US20130326810A1

US20130326810A1 - Multi-purpose water and wind resistant reversible blanket

Info

Publication number: US20130326810A1
Application number: US13/912,039
Authority: US
Inventors: Mark Edward Davidson
Original assignee: BLOCKIT BLANKET LLC
Current assignee: BLOCKIT BLANKET LLC
Priority date: 2012-06-08
Filing date: 2013-06-06
Publication date: 2013-12-12

Abstract

A multi-purpose blanket including substantially rectangular first and second waterproof portions each having a first and second side, substantially rectangular first and second insulated portions, generally rectangular first and second insulated portions, first and second detachable attachment means connected to the first side of the first waterproof portion and extending substantially along the length of the first waterproof portion at opposing edges of the first waterproof portion, third and fourth detachable attachment means connected to the second side of the second waterproof portion and extending substantially along the length of the second waterproof portion at opposing edges of the second waterproof portion, and a substantially rectangular bottom waterproof portion interconnecting the first and second waterproof portions. The first insulated portion is connected to a first side of the first waterproof portion and the second insulated portion is connected to a second side of the second waterproof portion.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application claims priority to U.S. provisional patent application Ser. No. 61/657,025, entitled “The Blockit Blanket,” filed in the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office on Jun. 8, 2012, having at least one common inventor as the present document and hereby incorporated by reference.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention is generally related to systems for articles which provide protection from inclement weather, and more particularly to a multipurpose water and wind resistant reversible blanket.
2. Discussion of the Background
Outdoor events often occur when it is cool, cold, raining, or snowing. People attending these events need protection from these weather conditions. People also often need protection while camping, hunting, fishing, or picnicking. Additionally, a blanket or covering is often desired merely to provide warmth outside or inside the home. At outdoor events, a considerable amount of time is often spent positioning and then repositioning blankets known in the prior art in an effort to stay warm and dry due to functional design issues of those blankets.
People confined to wheelchairs have very few options in providing protection from inclement weather. Blankets known in the prior art do not provide blankets that collectively are easy to use, correctly sized, windproof, waterproof, covers the head, and can totally enclose and protect the front and back torso and feet. Blankets meant for indoor use also need improvements. It has always been difficult for those in wheelchairs to attend cold, windy, and wet outdoor events. They need a blanket for such events. What is needed is a blanket that can be laid on a chair and prepared for use prior to a wheelchair being occupied. A blanket that allows a user to enter and exit the chair from any direction.
Most college and professional sports stadiums do not allow the use of umbrellas or other similar articles. As a result, fans are somewhat limited options for providing protection at these events. Ponchos, rain suits, or sheets of clear plastic held over one's head often are used to provide some provide some protection. However, these typically only provide limited protection from inclement weather conditions and have other limitations. There are a number of single purpose blankets in the prior art that are designed to keep the lower torso more comfortable in cold wet conditions such as U.S. Pat. Nos. 3,597,764; 6,311,330; and D426049. However, these prior art solutions only provide limited protection and do not provide protection to the upper torso or head.
Various attempts have been made in the prior art to construct a blanket that can successfully provide multiple uses. There are a number of patents that proclaim to be multi-purpose blankets, such as U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,414,881; 6,367,083; 6,851,127; 5,481,767; 5,657,489; 6,408,462; 6,393,637; and 5,454,125. Each of these prior art solutions provide only limited protection from inclement weather and multiple uses are narrow in scope. Typically, multi-purpose blankets known in the prior art are heavy, cumbersome, complicated and are not adaptable to changing conditions.
Thus, there currently exist deficiencies in multipurpose water and wind resistant reversible blankets.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Accordingly, one aspect of the present invention is to provide a multi-purpose blanket including substantially rectangular first and second waterproof portions each having a first and second side, substantially rectangular first and second insulated portions, generally rectangular first and second insulated portions, first and second detachable attachment means connected to the first side of the first waterproof portion and extending substantially along the length of the first waterproof portion at opposing edges of the first waterproof portion, third and fourth detachable attachment means connected to the second side of the second waterproof portion and extending substantially along the length of the second waterproof portion at opposing edges of the second waterproof portion, and a substantially rectangular bottom waterproof portion interconnecting the first and second waterproof portions. The first insulated portion is connected to a first side of the first waterproof portion and the second insulated portion is connected to a second side of the second waterproof portion.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

