WO2015126887A1

WO2015126887A1 - Snorkel system and flotation device

Info

Publication number: WO2015126887A1
Application number: PCT/US2015/016286
Authority: WO
Inventors: Phillip Robinson
Original assignee: Ericka Nicole Malone Enterprises, Llc
Priority date: 2014-02-18
Filing date: 2015-02-18
Publication date: 2015-08-27
Also published as: US20150232160A1

Abstract

The present application discloses a snorkel system and a flotation device for snorkeling. In certain embodiments, the snorkel system and flotation device comprise a buoyant flotation member for supporting a person in a body of water. The flotation member comprises a top, a bottom, and at least one opening extending through the flotation member from the top to the bottom. The opening is sized and configured to permit submersion of at least a portion of the face of a person positioned on the top of the flotation member in the water below the bottom of the flotation member.

Description

SNORKEL SYSTEM AND FLOTATION DEVICE

Cross Reference to Related Application

[0001] This application claims priority to and the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent

Application No. 61/941 ,041, filed on February 18, 2014 and titled "Snorkel System," which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

Background

[0002] Snorkeling is a popular recreational activity wherein a person swims on or through a body of water while equipped with a diving mask and a shaped tube called a snorkel. Snorkeling permits the person to observe underwater life in a natural setting without complicated equipment and training required for scuba diving. Snorkeling appeals to all ages and all types of swimmers.

Brief Description of Drawings

[0003] Figure 1 A is a top view of a snorkel system according to an embodiment of the present application.

[0004] Figure 1 B is a cross sectional view of the snorkel system of Figure 1 A taken along line I B- I B in Figure 1 A, wherein a person is positioned on top of a flotation member of the snorkel system.

[0005] Figure 2 A is a top view of a snorkel system according to an embodiment of the present application.

[0006] Figure 2B is a cross sectional view of the snorkel system of Figure 2 A taken along line 2B-2B in Figure 2A, wherein a person is positioned on top of a flotation member of the snorkel system.

[0007] Figure 3 A is a top view of a snorkel system according to an embodiment of the present application.

[0008] Figure 3B is a cross sectional view of the snorkel system of Figure 3 A taken along line 3B-3B in Figure 3 A, wherein a person is positioned on top of a flotation member of the snorkel system.

I [0009] Figure 4 is a top view of a snorkel system according to an embodiment of the present application.

[0010] Figure 5 is a side cross sectional view of a breathing tube of a snorkel system according to an embodiment of the present application.

[0011] Figure 6A is a partial cross sectional view of a breathing tube attached to a flotation member according to an embodiment of the present application.

[0012] Figure 6B is a partial cross sectional view of a breathing tube attached to a flotation member according to an embodiment of the present application.

[0013] Figures 7A-7F are perspective, top, left side, right side, rear and front views, respectively, of a flotation device according to an embodiment of the present application.

[0014] Figure 8A is an exploded perspective view of a flotation device according to an embodiment of the present application.

[0015] Figure 8B is a partial cross sectional perspective view of the flotation device of

Figure 8A, wherein the flotation device is shown assembled.

[0016] Figure 9 is a top view of a flotation device according to an embodiment of the present application.

[0017] Figures 10A and 10B are top views of the flotation device of Figure 9 folded and rolled, respectively, for storage or transport.

Summary

[0018] The present application discloses a snorkel system and a flotation device for snorkeling. In certain embodiments, the snorkel system comprises a buoyant flotation member for supporting a person in a body of water. The flotation member comprises a top, a bottom, and at least one opening extending through the flotation member from the top to the bottom. The opening is sized and configured to permit submersion of at least a portion of the face of a person positioned on the top of the flotation member in the water below the bottom of the flotation member. The snorkel system may further comprise a breathing tube having a substantially rigid first portion in fluid communication with a flexible second portion. The first portion extends upward from the top of the flotation member and the second portion is fluidly connected to a mouthpiece. The second portion is configured such that the mouthpiece is accessible to a person positioned on the top of the flotation member and may be inserted into the person's mouth when his or her face is disposed in the opening.

