CA2419140C - A novel life-saving device - Google Patents
A novel life-saving device Download PDFInfo
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- CA2419140C CA2419140C CA2419140A CA2419140A CA2419140C CA 2419140 C CA2419140 C CA 2419140C CA 2419140 A CA2419140 A CA 2419140A CA 2419140 A CA2419140 A CA 2419140A CA 2419140 C CA2419140 C CA 2419140C
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- Prior art keywords
- buoyant disk
- disk
- life
- buoyant
- saving device
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- 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
-
- 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
- B63C9/26—Cast or life lines; Attachments thereto; Containers therefor; Rescue nets or the like
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- Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
- Ocean & Marine Engineering (AREA)
- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Indicating And Signalling Devices For Elevators (AREA)
- Electrical Discharge Machining, Electrochemical Machining, And Combined Machining (AREA)
- Sink And Installation For Waste Water (AREA)
- Emergency Lowering Means (AREA)
- Other Liquid Machine Or Engine Such As Wave Power Use (AREA)
- Professional, Industrial, Or Sporting Protective Garments (AREA)
- Paper (AREA)
- Manufacture, Treatment Of Glass Fibers (AREA)
- Cyclones (AREA)
- Toys (AREA)
Abstract
A novel life-saving device (Fig. 1D) comprising a buoyant disk having a top side, a bottom side, a leading edge and a cavity on the bottom side along and adjacent to the leading edge, the cavity having an inner side generally parallel to the leading edge the inner side having an upper edge and a lower edge and a length of line affixed through and about the center of the bouyant disk generally paralell to the leading edge and disposed around the inner side of the cavity.
Description
Description A NOVEL LIFE-SAVING DEVICE
Field of Invention The invention relates to floatation devices for aquatic rescue more particularly to a hand thrown life saving device.
Background of Invention In 1998 the World Health Organization reported 119,000 drownings worldwide with approximately 5,000 of those occurring in the United States alone according to the American Red Cross. Data collected by the International Lifesaving Association indicates that most of these drownings occurred within 60 seconds and according to the statistics of the National Safety Council there has been no significant decline in the fatality rate for drowning victims over the past two decades.
The American Red Cross advises that the untrained and inexperienced would-be rescuer follow the rule "Reach, Throw, Don't Go". The rule recommends that if the drowning victim cannot be reached, or if a flotation aid or retrieval device cannot be thrown to the drowning victim that the rescuer should not attempt an open water rescue.
For these types of non-professional rescue attempts the rescuer must be able to provide an additional means of buoyancy and establish stability to the victim to be able to effect recovery without placing themselves in jeopardy. In circumstances where the victim cannot be physically reached by the rescuer it is recommended that a device be deployed to the victim. Several devices have been developed that can be tossed or thrown to the victim to facilitate rescue. Desirable features of a water rescue device which may prove critical under certain circumstances include the following: sufficient buoyancy, sufficient reach upon deployment and redeployment, compact and easy to use, does not dive during rescue retrieval, constructed of materials hat are not likely to cause injury to the victim
Field of Invention The invention relates to floatation devices for aquatic rescue more particularly to a hand thrown life saving device.
Background of Invention In 1998 the World Health Organization reported 119,000 drownings worldwide with approximately 5,000 of those occurring in the United States alone according to the American Red Cross. Data collected by the International Lifesaving Association indicates that most of these drownings occurred within 60 seconds and according to the statistics of the National Safety Council there has been no significant decline in the fatality rate for drowning victims over the past two decades.
The American Red Cross advises that the untrained and inexperienced would-be rescuer follow the rule "Reach, Throw, Don't Go". The rule recommends that if the drowning victim cannot be reached, or if a flotation aid or retrieval device cannot be thrown to the drowning victim that the rescuer should not attempt an open water rescue.
For these types of non-professional rescue attempts the rescuer must be able to provide an additional means of buoyancy and establish stability to the victim to be able to effect recovery without placing themselves in jeopardy. In circumstances where the victim cannot be physically reached by the rescuer it is recommended that a device be deployed to the victim. Several devices have been developed that can be tossed or thrown to the victim to facilitate rescue. Desirable features of a water rescue device which may prove critical under certain circumstances include the following: sufficient buoyancy, sufficient reach upon deployment and redeployment, compact and easy to use, does not dive during rescue retrieval, constructed of materials hat are not likely to cause injury to the victim
2 and may be easily gripped by the victim and rescuer, constructed of materials that can withstand rough handling and impact without loosing functionality. None of the currently available rescue devices incorporate or are able to incorporate all of the aforementioned features.
Commercially available devices include the line throw bag, the standard life ring or seat cushion/floatation device and the flying disk. The line throw bag is designed to provide an immediate link with the victim in the form of a rope or line that can be retracted to effect retrieval and rescue. Unfortunately while the device meets some of the desired features for a life saving device it has poor buoyancy and is difficult to redeploy if the first attempt at reaching the victim fails. In addition the device may also cause injury if it hits the victim during rescue.
Likewise the standard life ring and seat cushion/floatation devices meet many of the desirable features for a life saving device, however they fail in other critical aspects.
The devices have substantially less reach than flying disk rescue devices.
Often these devices do not have a retrieval line that enables a rescuer to retrieve and redeploy the device if the victim is not reached or is missed on the first throw or toss.
Although some standard life rings include an attached retrieval line, the life ring may have the tendency to dive during retrieval, which jeopardizes the safety of the victim and slows retrieval time.
Flying rescue disks with retrieval line retention and deployment features on or about the outside perimeter of the disk like those described in U.S. Pat. Nos.
5,562,512 and 5,895,299 also meet some of the desirable features of a life saving device, however, they suffer from lack of aerodynamic efficiency due to the interference caused by the location ofthe line retention and deployment features in aerodynamic areas critical for performance.
The disks are often made of hard rigid materials to retain the line and to add mass and rigidity to overcome reach limitations due to poor aerodynamics. In addition, their buoyancy is generally poor and their potential for injuring the victim is high because of their hard body construction. Some flying rescue disks incorporate a
Commercially available devices include the line throw bag, the standard life ring or seat cushion/floatation device and the flying disk. The line throw bag is designed to provide an immediate link with the victim in the form of a rope or line that can be retracted to effect retrieval and rescue. Unfortunately while the device meets some of the desired features for a life saving device it has poor buoyancy and is difficult to redeploy if the first attempt at reaching the victim fails. In addition the device may also cause injury if it hits the victim during rescue.
Likewise the standard life ring and seat cushion/floatation devices meet many of the desirable features for a life saving device, however they fail in other critical aspects.
The devices have substantially less reach than flying disk rescue devices.
Often these devices do not have a retrieval line that enables a rescuer to retrieve and redeploy the device if the victim is not reached or is missed on the first throw or toss.
Although some standard life rings include an attached retrieval line, the life ring may have the tendency to dive during retrieval, which jeopardizes the safety of the victim and slows retrieval time.
Flying rescue disks with retrieval line retention and deployment features on or about the outside perimeter of the disk like those described in U.S. Pat. Nos.
5,562,512 and 5,895,299 also meet some of the desirable features of a life saving device, however, they suffer from lack of aerodynamic efficiency due to the interference caused by the location ofthe line retention and deployment features in aerodynamic areas critical for performance.
The disks are often made of hard rigid materials to retain the line and to add mass and rigidity to overcome reach limitations due to poor aerodynamics. In addition, their buoyancy is generally poor and their potential for injuring the victim is high because of their hard body construction. Some flying rescue disks incorporate a
3 hollow flotation compartment defined by a hard plastic encapsulation to increase buoyancy, unfortunately they can be damaged by rough handling or impact, which may allow water to flood the compartment or otherwise decrease the disk's functionality. In addition, the retrieval lines of these devices are affixed to their leading edge and consequently during rescue the devices have a tendency to dive under water upon retrieval jeopardizing the safety of the victim and extending retrieval time. Also, for a more effectively redeployment of these devices, the retrieval line should be partially rewound around the outer perimeter to allow for free. rotation of the disk, which may further delay rescue time.
