US20040121672A1 - Flotation device - Google Patents
Flotation device Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20040121672A1 US20040121672A1 US10/322,968 US32296802A US2004121672A1 US 20040121672 A1 US20040121672 A1 US 20040121672A1 US 32296802 A US32296802 A US 32296802A US 2004121672 A1 US2004121672 A1 US 2004121672A1
- Authority
- US
- United States
- Prior art keywords
- inflatable
- flotation device
- water
- bladder
- assembly
- 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.)
- Granted
Links
Images
Classifications
-
- 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
- B63B—SHIPS OR OTHER WATERBORNE VESSELS; EQUIPMENT FOR SHIPPING
- B63B22/00—Buoys
- B63B22/04—Fixations or other anchoring arrangements
- B63B22/08—Fixations or other anchoring arrangements having means to release or urge to the surface a buoy on submergence thereof, e.g. to mark location of a sunken object
- B63B22/12—Fixations or other anchoring arrangements having means to release or urge to the surface a buoy on submergence thereof, e.g. to mark location of a sunken object the surfacing of the buoy being assisted by a gas released or generated on submergence of the buoy
-
- 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
- B63C7/00—Salvaging of disabled, stranded, or sunken vessels; Salvaging of vessel parts or furnishings, e.g. of safes; Salvaging of other underwater objects
- B63C7/06—Salvaging of disabled, stranded, or sunken vessels; Salvaging of vessel parts or furnishings, e.g. of safes; Salvaging of other underwater objects in which lifting action is generated in or adjacent to vessels or objects
- B63C7/10—Salvaging of disabled, stranded, or sunken vessels; Salvaging of vessel parts or furnishings, e.g. of safes; Salvaging of other underwater objects in which lifting action is generated in or adjacent to vessels or objects using inflatable floats external to vessels or objects
Definitions
- the field of invention is flotation devices, and more particularly, self-inflating flotation devices attachable to objects.
- Nonfloating objects which are used in the vicinity of bodies of water can fall into the water and sink to the bottom of the body of water. If the water is very murky or deep, the shotgun can be lost forever.
- Flotation devices such as life vests, are provided for individuals operating in the vicinity of bodies of water. Unfortunately, due to the shape of these life vests, they are not adaptable for use with objects, such as shotguns, and other nonfloating objects.
- Flotation devices have been developed for use with submerged articles, such as disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 6,036,559, which include an inflatable balloon stuffed in a casing with a water actuated valve and compressed gas cartridge.
- the casing is directly attached to the object, such as a fishing pole.
- the balloon inflates and ejects a cap enclosing the balloon in the casing.
- the inflated balloon rises to the water surface while the cap falls to the bottom of the body of water.
- the single purpose device can only be used once.
- the present invention provides a flotation device for use with objects.
- the device includes a bladder forming part of an inflatable assembly having an inflatable volume defined by a first wall and a second wall sealed about a periphery.
- a water actuated inflation valve is in fluid communication with the inflatable volume through at least one of the walls, and the inflatable assembly wraps over the water actuated inflation valve to form a protective cavity covering the water actuated inflation valve.
- At least one releasable fastener holds the inflatable assembly over the water actuated valve, wherein actuation of the water actuated valve inflates the bladder to release the at least one releasable fastener to allow the bladder to further expand.
- at least one strap is fixed to the inflatable assembly.
- a general objective of the present invention is to provide a flotation device which does not include a hard case enclosing the flotation device components to prevent inadvertent actuation of the device. This objective is accomplished by providing a flotation device having an inflatable assembly which wraps over the water actuated valve to prevent inadvertent actuation.
- Another objective of the present invention is to provide a flotation device which provides utility beyond that of a typical flotation device. This objective is accomplished by providing at least one strap fixed to the inflatable assembly which is connectable to the object to provide a sling or handle for carrying the object.
- FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an inflatable device incorporating the present invention
- FIG. 2 is a cross sectional view along line 2 - 2 of FIG. 1;
- FIG. 3 is bottom view of the inflatable device of FIG. 1 in an unwrapped position
- FIG. 4 is a detailed view of the water actuated valve of FIG. 3;
- FIG. 5 is a cross sectional view of the fill tube of FIG. 4;
- FIG. 6 is an alternative inflatable assembly incorporating the present invention.
- FIG. 7 is an alternative flotation device incorporating the present invention.
- FIG. 8 is bottom view of another alternative inflatable assembly in an unwrapped position incorporating the present invention.
- FIG. 9 is bottom view of yet another alternative inflatable assembly in an unwrapped position incorporating the present invention.
- a flotation device 10 shown in FIGS. 1 - 5 is attachable to an object, such as sporting equipment, a backpack, cooler, tackle box, and the like, which can inadvertently fall into a body of water automatically inflates to facilitate retrieval of the object from the water.
- the flotation device 10 includes a water actuated valve 12 which releases a compressed gas into an inflatable bladder 14 to either raise the object close to the water surface or identify the location of the object in the water.
- the flotation device 10 can form part of a sling which can be used to carry the object.
- the flotation device 10 includes the flexible inflatable bladder 14 having an inner wall 18 and an outer wall 20 forming part of an inflatable assembly 22 .
- the inner wall 18 includes a gas impervious sheet of material, such as a heat sealable urethane coated nylon.
- the outer wall 20 includes a gas impervious sheet of material facing the inner wall 18 , and is joined to the inner wall 18 about a periphery defined by a seam 24 joining the two walls 18 , 20 to form an inflatable volume 26 therebetween.
- the walls 18 , 20 are formed from the same material and joined at the seam 24 using methods known in the art, such as RF welding, heat sealing, and the like, which forms an air tight seal joining the two walls 18 , 20 .
- a fitting 28 providing a fluid passageway into the inflatable volume 26 extends through a fill opening 30 formed in the inner wall 18 .
- the fitting 28 such as a brass manifold valve available from Halkey-Roberts Corporation in St. Russia, Fla., includes a fill tube 32 having a flange 34 disposed inside the inflatable volume 26 and sealingly joined to an inner surface 36 of the inner wall 18 .