A more complete appreciation of the present invention and many of the attendant advantages thereof will be readily obtained as the same becomes better understood by reference to the following detailed description when considered in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein:

FIG. 1 is a plan rear view of a multi-purpose blanket shown in a non-folded position in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 2 is a plan front view of the multi-purpose blanket shown in a non-folded position in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the multi-purpose blanket shown in a partially folded position in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the multi-purpose blanket shown in a folded position in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 5 is an exploded view of the multi-purpose blanket in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 6 is a pictorial front view of the multi-purpose blanket in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 7 is a pictorial view of the multi-purpose blanket showing the multi-purpose blanket simultaneously worn by three people in a team blanket arrangement in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 8 is a pictorial view of the multi-purpose blanket showing the multi-purpose blanket being transitioned in direction H to a sleeping bag arrangement in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 9 is a pictorial view of the multi-purpose blanket showing the multi-purpose blanket used by a person in a sleeping bag arrangement in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 10 is a pictorial view of the multi-purpose blanket showing the multi-purpose blanket in a sleeping bag arrangement in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 11 is a pictorial top view of the multi-purpose blanket showing the multi-purpose blanket used by a person in a sleeping bag arrangement in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 12 is a pictorial view of a portion of the multi-purpose blanket illustrating area H of the multi-purpose blanket shown in FIG. 11 in a detached position in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 13 is a pictorial side view of the multi-purpose blanket showing the multi-purpose blanket used by a person in a sitting position in a full body stadium wrap arrangement and illustrating an extended portion not covering the head of the person in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 14 is a pictorial side view of the multi-purpose blanket showing the multi-purpose blanket used by a person in a sitting position in a full body stadium wrap arrangement and illustrating an extended portion covering the head of the person in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 15 is a pictorial rear view of the multi-purpose blanket showing the multi-purpose blanket used by a person in a sitting position in a full body stadium wrap arrangement and illustrating an extended portion covering the head of the person in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 16 is a pictorial front view of the multi-purpose blanket showing the multi-purpose blanket used by a person in a standing position in a full body stadium wrap arrangement and illustrating an extended portion covering the head of the person in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 17 is a pictorial side view of the multi-purpose blanket showing the multi-purpose blanket used by a person in a standing position in a full body stadium wrap arrangement and illustrating optional openings for the person's arms in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 18 is a pictorial front view of the multi-purpose blanket showing the multi-purpose blanket used by a person in a standing position in a full body stadium wrap arrangement in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 19 is a pictorial front view of the multi-purpose blanket showing the multi-purpose blanket in a fleece blanket arrangement illustrating the multi-purpose blanket in a reverse position in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 20 is a pictorial view of the multi-purpose blanket showing the multi-purpose blanket used by a person in a fleece blanket arrangement in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 21 is a pictorial bottom view of a bottom waterproof portion of the multi-purpose blanket in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 22 is a pictorial bottom view of a bottom waterproof portion of the multi-purpose blanket in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 23 is a pictorial view of a portion of the multi-purpose blanket illustrating a draw-cord in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 24 is a pictorial view of a portion of the multi-purpose blanket illustrating a draw-cord in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 25 is a pictorial view of a portion of the multi-purpose blanket illustrating a connection portion in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 26 is a pictorial view of a container bag for the multi-purpose blanket in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention; and

FIG. 27 is a pictorial view of a portion of the multi-purpose blanket illustrating a connection portion in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

