatic activities, e.g. with buoyancy aids with buoyancy aids
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B63—SHIPS OR OTHER WATERBORNE VESSELS; RELATED EQUIPMENT
- B63C—LAUNCHING, HAULING-OUT, OR DRY-DOCKING OF VESSELS; LIFE-SAVING IN WATER; EQUIPMENT FOR DWELLING OR WORKING UNDER WATER; MEANS FOR SALVAGING OR SEARCHING FOR UNDERWATER OBJECTS
- B63C9/00—Life-saving in water
- B63C9/08—Life-buoys, e.g. rings; Life-belts, jackets, suits, or the like
- B63C9/087—Body suits, i.e. substantially covering the user's body ; Immersion suits, i.e. substantially completely covering the user
- B63C9/105—Body suits, i.e. substantially covering the user's body ; Immersion suits, i.e. substantially completely covering the user having gas-filled compartments
- B63C9/1055—Body suits, i.e. substantially covering the user's body ; Immersion suits, i.e. substantially completely covering the user having gas-filled compartments inflatable
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B63—SHIPS OR OTHER WATERBORNE VESSELS; RELATED EQUIPMENT
- B63C—LAUNCHING, HAULING-OUT, OR DRY-DOCKING OF VESSELS; LIFE-SAVING IN WATER; EQUIPMENT FOR DWELLING OR WORKING UNDER WATER; MEANS FOR SALVAGING OR SEARCHING FOR UNDERWATER OBJECTS
- B63C9/00—Life-saving in water
- B63C9/08—Life-buoys, e.g. rings; Life-belts, jackets, suits, or the like
- B63C9/11—Life-buoys, e.g. rings; Life-belts, jackets, suits, or the like covering the torso, e.g. harnesses
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B63—SHIPS OR OTHER WATERBORNE VESSELS; RELATED EQUIPMENT
- B63C—LAUNCHING, HAULING-OUT, OR DRY-DOCKING OF VESSELS; LIFE-SAVING IN WATER; EQUIPMENT FOR DWELLING OR WORKING UNDER WATER; MEANS FOR SALVAGING OR SEARCHING FOR UNDERWATER OBJECTS
- B63C9/00—Life-saving in water
- B63C9/08—Life-buoys, e.g. rings; Life-belts, jackets, suits, or the like
- B63C9/11—Life-buoys, e.g. rings; Life-belts, jackets, suits, or the like covering the torso, e.g. harnesses
- B63C9/125—Life-buoys, e.g. rings; Life-belts, jackets, suits, or the like covering the torso, e.g. harnesses having gas-filled compartments
- B63C9/1255—Life-buoys, e.g. rings; Life-belts, jackets, suits, or the like covering the torso, e.g. harnesses having gas-filled compartments inflatable
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B63—SHIPS OR OTHER WATERBORNE VESSELS; RELATED EQUIPMENT
- B63C—LAUNCHING, HAULING-OUT, OR DRY-DOCKING OF VESSELS; LIFE-SAVING IN WATER; EQUIPMENT FOR DWELLING OR WORKING UNDER WATER; MEANS FOR SALVAGING OR SEARCHING FOR UNDERWATER OBJECTS
- B63C9/00—Life-saving in water
- B63C9/08—Life-buoys, e.g. rings; Life-belts, jackets, suits, or the like
- B63C9/20—Life-buoys, e.g. rings; Life-belts, jackets, suits, or the like characterised by signalling means, e.g. lights
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B63—SHIPS OR OTHER WATERBORNE VESSELS; RELATED EQUIPMENT
- B63B—SHIPS OR OTHER WATERBORNE VESSELS; EQUIPMENT FOR SHIPPING
- B63B2203/00—Communication means
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B63—SHIPS OR OTHER WATERBORNE VESSELS; RELATED EQUIPMENT
- B63B—SHIPS OR OTHER WATERBORNE VESSELS; EQUIPMENT FOR SHIPPING
- B63B2213/00—Navigational aids and use thereof, not otherwise provided for in this class
- B63B2213/02—Navigational aids and use thereof, not otherwise provided for in this class using satellite radio beacon positioning systems, e.g. the Global Positioning System GPS
Landscapes
- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
- Ocean & Marine Engineering (AREA)
- Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
- Oceanography (AREA)
- Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
- General Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
- Physical Education & Sports Medicine (AREA)
- Textile Engineering (AREA)
- Professional, Industrial, Or Sporting Protective Garments (AREA)
Abstract
ABSTRACT OF THE DISCLOSURE
A garment adapted to provide both thermal protection and buoyancy to a wearer upon immersion in water, comprises, a fabric shell structured to be wearable, and includes chest and back portions joined together along edges thereof. The chest portion includes a closeable opening to enable the wearer to put on and take off the garment. A liner is attached to the fabric shell and configured generally the same as the latter. Between the outer shell and liner there is an inner liner having properties of both thermal insulation and buoyance. This inner liner is attached to the shell and liner at the collar, wrist, front opening and bottom of the jacket. An inflatable bladder is provided having valve means therein the enable infla-tion of the bladder selectively. The bladder is retained intermediate the liner and fabric shell in the chest portion of the garment, to provide in use. a self righting capability within a predetermined time period. In a more preferred form, the present invention embodies a garment as described immediately above, wherein a flap is provided, being broadly H-shaped and formedof a thermally protective and buoyant material, the flap being connected along one leg thereof to a hem portion of one of the fabric shell and liner, the other leg of the flap having releasable fastening means thereon, such that in sue, the flap is formed into a shorts-like structure providing thermal protection to the upper thigh and groin areas of the wearer.