- the flange 34 is sealingly joined to the inner wall 18 , using methods such as RF welding, heat sealing, and the like, to prevent gas from escaping from the inflatable volume 26 through the opening 30 .
- the fill tube 32 extends through the fill opening 30 out of the inflatable volume 26 , and is received in a through hole 38 formed in the water actuated valve 12 for receiving the tube 32 in fluid communication with released compressed gas.
- a threaded cap 40 threadably received in the fill tube end clamps the valve 12 onto the tube 32 .
- the valve 12 can be directly sealingly joined to the fill opening 30 without departing from the scope of the invention.
- the inflatable assembly 22 wraps over the water actuated valve 12 joined to the inner wall 18 to form a protective cavity 42 which protects the valve 12 from incidental contact with water.
- the bladder 14 is folded in half over the valve 12 to form the protective cavity 42 .
- the bladder 14 can be rolled, folded in thirds, and the like, to wrap over the valve 12 and form the protective cavity 42 without departing from the scope of the invention.
- the water actuated valve 12 can be any valve known in the art which is in fluid communication with the inflatable volume 26 through the fill opening 30 to inflate the bladder 14 upon immersion of the flotation device 10 in water.
- the valve 12 is a commercially available valve, such as an auto inflator assembly available from Halkey-Roberts Corporation.
- the valve 12 includes a source of compressed gas, such as a CO 2 cartridge 44 , coupled to a valve 12 , and the CO 2 cartridge 44 is pierced to release the gas into the inflatable volume 26 upon immersion of the valve 12 in water.
- the CO 2 cartridge 44 can be threadably coupled to the valve 12 for easy replacement of a spent cartridge.
- a dump valve 48 in fluid communication with the inflatable volume 26 provides an exhaust path for compressed gas in the inflatable volume 26 .
- the dump valve 48 sealingly extends through the bladder inner wall 18 , and is selectively opened by the user to deflate the bladder 14 after it has been inflated and the object retrieved from the water.
- the dump valve 48 is a commercially available valve such as available from Halkey-Roberts Corporation. Although porting the dump valve 48 through the inner wall 18 is preferred, the dump valve 48 can be in fluid communication with the inflatable volume 26 through the bladder outer wall 20 without departing from the scope of the invention.
- a flexible cover 50 is joined to the bladder 14 to form part of the inflatable assembly 22 and protect the bladder 14 from damage.
- the cover 50 can be joined to the bladder 14 using methods known in the art, such as the methods described above for joining the bladder inner and outer walls 18 , 20 together, and further including joining the cover 50 to excess bladder material 52 not defining the inflatable volume 26 such as by sewing, releasable fasteners, adhesives, and the like without departing from the scope of the invention.
- the cover 50 can be any suitable material, such as fabric, leather, plastic, and the like, which can protect the bladder 14 .
- the cover 50 is rectangular having opposing ends 54 joined by sides 56 which extend past the bladder periphery 58 and define edges of the protective cavity 42 .
- the cover 50 can have any shape, such as circular, oval, polygonal, and the like with straight and/or curved edges, or deleted completely without departing from the scope of the invention.
- releasable fasteners 64 which hold the bladder 14 over the water actuated valve 12 until the bladder 14 begins to inflate.
- the releasable fasteners 64 are hook and loop fasteners, such as Velcro®, which releasably attaches the edges 54 , 56 of the protective cavity 42 together. Hook and loop fasteners are preferred, however, other releasable fasteners can be used, such as snaps, releasable adhesives, breakable threads, and the like without departing from the scope of the invention.
- a plurality of fasteners 64 is shown, only one releasable fasteners is required to secure the protective cavity 42 over the water actuated valve 12 .
- the releasable fasteners 64 are preferably fixed proximal the edges 54 , 56 of the cover, such that the fasteners 64 are engaged when the inflatable assembly 22 wraps over the water actuated valve 12 .
- the releasable fasteners 64 can be fixed to the bladder 14 .
- some free edges of the protective cavity 42 can be permanently joined together, such as by sewing, RF welding, heat sealing, and the like, without departing from the scope of the invention, as long as the protective cavity 42 can be opened to allow expansion of the inflatable bladder 14 .
- Inflation of the bladder 14 forces the releasable fasteners 64 to open and allow the bladder 14 to expand.
- the location of the releasable fasteners 64 on, or around, the inflatable assembly 22 depends upon the manner in which the inflatable assembly 22 wraps over the water actuated valve 12 . For example, if the inflatable assembly 22 is folded in half over the valve 12 , the releasable fasteners 64 can be fixed to the inner surface 72 of the cover 50 .
- releasable fastener 64 can be fixed to both an inner and outer surface 72 , 74 of the cover 50 or the inner and outer walls 18 , 20 of the bladder 15 if a cover 50 is not provided.
- An actuation opening 66 formed through the inflatable assembly 22 provides a water passageway for water into the protective cavity 42 .
- the opening 66 is defined by a small grommet (i.e. a grommet that is less than 0.5 inches in diameter) fixed to the cover 50 adjacent the inflatable bladder 14 .
- a small grommet i.e. a grommet that is less than 0.5 inches in diameter
- the protective cavity 42 is not tightly sealed by the releasable fasteners 64 , water can easily enter the protective cavity 42 when the inflatable assembly 22 is immersed in the water, and the opening 66 is not required.
- two actuation openings 66 through the cover 50 are shown, one or more actuation openings 66 can be provided depending upon the desired response time of the water actuated valve 12 to immersion of the flotation device 10 in the water.
- a protective material 68 interposed between the bladder inner wall 18 and water actuated valve 12 protects the bladder inner wall 18 from damage due to the cold temperatures caused by rapid release of the compressed gas through the valve 12 upon immersion of the valve 12 in water.
- the protective material 68 is preferably formed from a heat sealable urethane and joined to a portion of the inner wall 18 surrounding the fill opening 30 using the above disclosed methods known in the art.
