GB370228A - Improvements in and relating to swimming appliances and the like - Google Patents

Abstract

370,228. Swimming appliances. DUNKERLEY, G., 123, Dulwich Road, Herne Hill, London. May 11, 1931, No. 13958. [Class 77.] A propelling device for use in swimming comprises a board or other flat member which has straps or handles on one side held by the swimmer, and one or more fins or pockets on the other side, the fins or pockets being opened or closed as the swimmer, lying on his side, moves the appliance backwards and forwards. The straps B<1>, B<2> are of webbing, the rear strap B<2> being arranged obliquely. Two rear straps may be provided for swimming on the left or right side. The fins C<1>, C<2> are hinged to the board, for instance by cloth hinges held by strips D<1>, D<2> and E<1>, E<2>. Cords, tapes, back blocks, or other means limit the opening of the fins, and complete closing is prevented by short lengths of rubber tube, the eyes to which the cords are attached, or other stops. The hinged edge of each fin may be inclined rearwardly so that the fin opens by downward pressure. Pockets, stiffened at the rear or along the upper part of the rear, and open at the lower or both sides, may replace the fins. The board may be of balsa, with an edging G<1>, G<2> (not shown) of wood at the top and bottom, and may be covered with canvas. Alternatively, it may be made wholly or partly of layers of wood and cork or other materials. In a modification, the board may have one or more longitudinal slits bridged by transverse strips supporting the vanes or pockets. Dimensions are given. The Provisional Specification describes also the use of a rubber shock absorber.