A garment adapted to provide both thermal protection and buoyancy to a wearer upon immersion in water, comprises, a fabric shell structured to be wearable, and includes chest and back portions joined together along edges thereof. The chest portion includes a closeable opening to enable the wearer to put on and take off the garment. A liner is attached to the fabric shell and configured generally the same as the latter. Between the outer shell and liner there is an inner liner having properties of both thermal insulation and buoyance. This inner liner is attached to the shell and liner at the collar, wrist, front opening and bottom of the jacket. An inflatable bladder is provided having valve means therein the enable infla-tion of the bladder selectively. The bladder is retained intermediate the liner and fabric shell in the chest portion of the garment, to provide in use. a self righting capability within a predetermined time period. In a more preferred form, the present invention embodies a garment as described immediately above, wherein a flap is provided, being broadly H-shaped and formedof a thermally protective and buoyant material, the flap being connected along one leg thereof to a hem portion of one of the fabric shell and liner, the other leg of the flap having releasable fastening means thereon, such that in sue, the flap is formed into a shorts-like structure providing thermal protection to the upper thigh and groin areas of the wearer.
Description
This invention relates to life saving equipment, and more particularly to a combination weather jacket and life preserver, especially one having a built-in hoisting capàbility for use in emergency rescues.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
' Many different kinds of life preservers or flotation devices are found in the marketplace. Some take the form of bulky vests or vest-like structures, while others are more slab-like with openings permitting a wearer to slip it over his or her head. Still others are primarily belt-like in form. These prior art constructions are often inadéquate in respect ;
of certain requirements, such as, thermal protection upon immersion in cold water, or a self-righting capability needed to at least minimize the risk of a wearers head being submerged for longer periods of time.
In respect of prior art weather jackets these too are avail- ;
able in many configurations. Frequently, however, a weather jacket which gives good thermal protection will actually be a hazard if a wearer falls into water wearing the same. Such jackets may be bulky and cause a wearer~s ;,~,. ..
movements to be constrained or limited. Further, such prior art weather ~
.....
jackets normally provide very little if any actual buoyancy to a wearer ,'','' ' '. ' ' immersed in water.
Thus, there has continued to be a need amongst sailors, `~
outdoorsmen, aviators, the rrilitary, and the like for a protective garment ~;
that affords both thermal protection and buoyancy to an optimum extent. ~ ;
~:..;
SU~MARY OF THE INVENTION : ~
,,." ~ .
The present invention overcomes many shortcomings of prior art flotation devices and weather jackets. Thus, the present invention provides an improved life preserver that is combined with a thermal insula-tion capability. The present invention embodies a garment that is present-able in appearance, is not bulky and yet provides good buoyancy and protec-28 tion against the elements, particularly cold.
~ ' .
MR/
-` 10~35235 Accordingly, there is provided by this invention a garment adapted to provide both thermal protection and buoyancy to a wearer upon immersion in water, comprising, a fabric shell structured to be wearable, and includ-ing chest,collar,and back portions joined together along edges thereof ? the chest portion including a closeable opening to enable the wearer to put on and take off the garment; a liner attached to the fabric shell and con-figured generally the same as tlle latter; an inncr liner~ said inner liner being retained between said shell and the liner, and consisting of a material having properties of both thermal insulation and buoyancy; and an inflatable bladder having valve means therein to enable inflation of the bladder selectively, the bladder being retained intermediate the inner liner and -fabric shell in the chest portion and collar portion of the garmentj to pro- ;~
vide in use, a self-righting capability within a predetermined time period.