Referring now to the drawings, wherein like reference numerals designate identical or corresponding parts throughout the several views, preferred embodiments of the present invention are described.
There is an unmet need for a true multi-purpose blanket that can be used throughout the year in differing weather conditions that can be used to provide protection to a user's head, torso, and feet during inclement weather conditions. As used herein, inclement weather conditions, include, without limitation, cold, wind, rain, snow, ice, sleet, and the like.
The present invention provides a multi-purpose blanket that can be used inside or outside, in the summer for family outings, or in the winter during inclement weather conditions. The present invention also provides a light weight waterproof stadium blanket that is large enough to be shared by multiple users, such as, without limitation, five users, at a time without use of multiple blankets. The present invention further provides a waterproof windproof insulated blanket that can be used indoors or outdoors in the cold. The present invention provides a sleeping bag that can also double as a waterproof bevy cover to enhance the effectiveness of a separate sleeping bag. These and other unmet needs are solved by the present invention.
The present invention is a multi-purpose reversible blanket that keeps users comfortable in cold, wet, windy or drafty conditions. It is designed to provide a number of different uses, including without limitation a picnic blanket, a team blanket, a lightweight sleeping bag, a full body stadium covering, a fleece blanket, and the like. The multi-purpose reversible blanket is generally rectangular in shape and, according to at least one embodiment, generally consists of three pliable portions. According to one embodiment, these portions are separate components. However, it is understood that the portions may be formed individually or combined, or any combination thereof within the scope of the present invention. According to one embodiment, the first waterproof portion, second waterproof portion and waterproof bottom portion are each constructed using a durable waterproof windproof material on one side and an insulating layer on the opposite side. According to an alternate embodiment, the first waterproof portion, second waterproof portion and waterproof bottom portion are each constructed using a durable waterproof windproof material and do not utilize a fill insulation. It is understood that the first waterproof portion, second waterproof portion and waterproof bottom portion can use different materials within the scope of the present invention. It is also understood that other combinations are possible within the scope of the present invention.
Referring to FIGS. 1-5, a multi-purpose blanket 100 in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, is shown. According to this non-limiting embodiment, the multi-purpose blanket 100 includes (i) a generally rectangular first waterproof portion 102 having a generally exterior side 102 a and generally interior side 102 b, (ii) a generally rectangular first insulated portion 103 having substantially the same, or slightly less than the same, dimensions of the first waterproof portion 102, (iii) a generally rectangular second waterproof portion 106, (iv) a generally rectangular second insulated portion 107 having substantially the same, or slightly less than the same, dimensions of the second waterproof portion 106, (v) detachable attachment means (112 a and 112 b), (vi) detachable attachment means (110 a and 110 b), and (vii) a generally rectangular waterproof bottom portion 104. The multi-purpose blanket 100 is configured to be substantially pliable. The first insulated portion 103 is attached to the generally interior side 102 b of the first waterproof portion 102. The second insulated portion 107 is attached to the generally interior side 106 b of the second waterproof fabric 106. Detachable attachment means (112 a and 112 b) are positioned parallel to each other along opposite outer edges of the generally interior side 102 b of the first waterproof portion 102. Detachable attachment means (110 a and 110 b) are positioned parallel to each other along opposite outer edges of the generally interior side 106 b of the second waterproof portion 106. The waterproof bottom portion 104 includes one or more holes 108 which are configured to provide water drainage in at least one operational positions of the multi-purpose blanket 100. The one or more holes 108 are also useful to allow air out of the multi-purpose blanket 100 when it is being collapsed into a storage container 200, such as the one shown in FIG. 27. According to an alternate embodiment, the bottom portion 104 consists of a mesh fabric or the like for similar reasons.
The multi-purpose blanket 100 may optionally include one or more draw-cords (114 and 116). Draw-cord 114 extends through an interior channel 126 along an outer edge of the first waterproof portion 102 and perpendicular to orientation of detachable attachment means (112 a and 112 b). Draw-cord 116 extends through an interior channel 128 along an outer edge of the second waterproof portion 106 and perpendicular to orientation of detachable attachment means (110 a and 110 b). Interior channels 126 and 128 may be formed by any means, including, without limitation, forming a flap at the outer edge of first waterproof portion 102 and second waterproof portion 106, respectively. The flaps may be secured by any known means, such as a sewn hemline. According to one embodiment, the one or more draw-cords (114 and 116) are double or single corded with core- locks 122 and 124 at respective end portions thereof as shown in FIGS. 23 and 24.