- Reflective material 70 joined to the inflatable assembly 22 inside the protective cavity 42 is exposed when the flotation device 10 is immersed in water and the bladder 14 inflates.
- the reflective material 70 can be reflective tape, heat sealable reflective material, and the like joined to the inflatable assembly 22 , without departing from the scope of the invention.
- the exposed reflective material 70 reflects light, such as from a flashlight, when the flotation device 10 is dropped in the water in low light conditions.
- reflective material 70 can also be provided on an exterior surface of the inflatable assembly 22 , such as an exterior surface 74 of the cover 50 (shown in FIG. 6) to enhance visibility of the user transporting the flotation device 10 .
- Straps 80 such as formed from nylon webbing, leather, fabric, and the like, fixed to the inflatable assembly 22 are attachable to the object.
- the straps 80 form part of a sling or handle for carrying the object, such as a shot gun.
- the straps 80 are provided with sufficient length, such that the flotation device 10 can be used as a sling connected to the object which can be supported by the user's shoulder when carrying the object using the flotation device 10 .
- Buckles 90 are provided to adjust the strap length, as desired by the user. Hooks 94 , loops, or other fastening devices known in the art, are fixed to the free ends of the straps for connecting to the object.
- the straps 80 can be fixed directly to the cover 50 or bladder 14 , such as by sewing, RF welding, heat sealing, and the like. Although a pair of straps 80 is shown, only one strap can be used without departing from the scope of the invention. If one strap 80 is used, the one strap can have one end fixed to the inflatable assembly 22 and an opposing end available for connection to the object, or the one strap can be fixed to the inflatable assembly between the two strap ends which are both connectable to the object.
- the straps 80 are connected to the inflatable assembly using grommets 82 forming through holes 84 in the cover 50 or excess bladder material 52 (shown in FIG. 8) not defining the inflatable volume 26 .
- the straps 80 are fixed to the inflatable assembly 22 using fasteners 88 , such as hooks, bolts, rivets, or other engagement devices, which can fix the straps 80 to the inflatable assembly 20 through the through holes 84 .
- padding 86 fixed to the exterior surface 74 of the cover 50 can be provided to reduce the strain on the user's shoulder supporting the object using the flotation device 10 .
- the padding 86 can be any cushioning material, such as a compressible material, foam, fabric stuffing, and the like.
- the pad 86 can be fixed to the strap 80 , or anywhere in or on the inflatable assembly 22 , to reduce the strain on the user carrying the object using the flotation device 10 without departing from the scope of the invention.
- the flotation device 10 is attached to the object, such as a shotgun, using the straps 80 .
- the object such as a shotgun
- the flotation device 10 is immersed in the water
- the water seeps into the protective cavity 42 covering the water actuated valve 12 past the releasable fasteners 64 and through the actuation opening 66 .
- the water actuates the water actuation valve 12 to release the compressed gas from the compressed gas cartridge 44 into the inflatable volume 26 which inflates the bladder 14 .
- the inflating bladder 14 causes the releasable fasteners 66 to releases and allow further expansion of the bladder 14 which exposes the reflective material 70 .
- the bladder 14 Once the bladder 14 has inflated sufficiently to provide sufficient buoyancy to begin rising to the surface of the water, the bladder 14 rises to the water surface for retrieval of the shotgun by the user.
- the flotation device 10 can be reused by replacing the expended compressed gas cartridge 44 , recovering the water actuated valve 12 in the protective cavity 42 , and refastening the releasable fasteners 66 at the protective cavity edges 52 , 54 .
- tabs 82 forming part of the inflatable assembly extend from the bladder 14 for attachment to straps and/or a cover.
- the releasable fasteners could also be fixed to the tabs 82 to releasably fasten the protective cavity over the water actuated valve 12 .
- the tabs 82 are formed in excess bladder material 52 not defining the inflatable volume.
- Through holes 92 can be formed in the tabs 82 to facilitate connecting the tabs to the cover, straps, or releasable fasteners.
- the tabs 82 can be formed as, or fixed to, part of the cover without departing from the scope of the invention.
Abstract
A flotation device for use with objects includes a bladder forming part of an inflatable assembly having an inflatable volume defined by a first wall and a second wall sealed about a periphery. A water actuated inflation valve is in fluid communication with the inflatable volume through one of the walls, and the inflatable assembly wraps over the water actuated inflation valve to form a protective cavity covering the water actuated inflation valve. At least one releasable fastener holds the inflatable assembly over the water actuated valve, wherein actuation of the water actuated valve inflates the bladder to release the at least one releasable fastener to allow the bladder to further expand. In one embodiment, at least one strap is fixed to the inflatable assembly.
Description
- Not Applicable
- Not Applicable
- The field of invention is flotation devices, and more particularly, self-inflating flotation devices attachable to objects.
- Nonfloating objects which are used in the vicinity of bodies of water, such as shotguns used for duck hunting, can fall into the water and sink to the bottom of the body of water. If the water is very murky or deep, the shotgun can be lost forever. Flotation devices, such as life vests, are provided for individuals operating in the vicinity of bodies of water. Unfortunately, due to the shape of these life vests, they are not adaptable for use with objects, such as shotguns, and other nonfloating objects.
- Flotation devices have been developed for use with submerged articles, such as disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 6,036,559, which include an inflatable balloon stuffed in a casing with a water actuated valve and compressed gas cartridge. The casing is directly attached to the object, such as a fishing pole. When the fishing pole falls into the water, the balloon inflates and ejects a cap enclosing the balloon in the casing. The inflated balloon rises to the water surface while the cap falls to the bottom of the body of water. As a result, the single purpose device can only be used once.
- Another similar device disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,857,881 discloses flotation device specifically for fishing rods. This device also includes a hard case for holding the contain flotation device components which inherently prevents inadvertent actuation. Unfortunately, the hard case increases the device cost.