[0019] In certain embodiments, the flotation device comprises a buoyant flotation member for supporting a person in a body of water. The flotation member comprises a top, a bottom, and at least one opening extending through the flotation member from the top to the bottom. The opening is sized and configured to permit submersion of at least a portion of the face of a person positioned on the top of the flotation member in the water below the bottom of the flotation member. The flotation may comprise at least one handle formed in the flotation member. The handle is located proximate the opening such that it is reachable by the person positioned on the top of the floatation member with at least a portion of his or her face in the water below the bottom of the flotation member. Further, in certain embodiments, the flotation member has a thickness between about 5 and 7 inches, a first width between about 28 and 32 inches, a second width between about 18 and 25 inches, and an overall length between about 53 and 57 inches and is configured to support at least about 250 lbs. without sinking. The opening may also be sized and configured such that the person can use a snorkel mask and tube when positioned on the top of the flotation member.

Description

[0020] The present application discloses a snorkel system and a flotation device for snorkeling. The snorkel system and flotation device are designed such that it may be used by people of all ages and swimming abilities. The system and device may also be configured for use by multiple people at the same time. Furthermore, the system and device of the present application provides the ability for the user(s) to snorkel while only being partially submerged in the water (e.g., greater than 50% of the their body remains out of the water, greater than 60% of their body remains out of the water, greater than 75% of their body remains out of the water, or greater than 85% of their body remains out of the water). This is desirable for users who do not wish to be engulfed by the water or when the water is cold.

[0021] The snorkel system of the present application generally comprises a flotation portion (e.g., a foam mat, board or inflatable) for supporting a person in a body of water and having an opening for the user's head. The opening extends through the flotation portion and is sized and configured to permit the user to put his or her face through the opening and into the water. The snorkel system also generally comprises a breathing tube having a substantially rigid first portion extending upward from the top of the flotation portion and a second flexible portion fluidly connected to a mouthpiece. The second portion is configured such that the mouthpiece is accessible to the user positioned on the top of the flotation portion and may be inserted into the person's mouth when his or her face is disposed in the opening.

[0022] Figures 1 A and IB illustrate a snorkel system 100 according to an embodiment of the present application. As shown, the snorkel system 100 comprises a buoyant flotation member 102 for supporting a person in a body of water and a breathing tube 104 having a substantially rigid first portion 106 in fluid communication with a flexible second portion 108.

[0023] As illustrated in Figures 1 A and IB, the flotation member 102 of the snorkel system 100 comprises a top 1 10, a bottom 1 12, and at least one opening 1 14 extending through the flotation member from the top to the bottom. As illustrated in Figure I B, the opening 1 14 is sized and configured to permit submersion of at least a portion of the face of a person positioned on the top 1 10 of the flotation member 102 in the water below the bottom 1 12 of the flotation member. The first portion 106 of the breathing tube 104 extends upward from the top 110 of the flotation member 102 and the second portion 108 is fluidly connected to a mouthpiece 1 16. The second portion 108 is configured such that the mouthpiece 1 16 is accessible to a person positioned on the top 1 10 of the flotation member 102 and may be inserted into the person's mouth when his or her face is disposed in the opening 1 14.

[0024] The flotation member of the present application may comprise about any buoyant material capable of supporting a person in a body of water including, but not limited to, a foam mat, polyurethane foam, polystyrene foam, fiberglass, or the like. In certain embodiments, the flotation member may be inflatable. Further, the flotation member may be flexible or substantially rigid depending on the material and application (e.g., how flotation member will be used, the type of water (rough or flat), storage, whether a propulsion system will be used, whether the flotation member will carry equipment, etc.). In certain embodiments, the flotation member is a flexible foam mat that may be collapsed, folded, and/or rolled for storage and transport, The flotation member may also have a friction or non slip surface. The flotation member may also be shaped such that the snorkel system remains stable in the water (e.g., hull shaped). Further, the flotation member may comprise stabilizing components, such as enlarged outer portions, for stabilizing the flotation member in the water.