According to one embodiment, the first waterproof portion 102, the second waterproof portion 106, and the waterproof bottom portion 104, consist of coated oxford nylon fabric or various weights of packcloth. Coating may include without limitation polyurethane (PU). According to other embodiments, the first waterproof portion 102, the second waterproof portion 106, and the waterproof bottom portion 104, may consist of, without limitation, Cordura® fabric, breathable fabric, laminated fabric, ballistic nylon fabric, treated cotton canvas, synthetic fabric, plastic, polyethylene plastic material, PVC film, rubber, PVC polyester material, taffeta, polyester, varying weight of coated fabrics, and the like. According to one embodiment, the first insulated portion 103 and the second insulated portion 107 consist of fleece. The fleece may include without limitation micro, velour, Polar fleece, double-sided, single-sided, high pile, low pile, berber fleece and the like. One advantage of using fleece is that it does not absorb water so it weighs about the same wet or dry. However, according to other embodiments, the first insulated portion 103 and the second insulated portion 107 may consist of, without limitation, polyester film, polyester fleece, cotton fabric, foam insulation, Down, ColdBlock™ insulation, synthetic material, and the like. According to an alternate embodiment, the first insulated portion 103 and the second insulated portion 107 are not utilized by the present invention. According to an alternate embodiment, the first insulated portion 103 and the second insulated portion 107 are coated (known as “windblock”) to provide waterproof protection without use of the first waterproof portion 102 or the second waterproof portion 106.
According to one embodiment, the detachable attachment means (110 a, 110 b, 112 a and 112 b) consist of hook and loop or Velcro® having a width of approximately 1.5 inches. Obviously, smaller or larger widths are possible within the scope of the present invention. According to other embodiments, the detachable attachment means (110 a, 110 b, 112 a and 112 b) may be other attachment mechanisms, including without limitation, buttons, zippers, and the like. According to at least one embodiment, opposing edges of the first waterproof portion 102 are detachably connected to opposing edges of the second waterproof portion 106 by means of detachable attachment means (110 a, 110 b, 112 a and 112 b) using a hook and loop arrangement shown in FIGS. 11 and 12. According to this arrangement, the opposite edge portions of the first waterproof portion 102, where the detachable attachment means 110 a and 110 b are positioned, are looped around such that they connect with detachable attachment means 112 b and 110 a, respectively. Such an arrangement provides protection from inclement weather and forms a more watertight seal because any openings between the first waterproof portion 102 and the second waterproof portion 106 is facing down which allows water (or other elements) to run off the side of the multi-purpose blanket 100. Such an arrangement also does not require use of waterproof zippers for the detachable attachment means (110 a, 110 b, 112 a and 112 b). Use of detachable attachment means (110 a, 110 b, 112 a and 112 b) on opposing edges of the first waterproof portion 102 and the second waterproof portion 106 allow easier entry to and exit from the multi-purpose blanket 100.
According to one embodiment, the first insulated portion 103 is sewn to the generally interior side 102 b of the first waterproof portion 102 substantially along the outer perimeter thereof. Similarly, the second insulated portion 107 is sewn to the generally interior side 106 b of the second waterproof portion 106 substantially along the outer perimeter thereof. Such sewing may utilize without limitation a single, double or surged stitch. It is understood that other means of attaching the first and second insulated portions (103 and 107) to the first and second waterproof portions (102 and 106), respectively, are possible within the scope of the present invention, including, without limitation, quilting, stitching, Velcro®, glue, hot-glue, epoxy, hooks, zippers, buttons and the like. It is understood that any sewing pattern is possible within the scope of the preset invention and that the present invention is not limited to sewing along the outer edges.
According to one embodiment, the first waterproof portion 102, the second waterproof portion 106 and the waterproof bottom portion 104 are sewn together to form the multi-purpose blanket 100 as shown in FIG. 103. According to one embodiment, the portions are shown together using heavy duty nylon (not cotton) because it does not absorb water. However, it is understood that other types of thread are possible (including cotton) within the scope of the present invention. It is also understood that other means of attaching these portions are possible within the scope of the present invention, including, without limitation, quilting, stitching, various seam techniques, heat sealable fabric, hook and loop, Velcro®, glue, hot-glue, epoxy, hooks, zippers, buttons and the like. It is further understood that any sewing pattern is possible within the scope of the preset invention and that the present invention is not limited to sewing along the outer edges of the respective portions. It is also understood that, according to alternate embodiments, the first waterproof portion 102, the second waterproof portion 106 and the waterproof bottom portion 104 may be a unified material and therefore not separate pieces.