- In addition to the above deficiencies in both of the above described flotation devices for objects, the prior art devices merely add weight to the fishing rod, and are of no use until the user makes a mistake and drops the fishing rod in the water. As a result, if the user is fortunate, the device is never used. Therefore, a flotation device which provides utility other than in adversity would be further advantageous.
- The present invention provides a flotation device for use with objects. The device includes a bladder forming part of an inflatable assembly having an inflatable volume defined by a first wall and a second wall sealed about a periphery. A water actuated inflation valve is in fluid communication with the inflatable volume through at least one of the walls, and the inflatable assembly wraps over the water actuated inflation valve to form a protective cavity covering the water actuated inflation valve. At least one releasable fastener holds the inflatable assembly over the water actuated valve, wherein actuation of the water actuated valve inflates the bladder to release the at least one releasable fastener to allow the bladder to further expand. In one embodiment, at least one strap is fixed to the inflatable assembly.
- A general objective of the present invention is to provide a flotation device which does not include a hard case enclosing the flotation device components to prevent inadvertent actuation of the device. This objective is accomplished by providing a flotation device having an inflatable assembly which wraps over the water actuated valve to prevent inadvertent actuation.
- Another objective of the present invention is to provide a flotation device which provides utility beyond that of a typical flotation device. This objective is accomplished by providing at least one strap fixed to the inflatable assembly which is connectable to the object to provide a sling or handle for carrying the object.
- The foregoing and other objectives and advantages of the invention will appear from the following description. In the description, reference is made to the accompanying drawings which form a part hereof, and in which there is shown by way of illustration a preferred embodiment of the invention.
- FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an inflatable device incorporating the present invention;
- FIG. 2 is a cross sectional view along line2-2 of FIG. 1;
- FIG. 3 is bottom view of the inflatable device of FIG. 1 in an unwrapped position;
- FIG. 4 is a detailed view of the water actuated valve of FIG. 3;
- FIG. 5 is a cross sectional view of the fill tube of FIG. 4;
- FIG. 6 is an alternative inflatable assembly incorporating the present invention;
- FIG. 7 is an alternative flotation device incorporating the present invention;
- FIG. 8 is bottom view of another alternative inflatable assembly in an unwrapped position incorporating the present invention; and
- FIG. 9 is bottom view of yet another alternative inflatable assembly in an unwrapped position incorporating the present invention.
- A
flotation device 10 shown in FIGS. 1-5 is attachable to an object, such as sporting equipment, a backpack, cooler, tackle box, and the like, which can inadvertently fall into a body of water automatically inflates to facilitate retrieval of the object from the water. Theflotation device 10 includes a water actuatedvalve 12 which releases a compressed gas into aninflatable bladder 14 to either raise the object close to the water surface or identify the location of the object in the water. Theflotation device 10 can form part of a sling which can be used to carry the object. - The
flotation device 10 includes the flexibleinflatable bladder 14 having aninner wall 18 and anouter wall 20 forming part of aninflatable assembly 22. Theinner wall 18 includes a gas impervious sheet of material, such as a heat sealable urethane coated nylon. Theouter wall 20 includes a gas impervious sheet of material facing theinner wall 18, and is joined to theinner wall 18 about a periphery defined by aseam 24 joining the twowalls inflatable volume 26 therebetween. Preferably, thewalls seam 24 using methods known in the art, such as RF welding, heat sealing, and the like, which forms an air tight seal joining the twowalls - A
fitting 28 providing a fluid passageway into theinflatable volume 26 extends through a fill opening 30 formed in theinner wall 18. The fitting 28, such as a brass manifold valve available from Halkey-Roberts Corporation in St. Petersburg, Fla., includes afill tube 32 having aflange 34 disposed inside theinflatable volume 26 and sealingly joined to aninner surface 36 of theinner wall 18. Theflange 34 is sealingly joined to theinner wall 18, using methods such as RF welding, heat sealing, and the like, to prevent gas from escaping from theinflatable volume 26 through the opening 30. - The
fill tube 32 extends through the fill opening 30 out of theinflatable volume 26, and is received in athrough hole 38 formed in the water actuatedvalve 12 for receiving thetube 32 in fluid communication with released compressed gas. A threadedcap 40 threadably received in the fill tube end clamps thevalve 12 onto thetube 32. Of course, thevalve 12 can be directly sealingly joined to the fill opening 30 without departing from the scope of the invention. - As shown in FIG. 2, the
inflatable assembly 22 wraps over the water actuatedvalve 12 joined to theinner wall 18 to form aprotective cavity 42 which protects thevalve 12 from incidental contact with water. Preferably, thebladder 14 is folded in half over thevalve 12 to form theprotective cavity 42. Thebladder 14, however, can be rolled, folded in thirds, and the like, to wrap over thevalve 12 and form theprotective cavity 42 without departing from the scope of the invention. - The water actuated
valve 12 can be any valve known in the art which is in fluid communication with theinflatable volume 26 through the fill opening 30 to inflate thebladder 14 upon immersion of theflotation device 10 in water. Preferably, thevalve 12 is a commercially available valve, such as an auto inflator assembly available from Halkey-Roberts Corporation. Preferably, thevalve 12 includes a source of compressed gas, such as a CO2 cartridge 44, coupled to avalve 12, and the CO2 cartridge 44 is pierced to release the gas into theinflatable volume 26 upon immersion of thevalve 12 in water. As is known in the art, the CO2 cartridge 44 can be threadably coupled to thevalve 12 for easy replacement of a spent cartridge. - A
dump valve 48 in fluid communication with theinflatable volume 26 provides an exhaust path for compressed gas in theinflatable volume 26. Thedump valve 48 sealingly extends through the bladderinner wall 18, and is selectively opened by the user to deflate thebladder 14 after it has been inflated and the object retrieved from the water. Preferably, thedump valve 48 is a commercially available valve such as available from Halkey-Roberts Corporation. Although porting thedump valve 48 through theinner wall 18 is preferred, thedump valve 48 can be in fluid communication with theinflatable volume 26 through the bladderouter wall 20 without departing from the scope of the invention. - A