[0025] The flotation member of the present application may be a variety of shapes and sizes. For example, in certain embodiments, the flotation member is configured to support at least about 250 lbs. without sinking. However, the flotation member may be configured to support more or less weight depending on a variety of factors including, but not limited to, the number and size of the people supported by the flotation member (e.g., adults or children) and how the flotation member will be used (e.g., as a full body length member or kick board type member). In certain embodiments, the flotation member has a thickness between about 1 and 3 inches, a width between about 24 and 32 inches, and a length between about 32 and 64 inches. However, the thickness, width, and the length of the flotation member may be more or less depending on a variety of factors including, but not limited to, the size and number of people using the flotation member, the material of the flotation member, and how the flotation member will be used.

[0026] For example, the flotation member 102 shown in Figures 1 A and IB is a kick board type member. As illustrated in Figure I B, the flotation member 102 is sized and configured such that a proximal end 130 of the member is positioned approximately at the waist of the person when the snorkel system 100 is in use. As such, the person's legs are free to kick and guide the person through the water.

[0027] As another example, Figures 2A and 2B illustrate a snorkel system 200 according to an embodiment of the present application. Similar to the snorkel system 100, the snorkel system 200 comprises a buoyant flotation member 202 for supporting a person in a body of water and a breathing tube 204 having a substantially rigid first portion 206 in fluid communication with a flexible second portion 208. However, the flotation member 202 is a full body length type member. As illustrated in Figure 2B, the flotation member 202 is sized and configured such that the proximal end 230 of the member is positioned at or near the feet of the person when the snorkel system 200 is in use such that substantially all of the person's body is on the member.

[0028] Similarly, Figures 3A and 3B illustrate a snorkel system 300 according to an embodiment of the present application. Similar to the snorkel system 200, the snorkel system 300 comprises a buoyant flotation member 302 for supporting a person in a body of water and a breathing tube 304 having a substantially rigid first portion 306 in fluid communication with a flexible second portion 308. The flotation member 302 is a full body length type member. As illustrated in Figure 3B, the flotation member 302 is sized and configured such that the proximal end 330 of the member is positioned at or near the feet of the person when the snorkel system 300 is in use such that substantially all of the person's body is on the member.

[0029] As another example, Figure 4 illustrates a snorkel system 400 according to an embodiment of the present application. As shown, the snorkel system 400 is configured for use by multiple people. The snorkel system 400 comprises a buoyant flotation member 402 for supporting at least two people in a body of water and two breathing tubes 404 having substantially rigid first portions in fluid communication with flexible second portions. The flotation member 402 is wider than the flotation members 102, 202, 302 such that it may be used by multiple people. Further, the snorkel system 400 comprises a first opening 414 and a second opening 434 extending through the flotation member 402 from the top to the bottom. The openings 414, 434 are sized and configured to permit submersion of at least a portion of the face of a person positioned on the top of the flotation member 402 in the water below the bottom of the flotation member. It should be understood that the snorkel system of the present application may be configured for use with any number of people, including 3 people, 4 people, 5 people, 6 people, or more.

[0030] The openings in the flotation member extend through the flotation member and are sized and configured to permit submersion of at least a portion of the face of a person positioned on the top of the flotation member in the water below the bottom of the flotation member. The openings may be any size and cross sectional shape capable of accomplishing this including, but not limited to, circular (e.g., opening 1 14 in Figure 1 A), rectangular (e.g., opening 214 in Figure 2 A and opening 314 in Figure 3 A), square, and oval (e.g. , openings 414, 434 in Figure 4) shape. The sidewalls of the openings may also be tapered, e.g. , tapering inward or outward from the top to the bottom of the flotation member. The opening is generally located between the middle and a distal end of the flotation member. In certain embodiments, the edge of the opening is located approximately 8 inches from a distal end of the flotation member.

[0031] The flotation member may comprise one or more handles for the user. The handle may take a wide variety of different forms including, but not limited to, one or more members extending from the top of the flotation member (e.g. , a bar or tube), one or more members laminated to the top of the flotation member, openings formed in the flotation member, formed recessed portions on the edge of the flotation member, or the like. For example, the snorkel system 100 illustrated in Figures 1A and I B has a handle 180 extending from the top surface 1 10 of the flotation member 102 and extending transverse to the longitudinal axis of the flotation member. As shown, the handle 180 is substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the flotation member 102. However, in certain embodiments, the handle may be at other angles relative to the longitudinal axis or even substantially parallel with the longitudinal axis of the flotation member. Similar to handle 180, the snorkel system 400 illustrated in Figure 4 has handles 480 extending from the top surface of the flotation member 402. As shown, the handles 180, 480 are located proximate the openings 1 14, 414, 434 such that it is reachable by the person positioned on the top of the floatation member with at least a portion of his or her face in the water below the bottom of the flotation member.