Consequently, there is a need in the industry for a life saving device that is compact and easy to use, may be quickly deployed at distances of approximately 100 feet, may be quickly retrieved and redeployed, is sufficiently buoyant to stabilize the drowning victim and constructed of a gripable material that is not likely to cause injury and can withstand rough handling and impact without loosing functionality. A further desirable characteristic is the resistance of the device to dive during retrieval.
Summary of Invention In accordance with the present invention a novel life-saving device is provided. In one embodiment, the life-saving device comprises a buoyant disk having a top side, a bottom side, a leading edge and a cavity on the bottom side along and adjacent to the leading edge, the cavity having an inner side generally parallel to the leading edge, the inner side having an upper edge and a lower edge and a length of line affixed through and about the center of the buoyant disk generally parallel to the leading edge and disposed around the inner side of the cavity.
In another embodiment, the life-saving device comprises a buoyant disk having a top side, a bottom side, a leading edge and a cavity on the bottom side along and adjacent to the leading edge, the cavity having an inner side distant from the center of the buoyant disk and an outer side more distant from the center of the buoyant disk than the inner side
Consequently, there is a need in the industry for a life saving device that is compact and easy to use, may be quickly deployed at distances of approximately 100 feet, may be quickly retrieved and redeployed, is sufficiently buoyant to stabilize the drowning victim and constructed of a gripable material that is not likely to cause injury and can withstand rough handling and impact without loosing functionality. A further desirable characteristic is the resistance of the device to dive during retrieval.
Summary of Invention In accordance with the present invention a novel life-saving device is provided. In one embodiment, the life-saving device comprises a buoyant disk having a top side, a bottom side, a leading edge and a cavity on the bottom side along and adjacent to the leading edge, the cavity having an inner side generally parallel to the leading edge, the inner side having an upper edge and a lower edge and a length of line affixed through and about the center of the buoyant disk generally parallel to the leading edge and disposed around the inner side of the cavity.
In another embodiment, the life-saving device comprises a buoyant disk having a top side, a bottom side, a leading edge and a cavity on the bottom side along and adjacent to the leading edge, the cavity having an inner side distant from the center of the buoyant disk and an outer side more distant from the center of the buoyant disk than the inner side
4 and a base plate having an upper surface, a lower surface and a diameter less than that of the buoyant disk and overlapping the cavity, the upper surface comprising a hollow tube portion projecting perpendicular from the center of the upper surface, the hollow tube portion affixed through the center of the buoyant disk having a diameter able to accept a line and of a length generally equal to the thickness of the buoyant disk.
In yet another embodiment, the life-saving device comprises a buoyant disk having a top side, a bottom side, a leading edge and a cavity disposed on the bottom side along and generally adjacent to the leading edge of the buoyant disk having an inner side distant from the center of the buoyant disk and an outer side more distant from the center of the buoyant disk than the inner side, the cavity able to accept a length of line disposed around the inner side of the cavity; a base plate having an upper surface, a lower surface and a diameter less than that of the buoyant disk and overlapping the cavity, the upper surface affixed to the bottom side of the buoyant disk; and a hollow tube affixed through the center of the buoyant disk and the base plate having a diameter able to accept a line and of a length generally equal to the combined thickness of the buoyant disk and the base plate.
In one aspect of the present invention the buoyant disk is made of a semi-rigid flexible material having a generally aerodynamic profile such that lift is generated during flight and that may be domed on the top side, the bottom side or on both the top side and the bottom side.
In other aspects of the present invention the buoyant disk may further comprise a flange on the lower edge of the inner side of the cavity extending generally perpendicular from the inner side toward the leading edge of the buoyant disk, a reflective surface on the top side or the bottom side and/or a leading edge having a different density than the remainder of the buoyant disk.
In still other aspects of the invention the life-saving device may further comprise;
a length of line affixed to the buoyant disk such that when in use a domed side of the buoyant disk is in contact with the surface of the water to prevent the device from diving;
a hollow tube be affixed through and about the center of the buoyant disk generally parallel to the leading edge and having a diameter able to accept a line and of a length generally equal to the thickness of the buoyant disk; a length of line, one end of which is generally affixed through or within the hollow tube; a base plate having an upper surface and a lower
In yet another embodiment, the life-saving device comprises a buoyant disk having a top side, a bottom side, a leading edge and a cavity disposed on the bottom side along and generally adjacent to the leading edge of the buoyant disk having an inner side distant from the center of the buoyant disk and an outer side more distant from the center of the buoyant disk than the inner side, the cavity able to accept a length of line disposed around the inner side of the cavity; a base plate having an upper surface, a lower surface and a diameter less than that of the buoyant disk and overlapping the cavity, the upper surface affixed to the bottom side of the buoyant disk; and a hollow tube affixed through the center of the buoyant disk and the base plate having a diameter able to accept a line and of a length generally equal to the combined thickness of the buoyant disk and the base plate.
In one aspect of the present invention the buoyant disk is made of a semi-rigid flexible material having a generally aerodynamic profile such that lift is generated during flight and that may be domed on the top side, the bottom side or on both the top side and the bottom side.
In other aspects of the present invention the buoyant disk may further comprise a flange on the lower edge of the inner side of the cavity extending generally perpendicular from the inner side toward the leading edge of the buoyant disk, a reflective surface on the top side or the bottom side and/or a leading edge having a different density than the remainder of the buoyant disk.
In still other aspects of the invention the life-saving device may further comprise;
a length of line affixed to the buoyant disk such that when in use a domed side of the buoyant disk is in contact with the surface of the water to prevent the device from diving;
a hollow tube be affixed through and about the center of the buoyant disk generally parallel to the leading edge and having a diameter able to accept a line and of a length generally equal to the thickness of the buoyant disk; a length of line, one end of which is generally affixed through or within the hollow tube; a base plate having an upper surface and a lower
5 surface, the upper surface affixed to the bottom side of the buoyant disk, the base plate having a diameter less than the buoyant disk and overlapping the cavity; a reflective surface on the lower surface of the base plate; a balance ring that may be affixed to embedded in or implanted within the bottom side of the buoyant disk generally adjacent to the leading edge; and/or an audible signaling device embedded within the buoyant disk.
Brief Description of Drawings FIG. I is the life-saving device with a length of line. A is a top view of the device, B is a bottom view of the device, C is a side view of the device, D is a cross-sectional view of the device and E is a perspective view of the device.
FIG. 2 is the life-saving device having a flange. A is a top view of the device, B is a bottom view of the device, C is a side view of the device, D is a cross-sectional view of the device and E is a perspective view of the device.
FIG. 3 is the life-saving device having a base plate comprising a hollow tube portion projecting perpendicular from the center of the upper surface of the base plate. A is a top view of the device, B is a bottom view of the device, C is a side view of the device, D is a cross-sectional view of the device and E is a perspective view of the device.
FIG. 4 is the life saving device having a base plate and a hollow tube. A is a top view of the device, B is a bottom view of the device, C is a side view of the device, D is a cross-sectional view of the device and E is a perspective view of the device.
Detailed Description of Invention 1. Buoyant Disk
Brief Description of Drawings FIG. I is the life-saving device with a length of line. A is a top view of the device, B is a bottom view of the device, C is a side view of the device, D is a cross-sectional view of the device and E is a perspective view of the device.
FIG. 2 is the life-saving device having a flange. A is a top view of the device, B is a bottom view of the device, C is a side view of the device, D is a cross-sectional view of the device and E is a perspective view of the device.
FIG. 3 is the life-saving device having a base plate comprising a hollow tube portion projecting perpendicular from the center of the upper surface of the base plate. A is a top view of the device, B is a bottom view of the device, C is a side view of the device, D is a cross-sectional view of the device and E is a perspective view of the device.
FIG. 4 is the life saving device having a base plate and a hollow tube. A is a top view of the device, B is a bottom view of the device, C is a side view of the device, D is a cross-sectional view of the device and E is a perspective view of the device.