flexible cover 50 is joined to thebladder 14 to form part of theinflatable assembly 22 and protect thebladder 14 from damage. Thecover 50 can be joined to thebladder 14 using methods known in the art, such as the methods described above for joining the bladder inner andouter walls cover 50 toexcess bladder material 52 not defining theinflatable volume 26 such as by sewing, releasable fasteners, adhesives, and the like without departing from the scope of the invention. - The
cover 50 can be any suitable material, such as fabric, leather, plastic, and the like, which can protect thebladder 14. Preferably, thecover 50 is rectangular having opposing ends 54 joined bysides 56 which extend past thebladder periphery 58 and define edges of theprotective cavity 42. Although arectangular cover 50 is preferred, thecover 50 can have any shape, such as circular, oval, polygonal, and the like with straight and/or curved edges, or deleted completely without departing from the scope of the invention. - The
edges protective cavity 26 are held together byreleasable fasteners 64 which hold thebladder 14 over the water actuatedvalve 12 until thebladder 14 begins to inflate. Preferably, thereleasable fasteners 64 are hook and loop fasteners, such as Velcro®, which releasably attaches theedges protective cavity 42 together. Hook and loop fasteners are preferred, however, other releasable fasteners can be used, such as snaps, releasable adhesives, breakable threads, and the like without departing from the scope of the invention. Although a plurality offasteners 64 is shown, only one releasable fasteners is required to secure theprotective cavity 42 over the water actuatedvalve 12. - The
releasable fasteners 64 are preferably fixed proximal theedges fasteners 64 are engaged when theinflatable assembly 22 wraps over the water actuatedvalve 12. Of course, if thecover 50 is not provided, thereleasable fasteners 64 can be fixed to thebladder 14. Although releasably securing all of thefree edges protective cavity 42 using a plurality ofreleasable fasteners 64 is disclosed, as shown in FIG. 6 some free edges of theprotective cavity 42, such as the cover ends 56, can be permanently joined together, such as by sewing, RF welding, heat sealing, and the like, without departing from the scope of the invention, as long as theprotective cavity 42 can be opened to allow expansion of theinflatable bladder 14. - Inflation of the bladder14 (i.e. the release of compressed gas into the inflatable volume 26) forces the
releasable fasteners 64 to open and allow thebladder 14 to expand. Of course, the location of thereleasable fasteners 64 on, or around, theinflatable assembly 22 depends upon the manner in which theinflatable assembly 22 wraps over the water actuatedvalve 12. For example, if theinflatable assembly 22 is folded in half over thevalve 12, thereleasable fasteners 64 can be fixed to theinner surface 72 of thecover 50. If theinflatable assembly 22 is folded in thirds, or rolled, over the water actuatedvalve 12,releasable fastener 64 can be fixed to both an inner andouter surface cover 50 or the inner andouter walls cover 50 is not provided. - An
actuation opening 66 formed through theinflatable assembly 22 provides a water passageway for water into theprotective cavity 42. Preferably, theopening 66 is defined by a small grommet (i.e. a grommet that is less than 0.5 inches in diameter) fixed to thecover 50 adjacent theinflatable bladder 14. Of course, if theprotective cavity 42 is not tightly sealed by thereleasable fasteners 64, water can easily enter theprotective cavity 42 when theinflatable assembly 22 is immersed in the water, and theopening 66 is not required. Although twoactuation openings 66 through thecover 50 are shown, one ormore actuation openings 66 can be provided depending upon the desired response time of the water actuatedvalve 12 to immersion of theflotation device 10 in the water. - A
protective material 68 interposed between the bladderinner wall 18 and water actuatedvalve 12 protects the bladderinner wall 18 from damage due to the cold temperatures caused by rapid release of the compressed gas through thevalve 12 upon immersion of thevalve 12 in water. Theprotective material 68 is preferably formed from a heat sealable urethane and joined to a portion of theinner wall 18 surrounding thefill opening 30 using the above disclosed methods known in the art. Of course, other methods for protecting theinner wall 18 from damage caused by the cold temperatures can be provided, such as by slipping a water permeable sock (not shown) over thevalve 12 which thermally separates thevalve 12 from bladderinner wall 18, providing a cover, or strip of material, over the bladderinner wall 18 which thermally separates thevalve 12 from theinner wall 18, and the like, without departing from the scope of the invention. -
Reflective material 70 joined to theinflatable assembly 22 inside theprotective cavity 42, such as on anexterior surface 78 of the bladderinner wall 18 or theinner surface 72 of thecover 50, is exposed when theflotation device 10 is immersed in water and thebladder 14 inflates. Thereflective material 70 can be reflective tape, heat sealable reflective material, and the like joined to theinflatable assembly 22, without departing from the scope of the invention. Advantageously, the exposedreflective material 70 reflects light, such as from a flashlight, when theflotation device 10 is dropped in the water in low light conditions. Of course,reflective material 70 can also be provided on an exterior surface of theinflatable assembly 22, such as anexterior surface 74 of the cover 50 (shown in FIG. 6) to enhance visibility of the user transporting theflotation device 10. - Straps80, such as formed from nylon webbing, leather, fabric, and the like, fixed to the
inflatable assembly 22 are attachable to the object. Advantageously, thestraps 80 form part of a sling or handle for carrying the object, such as a shot gun. Preferably, thestraps 80 are provided with sufficient length, such that theflotation device 10 can be used as a sling connected to the object which can be supported by the user's shoulder when carrying the object using theflotation device 10.Buckles 90 are provided to adjust the strap length, as desired by the user.Hooks 94, loops, or other fastening devices known in the art, are fixed to the free ends of the straps for connecting to the object. - The
straps 80 can be fixed directly to thecover 50 orbladder 14, such as by sewing, RF welding, heat sealing, and the like. Although a pair ofstraps 80 is shown, only one strap can be used without departing from the scope of the invention. If onestrap 80 is used, the one strap can have one end fixed to theinflatable assembly 22 and an opposing end available for connection to the object, or the one strap can be fixed to the inflatable assembly between the two strap ends which are both connectable to the object. - In an alternative embodiment shown in FIG. 7, the