In a preferred form, the present invention embodies a garment as ~ -described immediately above, wherein a flap is provided~ being broadly H- ; ~;
shaped and formed of a thermally protective and buoyant material, the flap -~
being connected along one leg thereof to a hem portion of one of the fabric shell and liner, the other leg of the flap having releasable fastening means -~
. . .
thereon, such that in use, the flap is formed into a shorts-like structure ~j providing thermal protection to the upper thigh and groin areas of the wearer.
In a more preferred form of the garment as described immediately above, a built-in lifting harness is also included, being secured between the liner and said inner liner, thus providing a lifting capability during emergency rescue operations.
These and other features of this invention will be better appreciated from the following deta;led description, read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
In tl~e drawing~
FIGURE 1 is a schematic view illustrating a preferred form of garment MR/
;` 1~85~35 embodying this invention;
FIGUR~ 2 is also a schematic view of the garment of Figure 1, as it would appear in use;
FIGURE 3, is a schematic rear view of the garment of Figure 1, showing a particular feature thereof;
FIGURE 4 is a schematic view illustrating features internally of the garment of Figure l; and FIGUR~ 5 is another schematic view illustrating other internal features of the garment of Figure 1.
D~SCRIPTION ~F THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
A preferred embodiment of a garment envisaged by this invention is shown overall at 10. The garment 10 includes chest and back portions 12 and 14, and in this preferred form, sleeve portions 16. The chest and back portions 12 and 14 are joined together, typically sewn together by one or more seams 18 (Figure 2). Similarly, the sleeve portions 16 are normally joined to the chest and back portions 12 and 14 by seams sewn in a conven-tional manner. Additionally, the garment 10 includes a hem 20, a collar --portion and collar 22, cuffs 24 and a closeable front opening 26 having a zip fastener closure means 28 thereon. By external appearan~es, the garment ~;~
10 closely resembles a conventional jacket or "car-coat". Ihus, the garment 10 includes features not specifically identified here, such as pockets, storm flaps, storm wristlets, a hood, and belt or belt-like cincture, normally provided on present day jacket or coats.
The various portions of the garment 10 also comprise a fabric shell 27 made of knitted or woven material. The fabric shell 27 and a liner 29 (Figures 4 and 5), may be of a synthetic material such as nylon, or a polyester, a tear-resistant material such as that used in parachutes or tent structures, or the like. As seen in Figure 4, the garment 10 also includes an inner liner 30, ~Fieure 5), attached to a~d configured generally the same as the liner and fabric shell, i.e., having chest, back and sleeve portions~
MR/
. ~
~8SZ35 The liner 29 incorporates a two incll wide strip of nylon netting 31 to pro-vide for wa~er drainage. The inner liner 30 is preferabLy made oL a synthetic foamed closed cell material such as that known in this art by the name "~NSOLITE". This liner material confers both buoyancy and thermal protection, derived from the myriad of individually closed cells making up such material. The inner liner 30, made of "ENSOLITE~' and seen in Figure 5 will provide in the order of twenty pounds of buoyancy. That should be compared with the minimum buoyancy ranging from, for example, two or three ~-pounds to about ten to fifteen pounds required to keep an adult male afloat.
Clearly the proportion of body fat as compared to muscle tissue (of higher density), or the salinity of the water in which a wearer i8 immersed will determine the exact amount of buoyancy needed. Other factors will also contribute to this, such as the amount and kind of clothing being worn, and whether or not the wearer has any equipment, weapons etc. on his person.
In any event, the inner liner 30 confers to the garment 10 sufficient buoyancy ~ ;
to keep the wearer safely afloat in most circumstances.