[0032] In certain embodiments, the snorkel system may comprise one or more propulsion systems for propelling the flotation member through water such as, for example, a

motor/propeller or jet pump. The snorkel system may also comprise a rudder or fin extending below the flotation member that is operatively connected to a handle such that movement of the handle moves the rudder or fin to steer the flotation member. The rudder or fin may be used with or without the propulsion system, and may be separate from the propulsion system or integral with the propulsion system. Furthermore, the propulsion system may be operatively connected to a handle such that movement of the handle moves the propulsion system to steer the flotation member.

[0033] For example, as illustrated in Figures 2A and 2B, the snorkel system 200 comprises a propulsion system 240 connected to and extending below the flotation member 202 at a location rearward from the opening 214 such that the churned water from the propulsion system does not affect the user's view. A rudder or fin 280 is operatively connected to a handle 242 such that movement of the handle back and forth in a direction M moves the rudder or fin to steer the flotation member 202. The propulsion system may be connected to and extend below the flotation member at about any location. For example, the propulsion system may be connected to and extend below the flotation member at approximately waist level of user. [0034] However, in certain embodiments, the propulsion system (or rudder or fin) is operatively connected to a controller (e.g., a handle, joystick, buttons, etc.) such that

manipulation of the controller moves the propulsion system (or rudder or fin) to steer the flotation member. For example, the controller may be mechanically connected to the propulsion system, such as with a flexible member (e.g., wire) or rigid member, such that movement of the controller moves the propulsion system. Further, the controller may be electrically connected to the propulsion system (e.g., with a wire or wireiessly) such that manipulation of the controller will control a motor configured to turn the propulsion system.

[0035] For example, as illustrated in Figures 3A and 3B, the snorkel system 300 comprises a propulsion system 340 connected to and extending below a forward extension 390 of the flotation member 302 such that the churned water from the propulsion system does not affect the user's view. As shown, the propulsion system 340 is operatively connected to a handle 342 via connection 380 (e.g., mechanical connection and/or electrical connection) such that movement of the handle back and forth in a direction M moves the propulsion system to steer the flotation member 302.

[0036] In certain embodiments, the snorkel system may comprise a camera and/or video recorder for capturing images in the water beneath the flotation member. For example, as illustrated in Figure 2B, the snorkel system 200 comprises a camera/video recorder 250 attached to the bottom of the flotation member 202 to capture images in the water beneath the flotation member. The camera/video recorder 250 may be activated remotely by the person on top of the flotation member 202. Further, the snorkel system may comprise other types of equipment, such as lights, attached to the flotation member.

[0037] The breathing tube of the snorkel system generally has a substantially rigid first portion in fluid communication with a flexible second portion. The first portion of the breathing tube extends upward from the top of the flotation member and the second portion is fluidly connected to a mouthpiece. The second portion is sized and configured such that the mouthpiece is accessible to a person positioned on the top of the flotation member and may be inserted into the person's mouth when his or her face is disposed in the opening.

[0038] Figures 1 A-4 illustrate the breathing tubes 104, 204, 304, 404 of snorkel systems

100, 200, 300, 400, respectively, according to embodiments of the present application. The first and second portions of the breathing tubes may be fluidly connected in a variety of different ways. For example, as illustrated in Figure 6A, the first portion 606 of the breathing tube may extend into or through an opening in the flotation member 602 and the second portion 608 may be directly connected to the end of the first portion. As illustrated in Figure 6B, the first and second portions 606 and 608 of the breathing tube are fluidly connected to the opening in the flotation member 602. As such, the opening in the flotation member 602 is part of the breathing system for the person. Connectors 620, such as clamps, nuts, or other fasteners, may be used to secure the portions 606 and 608 of the breathing tube to the flotation member 602. Further, the first and second portions 606 and 608 of the breathing tube may be threadably attached to the opening in the flotation member 602 or form a friction fit with the opening.