Detailed Description of Invention 1. Buoyant Disk
6 The buoyant disk 30 of the present invention has a top side 32, a bottom side and a leading edge 36. The sides 32, 34 and leading edge 36 of the disk 30 are designed to be aerodynamic creating a single airfoil such that under normal conditions air can flow smoothly around the disk 30. The top side 32 of the disk 30 is generally domed. The bottom side 34 may be flat, concave or domed. Preferably the buoyant disk 30 has an asymmetric profile. The purpose of having an asymmetrical profile is to provide lift as it moves through the air. The leading edge 36 as used herein refers to the surface of the buoyant disk 30 that is generally perpendicular to the top and bottom sides 32, 34 of the disk 30. Preferably the leading edge 36 has an upper end 38 and a lower end 40 wherein the lower end 40 protrudes outward further than the upper end 38 to contour the flow of air around the disk 30 during use. The buoyant disk 30 has a diameter of about 14.0 inches to about 20.0 inches. Preferably the disk 30 is about 15.0 inches to about 18.0 inches and most preferably about 16.5 inches. The disk 30 has a thickness of about 2.0 inches to about 5.0 inches. Preferably the thickness is from about 2.5 inches to about 4.0 inches and most preferably about 3.0 inches. It is generally circular in shape and may be made of a flexible semi-rigid material such as for example expandable polypropylene or polyethylene.
The buoyant disk 30 also comprises a cavity on the bottom side 34 along and adjacent to the leading edge 36 in which a length of line 52 may be retained.
This cavity may be provided in a variety of orientations. In a preferred orientation the cavity is in the form of an annular groove 50 along and adjacent to the leading edge 36 within the bottom side 34 of the buoyant disk 30. Preferably this groove 50 is positioned close to the leading edge 36. This positioning allows the spinning of the buoyant life saving device 20 to exert a sufficient gyroscopic effect on a retained line 52 to aid in easy deployment of the line 52 during use. It also allows the retained line 52 to adds mass to the perimeter of the device 20 increasing its stability and rotation as it moves through the air, provides a gyroscopic leveling effect to the device 20 during use and reduces, the binding and/or kinking of the line 52 during deployment. The groove 50 has an inner side 54 distant from the center of the buoyant disk 30 and an outer side 56 more distant from the center of the buoyant disk than the inner side 54. Both the inner and outer sides 54, 56 of the cavity being 30 generally perpendicular to the top side 32 of the buoyant disk 30 with the inner side 54 of
The buoyant disk 30 also comprises a cavity on the bottom side 34 along and adjacent to the leading edge 36 in which a length of line 52 may be retained.
This cavity may be provided in a variety of orientations. In a preferred orientation the cavity is in the form of an annular groove 50 along and adjacent to the leading edge 36 within the bottom side 34 of the buoyant disk 30. Preferably this groove 50 is positioned close to the leading edge 36. This positioning allows the spinning of the buoyant life saving device 20 to exert a sufficient gyroscopic effect on a retained line 52 to aid in easy deployment of the line 52 during use. It also allows the retained line 52 to adds mass to the perimeter of the device 20 increasing its stability and rotation as it moves through the air, provides a gyroscopic leveling effect to the device 20 during use and reduces, the binding and/or kinking of the line 52 during deployment. The groove 50 has an inner side 54 distant from the center of the buoyant disk 30 and an outer side 56 more distant from the center of the buoyant disk than the inner side 54. Both the inner and outer sides 54, 56 of the cavity being 30 generally perpendicular to the top side 32 of the buoyant disk 30 with the inner side 54 of
7 the groove 50 able to accept a length of line 52. The distance between the inner side 54 and outer side 56 will depend on the length of line 52 to be disposed around the inner side 54 of the groove 50 and the thickness of the line 52 used. This distance may be from about 0.5 inches to about 4 inches. Preferably this distance is about 2.5 inches when approximately 100 feet of line 52 having diameter 3/16 inches is used. The depth of the groove 50 will also depend on the length of line 52 to be disposed around the inner side 54 of the groove 50 and the thickness of the line 52 used. This depth may be from about 3/4 inches to about 1.5 inches. Preferably the depth is about 1.0 inch when approximately 100 feet of line 52 having diameter 3/16 inches is used.
In preferred orientations the inner side 54 has an upper edge 58 adjacent to the top side 32 of the buoyant disk 30 and a lower edge 60 more distant from the top side 32 of the buoyant disk 30 than the upper edge 58. The distance between the upper edge 58 and lower edge 60 will depend on the length and diameter of line 52 to be disposed around the inner side 54 of the cavity and desired center of gravity of the buoyant disk 30.
This distance maybe from about 0.5 inches to about 1.5 inches. Preferably this distance is about 1.0 inch when approximately 100 feet of line 52 having diameter 3/16 inches is used.
The lower edge 60 may further comprise a flange 62 generally perpendicular to and adjacent to the inner side 54 of the groove 50 and extending toward the leading edge 36 to assist in retention of a line 52 within the groove 50 when not in use and to allow easy deployment of the line 52 during use. The distance the flange 62 extends from the inner side 54 toward the leading edge 36 will also depend on the length and diameter of line 52 to be disposed around the inner side 54 of the groove 50. Preferably this distance is from about 25% to about 75% of the distance from the inner side 54 to the outer side 56, most preferably this distance is about 50%. More particularly the distance the flange 62 extends from the inner side 54 of the groove 50 is from about 0.0078 inches to about 2.0 inches.
Preferably this distance is from about 0.5 inches to about 1.5 inches, most preferably 0.75 inches when approximately 100 feet of line 52 having diameter 3/16 inches is used. The thickness of the flange 62 is such that it is able to support and secure a line 52 for deployment when the device 20 is not in use and not be torn from the inner side 54 when the device 20 is deployed.
In preferred orientations the inner side 54 has an upper edge 58 adjacent to the top side 32 of the buoyant disk 30 and a lower edge 60 more distant from the top side 32 of the buoyant disk 30 than the upper edge 58. The distance between the upper edge 58 and lower edge 60 will depend on the length and diameter of line 52 to be disposed around the inner side 54 of the cavity and desired center of gravity of the buoyant disk 30.
This distance maybe from about 0.5 inches to about 1.5 inches. Preferably this distance is about 1.0 inch when approximately 100 feet of line 52 having diameter 3/16 inches is used.
The lower edge 60 may further comprise a flange 62 generally perpendicular to and adjacent to the inner side 54 of the groove 50 and extending toward the leading edge 36 to assist in retention of a line 52 within the groove 50 when not in use and to allow easy deployment of the line 52 during use. The distance the flange 62 extends from the inner side 54 toward the leading edge 36 will also depend on the length and diameter of line 52 to be disposed around the inner side 54 of the groove 50. Preferably this distance is from about 25% to about 75% of the distance from the inner side 54 to the outer side 56, most preferably this distance is about 50%. More particularly the distance the flange 62 extends from the inner side 54 of the groove 50 is from about 0.0078 inches to about 2.0 inches.
Preferably this distance is from about 0.5 inches to about 1.5 inches, most preferably 0.75 inches when approximately 100 feet of line 52 having diameter 3/16 inches is used. The thickness of the flange 62 is such that it is able to support and secure a line 52 for deployment when the device 20 is not in use and not be torn from the inner side 54 when the device 20 is deployed.
8 The groove 50 sides may be generally perpendicular to the top side 32 of the buoyant disk 30 and mayhave perpendicular, angled, or any combination of perpendicular and angled aspects that allow the line 52 to be maintained within the groove 50 securely when not in use and deployed with ease during use. Preferably, the bottom edge is farther from the center of the buoyant disk 30 than the upper edge 58 forming a sloped surface allowing the line 52 to be retained around the inner side 54 and free to deploy during use.
In some orientations the inner side 54 of the groove 50 extends below the leading edge 36 of the buoyant disk 30. This distance may be up to about 0.5 inches.
Preferably this distance is as small as possible.