In this context, another feature of this invention comprises the provision in garment 10 of one or rnore inflatable bladders 32, seen in `
Figure 2 in an inflated condition. The inflatable bladder 32 is retained 20 in a pocket formed in the chest portion 12 and collar portion 22 of the ;~
fabric shell, so as to be positioned between said shell and the inner liner 30. Access to this pocket (or these pockets in the event there are two of them) is via closeable openings shown ln Figure 2 at 34. A zip or "VELCRO"
fastening arrangement is uséd to close the openings 34. For versatility the inflatable bladder 32 is provided with at least one of an oral inflation valve 36 and a combination release valve and gas cylinder 38, 40. The cylinder 40 typically contains a charge of gaseous carbon dioxide, under pressure. Inflation of the bladders 32 typically provides in the order of twenty to twenty-five pounds of additional buoyancy, beyond that provided by the buoyant inner liner 30.
.~:
- Trademark MR/
~OIS 5Z35 Of even greater importance in the present context is the self-righting capability provided by the inflatable bladders 32. As will be seen from Figure 2, the closed garment 10 holds the inflated bladders 32 slightly flattened against the chest wall of a wearer. In this instance the bladders 32 are preferably provided with ties, drawstrings or other securing means to connect said bladders to loops on the inside of the gar-ment shell immediateiy above the pockets. Thus, when the bladders 32 are inflated, and the wearer jumps or falls into the water, the buoyancy provided causes the wearer to be up-righted in less than about eight seconds, and ideally in about four seconds. Clearly~ this is oE greatest importance if the wearer is rendered unconscious by a fall into the water, in a collision or other incident, or simply incapacitated, for example, by the cold. ~ith the present garment 10 closed on a wearer, the extra buoyancy derived from bladders 32 will cause the wearer to be positioned generally "face-up" thus keeping his nose and mouth out of the water~ Such position- -~
ing minimizes the risk of drowning.
Another important feature of a preferred form of this invention is the thermal protection available to a wearer of the garment 10. As noted earlier, the inner liner 30 has portions thereof attached to and generally coextensive with the fabric shell. Being made of a closed cell foam material, the cellular structure thereof provides good insulation in addition to buoyancy. The foam material of the inner liner 30 is elasto-meric and thus provides ample flexibility and mobility to a wearer.
Figure 4 shows the interior of the rear portion 14 of the garment 10. A generally H-shaped flap 41 is provided, being secured along one 1Q~ of the flap to the hem 20 of garment 10. Figure 4 shows the flap 41 from the outside, while Figure 5 shows it from the inside, relative to a wearer.
The flap 41 is made from neoprene rubber. Attachment is preferably by sewing, however, releasable snap or zip fasteners could also be used. The "feet" sections of each leg of the H-shaped flap 41 flre provided with , _ 5 MR/
'~
1~5~:35 fastening means 42 for purposes to be explained shortly. Additional quick release fasteners 44, 46 are also provided on the flap 41. The fastening means 42 are preferably snap-fasteners~ while quick release fasteners 44, 46 are preferably "VELCR0"~ fasteners. Release means in the form of rings 48 are also provided.on flap 41 to enable quick release of fasteners 44, 46. The latter fasteners 44, 46 co-act with complementary elements secured to the liner 30 and/or fabric shell to retain the flap 41 in an inoperative :~
position, hidden from view, as shown in Figure 4.
The single fastening means 42 on the feet of the fla.p 41 distant from llem 20 co-act with the fastening means 42 adjacent hem 20 to provide for adjustment. Thus, a wearer of the garment 10 can, when desired, release the flap 41, and by swinging the same between his legs, secure the fastening means 42 together, thereby forming a shorts-like structure ; -shown at 50 in Figure 2. These "instant shorts" 50 will provide thermal protection to the upper thighs and.groin area of the wearer. Additional ~;:
:~ .
belt-like fasteners shown at 52 in Figure 2 will ensure that the "shorts" .
50 are securely held up. The fasteners 52 are preferably secured to the .
fabric shell of garment 10 in a manner enabling them normally to be hidden :.
in pockets 54 when not in use. ~ :
Further thermal protection is provided by a hood 60, shown in Figure 3. This hood 60 is normally retained in a shelf pocket formed .
beneath the collar area of the fabric shell preferably internally of the `
garment 10. This arrangement is well known in thc parka and jacket art, and need not be described further. The hood 60 may include a liner, if desired, but may not be needed since the wearer's head is normally held clear of the water~ A hood liner may inhibit easy placement or retention of the hood 60 in its retaining pocket. -:
As a further feature, through a slot 62 in the liner 29 immediately above the hood pocket 64 runs a vertical nylon strap and loop 66 which forms part of a built-in hoisting sling. The sling, of loop configuration, runs across the shoulders, down under the arms and across the back, being ~.
positioned between the jacket liner 29 and the inner liner 30. The slot 62 ~f - T;~ademark - 6 - :~
MR/
, :, , ,. . .. , ., . ,, . ; .. . : .; ,. . , i .