[0039] As illustrated in Figures IB, 2B, and 3B, the second portion 108, 208, 308 of the breathing tube 104, 204, 304 generally extends from the bottom of the flotation member 102, 202, 302, either from an end of the first portion 106, 206, 306 or an opening in the flotation member, and terminates at the mouthpiece 1 16, 216, 316 in the face opening 1 14, 214, 314 of the flotation member such that it is accessible to the user. At least part of the second portion of the breathing tube is submerged in the water during use of the snorkel system. As shown, substantially the entire second portion 108, 208, 308 of the breathing tube 104, 204, 304 is submerged in the water during use of the snorkel system 100, 200, 300. In certain embodiments, the first portion of the breathing tube extends between about 10 and 14 inches above the top of the flotation member (e.g., about 12 inches) and the second portion of the breathing tube is between about 10 and 20 inches long (e.g., about 15 inches).

[0040] In certain embodiments, the breathing tube has at least two separate lumens valved for inhalation and exhalation. Air enters the inhalation lumen and exhaled C0₂ exits the exhalation lumen. As such, the user does not continuously breathe in his or her exhaled C0₂. Furthermore, because of the double lumen and the ability of the exhaled C0₂ to escape, the first portion of the breathing tube extending from the flotation member can be longer and permit snorkeling in rougher waters.

[0041] For example, Figure 5 illustrates a breathing tube 500 according to an

embodiment of the present application. The breathing tube 500 may be used with any of the snorkel systems described herein. The breathing tube 500 comprises a substantially rigid first portion 506 fluidly connected to a flexible second portion 508, which is fluidly connected to a mouthpiece 516. As shown, both the first and second portions 506, 508 of the breathing tube 500 comprise a first lumen 520, 530 and a second lumen 522, 532. The first lumens 520, 530 are in fluid communication and are dedicated inhalation lumens. The second lumens 522, 532 are in fluid communication and are dedicated exhalation lumens.

[0042] The lumens of the first and/or second portions of the breathing tube may comprise valves (e.g., one-way, pressure or demand valves) arranged such that the lumen is a dedicated inhalation and/or exhalation lumen. For example, as illustrated in Figure 5, the first lumen 530 of the second portion 508 of the breathing tube 500 comprises one or more valves 540 arranged such that the first lumens 520, 530 are dedicated inhalation lumens. Further, the second lumen 532 of the second portion 508 of the breathing tube 500 comprises one or more valves 542 arranged such that the second lumens 522, 532 are dedicated exhalation lumens. It should be understood, however, that one or more valves may be located at various locations in the first and second lumens, e.g., in the lumens of the first portion of the breathing tube. Further, it should be understood that, in certain embodiments, only the second portion of the breathing tube comprises a double lumen.

[0043] The flotation member of the snorkel system described herein may be used with or without the breathing tube. For example, the flotation member may be configured such that a user may use flotation member with conventional snorkeling equipment (e.g., a mask and snorkel tube attached to the head of the user) to act as an aid during snorkeling.

[0044] Figures 7A-7F illustrate a flotation device 700 for snorkeling according to an embodiment of the present application. As shown, the flotation device 700 comprises a flotation member 702 having a top surface 710, a bottom surface 712, and at least one opening 714 extending through the flotation member from the top surface to the bottom surface. The opening 714 is sized and configured to permit submersion of at least a portion of the face of a person positioned on the top surface 710 of the flotation member 702 in the water below the bottom surface 712 of the flotation member. Furthermore, the opening 714 is shaped and configured such that the person may use conventional snorkeling gear, such as a mask and snorkel attached to the head of the user, when positioned on the top 710 of the flotation member 702. [0045] The shape of the flotation member 702 facilitates stability and navigation of the flotation device 700 in the water and waves. For example, As shown in Figures 7C-7D, the flotation member 702 is thicker towards the middle where the majority of the weight of the user is placed to facilitate stability in the water. Further, as shown in Figures 7C-7F, the bottom surface 712 of the flotation member 702 comprises a curvature and one or more rockers (e.g., front or rear rockers) that help to stabilize the flotation member and facilitate navigation in the water and waves.