The buoyant disk 30 may have an orifice 70 or hole penetrating through the buoyant disk 30 from side to side around or about its' center. The orifice 70 is large enough to accept a line 52 and preferably of a diameter sufficient to allow the line 52 to move freely once affixed within or through the orifice 70. The line 52 may be inserted from the top side 32 or the bottom side 34 of the buoyant disk 30. Preferably the line 52 is inserted on a side having a domed shape is and secured on the opposite side so that in use a domed side is in contact with the surface of the water upon retrieval. The line 52 may be affixed within or secured through the orifice 70 by an adapter 72 of a size and shape that prevents the line 52 from exiting the orifice 70 and allowing free movement of the line 52 in the orifice 70.
One or more adapters 72 may be placed on the line 52, preferably the adapter 72 is placed on the end of the line 52 opposite a domed surface. However if both sides are domed it is preferably secured on the side from which the line 52 is deployed, most preferably the bottom side 34 of the buoyant disk 30. In another preferred embodiment an adapter 72 is secured to the line 52 on both sides of the buoyant disk 30 maintaining the disk 30 in one location along the line 52.
Adapters 72 that may be used to affix the line 52 within or though the orifice include for example, a knot in the line 52, enlargement of the end of the line 52, such as for example by melting the line 52 to form a mass having a diameter larger than the orifice 70, or a stop secured to the end of the line 52, such as for example a washer having a diameter larger than the orifice 70. When a stop is secured to the end of the line 52 the stop may be of a variety of shapes or combination of shapes including thin or flat, cone-shaped,
In some orientations the inner side 54 of the groove 50 extends below the leading edge 36 of the buoyant disk 30. This distance may be up to about 0.5 inches.
Preferably this distance is as small as possible.
The buoyant disk 30 may have an orifice 70 or hole penetrating through the buoyant disk 30 from side to side around or about its' center. The orifice 70 is large enough to accept a line 52 and preferably of a diameter sufficient to allow the line 52 to move freely once affixed within or through the orifice 70. The line 52 may be inserted from the top side 32 or the bottom side 34 of the buoyant disk 30. Preferably the line 52 is inserted on a side having a domed shape is and secured on the opposite side so that in use a domed side is in contact with the surface of the water upon retrieval. The line 52 may be affixed within or secured through the orifice 70 by an adapter 72 of a size and shape that prevents the line 52 from exiting the orifice 70 and allowing free movement of the line 52 in the orifice 70.
One or more adapters 72 may be placed on the line 52, preferably the adapter 72 is placed on the end of the line 52 opposite a domed surface. However if both sides are domed it is preferably secured on the side from which the line 52 is deployed, most preferably the bottom side 34 of the buoyant disk 30. In another preferred embodiment an adapter 72 is secured to the line 52 on both sides of the buoyant disk 30 maintaining the disk 30 in one location along the line 52.
Adapters 72 that may be used to affix the line 52 within or though the orifice include for example, a knot in the line 52, enlargement of the end of the line 52, such as for example by melting the line 52 to form a mass having a diameter larger than the orifice 70, or a stop secured to the end of the line 52, such as for example a washer having a diameter larger than the orifice 70. When a stop is secured to the end of the line 52 the stop may be of a variety of shapes or combination of shapes including thin or flat, cone-shaped,
9 T-shaped or hat-shaped and maybe made of a variety of materials including for example plastic, carbon fiber, metal, and wood. Preferably the stop is of a shape that does not interfere with the free movement of the line 52 within the orifice 70 once it is secured to the end of the line 52.
The buoyant device 20 may also have an elongate recess (not shown) provided in the top side 32 of the buoyant disk 30 leading generally from the orifice 70 at or about the center of the disk 30 up to and may include the leading edge 36. The general purpose of the elongate recess is to reduce drag and maintain the aerodynamic surface of the disk 30 by incorporating that portion of the line 52 between the orifice 70 and the leading edge 36 into the top side 32 of the disk 30. A variety of types of elongate recesses maybe provided, preferably the elongate recess is a press-fit elongate recess of a size able to accept the line 52 affixed in or through the orifice 70 of the buoyant disk 30 that will easily release the line 52 after deployment.
While an aerodynamic shape of the buoyant disk 30 can provide stability during use other balancing methods maybe used to enhance the flight characteristics of the device 20.
For example the material comprising the leading edge 36 of the buoyant disk 30 may be of a higher density than the remainder of the buoyant providing a gyroscopic effect in flight stabilizing the device 20 in use. The leading edge 36 may also have a density similar to the remainder of the buoyant disk 30 and further comprise a balance ring of high density material affixed to, embedded in or implanted within the bottom side 34 of the buoyant disk 30 adjacent to the leading edge 36. Alternatively, or in conjunction with the balance ring, the buoyant disk 30 may further comprise a plurality of apertures in its top or bottom sides 32, 34 adjacent to the leading edge 36 able to accept weighted balance plugs. These apertures are generally equally spaced about the top or bottom side 32, 34 of the buoyant disk 30 and adjacent to the leading edge 36. This design allows the balance plugs to be removably affixed within the plurality of apertures based on the needs of the user attempting a rescue. Under normal conditions, balance plugs may not be required.
However, in adverse weather conditions the addition of plugs may provide better stability and greater distance during deployment. The balance ring and plugs may be.
made of a variety of materials that generally have a greater density than the material from which the buoyant disk 30 is constructed. Such materials include for example, plastics, wood and metal.
The buoyant disk 30 may also be provided with a surface that is brightly colored or reflective on the top side 32, the bottom side 34, the leading edge 36 or any combination 5 of these surfaces including providing the entire buoyant disk 30 with a such a surface for easy identification during rescue. The buoyant disk 30 may also be provided with a cushioned leading edge 36 to soften impact and prevent injury to a drowning during rescue.
II. Base Plate:
The buoyant device 20 may also have an elongate recess (not shown) provided in the top side 32 of the buoyant disk 30 leading generally from the orifice 70 at or about the center of the disk 30 up to and may include the leading edge 36. The general purpose of the elongate recess is to reduce drag and maintain the aerodynamic surface of the disk 30 by incorporating that portion of the line 52 between the orifice 70 and the leading edge 36 into the top side 32 of the disk 30. A variety of types of elongate recesses maybe provided, preferably the elongate recess is a press-fit elongate recess of a size able to accept the line 52 affixed in or through the orifice 70 of the buoyant disk 30 that will easily release the line 52 after deployment.
While an aerodynamic shape of the buoyant disk 30 can provide stability during use other balancing methods maybe used to enhance the flight characteristics of the device 20.
For example the material comprising the leading edge 36 of the buoyant disk 30 may be of a higher density than the remainder of the buoyant providing a gyroscopic effect in flight stabilizing the device 20 in use. The leading edge 36 may also have a density similar to the remainder of the buoyant disk 30 and further comprise a balance ring of high density material affixed to, embedded in or implanted within the bottom side 34 of the buoyant disk 30 adjacent to the leading edge 36. Alternatively, or in conjunction with the balance ring, the buoyant disk 30 may further comprise a plurality of apertures in its top or bottom sides 32, 34 adjacent to the leading edge 36 able to accept weighted balance plugs. These apertures are generally equally spaced about the top or bottom side 32, 34 of the buoyant disk 30 and adjacent to the leading edge 36. This design allows the balance plugs to be removably affixed within the plurality of apertures based on the needs of the user attempting a rescue. Under normal conditions, balance plugs may not be required.
However, in adverse weather conditions the addition of plugs may provide better stability and greater distance during deployment. The balance ring and plugs may be.
made of a variety of materials that generally have a greater density than the material from which the buoyant disk 30 is constructed. Such materials include for example, plastics, wood and metal.
The buoyant disk 30 may also be provided with a surface that is brightly colored or reflective on the top side 32, the bottom side 34, the leading edge 36 or any combination 5 of these surfaces including providing the entire buoyant disk 30 with a such a surface for easy identification during rescue. The buoyant disk 30 may also be provided with a cushioned leading edge 36 to soften impact and prevent injury to a drowning during rescue.