straps 80 are connected to the inflatableassembly using grommets 82 forming throughholes 84 in thecover 50 or excess bladder material 52 (shown in FIG. 8) not defining theinflatable volume 26. Thestraps 80 are fixed to theinflatable assembly 22 usingfasteners 88, such as hooks, bolts, rivets, or other engagement devices, which can fix thestraps 80 to theinflatable assembly 20 through the through holes 84. - Referring back to FIGS. 1 and 2, padding86 fixed to the
exterior surface 74 of thecover 50 can be provided to reduce the strain on the user's shoulder supporting the object using theflotation device 10. Thepadding 86 can be any cushioning material, such as a compressible material, foam, fabric stuffing, and the like. Of course, thepad 86 can be fixed to thestrap 80, or anywhere in or on theinflatable assembly 22, to reduce the strain on the user carrying the object using theflotation device 10 without departing from the scope of the invention. - In use, the
flotation device 10 is attached to the object, such as a shotgun, using thestraps 80. When the shotgun falls into the body of water and theflotation device 10 is immersed in the water, the water seeps into theprotective cavity 42 covering the water actuatedvalve 12 past thereleasable fasteners 64 and through theactuation opening 66. The water actuates thewater actuation valve 12 to release the compressed gas from the compressedgas cartridge 44 into theinflatable volume 26 which inflates thebladder 14. The inflatingbladder 14 causes thereleasable fasteners 66 to releases and allow further expansion of thebladder 14 which exposes thereflective material 70. - Once the
bladder 14 has inflated sufficiently to provide sufficient buoyancy to begin rising to the surface of the water, thebladder 14 rises to the water surface for retrieval of the shotgun by the user. Theflotation device 10 can be reused by replacing the expendedcompressed gas cartridge 44, recovering the water actuatedvalve 12 in theprotective cavity 42, and refastening thereleasable fasteners 66 at the protective cavity edges 52, 54. - In an alternative embodiment, disclosed in FIGS.9,
tabs 82 forming part of the inflatable assembly extend from thebladder 14 for attachment to straps and/or a cover. The releasable fasteners could also be fixed to thetabs 82 to releasably fasten the protective cavity over the water actuatedvalve 12. Preferably, thetabs 82 are formed inexcess bladder material 52 not defining the inflatable volume. Throughholes 92 can be formed in thetabs 82 to facilitate connecting the tabs to the cover, straps, or releasable fasteners. Of course, if acover 50, such as disclosed above, is provided, thetabs 82 can be formed as, or fixed to, part of the cover without departing from the scope of the invention. - While there have been shown and described what is at present considered the preferred embodiments of the invention, it will be obvious to those skilled in the art that various changes and modifications can be made therein without departing from the scope of the invention defined by the appended claims.
Claims (19)
1. A flotation device comprising:
a bladder having an inflatable volume defined by a first wall and a second wall sealed about a periphery;
a cover joined to at least one of said walls to form an inflatable assembly;
a water actuated inflation valve in fluid communication with said inflatable volume through at least one of said walls, wherein said inflatable assembly wraps over said water actuated inflation valve to form a protective cavity covering said water actuated inflation valve;
at least one strap fixed to said inflatable assembly for attaching said assembly to an object.
2. The flotation device as in claim 1 , in which said protective cavity includes at least one peripheral edge releasably attached to said inflatable assembly to prevent inadvertent unwrapping of said water actuated valve.
3. The flotation device as in claim 2 , in which a hook and loop material is fixed to said assembly to releasably attach said at least one edge to said inflatable assembly.
4. The flotation device as in claim 1 , in which a dump valve is in fluid communication with said inflatable volume to selectively deflate said bladder.
5. The flotation device as in claim 1 , in which a water passageway is formed into said protective cavity, said passageway providing access for water to actuate said water actuated inflation valve when said flotation device is immersed in water.
6. The flotation device as in claim 1 , including a compressed gas supply in fluid communication with said water actuated inflation valve for inflating said inflatable volume upon actuation of said water actuated inflation valve.
7. The flotation device as in claim 1 , in which said at least one strap is attached to a through hole formed in said inflatable assembly.
8. The flotation device as in claim 1 , in which a pad is fixed to at least one of said strap and inflatable assembly.
10. A flotation device comprising:
a bladder forming part of an inflatable assembly having an inflatable volume defined by a first wall and a second wall sealed about a periphery;
a water actuated inflation valve in fluid communication with said inflatable volume through at least one of said walls, wherein said inflatable assembly wraps over said water actuated inflation valve to form a protective cavity covering said water actuated inflation valve;
at least one releasable fastener holding said inflatable assembly over said water actuated valve, wherein actuation of said water actuated valve inflates said bladder and releases said at least one releasable fastener to allow said bladder to expand further.
11. The flotation device as in claim 10 in which said inflatable assembly includes a cover joined to said bladder.
12. The flotation device as in claim 10 , in which said inflatable assembly includes a portion of at least one of said walls not defining said inflatable volume.
13. The flotation device as in claim 10 , in which said at least one releasable fastener is formed from a hook and loop material.
14. The flotation device as in claim 10 , in which a dump valve is in fluid communication with said inflatable volume to selectively deflate said bladder.
15. The flotation device as in claim 10 , in which a water passageway is formed into said protective cavity, said passageway providing access for water to actuate said water actuated inflation valve when said flotation device is immersed in water.
16. The flotation device as in claim 10 , including a compressed gas supply in fluid communication with said water actuated inflation valve for inflating said inflatable volume upon actuation of said water actuated inflation valve.
17. The flotation device as in claim 10 , in which at least one strap is fixed to said inflatable assembly for attaching said inflatable assembly to an object.
18. The flotation device as in claim 17 , in which said at least one strap is attached to a through hole formed in said inflatable assembly.