[0046] The shape of the flotation member 702 also facilitates maneuverability of the flotation device 700. For example, the arrow shaped upper portion of the flotation member 702 creates an area for the user's arms (e.g., to grip) while snorkeling. The indents after the curved upper portion on the left and right sides of the flotation member 702 allow the arms of the user to be free to take pictures, paddle, etc. Further, the lower portion of the flotation member 702 narrows to facilitate use of the user's legs to propel and maneuver the flotation member through the water.

[0047] The flotation member 702 may be shaped in a variety of different ways and comprise a variety of other components that facilitate stabilization, navigation and

maneuverability of the flotation device 700 in the water and waves. For example, the lower portion of the flotation member may comprise left and right extensions that facilitate stability of the flotation device. Further, the upper portion of the flotation member may comprise left and right extensions that facilitate stability of the flotation device. As shown in Figures 7 A and 7B, the flotation member 702 is symmetric about the longitudinal axis 718.

[0048] The flotation device 700 may comprise one or more handles for the user. The handles may take a wide variety of different forms including, but not limited to, one or more members extending from the top of the flotation member (e.g., a bar or tube), one or more members laminated to the top surface of the flotation member, openings or the like formed in the flotation member, formed recessed portions on the edge of the flotation member, or the like. As shown in Figures 7A-7F, the handles 716 are formed as openings or slots through the flotation member 702 and extend transverse to the longitudinal axis 718 of the flotation member. The handles 716 are located proximate the opening 714 such that it is reachable by the person positioned on the top of the floatation member 702 with at least a portion of his or her face in the

l i water below the bottom of the flotation member. In certain embodiments, the handles may be at other angles (e.g., perpendicular) relative to the longitudinal axis or even substantially parallel with the longitudinal axis of the flotation member. Further, the size of the handles (e.g., length and width) may vary. For example, the width Hw of the opening forming the handles 716 may be between about 1 and 3 inches. In one embodiment, the width Hw is about 1 ½ inches.

[0049] The flotation device 700 is generally configured to support at least about 250 lbs. without sinking. However, the flotation device 700 may be configured to support more or less weight depending on a variety of factors including, but not limited to, the size of the person supported by the flotation member (e.g., adults or children) and how the flotation member will be used (e.g., as a full body length member or kick board type member).

[0050] The thickness, width, and the length of the flotation member 702 may vary depending on a variety of factors including, but not limited to, the size of the people using the flotation member (e.g., adult or children), the material of the flotation member, and how the flotation member will be used. For example, as shown in Figure 7B, an adult sized flotation member 702 generally has a length FML between about 53 and 57 inches, an upper portion width FMuw between about 28 and 32 inches, and a lower portion width FMLW between about 18 and 25 inches. Further, as shown in Figures 7C and 7D, the thickness of the central portion of an adult sized flotation member FMcr is generally between about 5 and 7 inches and the height of the upper portion or nose of the flotation member FMun is between about 5,5 and 7.5 inches. In one embodiment, the length FML is about 55 inches, the upper portion width FMuw is about 30 inches, the lower portion width FMLW is about 22 ½ inches, the thickness of the central portion of the flotation member FMc r is about 6 ¼ inches, and the height of the upper portion or nose of the flotation member FMuti is about 6 ½ inches.

[0051 ] As shown in Figures 7A and 7B, the opening 714 in the flotation member 702 extends through the flotation member and is sized and configured to permit submersion of at least a portion of the face of a person positioned on the top 710 of the flotation member in the water below the bottom 712 of the flotation member. Further, the opening 714 permits the user to use conventional snorkeling equipment such as a mask and snorkel tube attached to the head of the user. As shown in Figures 7A and 7B, the opening 714 is oval shaped. For an adult sized flotation member, the opening 714 generally has a width Ow between about 9 and 12 inches and a length OL between about 10 and 14 inches. In one embodiment, the width Ow is about 10 ½ inches and the length OL is about 12 inches. However, the opening may be any size and cross sectional shape capable of accomplishing this including, but not limited to, circular, rectangular, square, and ova! shape. The sidewalls of the openings may also be tapered, e.g., tapering inward or outward from the top towards the bottom of the flotation member. Further, in certain embodiments, the opening may not be fully enclosed and may be U-shaped or horseshoe shaped.