II. Base Plate:
10 The base plate 80 of the present invention has an upper surface 82 and a lower surface 84 with a diameter generally less than that of the buoyant disk 30 and overlapping the groove 50 on the bottom side 34 of the buoyant disk 30. The base plate 80 overlaps the groove 50 to assist in retention of a line 52 within the groove 50 when not in use and to allow easy deployment of the line 52 during use. The amount of overlap will depend on the length and diameter of line 52 to be disposed around the inner side 54 of the groove 50.
Preferably this distance is from about 25% to about 75% of the distance from the inner side 54 to the outer side 56, most preferably this distance is about 50%. The base plate 80 may be provided in a variety of shapes including for example flat or domed and has a thickness generally less than the buoyant disk 30. The base plate 80 may further comprise a base plate orifice 86 at or about the center and in line 52 with the orifice 70 in the buoyant disk 30. The upper surface 82 may be affixed to the bottom side 34 of the buoyant disk 30. The upper surface 82 may also include a hollow tube 88 portion projecting perpendicular from the center of the upper surface 82. The hollow tube 88 portion has a diameter able to accept a line 52, is of a length generally equal to the thickness of the buoyant disk 30 and is generally inserted or affixed through and about the center of the buoyant disk 30. The hollow tube 88 portion may be a variety of shapes including for example cylindrical, cone shaped, hat-shaped or any combination of shapes including cylindrical and cone-shaped or a number of cylindrical shapes of different diameters. The base plate 80 has a diameter of about 10.0 inches to about 15.0 inches and a thickness of about 1 /3 inches to about 1 /4
Preferably this distance is from about 25% to about 75% of the distance from the inner side 54 to the outer side 56, most preferably this distance is about 50%. The base plate 80 may be provided in a variety of shapes including for example flat or domed and has a thickness generally less than the buoyant disk 30. The base plate 80 may further comprise a base plate orifice 86 at or about the center and in line 52 with the orifice 70 in the buoyant disk 30. The upper surface 82 may be affixed to the bottom side 34 of the buoyant disk 30. The upper surface 82 may also include a hollow tube 88 portion projecting perpendicular from the center of the upper surface 82. The hollow tube 88 portion has a diameter able to accept a line 52, is of a length generally equal to the thickness of the buoyant disk 30 and is generally inserted or affixed through and about the center of the buoyant disk 30. The hollow tube 88 portion may be a variety of shapes including for example cylindrical, cone shaped, hat-shaped or any combination of shapes including cylindrical and cone-shaped or a number of cylindrical shapes of different diameters. The base plate 80 has a diameter of about 10.0 inches to about 15.0 inches and a thickness of about 1 /3 inches to about 1 /4
11 inches. It is preferably circular in shape and made of a flexible material such as for example polyethylene.
III. Hollow Tube:
The hollow tube 88 of the present invention is affixed through and about the center of the buoyant disk 30 or through the buoyant disk 30 and base plate 80. It has a length generally equal to the thickness of the buoyant disk 30 or the combined thickness of the buoyant disk 30 and the base plate 80 and a diameter able to accept a line 52 and allow free movement of the line 52 within the hollow tube 88. The hollow tube 88 may provide rigidity and reinforcement to the buoyant disk 30, and provide a low friction surface for a line 52. The hollow tube 88 may be provided in a variety of shapes including cylindrical, cone shaped, hat-shaped or any combination of shapes including cylindrical and cone-shaped or a number of cylindrical shapes of different diameters.
Preferably the hollow tube 88 is generally hat-shaped comprising a cylindrical or cone-shaped tube portion and a base portion generally perpendicular to the tube portion. If the tube portion is cone-shaped the base portion is preferably positioned at the larger opening of the cone-shaped tube portion. The base portion may have a generally circular shape with a diameter generally less than the diameter of the base plate 80. This diameter may be from about 1.0 inches to about 6.0 inches. Preferably the diameter is from about 2.0 inches to about 4.0 inches and most preferably about 3.0 inches. When the hollow tube 88 is provided in this shape it may be inserted through the buoyant disk 30 such that the base portion may be affixed and secured generally flush against the bottom side 34 of the buoyant disk 30 or the lower surface 84 of the base plate 80. Once affixed within the device 20 a line 52 may be secured within or through the hollow tube 88. The hollow tube 88 has a diameter of about 0.25 inches to about 0.5 inches, and a length of about 2.0 inches to about 5.0 inches. Preferably this length is equal to the combined thickness of the buoyant disk 30 or the buoyant disk 30 and base plate 80. It is generally circular in shape and made of a material such as for example polyethylene.
IV. The Line
III. Hollow Tube:
The hollow tube 88 of the present invention is affixed through and about the center of the buoyant disk 30 or through the buoyant disk 30 and base plate 80. It has a length generally equal to the thickness of the buoyant disk 30 or the combined thickness of the buoyant disk 30 and the base plate 80 and a diameter able to accept a line 52 and allow free movement of the line 52 within the hollow tube 88. The hollow tube 88 may provide rigidity and reinforcement to the buoyant disk 30, and provide a low friction surface for a line 52. The hollow tube 88 may be provided in a variety of shapes including cylindrical, cone shaped, hat-shaped or any combination of shapes including cylindrical and cone-shaped or a number of cylindrical shapes of different diameters.
Preferably the hollow tube 88 is generally hat-shaped comprising a cylindrical or cone-shaped tube portion and a base portion generally perpendicular to the tube portion. If the tube portion is cone-shaped the base portion is preferably positioned at the larger opening of the cone-shaped tube portion. The base portion may have a generally circular shape with a diameter generally less than the diameter of the base plate 80. This diameter may be from about 1.0 inches to about 6.0 inches. Preferably the diameter is from about 2.0 inches to about 4.0 inches and most preferably about 3.0 inches. When the hollow tube 88 is provided in this shape it may be inserted through the buoyant disk 30 such that the base portion may be affixed and secured generally flush against the bottom side 34 of the buoyant disk 30 or the lower surface 84 of the base plate 80. Once affixed within the device 20 a line 52 may be secured within or through the hollow tube 88. The hollow tube 88 has a diameter of about 0.25 inches to about 0.5 inches, and a length of about 2.0 inches to about 5.0 inches. Preferably this length is equal to the combined thickness of the buoyant disk 30 or the buoyant disk 30 and base plate 80. It is generally circular in shape and made of a material such as for example polyethylene.
IV. The Line
12 The line 52 that may be used with the present invention may be any commercially available line having a diameter of from about 3/8 inches to about 1 /2 inches, constructed of a material having the equivalent of 200 pound test line, generally of light weight, easily gripped surface and made of a synthetic or natural fiber. Preferably the line 52 is made of a material that is generally water-resistant and buoyant.
V. The Signaling Device The signaling device maybe any commercially available device that elicits a sound or light when operated by the user. The device may be affixed to, embedded in or implanted within the buoyant disk 30. A number of audible devices may be utilized with the present invention including those that are strictly mechanical, those that require electricity to operate and those operated by compressed air. Preferably the device is a whistle. If a light signaling device is utilized it is preferably a high wattage strobe type.
VI. Embodiment I
In one embodiment of the invention a life-saving device 20 is provided comprising a buoyant disk 30 having a top side 32, a bottom side 34, a leading edge 36 and a groove 50 on the bottom side 34 along and adjacent to the leading edge 36. The groove 50 has an inner side 54 generally parallel to the leading edge 36 and distant from the center of the buoyant disk 30. A length of line 52 is affixed to the buoyant disk 30 and disposed around the inner side 54 of the groove 50. The line 52 is preferably affixed to the buoyant disk 30 through an orifice 70 about the center of the disk 30 which is oriented approximately parallel to the leading edge 36. The diameter of the orifice 70 is preferably larger than the diameter of the line 52 so that the line 52 may move freely within the orifice 70. The line 52 is generally inserted through this orifice 70 from the top side 32 of the buoyant disk 30 and fitted with an adapter 72 to secure the line 52 to the buoyant disk 30.
