GB2424626A

GB2424626A - Neck mounted buoyancy aid

Info

Publication number: GB2424626A
Application number: GB0506779A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Andrew St-Pierre Libberton
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2005-04-02
Filing date: 2005-04-02
Publication date: 2006-10-04
Also published as: GB2424626A8; GB0506779D0

Abstract

A buoyancy swimming support aid securely closed (Fig 1) comprises outer ring (2) having at least 2 separate inflatable chambers, with one way valve(s) (3), connected to a shaped neck support/ collar (4) consisting of at least 2 separate and adjustable inflatable chambers also with one way valve(s) (5). This collar is held together and fastened around the neck by an adjustable velcro<(TM)> strap (6) with a 'push to release' safety clasp (7). Handles (8) which form an integral part of the outer ring are positioned on either side directly above the shoulders of a user which can be used by the user or an assistant. The large area of the outer ring (9) extends over the shoulders maintaining complete stability and protection with an additional keyhole security strap (10). The support aid is designed so that it will not capsize, is flexible, comfortable, highly visible, protective, and supportive of the head and neck and does not restrict the use of the upper or lower torso.

Description

1. Product bescription This is a design given the name Lilly Pad' because

of its unique shape, appearance and use. It fits comfortably and securely round the neck, giving complete freedom to the upper and lower torso and has the benefit of allowing the user to swim on their front or back.

The buoyancy aid has been designed so that should the user experience a fit whilst in the water, they will be completely safe, Secure and protected from knocking or injuring their body or head.

The handles on either side can also be used by the user when swimming on their back for security and reassurance. In addition they are there to act as a towing device, for effective quick removal in an emergency situation.

The brim of the Lilly Pad' protects the swimmer against splashing and offers support to both the neck and head.

It has been designed with separate chambers around the collar. This will enable the user to achieve maximum manoeuvrability whilst in the water and will provide additional buoyancy should there be any deflation elsewhere.

The Lilly Pad' comes in a variety of different coloured, tough PVC with blow up valves situated at various points around the design. it is also fitted with an adjustable velcro strap and push to release' safety clasp.

The main outer ring has an additional keyhole-fastening strap positioned to maintain its rigidity and stability. An alternative design could also be made from a waterproof material, i.e. a PVC skin filled with buoyant foam, i.e. closed cell polyethylene and then tailored like any other soft material.

The Lilly Pad' is a highly buoyant and extremely flexible product allowing swimmers with varying degrees of mobility as much pleasure and excitement whilst in the water.

The Lilly Pad' is a completely safe yet exciting experience. Especially beneficial to sensory impaired adults and children who are not able to enjoy the water on their own, and who need close physical contact with an adult at all times.

The physical response to the Lilly Pad' and the resulting independent movement can be very beneficial and rewarding.

The Lilly Pad' provides the ultimate in versatility and adaptability in all kinds of swimming pool environments. y the nature of its unique design, it is extremely stable in the water, very lightweight, hygienic, maintenance free and above all, motivating and fun to use.

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2. Brief description of the drawings and diagrams

Figure 1: Isometric drawing showing overall view of the buoyancy aid securely closed.

Figure 2: Isometric drawing showing an overall view of the buoyancy aid open, ready to be worn.

Figure 3: Ergonomic figure representing the product being worn in a typical swimming pool position adopted when first entering the water.

Figure 4: Orthographic plan view of the buoyancy aid being Figure 5: Orthographic front elevation of the buoyancy aid being worn.

Figure 6: Orthographic side elevation of the buoyancy aid being Figure 7: Orthographic plan view with dimensions.

Figure 8: Orthographic front elevation with dimensions.

Figure 9: Orthographic underside view with dimensions.

Figure 10: Orthographic cross section giving clear detail of separate chambers and one-way valve(s).

Figure 11: Isometric drawing giving clear detail of the two separate chambers and one-way valve(s) on buoyancy aid neck support collar.

Figure 12: Side view showing user practising 1breaststroke' technique.

Figure 13: Side view showing user practising doggy paddle technique.

Figure 14: Side view showing more advanced technique with stationery arms and legs practising crawl' technique.

Figure 15: Side view showing backstroke' technique using handles.

Figure 16: Side view showing front crawl' technique using handles.

Figure 17: Side view showing back position using breaststroke' arms and legs technique.

Figure 18: Side view showing user in crouched position.

Figure 19: Side view showing user in seated position.

Claims

3. Claims Title: The Buoyancy Swimming Support Aid To design and make a buoyancy swimming support aid suitable for all types of user including disabled and sensory impaired adults and children, who are not able to enjoy the water on their own and who need close physical contact with an adult at all times. Its main objective is to allow complete manoeuvrability of the upper and lower torso whilst providing head support at all times. Statement of invention:

1. Supports the neck and head comfortably above the water level allowing complete freedom of the upper and lower torso without the need for direct physical assistance or support from an adult.

2. According to claim 1. Allows the user complete use of all limbs, however little this maybe, without any restrictions.

3. According to claim 2. Allows adult users to feel less intimidated when learning, as is the case with existing armbands and rings.

4. According to claim 3. It's adaptable and can be used in stages as the users swimming ability progresses.

5. According to claim 4. Can be used as a training aid for more advanced levels of training, both aided or without.

6. According to claim 5. bue to its unique design it is impossible for the user to tip over and become submerged whilst wearing the aid.

7. According to claim 6. The product is highly visible and clearly identifiable in a crowded area, allowing the wearer to integrate with all swimmers.

8. According to claim 7. It works in harmony with the water and provides an ideal support in the occurrence of the user fitting.

9. According to claim 8. It allows the water to provide a cushioned support and buffers the wearer from any possible injury to themselves or others.

10. According to claim 9. It has the benefit of being utilised; as a towing aid should the user experience any fitting or loss of consciousness whilst being used.

11. According to claim 10. The product is portable, flexible and extremely buoyant.

12. According to claim 11. Can be used as an additional poolside life saving aid, possible replacing existing buoys

13. According to claim 12. Very easy to transport, inflate and deflate.