[0052] The opening is generally located between the middle and a upper end of the flotation member and is generally centered on the longitudinal axis of the flotation member. As shown in Figures 7 A and 7B, the opening 714 is located in the upper portion of the flotation member 702 along the longitudinal axis 718. For an adult sized flotation member, the edge of the opening 714 is generally located a distance D of about 2 to 5 inches from the upper end of the flotation member 702. In one embodiment, the distance D is about 2 ½ inches. However, one of ordinary skill in the art would understand that the size, location, and shape of the snorkel opening may vary depending on a variety of factors such as, for example, the size of the person using the flotation device and the type of material used for the flotation member.

[0053] The flotation member 702 may comprise about any buoyant material capable of supporting a person in a body of water including, but not limited to, a foam mat, polyurethane foam, polystyrene foam, fiberglass, poly vinyl chloride (PVC), hard plastic, or the like. In certain embodiments, the flotation member may be inflatable. Further, the flotation member may be flexible or substantially rigid depending on the material and application (e.g., how the flotation member will be used, the type of water (rough or flat), storage, whether a propulsion system will be used, whether the flotation member will carry equipment, etc.). The flotation member may also wrapped in one or more materials for wear resistance or strength. For example, the flotation member may be wrapped in a Kevlar to increase rigidity or nylon sheets to increase abrasion resistance.

[0054] The flotation member may also have a friction or non slip surface. For example, as shown in Figures 7A and 7B, the flotation member 702 comprises slip resistant pads applied to the top surface 710 of the flotation member. The pads may be made of a variety of materials such as, for example, ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) foam. The top surface 710 may also comprise other friction materials or surfaces. Further, the flotation member may also comprise one or more tethers, rings, or fins. For example, as shown in Figure 7C, the flotation member 702 comprises an attachment 722 for attachment of leash.

[0055] In certain embodiments, the flotation device 700 may be disassembled, collapsed, folded, and/or rolled for storage and transport. For example. Figures 8A and 8B illustrate a flotation device 800 having a flotation member 802 that may be disassembled into two pieces. As shown, the flotation member 802 comprises a first portion 840 and a second portion 850. The first portion 840 comprises the upper portion of the flotation member 802 and includes an opening 814 and handles 816 similar to those described above with reference to Figures 7A-7F. The second portion 850 comprises the lower portion of the flotation member 802. The first portion 840 and the second portion 850 are attached together to form the flotation member 802 of the flotation device 800.

[0056] Figures 8A and 8B illustrate the connection of the first and second portions 840,

850. As shown, the first portion 840 comprises an attachment portion 860 that includes at least one opening 862 extending through the attachment portion. The second portion 850 comprises a slot or pocket 870 configured to receive the attachment portion 860 of the first portion 840 and at least one opening 872 through the second portion that substantially aligns with the opening 862 of the attachment portion 860 when the first and second portions are connected together. As shown in Figures 8A and 8B, the attachment portion 860 of the first portion 840 and the second portion 850 each comprise two openings 862, 872 that are substantially aligned when the first and second portions are connected together. Further, the openings 862, 872 are threaded such that threaded fasteners 880 may be used to connect to the first and second portions 840, 850 together.

[0057] Figures 9-10B illustrate an inflatable flotation device 900 that may be collapsed and folded or rolled for transport or storage. The flotation device 900 comprises a flotation member 902, opening 914, and handles 916 similar to those described above with reference to Figures 7A-7F. The handles may take a wide variety of different forms including, but not limited to, one or more members extending from the top of the flotation member 902 (e.g., a bar, tube or other member), one or more members laminated to the surface of the flotation member 902, openings formed in the flotation member 902, formed recessed portions on the edge of the flotation member 902, or the like. As shown in Figure 9, the flotation member 902 of the flotation device 900 also comprises a leash attachment 960 and a valve opening 950 for inflating and deflating the flotation member. When deflated, the flotation member 902 may be folded (Figure 10A) and/or rolled (Figure 10B) for storage or transport. After folding and/or rolling the deflated flotation member 902, the footprint size of the flotation device 900 may be reduced such that it can be easily stored and transported. In one embodiment, the folded and/or rolled footprint of the flotation member 902 is 8 X 16 inches or less.