Preferably the line 52 is approximately 100 feet in length and secured at the bottom side 34 of the buoyant disk 30. The top side 32 of the buoyant disk 30 is preferably domed to prevent the device 20 from diving during rescue retrieval.
V. The Signaling Device The signaling device maybe any commercially available device that elicits a sound or light when operated by the user. The device may be affixed to, embedded in or implanted within the buoyant disk 30. A number of audible devices may be utilized with the present invention including those that are strictly mechanical, those that require electricity to operate and those operated by compressed air. Preferably the device is a whistle. If a light signaling device is utilized it is preferably a high wattage strobe type.
VI. Embodiment I
In one embodiment of the invention a life-saving device 20 is provided comprising a buoyant disk 30 having a top side 32, a bottom side 34, a leading edge 36 and a groove 50 on the bottom side 34 along and adjacent to the leading edge 36. The groove 50 has an inner side 54 generally parallel to the leading edge 36 and distant from the center of the buoyant disk 30. A length of line 52 is affixed to the buoyant disk 30 and disposed around the inner side 54 of the groove 50. The line 52 is preferably affixed to the buoyant disk 30 through an orifice 70 about the center of the disk 30 which is oriented approximately parallel to the leading edge 36. The diameter of the orifice 70 is preferably larger than the diameter of the line 52 so that the line 52 may move freely within the orifice 70. The line 52 is generally inserted through this orifice 70 from the top side 32 of the buoyant disk 30 and fitted with an adapter 72 to secure the line 52 to the buoyant disk 30.
Preferably the line 52 is approximately 100 feet in length and secured at the bottom side 34 of the buoyant disk 30. The top side 32 of the buoyant disk 30 is preferably domed to prevent the device 20 from diving during rescue retrieval.
13 V. Embodiment 2 In another embodiment of the invention a life-saving device 20 is provided comprising a buoyant disk 30 having a top side 32, a bottom side 34, a leading edge 36 and a groove 50 on the bottom side 34 along and adjacent to the leading edge 36.
The groove 50 generally has an inner side 54 distant from the center of the buoyant disk 30 and an outer side 56 more distant from the center of the buoyant disk 30 than the inner side 54.
The device 20 further includes a base plate 80 having an upper surface 82 and a lower surface 84 and a diameter generally less than that of the buoyant disk 30 and overlapping the groove 50. The base plate 80 preferably overlaps the groove 50 approximately 50% to allow retention of the line 52 when the device 20 is stored and for rapid deployment of the line 52 during use. The upper surface 82 of the base plate 80 preferably has a hollow tube 88 portion projecting perpendicular from its center. The hollow tube 88 portion has a diameter able to accept a line 52 and of a length generally equal to the thickness of the buoyant disk 30. The upper side of the base plate 80 is affixed to the bottom side 34 of the buoyant disk 30 while the hollow tube 88 portion is simultaneously affixed through and about the center of the buoyant disk 30. In this embodiment the base plate 80 is preferably flat having a cone shaped hollow tube 88 projecting generally from the upper surface 82.
A length of line 52 is drawn through the smaller end of the hollow tube 88 portion and an adapter 72 is affixed to the end that allows the line 52 to move freely within the tube and to prevent the line 52 from exiting. Preferably the line 52 is approximately 100 feet in length and the top side 32 of the buoyant disk 30 is preferably domed to prevent the device 20 from diving during rescue retrieval. The lower surface 84 of the base plate 80 is preferably provided with a reflective surface for easy identification during rescue.
VI. Embodiment 3 In yet another embodiment of the present invention a life-saving device 20 is provided comprising a buoyant disk 30 having a top side 32, a bottom side 34, a leading edge 36 and a groove 50 disposed on the bottom side 34 along and generally adjacent to the leading edge 36 of the buoyant disk 30. The groove 50 has an inner side 54 distant from the center of the buoyant disk 30 and an outer side 56 more distant from the center of the
The groove 50 generally has an inner side 54 distant from the center of the buoyant disk 30 and an outer side 56 more distant from the center of the buoyant disk 30 than the inner side 54.
The device 20 further includes a base plate 80 having an upper surface 82 and a lower surface 84 and a diameter generally less than that of the buoyant disk 30 and overlapping the groove 50. The base plate 80 preferably overlaps the groove 50 approximately 50% to allow retention of the line 52 when the device 20 is stored and for rapid deployment of the line 52 during use. The upper surface 82 of the base plate 80 preferably has a hollow tube 88 portion projecting perpendicular from its center. The hollow tube 88 portion has a diameter able to accept a line 52 and of a length generally equal to the thickness of the buoyant disk 30. The upper side of the base plate 80 is affixed to the bottom side 34 of the buoyant disk 30 while the hollow tube 88 portion is simultaneously affixed through and about the center of the buoyant disk 30. In this embodiment the base plate 80 is preferably flat having a cone shaped hollow tube 88 projecting generally from the upper surface 82.
A length of line 52 is drawn through the smaller end of the hollow tube 88 portion and an adapter 72 is affixed to the end that allows the line 52 to move freely within the tube and to prevent the line 52 from exiting. Preferably the line 52 is approximately 100 feet in length and the top side 32 of the buoyant disk 30 is preferably domed to prevent the device 20 from diving during rescue retrieval. The lower surface 84 of the base plate 80 is preferably provided with a reflective surface for easy identification during rescue.
VI. Embodiment 3 In yet another embodiment of the present invention a life-saving device 20 is provided comprising a buoyant disk 30 having a top side 32, a bottom side 34, a leading edge 36 and a groove 50 disposed on the bottom side 34 along and generally adjacent to the leading edge 36 of the buoyant disk 30. The groove 50 has an inner side 54 distant from the center of the buoyant disk 30 and an outer side 56 more distant from the center of the
14 buoyant disk 30 than the inner side 54. The groove 50 is able to accept a length of line 52 disposed around the inner side 54. This device 20 further comprises a base plate 80 having an upper surface 82 and a lower surface 84. The lower surface 84 of the base plate 80 is preferably domed. The diameter of the base plate 80 is generally less than that of the buoyant disk 30 and overlaps the groove 50 approximately 50% to allow retention of the line 52 when the device 20 is stored and for rapid deployment of the line 52 during use.
The upper surface 82 of the base plate 80 is affixed to the bottom side 34 of the buoyant disk 30.
A hollow tube 88 is affixed to and secured through the center of the buoyant disk 30 and the base plate 80. The hollow tube 88 has a diameter able to accept a line 52 such that the line 52 may move freely within the tube during use and of a length generally equal to the combined thickness of the buoyant disk 30 and the base plate 80.
A line 52 approximately 100 feet in length is drawn through the hollow tube 88 from top side 32 of the buoyant disk 30 and an adapter 72 is affixed to the end to prevent the line 52 from exiting the tube during use. The line 52 is disposed around the inner side 54 of the groove 50 prior to use. The top side 32 of the buoyant disk 30 is preferably domed to prevent the device 20 from diving during rescue retrieval and has a press-fit elongate recess of a size able to accept the line 52 affixed in or through the hollow tube 88 that will easily release the line 52 after deployment. The lower surface 84 of the base plate 80 and the top side 32 of the buoyant disk 30 are preferably provided with a reflective surface for easy identification during rescue. In addition a whistle is embedded in the top side 32 of the buoyant disk 30 so that the victim may provide an audible signal during rescue.