According to at least one embodiment, the second waterproof portion 106 is longer in length than the first waterproof portion 102. This extended portion of the second waterproof portion 106 is represented by element 112. However, it is understood that other measurements are possible within the scope of the present invention. According to an alternate embodiment, second waterproof portion 106 is the same length as first waterproof portion 102.
The waterproof bottom portion 104 is configured to be located where a person would normally place their feet in a traditional sleeping bag. According to one embodiment, the waterproof bottom portion 104 consists of two layers of waterproof material. According to an alternate embodiment, the waterproof bottom portion 104 consists of a thicker waterproof material. Both of these configurations, provide additional strength where a person would normally place their feet, which is particular helpful in a standing position where a single layer of waterproof material or a thinner waterproof material might more easily wear due to contact with rough surfaces, such as, without limitation concrete and gravel.
In at least one embodiment, the waterproof bottom portion 104 does not include an insulation material to avoid dirt, mud or other debris from collecting where the person would normally place their feet. Not having an insulation material attached to the waterproof bottom portion 104 also provides a water buffer and drain. Notably, a user could stand in several inches of water, snow, ice, or other liquid without getting the insulation material attached to the first and second waterproof portions (102 and 106) wet. This is true even if the water, snow, ice, or other liquid enters the one or more holes 108 located at the bottom of the waterproof bottom portion 104. According to one embodiment, each corner of the rectangular the waterproof bottom portion 104 is mitered. The one or more holes 108 is in the shape of a donut shaped grommet. This grommet is centered on the waterproof bottom portion 104 and is used to drain water, such as melting snow, and to provide ventilation. When in the sleeping bag configuration, the multi-purpose blanket 100 can be opened and closed laterally down the entire length of the first and second waterproof portions (102 and 106) utilizing a hook and loop arrangement.
Referring to FIG. 5, an exploded view of a multi-purpose blanket in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention is shown. According to one possible non-limiting embodiment, (i) generally rectangular first waterproof portion 102 and first insulation portion 103 generally have a width A of 38 inches and a length B of 60 inches, (ii) generally rectangular second waterproof portion 106 and second insulation portion 107 generally have a width D of 38 inches and a length C of 83 inches, and (iii) the waterproof bottom portion 104 generally has a width G of 24 inches, a length F of 30 inches and a height E of 4 inches. According to another possible non-limiting embodiment, (i) generally rectangular first waterproof portion 102 and first insulation portion 103 generally have a width A of 40 inches and a length B of 60 inches, (ii) generally rectangular second waterproof portion 106 and second insulation portion 107 generally have a width D of 42 inches and a length C of 83 inches, and (iii) the waterproof bottom portion 104 generally has a width G of 18 inches, a length F of 30 inches and a height E of 3 inches. However, it is understood that these measurement are not intended to be limiting and other measurements are possible within the scope of the present invention.
The multi-purpose blanket 100 can be quickly transformed to provide (i) an improved sleeping bag as shown in FIGS. 9-11, (ii) a long waterproof picnic blanket (approximately 12 feet long according to one embodiment) as shown in FIG. 6, (iii) a four layered fleece blanket as shown in FIGS. 19-20 by reversing the multi-purpose blanket 100, (iv) a weatherproof stadium blanket that can be shared by multiple people (up to five people according to one embodiment) as shown in FIG. 7; and (v) a waterproof bevy cover or sack for a separate sleeping bag.