19. The flotation device as in claim 17 , in which a pad is fixed to at least one of said strap and inflatable assembly.
20. A flotation device comprising:
a flexible assembly including an inflatable bladder;
a water actuated inflation valve including a compressed gas source, wherein said water actuated valve is in fluid communication with said inflatable bladder and releases compressed gas from said compressed gas source into said inflatable bladder upon immersion of said water actuated inflation valve in water; and
at least one carrying strap extending from said inflatable assembly for connecting to an object and supporting said object from said strap.
Priority Applications (6)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US10/322,968 US6755708B1 (en) | 2002-12-18 | 2002-12-18 | Flotation device |
CA002510588A CA2510588A1 (en) | 2002-12-18 | 2003-12-15 | Flotation device |
EP03814779A EP1572530A4 (en) | 2002-12-18 | 2003-12-15 | Flotation device |
PCT/US2003/039795 WO2004060742A1 (en) | 2002-12-18 | 2003-12-15 | Flotation device |
AU2003297075A AU2003297075A1 (en) | 2002-12-18 | 2003-12-15 | Flotation device |
US10/876,853 US7018258B2 (en) | 2002-12-18 | 2004-06-25 | Flotation device |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US10/322,968 US6755708B1 (en) | 2002-12-18 | 2002-12-18 | Flotation device |
Related Child Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US10/876,853 Continuation-In-Part US7018258B2 (en) | 2002-12-18 | 2004-06-25 | Flotation device |
Publications (2)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
US20040121672A1 true US20040121672A1 (en) | 2004-06-24 |
US6755708B1 US6755708B1 (en) | 2004-06-29 |
Family
ID=32507303
Family Applications (2)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US10/322,968 Expired - Lifetime US6755708B1 (en) | 2002-12-18 | 2002-12-18 | Flotation device |
US10/876,853 Expired - Fee Related US7018258B2 (en) | 2002-12-18 | 2004-06-25 | Flotation device |
Family Applications After (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US10/876,853 Expired - Fee Related US7018258B2 (en) | 2002-12-18 | 2004-06-25 | Flotation device |
Country Status (5)
Country | Link |
---|---|
US (2) | US6755708B1 (en) |
EP (1) | EP1572530A4 (en) |
AU (1) | AU2003297075A1 (en) |
CA (1) | CA2510588A1 (en) |
WO (1) | WO2004060742A1 (en) |
Cited By (5)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
WO2007088347A1 (en) * | 2006-02-02 | 2007-08-09 | Mellowgraphic Limited | Flotation device |
WO2015044474A1 (en) * | 2013-09-25 | 2015-04-02 | Juan Carlos Alfaro Gomez | Improved underwater balloon for reducing weight |
US20150224001A1 (en) * | 2012-09-05 | 2015-08-13 | Tracey Maree Beikoff | Multipurpose first aid apparatus |
US9903682B1 (en) * | 2016-06-03 | 2018-02-27 | Dennis R. Fyksen, Jr. | Archery bow floatation device |
WO2019158795A1 (en) * | 2018-02-15 | 2019-08-22 | Lm Norsu, S.L | Life belt |
Families Citing this family (16)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US6755708B1 (en) * | 2002-12-18 | 2004-06-29 | Mclarty L. Scott | Flotation device |
US20080199336A1 (en) * | 2005-02-04 | 2008-08-21 | Nemo Equipment, Inc. | Outdoor Equipment |
US7249988B2 (en) * | 2005-09-06 | 2007-07-31 | Mustang Survival Corp. | Life preserver |
US7465207B2 (en) * | 2005-12-14 | 2008-12-16 | Bradley Whitney | Wearable personal floatation boating cushion apparatus |
US20080018122A1 (en) * | 2005-12-28 | 2008-01-24 | Robert Zierler | Rifle Sling and Method of Use Thereof |
US20100101580A1 (en) * | 2008-10-27 | 2010-04-29 | Katherine Stumm | Securement device for continuous positive airway pressure apparatus |
US8662949B2 (en) | 2010-12-22 | 2014-03-04 | Charles McKinney | Glow-in-the-dark life jacket |
CA2768845A1 (en) | 2011-03-28 | 2012-09-28 | David Westwood | Personal flotation device |
US8870616B2 (en) | 2011-12-21 | 2014-10-28 | Charles McKinney | Glow-in-the-dark wetsuit |
US8882554B2 (en) | 2011-12-21 | 2014-11-11 | Charles McKinney | Glow-in-the-dark stand up paddleboard and/or wakeboard |
US9650112B1 (en) | 2015-04-07 | 2017-05-16 | Brian E. Milam | Flotation device for a shot gun |
USD786998S1 (en) | 2015-05-20 | 2017-05-16 | Doyle Frerich | Flotation device for chest cooler |
US20170057604A1 (en) * | 2015-09-02 | 2017-03-02 | Mustang Survival Ulc | Stabilizing Cap for Personal Flotation Device |
CN107161298A (en) * | 2017-05-21 | 2017-09-15 | 王金锁 | lifesaving barrel |
USD1015472S1 (en) * | 2020-12-23 | 2024-02-20 | Yeounsu Cho | Rescue tube |
US11591054B1 (en) * | 2022-04-25 | 2023-02-28 | George Geotes | Floatation attachment device |
Citations (3)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US1367225A (en) * | 1918-04-17 | 1921-02-01 | Cuthbert W Wright | Life-belt |
US3716882A (en) * | 1970-08-05 | 1973-02-20 | Ilc Ind Inc | Automatic inflator device for expandable structures |
US4626221A (en) * | 1984-05-22 | 1986-12-02 | Ajello R | Selfinflating life preserver |
Family Cites Families (11)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
NO180265C (en) | 1992-07-10 | 1997-03-19 | Selantic Ind As | Device for life rafts on ships |
US5373833A (en) | 1993-07-12 | 1994-12-20 | D'andrade; Bruce M. | Projectile shooting air gun with bladder |
US5710989A (en) | 1993-09-03 | 1998-01-20 | Acr Electronics, Inc. | Water-activated emergency radio beacon |