VII. Use The device 20 of the present invention stores and deploys the line 52 disposed around the inner side 54 of the groove 50 from the bottom side 34 of the device 20. This orientation provides several advantages over currently available commercial devices. In particular this orientation allows surfaces that are aerodynamically critical for optimal flight to be designed with minimal interference from the storage and deployment area, specifically for the leading edge 36. Since more efficient aerodynamic design is possible with bottom side storage and deployment of the line 52 the device 20 may be thrown greater distances. Hard surfaced rigid materials have been used to improve flight characteristics that are compromised from deployment of the line 52 from critical 5 aerodynamic surfaces, unfortunately these hard rigid surfaces can be easily damaged or cause injury to a victim on impact. For improved aerodynamic design, the device 20 of the present invention can be made with surfaces and materials that are soft and flexible and can be thrown as far as comparable commercially available devices designed with hard rigid surfaces and materials. Another advantage of this orientation is that it helps shelter the line 10 52 from environmentally damaging effects that may affect the integrity or performance of the line 52 such as ultra violet radiation, tree sap, and acid rain.
When in use, the line 52 is partially unwound from the inner side 54 of the groove 50 and anchored by the user. The device 20 may then be thrown to the drowning victim by a variety of techniques identical to and similar to those used when throwing a disk (e.g. a
The upper surface 82 of the base plate 80 is affixed to the bottom side 34 of the buoyant disk 30.
A hollow tube 88 is affixed to and secured through the center of the buoyant disk 30 and the base plate 80. The hollow tube 88 has a diameter able to accept a line 52 such that the line 52 may move freely within the tube during use and of a length generally equal to the combined thickness of the buoyant disk 30 and the base plate 80.
A line 52 approximately 100 feet in length is drawn through the hollow tube 88 from top side 32 of the buoyant disk 30 and an adapter 72 is affixed to the end to prevent the line 52 from exiting the tube during use. The line 52 is disposed around the inner side 54 of the groove 50 prior to use. The top side 32 of the buoyant disk 30 is preferably domed to prevent the device 20 from diving during rescue retrieval and has a press-fit elongate recess of a size able to accept the line 52 affixed in or through the hollow tube 88 that will easily release the line 52 after deployment. The lower surface 84 of the base plate 80 and the top side 32 of the buoyant disk 30 are preferably provided with a reflective surface for easy identification during rescue. In addition a whistle is embedded in the top side 32 of the buoyant disk 30 so that the victim may provide an audible signal during rescue.
VII. Use The device 20 of the present invention stores and deploys the line 52 disposed around the inner side 54 of the groove 50 from the bottom side 34 of the device 20. This orientation provides several advantages over currently available commercial devices. In particular this orientation allows surfaces that are aerodynamically critical for optimal flight to be designed with minimal interference from the storage and deployment area, specifically for the leading edge 36. Since more efficient aerodynamic design is possible with bottom side storage and deployment of the line 52 the device 20 may be thrown greater distances. Hard surfaced rigid materials have been used to improve flight characteristics that are compromised from deployment of the line 52 from critical 5 aerodynamic surfaces, unfortunately these hard rigid surfaces can be easily damaged or cause injury to a victim on impact. For improved aerodynamic design, the device 20 of the present invention can be made with surfaces and materials that are soft and flexible and can be thrown as far as comparable commercially available devices designed with hard rigid surfaces and materials. Another advantage of this orientation is that it helps shelter the line 10 52 from environmentally damaging effects that may affect the integrity or performance of the line 52 such as ultra violet radiation, tree sap, and acid rain.
When in use, the line 52 is partially unwound from the inner side 54 of the groove 50 and anchored by the user. The device 20 may then be thrown to the drowning victim by a variety of techniques identical to and similar to those used when throwing a disk (e.g. a
15 Frisbee.TM.) through the air. The spinning of the disk 30 assists and causes the remainder of the line 52 to be deployed during flight. The aerodynamic shape of the buoyant disk 30 provides lift when thrown allowing the device 20 to travel distance up to and exceeding 100 feet. When the device 20 lands in the water it is preferable that it be in the vicinity of the drowning victim's grasp. However, if the device 20 is thrown past or past and to the side of the victim the user may then manipulate the device 20 so that it reaches the victim.
This maybe accomplished by moving to the left or the right while retracting the device 20 such that the buoyant disk 30 moves within the reach of the victim. If the device 20 falls short of the victim the user may retrieve the device 20 by retracting the line 52 and deploying the device 20 a second time without rewinding the line 52. Retrieval of the device 20 may be accomplished much faster than commercially available devices because of the combined effects of the domed surface and the center pull construction.
These two features allow the device 20 to skim across the water without diving like other commercially available devices.
To provide for better aerodynamic air flow over the top side 32 of the buoyant disk 30 the line 52 may be fitted into an elongate recess made in the top side 32 surface of the
This maybe accomplished by moving to the left or the right while retracting the device 20 such that the buoyant disk 30 moves within the reach of the victim. If the device 20 falls short of the victim the user may retrieve the device 20 by retracting the line 52 and deploying the device 20 a second time without rewinding the line 52. Retrieval of the device 20 may be accomplished much faster than commercially available devices because of the combined effects of the domed surface and the center pull construction.
These two features allow the device 20 to skim across the water without diving like other commercially available devices.
To provide for better aerodynamic air flow over the top side 32 of the buoyant disk 30 the line 52 may be fitted into an elongate recess made in the top side 32 surface of the
16 buoyant disk 30 to secure the line 52 during flight. The elongate recess is large enough to hold the line 52 tightly during deployment but releases the line 52 once the line 52 is retracted through the water.
The surface texture of the buoyant disk 30 allows for easy grasping and retention of grip by the victim during rescue. The buoyant disk 30 is grasped and held close to the victim's chest during retraction providing sufficient buoyancy and stability to effect rescue.
The surface texture of the buoyant disk 30 allows for easy grasping and retention of grip by the victim during rescue. The buoyant disk 30 is grasped and held close to the victim's chest during retraction providing sufficient buoyancy and stability to effect rescue.
Claims (20)
1. A life-saving device comprising:
(a) a buoyant disk having a top side, a bottom side, a leading edge and a cavity on said bottom side along and adjacent to said leading edge, said cavity having an inner side generally parallel to said leading edge, and said inner side having an upper edge and a lower edge; and (b) a length of line affixed through and about the center of said buoyant disk generally parallel to said leading edge and disposed around said inner side of said cavity.
(a) a buoyant disk having a top side, a bottom side, a leading edge and a cavity on said bottom side along and adjacent to said leading edge, said cavity having an inner side generally parallel to said leading edge, and said inner side having an upper edge and a lower edge; and (b) a length of line affixed through and about the center of said buoyant disk generally parallel to said leading edge and disposed around said inner side of said cavity.
2. A life-saving device according to claim 1 wherein said buoyant disk having a generally aerodynamic profile such that lift is generated during flight.
3. A life-saving device according to claim 1 wherein said top side of said buoyant disk is domed or said bottom side of said buoyant disk is domed or wherein both said top side and said bottom side of said buoyant disk are domed.
4. A life-saving device according to claim 1 wherein said length of line is affixed to said buoyant disk such that when in use a domed side of said buoyant disk is in contact with the surface of the water.
5. A life-saving device according to claim 1 wherein said buoyant disk is made of a semi-rigid flexible material.
6. A life-saving device according to claim 1 wherein said buoyant disk further comprises a flange on said lower edge of said inner side of said cavity extending generally perpendicular from said inner side toward said leading edge.
7. A life-saving device according to claim 1 further comprising a hollow tube affixed through and about the center of said buoyant disk generally parallel to said leading edge and of a length generally equal to the thickness of said buoyant disk, wherein one end of said line is affixed through or within said hollow tube.
8. A life-saving device according to claim 1 further comprising a reflective surface on said top side or said bottom side or along said leading edge or a combination of said top side, bottom side and leading edge.
9. A life-saving device according to claim 1 further comprising a base plate having an upper surface and a lower surface, said upper surface affixed to said bottom side of said buoyant disk, and said base plate having a diameter less than said buoyant disk and overlapping said cavity.
10. A life-saving device according to claim 9 wherein said base plate further comprises a reflective surface on said lower surface.
11. A life-saving device according to claim 1 wherein the density of said leading edge of said buoyant disk is different than the density of the remainder of said buoyant disk.