~1385235 provides egress Eor the hoisting sling strap, the top loop of which i9 stowed inside the pocket 64.
Still additional thermal protection may be provided by a muffler-like flap of similar material to the H-shapecl flap 40, adapted to cover the throat area of a wearer, by using storm wristlets in the sleeves of garment 10, and by having a drawstring along the hem 20.
It will be evident from the foregoing description and attached drawings that the present invention encompasses a garment having improved thermal protection and buoyancy for a wearer immersed in water. The pri-mary features of the invention have been explained. Certain modificationshave also been suggested. It is intended within the scope of this inven-tion to cover all such changes and modifications as fall within the wording of the claims below.
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BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
' Many different kinds of life preservers or flotation devices are found in the marketplace. Some take the form of bulky vests or vest-like structures, while others are more slab-like with openings permitting a wearer to slip it over his or her head. Still others are primarily belt-like in form. These prior art constructions are often inadéquate in respect ;
of certain requirements, such as, thermal protection upon immersion in cold water, or a self-righting capability needed to at least minimize the risk of a wearers head being submerged for longer periods of time.
In respect of prior art weather jackets these too are avail- ;
able in many configurations. Frequently, however, a weather jacket which gives good thermal protection will actually be a hazard if a wearer falls into water wearing the same. Such jackets may be bulky and cause a wearer~s ;,~,. ..
movements to be constrained or limited. Further, such prior art weather ~
.....
jackets normally provide very little if any actual buoyancy to a wearer ,'','' ' '. ' ' immersed in water.
Thus, there has continued to be a need amongst sailors, `~
outdoorsmen, aviators, the rrilitary, and the like for a protective garment ~;
that affords both thermal protection and buoyancy to an optimum extent. ~ ;
~:..;
SU~MARY OF THE INVENTION : ~
,,." ~ .
The present invention overcomes many shortcomings of prior art flotation devices and weather jackets. Thus, the present invention provides an improved life preserver that is combined with a thermal insula-tion capability. The present invention embodies a garment that is present-able in appearance, is not bulky and yet provides good buoyancy and protec-28 tion against the elements, particularly cold.
~ ' .
MR/
-` 10~35235 Accordingly, there is provided by this invention a garment adapted to provide both thermal protection and buoyancy to a wearer upon immersion in water, comprising, a fabric shell structured to be wearable, and includ-ing chest,collar,and back portions joined together along edges thereof ? the chest portion including a closeable opening to enable the wearer to put on and take off the garment; a liner attached to the fabric shell and con-figured generally the same as tlle latter; an inncr liner~ said inner liner being retained between said shell and the liner, and consisting of a material having properties of both thermal insulation and buoyancy; and an inflatable bladder having valve means therein to enable inflation of the bladder selectively, the bladder being retained intermediate the inner liner and -fabric shell in the chest portion and collar portion of the garmentj to pro- ;~
vide in use, a self-righting capability within a predetermined time period.
In a preferred form, the present invention embodies a garment as ~ -described immediately above, wherein a flap is provided~ being broadly H- ; ~;
shaped and formed of a thermally protective and buoyant material, the flap -~
being connected along one leg thereof to a hem portion of one of the fabric shell and liner, the other leg of the flap having releasable fastening means -~
. . .
thereon, such that in use, the flap is formed into a shorts-like structure ~j providing thermal protection to the upper thigh and groin areas of the wearer.
In a more preferred form of the garment as described immediately above, a built-in lifting harness is also included, being secured between the liner and said inner liner, thus providing a lifting capability during emergency rescue operations.
These and other features of this invention will be better appreciated from the following deta;led description, read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
In tl~e drawing~
FIGURE 1 is a schematic view illustrating a preferred form of garment MR/
;` 1~85~35 embodying this invention;
FIGUR~ 2 is also a schematic view of the garment of Figure 1, as it would appear in use;
FIGURE 3, is a schematic rear view of the garment of Figure 1, showing a particular feature thereof;
FIGURE 4 is a schematic view illustrating features internally of the garment of Figure l; and FIGUR~ 5 is another schematic view illustrating other internal features of the garment of Figure 1.