In one of the configuration it can provide a person head to toe protection from the wind, cold, rain and snow while standing or sitting, such as shown in FIGS. 14-16. By placing a typical sleeping bag inside of the multi-purpose blanket 100, a warmer waterproof windproof layout can be created. The multi-purpose blanket 100 offers improvements over currently available products in each individual configuration. It can easily be rolled up and carried in a stuff sack 200, which includes a shoulder strap, as shown in FIG. 27. According to one embodiment, the stuff sack 200 consists of nylon fabric. However, according to other embodiments, the stuff sack 200 may consist of, without limitation, Cordura® fabric, ballistic nylon fabric, heat sealable fabric, treated cotton canvas, synthetic fabric, plastic, polyethylene plastic material, PVC film, PVC polyester material, and the like. The stuff sack 200 may also consist of a non-waterproof material such as mesh, which might be useful to allow at least a portion of the wet multi-purpose blanket 100 to dry over time. According to one embodiment, the stuff sack 200 has a generally rectangular shape and is non-cylindrical. This allows the multi-purpose blanket 100 to be more easily stored in the stuff sack 200.
According to at least one embodiment, the multi-purpose blanket 100 uses various embellishments to allow it to function as an improved designed sleeping bag that opens laterally down both sides, a waterproof picnic blanket exceeding eleven feet in length, and a four layer thick fleece blanket utilizing two layers of fleece and two of waterproof nylon. For example, the configuration of the detachable attachment means (110 a, 110 b, 112 a and 112 b) allow a user to extend their arms out the side of the multi-purpose blanket 100 by forming optional small openings in the detachable attachment means (110 a, 110 b, 112 a and 112 b) at the arm positions as shown in FIG. 17. The hook and loop arrangement of the detachable attachment means (110 a, 110 b, 112 a and 112 b), shown in FIGS. 11 and 12, run substantially the length of the multi-purpose blanket 100, on both sides, allowing the first waterproof portion 102 to be folded back from the second waterproof portion 106. This provides ease of entry and exit for users, including the handicap. This also allows the multi-purpose blanket 100 to be spread out and used as an extended length rectangular shaped picnic blanket that will easily seat five people. The picnic blanket is waterproof and can be laid over wet ground. The multi-purpose blanket 100 can be used while fishing, hunting, boating, sporting events, as an emergency services (EMS) blanket, picnicking, camping, military use, or numerous other applications.
The multi-purpose blanket 100 can be used as a stadium blanket that can be shared by up to five people in the stands or players sitting on the bench. Sliding a typical insulated sleeping bag inside the multi-purpose blanket 100 when it is in the sleeping bag configuration provides a warmer and dryer environment for the user.
In poor outdoor weather conditions a person can get inside the multi-purpose blanket 100 and totally cover the upper and lower portions of the body along with the head. In this arrangement, the extended portion 112 of the second waterproof portion 106 is used to cover the head. The extended portion 112 of the second waterproof portion 106 allows a user to pull it up over the shoulders and cover the head much like a hood. This extended portion 112 of the second waterproof portion 106 can also be used to lay the user's head when the multi-purpose blanket 100 is being utilized in a sleeping bag arrangement.
According to one embodiment, the multi-purpose blanket 100 has no interior insulation that would require quilting. Quilting, which is used in most sleeping bags, causes pin holes which will eventual leak.
According to one embodiment, the multi-purpose blanket 100 utilizes a lightweight insulation material, which gives the flexibility to use it in both cool and cold conditions. However, it is understood that use of a lightweight insulation is not intended to be limiting and that heavier insulation materials may be utilized in alternate embodiments within the scope of the present invention. The multi-purpose blanket 100 can take the place of all standard blankets, or depending on the conditions, replace or supplement, rain gear, wind breakers, sleeping bags, umbrellas, or heavy coats.
The multi-purpose blanket 100 can be used by a person indoors or outdoors, anytime drafts, wind, rain, snow, wet conditions, or any other times when an extra layer of environmental protection is desired.
Advertisements or team logos can be place on the generally exterior sides 102 a and 106 a of the first and second waterproof portions 102 and 106, respectively, or patterned on the insulating material. Special fabric treatment or other process may be required to do so. The multi-purpose blanket 100 can be used by schools, corporations, sports teams, or any other group to promote and/or show support for their products or teams. The multi-purpose blanket 100 can be manufactured a one or two person configuration.
It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made in the individualized health evaluation system and method of the present invention without departing form the spirit or scope of the invention. Thus, it is intended that the present invention cover the modifications and variations of the invention provided they come within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.
Obviously, many other modifications and variations of the present invention are possible in light of the above teachings. The specific embodiments discussed herein are merely illustrative, and are not meant to limit the scope of the present invention in any manner. It is therefore to be understood that within the scope of the disclosed concept, the invention may be practiced otherwise then as specifically described.