12. A life-saving device according to claim 1 further comprising a balance ring wherein said balance ring is made of a material having a density greater than the density of said buoyant disk and affixed to or embedded in or implanted within said bottom side of said buoyant disk generally adjacent to said leading edge.
13. A life-saving device according to claim 1 further comprising an audible signaling device affixed to or embedded in or implanted within said buoyant disk.
14. A life-saving device comprising:
(a) a buoyant disk having a top side, a bottom side, a leading edge and a cavity on said bottom side along and adjacent to said leading edge, said cavity having an inner side distant from the center of said buoyant disk and an outer side more distant from the center of said buoyant disk than said inner side and (b) a base plate having an upper surface, a lower surface and a diameter less than that of the buoyant disk and overlapping said cavity, said upper surface having a hollow tube portion projecting perpendicular from the center of said upper surface, said hollow tube portion affixed through the center of said buoyant disk, the hollow tube portion having a diameter able to accept a line and the hollow tube portion of a length generally equal to the thickness of said buoyant disk.
(a) a buoyant disk having a top side, a bottom side, a leading edge and a cavity on said bottom side along and adjacent to said leading edge, said cavity having an inner side distant from the center of said buoyant disk and an outer side more distant from the center of said buoyant disk than said inner side and (b) a base plate having an upper surface, a lower surface and a diameter less than that of the buoyant disk and overlapping said cavity, said upper surface having a hollow tube portion projecting perpendicular from the center of said upper surface, said hollow tube portion affixed through the center of said buoyant disk, the hollow tube portion having a diameter able to accept a line and the hollow tube portion of a length generally equal to the thickness of said buoyant disk.
15. A life-saving device comprising:
(a) a buoyant disk having a top side, a bottom side, a leading edge and a cavity disposed on said bottom side along and generally adjacent to said leading edge of said buoyant disk, the cavity having an inner side distant from the center of said buoyant disk and an outer side more distant from the center of said buoyant disk than said inner side, said cavity able to accept a length of line disposed around said inner side of said cavity;
(b) a base plate having an upper surface and a lower surface, and having a diameter less than that of said buoyant disk and overlapping said cavity, said upper surface affixed to said bottom side of said buoyant disk; and (c) a hollow tube affixed through the center of said buoyant disk and said base plate, the hollow tube having a diameter able to accept the line and the hollow tube of a length generally equal to the combined thickness of said buoyant disk and said base plate.
(a) a buoyant disk having a top side, a bottom side, a leading edge and a cavity disposed on said bottom side along and generally adjacent to said leading edge of said buoyant disk, the cavity having an inner side distant from the center of said buoyant disk and an outer side more distant from the center of said buoyant disk than said inner side, said cavity able to accept a length of line disposed around said inner side of said cavity;
(b) a base plate having an upper surface and a lower surface, and having a diameter less than that of said buoyant disk and overlapping said cavity, said upper surface affixed to said bottom side of said buoyant disk; and (c) a hollow tube affixed through the center of said buoyant disk and said base plate, the hollow tube having a diameter able to accept the line and the hollow tube of a length generally equal to the combined thickness of said buoyant disk and said base plate.
16. A life-saving device according to claim 16 wherein said top side of said buoyant disk is domed or said bottom side of said buoyant disk is domed or wherein both said top side and said bottom side of said buoyant disk are domed.
17. A life-saving device according to claim 15 further comprising a length of line wherein said line is affixed through or within said hollow tube such that when in use a domed side of said buoyant disk is in contact with the surface of the water.
18. A life-saving device according to claim 15 further comprising a balance ring affixed to or embedded in or implanted within said bottom side of said buoyant disk generally adjacent to said leading edge.
19. A life-saving device according to claim 15 wherein said buoyant disk having a generally aerodynamic profile.
20. A life-saving device according to claim 15 wherein said buoyant disk is made of a semi-rigid flexible material.
Applications Claiming Priority (3)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| US23526500P | 2000-09-25 | 2000-09-25 | |
| US60/235,265 | 2000-09-25 | ||
| PCT/US2001/029470 WO2002026557A1 (en) | 2000-09-25 | 2001-09-20 | A novel life-saving device |
Publications (2)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2419140A1 CA2419140A1 (en) | 2002-04-04 |
| CA2419140C true CA2419140C (en) | 2011-07-26 |
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| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA2419140A Expired - Lifetime CA2419140C (en) | 2000-09-25 | 2001-09-20 | A novel life-saving device |
Country Status (10)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| EP (1) | EP1320486B8 (en) |
| JP (1) | JP2004509807A (en) |
| AT (1) | ATE362871T1 (en) |
| AU (2) | AU2001291154B2 (en) |
| CA (1) | CA2419140C (en) |
| DE (1) | DE60128575T2 (en) |
| GB (1) | GB2380710B (en) |
| HK (1) | HK1058509A1 (en) |
| NZ (1) | NZ524064A (en) |
| WO (1) | WO2002026557A1 (en) |
Families Citing this family (2)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US10239590B2 (en) | 2010-10-13 | 2019-03-26 | James Montgomery | Suction stabilized floats |
| CA2783104C (en) | 2012-03-14 | 2015-11-24 | Manfred Klotz | Line deploying apparatus |
Family Cites Families (5)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US1935229A (en) * | 1932-07-30 | 1933-11-14 | W G Jester | Emergency safety appliance for bathers |
| CA1225545A (en) * | 1986-11-19 | 1987-08-18 | Reginald W. Meecham | Heaving line storage and deployment apparatus |
| US5562512A (en) * | 1994-05-27 | 1996-10-08 | Samelian; John K. | Rescue device |
| US5895299A (en) * | 1996-03-18 | 1999-04-20 | Hyde; Robert W. | Lifesaving device |
| US6019651A (en) * | 1998-06-06 | 2000-02-01 | Life Safer, Inc. | Flotation device and method of using same |
-
2001
- 2001-09-20 EP EP01971247A patent/EP1320486B8/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
- 2001-09-20 AU AU2001291154A patent/AU2001291154B2/en not_active Ceased
- 2001-09-20 AU AU9115401A patent/AU9115401A/en active Pending
- 2001-09-20 AT AT01971247T patent/ATE362871T1/en not_active IP Right Cessation
- 2001-09-20 CA CA2419140A patent/CA2419140C/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
- 2001-09-20 NZ NZ524064A patent/NZ524064A/en not_active IP Right Cessation
- 2001-09-20 GB GB0302734A patent/GB2380710B/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
- 2001-09-20 DE DE60128575T patent/DE60128575T2/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
- 2001-09-20 WO PCT/US2001/029470 patent/WO2002026557A1/en active IP Right Grant
- 2001-09-20 JP JP2002530358A patent/JP2004509807A/en active Pending
-
2003
- 2003-12-23 HK HK03109366A patent/HK1058509A1/en not_active IP Right Cessation
Also Published As
| Publication number | Publication date |
|---|---|
| JP2004509807A (en) | 2004-04-02 |
| EP1320486B8 (en) | 2007-07-18 |
| AU2001291154B2 (en) | 2005-10-06 |
| HK1058509A1 (en) | 2004-05-21 |
| DE60128575T2 (en) | 2008-01-17 |
| CA2419140A1 (en) | 2002-04-04 |
| GB2380710B (en) | 2004-05-19 |
| EP1320486A1 (en) | 2003-06-25 |
| WO2002026557A1 (en) | 2002-04-04 |
| ATE362871T1 (en) | 2007-06-15 |
| DE60128575D1 (en) | 2007-07-05 |
| GB0302734D0 (en) | 2003-03-12 |
| GB2380710A (en) | 2003-04-16 |
| EP1320486A4 (en) | 2006-07-12 |
| NZ524064A (en) | 2004-08-27 |
| AU9115401A (en) | 2002-04-08 |
| EP1320486B1 (en) | 2007-05-23 |
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Legal Events
| Date | Code | Title | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| EEER | Examination request | ||
| MKEX | Expiry |
Effective date: 20210920 |
|
| MKEX | Expiry |
Effective date: 20210920 |