D~SCRIPTION ~F THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
A preferred embodiment of a garment envisaged by this invention is shown overall at 10. The garment 10 includes chest and back portions 12 and 14, and in this preferred form, sleeve portions 16. The chest and back portions 12 and 14 are joined together, typically sewn together by one or more seams 18 (Figure 2). Similarly, the sleeve portions 16 are normally joined to the chest and back portions 12 and 14 by seams sewn in a conven-tional manner. Additionally, the garment 10 includes a hem 20, a collar --portion and collar 22, cuffs 24 and a closeable front opening 26 having a zip fastener closure means 28 thereon. By external appearan~es, the garment ~;~
10 closely resembles a conventional jacket or "car-coat". Ihus, the garment 10 includes features not specifically identified here, such as pockets, storm flaps, storm wristlets, a hood, and belt or belt-like cincture, normally provided on present day jacket or coats.
The various portions of the garment 10 also comprise a fabric shell 27 made of knitted or woven material. The fabric shell 27 and a liner 29 (Figures 4 and 5), may be of a synthetic material such as nylon, or a polyester, a tear-resistant material such as that used in parachutes or tent structures, or the like. As seen in Figure 4, the garment 10 also includes an inner liner 30, ~Fieure 5), attached to a~d configured generally the same as the liner and fabric shell, i.e., having chest, back and sleeve portions~
MR/
. ~
~8SZ35 The liner 29 incorporates a two incll wide strip of nylon netting 31 to pro-vide for wa~er drainage. The inner liner 30 is preferabLy made oL a synthetic foamed closed cell material such as that known in this art by the name "~NSOLITE". This liner material confers both buoyancy and thermal protection, derived from the myriad of individually closed cells making up such material. The inner liner 30, made of "ENSOLITE~' and seen in Figure 5 will provide in the order of twenty pounds of buoyancy. That should be compared with the minimum buoyancy ranging from, for example, two or three ~-pounds to about ten to fifteen pounds required to keep an adult male afloat.
Clearly the proportion of body fat as compared to muscle tissue (of higher density), or the salinity of the water in which a wearer i8 immersed will determine the exact amount of buoyancy needed. Other factors will also contribute to this, such as the amount and kind of clothing being worn, and whether or not the wearer has any equipment, weapons etc. on his person.
In any event, the inner liner 30 confers to the garment 10 sufficient buoyancy ~ ;
to keep the wearer safely afloat in most circumstances.
In this context, another feature of this invention comprises the provision in garment 10 of one or rnore inflatable bladders 32, seen in `
Figure 2 in an inflated condition. The inflatable bladder 32 is retained 20 in a pocket formed in the chest portion 12 and collar portion 22 of the ;~
fabric shell, so as to be positioned between said shell and the inner liner 30. Access to this pocket (or these pockets in the event there are two of them) is via closeable openings shown ln Figure 2 at 34. A zip or "VELCRO"
fastening arrangement is uséd to close the openings 34. For versatility the inflatable bladder 32 is provided with at least one of an oral inflation valve 36 and a combination release valve and gas cylinder 38, 40. The cylinder 40 typically contains a charge of gaseous carbon dioxide, under pressure. Inflation of the bladders 32 typically provides in the order of twenty to twenty-five pounds of additional buoyancy, beyond that provided by the buoyant inner liner 30.
.~:
- Trademark MR/
~OIS 5Z35 Of even greater importance in the present context is the self-righting capability provided by the inflatable bladders 32. As will be seen from Figure 2, the closed garment 10 holds the inflated bladders 32 slightly flattened against the chest wall of a wearer. In this instance the bladders 32 are preferably provided with ties, drawstrings or other securing means to connect said bladders to loops on the inside of the gar-ment shell immediateiy above the pockets. Thus, when the bladders 32 are inflated, and the wearer jumps or falls into the water, the buoyancy provided causes the wearer to be up-righted in less than about eight seconds, and ideally in about four seconds. Clearly~ this is oE greatest importance if the wearer is rendered unconscious by a fall into the water, in a collision or other incident, or simply incapacitated, for example, by the cold. ~ith the present garment 10 closed on a wearer, the extra buoyancy derived from bladders 32 will cause the wearer to be positioned generally "face-up" thus keeping his nose and mouth out of the water~ Such position- -~
ing minimizes the risk of drowning.