Claims

1. A multi-purpose blanket comprising:

first and second waterproof portions each having a first and second side, wherein the first and second waterproof portions are substantially rectangular;

first and second insulated portions, wherein the first and second insulated portions are generally rectangular, and wherein the first insulated portion is connected to a first side of the first waterproof portion and the second insulated portion is connected to a second side of the second waterproof portion;

first and second detachable attachment means connected to the first side of the first waterproof portion and extending substantially along the length of the first waterproof portion at opposing edges of the first waterproof portion;

third and fourth detachable attachment means connected to the second side of the second waterproof portion and extending substantially along the length of the second waterproof portion at opposing edges of the second waterproof portion; and

a bottom waterproof portion interconnecting the first and second waterproof portions, wherein the bottom waterproof portion is substantially rectangular.

2. The multi-purpose blanket of claim 1, wherein the second waterproof portion has an extended length that is longer than the first waterproof portion.

3. The multi-purpose blanket of claim 2, wherein the first and second detachable attachment means are respectively arranged to detachably connect to the third and fourth detachable attachment means using a hook and loop arrangement.

4. The multi-purpose blanket of claim 3, wherein the first insulated portion is sewn along an outer perimeter of the first side of the first waterproof portion, and wherein the second insulated portion is sewn along an outer perimeter of the first side of the second waterproof portion.

5. The multi-purpose blanket of claim 3, wherein the first, second, third and fourth detachable attachment means Velcro or hook and loop arrangement.

6. The multi-purpose blanket of claim 3, wherein the first, second, third and fourth detachable attachment means comprise at least one selected from the group consisting of heat sealable fabric, quilting, stitching, various seam techniques, Velcro®, glue, hot-glue, epoxy, hooks, zippers, hook and loop, and buttons.

7. The multi-purpose blanket of claim 3, wherein the first, second, third and fourth detachable attachment means are arranged to provide easier entry to and exit from the multi-purpose blanket.

8. The multi-purpose blanket of claim 3, further comprising:

a first draw-cord extending through an interior channel formed by a flap along an outer edge of the first waterproof portion and perpendicular to orientation of the first and second detachable attachment means; and

a second draw-cord extending through an interior channel formed by a flap along an outer edge of the second waterproof portion and perpendicular to orientation of the third and fourth detachable attachment means.

9. The multi-purpose blanket of claim 3, wherein the first and second waterproof portions and the bottom waterproof portion comprise coated nylon fabric.

10. The multi-purpose blanket of claim 3, wherein the first and second waterproof portions and the bottom waterproof portion comprise at least one selected from the group consisting of Cordura® fabric, breathable fabric, ballistic nylon fabric, treated cotton canvas, synthetic fabric, plastic, ripstop fabric, polyethylene plastic material, PVC film, PVC polyester material, heat sealable, rubber and taffeta.

11. The multi-purpose blanket of claim 3, wherein the first and second insulated portions comprise fleece.

12. The multi-purpose blanket of claim 3, wherein the first and second insulated portions comprise at least one selected from the group consisting of polyester film, polyester fleece, cotton fabric, foam insulation, Down, ColdBlock insulation, and synthetic material.

13. The multi-purpose blanket of claim 3, wherein the bottom waterproof portion includes one or more holes.

14. The multi-purpose blanket of claim 13, wherein the one or more holes of the bottom waterproof portion are arranged to provide drainage and ventilation in an operational position.

15. The multi-purpose blanket of claim 13, wherein the one or more holes comprise one or more grommets.

16. The multi-purpose blanket of claim 3, wherein the first waterproof portion has a length of approximately 60 inches and a width of approximately 38 inches, the second waterproof portion has a length of approximately 83 inches and a width of approximately 38 inches, and the bottom waterproof portion has a length of approximately 24 inches, a width of approximately 38 inches, and a height of approximately 4 inches.

17. The multi-purpose blanket of claim 3, wherein the first waterproof portion has a length of approximately 60 inches and a width of approximately 40 inches, the second waterproof portion has a length of approximately 83 inches and a width of approximately 42 inches, and the bottom waterproof portion has a length of approximately 18 inches, a width of approximately 30 inches, and a height of approximately 3 inches.

18. The multi-purpose blanket of claim 3, wherein the first insulated portion has substantially the same dimensions as the first waterproof portion, and wherein the second insulated portion has substantially the same dimensions as the second waterproof portion.

19. The multi-purpose blanket of claim 3, wherein the first insulated portion has dimensions that are smaller than the dimensions of the first waterproof portion, and wherein the second insulated portion has dimensions that are smaller than the dimensions of the second waterproof portion.

20. The multi-purpose blanket of claim 3, wherein the multi-purpose blanket is configured to function as at least one selected from the group consisting of a picnic blanket, a team blanket, a sleeping bag, a full body stadium covering, and a fleece blanket.

21. The multi-purpose blanket of claim 3, wherein the bottom waterproof portion is configured to allow a user to move forward, rear, and lateral directions while standing on the bottom waterproof portion in an operational position.

22. The multi-purpose blanket of claim 3, wherein the bottom waterproof portion is configured to withstand stress from contact with hard surfaces.

23. The multi-purpose blanket of claim 3, wherein the bottom waterproof portion is configured to keep the first and second insulated portions above ground water while a user is standing on the bottom waterproof portion in an operational position.

24. The multi-purpose blanket of claim 3, wherein hook and loop arrangement of the first, second, third and fourth detachable attachment means provides an arrangement which allows precipitation to run off the side of the multi-purpose blanket in an operational position.