US5584736A (en) | 1995-09-06 | 1996-12-17 | Salvemini; Marcus | Self-propelled rescue apparatus |
US5746633A (en) | 1996-01-22 | 1998-05-05 | Jeffrey; Lawrence W. | Personal flotation device |
US5857881A (en) | 1996-02-21 | 1999-01-12 | Zippel, Sr.; David R. | Automatically inflating bladder and line severing means for rod and reel |
US5820431A (en) | 1996-05-30 | 1998-10-13 | Biesecker Douglas A | Deployment mechanism for pocket-sized, emergency flotation device |
US5800228A (en) | 1997-04-14 | 1998-09-01 | Hernandez; Ricardo G. | Free-driver permanently wearable self-rescue system |
US5839932A (en) * | 1997-09-04 | 1998-11-24 | Pierce; William D. | Multi-purpose aquatic rescue gear |
US6036559A (en) | 1998-10-16 | 2000-03-14 | Arnold; David R. | Flotation device for a submerged article |
US6755708B1 (en) * | 2002-12-18 | 2004-06-29 | Mclarty L. Scott | Flotation device |
-
2002
- 2002-12-18 US US10/322,968 patent/US6755708B1/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
-
2003
- 2003-12-15 CA CA002510588A patent/CA2510588A1/en not_active Abandoned
- 2003-12-15 AU AU2003297075A patent/AU2003297075A1/en not_active Abandoned
- 2003-12-15 EP EP03814779A patent/EP1572530A4/en not_active Withdrawn
- 2003-12-15 WO PCT/US2003/039795 patent/WO2004060742A1/en not_active Application Discontinuation
-
2004
- 2004-06-25 US US10/876,853 patent/US7018258B2/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
Patent Citations (3)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US1367225A (en) * | 1918-04-17 | 1921-02-01 | Cuthbert W Wright | Life-belt |
US3716882A (en) * | 1970-08-05 | 1973-02-20 | Ilc Ind Inc | Automatic inflator device for expandable structures |
US4626221A (en) * | 1984-05-22 | 1986-12-02 | Ajello R | Selfinflating life preserver |
Cited By (9)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
WO2007088347A1 (en) * | 2006-02-02 | 2007-08-09 | Mellowgraphic Limited | Flotation device |
AU2007210903B2 (en) * | 2006-02-02 | 2011-09-22 | Seatriever International Holdings Limited | Flotation device |
EP2420437A1 (en) * | 2006-02-02 | 2012-02-22 | Seatriever International Holdings Limited | Flotation device comprising an illumination device |
US8430704B2 (en) | 2006-02-02 | 2013-04-30 | Seatriever International Holdings Limited | Flotation device |
US20150224001A1 (en) * | 2012-09-05 | 2015-08-13 | Tracey Maree Beikoff | Multipurpose first aid apparatus |
US9504615B2 (en) * | 2012-09-05 | 2016-11-29 | Tracey Maree Beikoff | Multipurpose first aid apparatus |
WO2015044474A1 (en) * | 2013-09-25 | 2015-04-02 | Juan Carlos Alfaro Gomez | Improved underwater balloon for reducing weight |
US9903682B1 (en) * | 2016-06-03 | 2018-02-27 | Dennis R. Fyksen, Jr. | Archery bow floatation device |
WO2019158795A1 (en) * | 2018-02-15 | 2019-08-22 | Lm Norsu, S.L | Life belt |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
EP1572530A1 (en) | 2005-09-14 |
AU2003297075A1 (en) | 2004-07-29 |
US7018258B2 (en) | 2006-03-28 |
CA2510588A1 (en) | 2004-07-22 |
US6755708B1 (en) | 2004-06-29 |
US20040235375A1 (en) | 2004-11-25 |
WO2004060742A1 (en) | 2004-07-22 |
EP1572530A4 (en) | 2009-02-25 |
Similar Documents
Publication | Publication Date | Title |
---|---|---|
US6755708B1 (en) | Flotation device | |
US4489833A (en) | Gun case | |
US6004177A (en) | Pocket-sized, emergency flotation device with status indicator | |
US8070543B1 (en) | Inflatable life raft with detachable accessory pouch | |
US20100299837A1 (en) | Vacuum packed inflatable stretcher with frangible overwrap and method of deploying same | |
US9688369B2 (en) | Inflatable life raft assembly | |
US4449655A (en) | Combination backpack and gear bag | |
US9162738B1 (en) | Inflatable life raft with detachable accessory pouch | |
JP4247112B2 (en) | Levitation device with multiple chambers | |
US6568976B2 (en) | Water floatation cushion with deployable tether | |
US5451121A (en) | Combination buoyancy compensator, spider, and backpack with securement and suspension system | |
US20110259770A1 (en) | Self-Inflating Weapons Case | |
US2615182A (en) | Life preserver | |
US7335078B2 (en) | Tactical flotation support system | |
KR20140055214A (en) | A life jacket having a life belt | |
US20040033740A1 (en) | Flotation device | |
RU2609182C1 (en) | Personal rescue inflatable floating device | |
GB2330517A (en) | Submarine Escape Suit incorporating a Life Raft | |
US20030200910A1 (en) | Self inflating marine fender | |
CA2837229C (en) | Marker and recovery device | |
WO1999030785A1 (en) | Inflatable bladders and methods for protecting golf clubs | |
US20070131686A1 (en) | Flotation device coupled to a lid of a storage container | |
US9944368B1 (en) | Inflatable life raft assembly | |
US10099756B2 (en) | Marker and recovery device | |
US20050045088A1 (en) | Signaling Device |
Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
---|---|---|---|
STCF | Information on status: patent grant |
Free format text: PATENTED CASE |
|
CC | Certificate of correction | ||
FPAY | Fee payment |
Year of fee payment: 4 |
|
FPAY | Fee payment |
Year of fee payment: 8 |
|
REMI | Maintenance fee reminder mailed | ||
FPAY | Fee payment |
Year of fee payment: 12 |
|
SULP | Surcharge for late payment |
Year of fee payment: 11 |