Another important feature of a preferred form of this invention is the thermal protection available to a wearer of the garment 10. As noted earlier, the inner liner 30 has portions thereof attached to and generally coextensive with the fabric shell. Being made of a closed cell foam material, the cellular structure thereof provides good insulation in addition to buoyancy. The foam material of the inner liner 30 is elasto-meric and thus provides ample flexibility and mobility to a wearer.
Figure 4 shows the interior of the rear portion 14 of the garment 10. A generally H-shaped flap 41 is provided, being secured along one 1Q~ of the flap to the hem 20 of garment 10. Figure 4 shows the flap 41 from the outside, while Figure 5 shows it from the inside, relative to a wearer.
The flap 41 is made from neoprene rubber. Attachment is preferably by sewing, however, releasable snap or zip fasteners could also be used. The "feet" sections of each leg of the H-shaped flap 41 flre provided with , _ 5 MR/
'~
1~5~:35 fastening means 42 for purposes to be explained shortly. Additional quick release fasteners 44, 46 are also provided on the flap 41. The fastening means 42 are preferably snap-fasteners~ while quick release fasteners 44, 46 are preferably "VELCR0"~ fasteners. Release means in the form of rings 48 are also provided.on flap 41 to enable quick release of fasteners 44, 46. The latter fasteners 44, 46 co-act with complementary elements secured to the liner 30 and/or fabric shell to retain the flap 41 in an inoperative :~
position, hidden from view, as shown in Figure 4.
The single fastening means 42 on the feet of the fla.p 41 distant from llem 20 co-act with the fastening means 42 adjacent hem 20 to provide for adjustment. Thus, a wearer of the garment 10 can, when desired, release the flap 41, and by swinging the same between his legs, secure the fastening means 42 together, thereby forming a shorts-like structure ; -shown at 50 in Figure 2. These "instant shorts" 50 will provide thermal protection to the upper thighs and.groin area of the wearer. Additional ~;:
:~ .
belt-like fasteners shown at 52 in Figure 2 will ensure that the "shorts" .
50 are securely held up. The fasteners 52 are preferably secured to the .
fabric shell of garment 10 in a manner enabling them normally to be hidden :.
in pockets 54 when not in use. ~ :
Further thermal protection is provided by a hood 60, shown in Figure 3. This hood 60 is normally retained in a shelf pocket formed .
beneath the collar area of the fabric shell preferably internally of the `
garment 10. This arrangement is well known in thc parka and jacket art, and need not be described further. The hood 60 may include a liner, if desired, but may not be needed since the wearer's head is normally held clear of the water~ A hood liner may inhibit easy placement or retention of the hood 60 in its retaining pocket. -:
As a further feature, through a slot 62 in the liner 29 immediately above the hood pocket 64 runs a vertical nylon strap and loop 66 which forms part of a built-in hoisting sling. The sling, of loop configuration, runs across the shoulders, down under the arms and across the back, being ~.
positioned between the jacket liner 29 and the inner liner 30. The slot 62 ~f - T;~ademark - 6 - :~
MR/
, :, , ,. . .. , ., . ,, . ; .. . : .; ,. . , i .
~1385235 provides egress Eor the hoisting sling strap, the top loop of which i9 stowed inside the pocket 64.
Still additional thermal protection may be provided by a muffler-like flap of similar material to the H-shapecl flap 40, adapted to cover the throat area of a wearer, by using storm wristlets in the sleeves of garment 10, and by having a drawstring along the hem 20.
It will be evident from the foregoing description and attached drawings that the present invention encompasses a garment having improved thermal protection and buoyancy for a wearer immersed in water. The pri-mary features of the invention have been explained. Certain modificationshave also been suggested. It is intended within the scope of this inven-tion to cover all such changes and modifications as fall within the wording of the claims below.
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MR/
Claims (8)
IS CLAIMED ARE DEFINED AS FOLLOWS:
1. A garment adapted to provide both thermal protection and buoyancy to a wearer upon immersion in water, comprising:
(a) a fabric shell structured to be wearable, and including chest, collar and back portions joined together along edges thereof, the chest portion including a closeable opening to enable the wearer to put on and take off said garment;
(b) a liner attached to said fabric shell and configured generally the same as the latter;
(c) an inner liner retained between the fabric shell and the liner, and consisting of a material having properties of both thermal insulation and buoyancy; and (d) an inflatable bladder having valve means therein to enable inflation of the bladder selectively, said bladder being retained inter-mediate the inner liner and fabric shell in the chest and collar portion of said garment, to provide in use, a self-righting capability within a predetermined time period.
(a) a fabric shell structured to be wearable, and including chest, collar and back portions joined together along edges thereof, the chest portion including a closeable opening to enable the wearer to put on and take off said garment;
(b) a liner attached to said fabric shell and configured generally the same as the latter;
(c) an inner liner retained between the fabric shell and the liner, and consisting of a material having properties of both thermal insulation and buoyancy; and (d) an inflatable bladder having valve means therein to enable inflation of the bladder selectively, said bladder being retained inter-mediate the inner liner and fabric shell in the chest and collar portion of said garment, to provide in use, a self-righting capability within a predetermined time period.
2. The garment defined in claim 1, wherein a flap is provided, being broadly H-shaped and formed of a thermally protective and buoyant material, the flap being connected along one leg thereof to a hem portion of one of the fabric shell and liner, the other leg of said flap having releasable fastening means thereon, such that in use, the flap is formed into a shorts-like structure providing thermal protection to the upper thigh and groin areas of the wearer.
3. The garment defined in claim 1, wherein a lifting harness is included, being built-in and secured between the liner and said inner liner, thereby providing a lifting capability during emergency rescue operations.
4. The garment defined in claim 1, wherein said valve means com-prises at least one of an orally activated valve and a combination of a release valve and compressed gas reservoir.
5. The garment defined in claim 1, 2 or 3, wherein said garment is also provided with sleeves making up portions of the fabric shell, liner and inner liner attached thereto.
6. The garment defined in claim 1, 2 or 3, wherein pockets are provided in the chest portion of said fabric shell, said pockets being adapted to releaseably retain said inflatable bladder.
7. The garment defined in claim 1, 2 or 3, wherein said garment is provided with a hood, normally housed.
8. The garment defined in claim 1, 2 or 3, wherein belt means are provided for cinching the garment more securely to the wearer, the belt means also being operative, in use, to retain said inflatable bladder close to the wearer's body, thus contributing to speedy self-righting of the wearer upon immersion.
Priority Applications (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA317,497A CA1085235A (en) | 1978-12-06 | 1978-12-06 | Thermal immersion protection jacket |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA317,497A CA1085235A (en) | 1978-12-06 | 1978-12-06 | Thermal immersion protection jacket |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA1085235A true CA1085235A (en) | 1980-09-09 |
Family
ID=4113085
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA317,497A Expired CA1085235A (en) | 1978-12-06 | 1978-12-06 | Thermal immersion protection jacket |
Country Status (1)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| CA (1) | CA1085235A (en) |
Cited By (5)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US4739522A (en) * | 1987-02-18 | 1988-04-26 | Burlington Industries, Inc. | Cold weather garment with improved buoyancy |
| WO2003075692A1 (en) * | 2002-03-13 | 2003-09-18 | Aquasafe Australasia Pty Ltd | Buoyancy garment |
| WO2003070326A3 (en) * | 2002-12-20 | 2003-12-24 | Viking Life Saving Equip As | Thermal protective lifejackets |
| WO2004039188A1 (en) * | 2002-10-26 | 2004-05-13 | Orca Gear | Personal flotation device |
| US8911273B2 (en) | 2012-08-29 | 2014-12-16 | Patagonia, Inc. | Watersports inflation vest |
-
1978
- 1978-12-06 CA CA317,497A patent/CA1085235A/en not_active Expired
Cited By (7)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US4739522A (en) * | 1987-02-18 | 1988-04-26 | Burlington Industries, Inc. | Cold weather garment with improved buoyancy |
| WO2003075692A1 (en) * | 2002-03-13 | 2003-09-18 | Aquasafe Australasia Pty Ltd | Buoyancy garment |
| US7150668B2 (en) | 2002-03-13 | 2006-12-19 | Aquasafe Australasia Pty Ltd. | Buoyancy garment |
| WO2004039188A1 (en) * | 2002-10-26 | 2004-05-13 | Orca Gear | Personal flotation device |
| US7059924B2 (en) | 2002-10-26 | 2006-06-13 | Float Tech Inc. | Personal flotation device |
| WO2003070326A3 (en) * | 2002-12-20 | 2003-12-24 | Viking Life Saving Equip As | Thermal protective lifejackets |
| US8911273B2 (en) | 2012-08-29 | 2014-12-16 | Patagonia, Inc. | Watersports inflation vest |
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Legal Events
| Date | Code | Title | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| MKEX | Expiry |