[0058] In certain embodiments, the flotation member 902 may be made of drop stitch

PVC fabric. This material permits the flotation member to be filled to a higher pressure (e.g., between 10- 8 psi) than more conventional inflatables made of PVC material. The drop stitch fabric also makes the flotation member hard and rigid when inflated. PVC drop stitch fabric generally comprises sheets of PVC connected together with tens of thousands of polyester threads. The PVC drop stitch fabric of the flotation member may be a variety of thicknesses, e.g., 75, 100, 120, and 150 mm. As shown in Figures 9-10B, the flotation member 902 comprises a 75 mm thick drop stitch PVC fabric. However, the flotation member of the present application may also comprise other materials including non-drop stitch PVC material. In certain embodiments, the PVC material of the flotation member may be covered with Kevlar to increase the rigidity of the flotation member.

[0059) As described herein, when one or more components are described as being connected, joined, affixed, coupled, attached, or otherwise interconnected, such interconnection may be direct as between the components or may be in direct such as through the use of one or more intermediary components. Also as described herein, reference to a "member," "connector," "component," or "portion" shall not be limited to a single structural member, component, or element but can include an assembly of components, members or elements.

[0060] While the present invention has been illustrated by the description of

embodiments thereof, and while the embodiments have been described in considerable detail, it is not the intention of the applicants to restrict or in any way limit the scope of the invention to such details. Additional advantages and modifications will readily appear to those skilled in the art. For example, where components are releasably or removably connected or attached together, any type of releasable connection may be suitable including for example, locking connections, fastened connections, tongue and groove connections, etc. Still further, component geometries, shapes, and dimensions can be modified without changing the overall role or function of the components. Therefore, the inventive concept, in its broader aspects, is not limited to the specific details, the representative apparatus, and illustrative examples shown and described. Accordingly, departures may be made from such details without departing from the spirit or scope of the applicant's general inventive concept.

[0061] While various inventive aspects, concepts and features of the inventions may be described and illustrated herein as embodied in combination in the exemplary embodiments, these various aspects, concepts and features may be used in many alternative embodiments, either individually or in various combinations and sub-combinations thereof. Unless expressly excluded herein all such combinations and sub-combinations are intended to be within the scope of the present inventions. Still further, while various alternative embodiments as to the various aspects, concepts and features of the inventions— such as alternative materials, structures, configurations, methods, devices and components, alternatives as to form, fit and function, and so on— may be described herein, such descriptions are not intended to be a complete or exhaustive list of available alternative embodiments, whether presently known or later developed. Those skilled in the art may readily adopt one or more of the inventive aspects, concepts or features into additional embodiments and uses within the scope of the present inventions even if such embodiments are not expressly disclosed herein. Additionally, even though some features, concepts or aspects of the inventions may be described herein as being a preferred arrangement or method, such description is not intended to suggest that such feature is required or necessary unless expressly so stated. StiU further, exemplary or representative values and ranges may be included to assist in understanding the present disclosure; however, such values and ranges are not to be construed in a limiting sense and are intended to be critical values or ranges only if so expressly stated. Moreover, while various aspects, features and concepts may be expressly identified herein as being inventive or forming part of an invention, such identification is not intended to be exclusive, but rather there may be inventive aspects, concepts and features that are fully described herein without being expressly identified as such or as part of a specific invention, the inventions instead being set forth in the appended claims.

Descriptions of exemplary methods or processes are not limited to inclusion of all steps as being required in all cases, nor is the order that the steps are presented to be construed as required or necessary unless expressly so stated.

Claims

Claims:

1. A snorkel system, comprising: a buoyant flotation member for supporting a person in a body of water, the flotation member comprising a top, a bottom, and at least one opening extending through the flotation member from the top to the bottom, wherein the opening is sized and configured to permit submersion of at least a portion of the face of a person positioned on the top of the flotation member in the water below the bottom of the flotation member.

2. The snorkel system of claim 1 , wherein the flotation member comprises at least one of a foam mat, polyurethane foam, polystyrene foam, fiberglass, and polyvinyl chloride.

3. The snorkel system of claim 1, wherein the flotation member is configured to support at least about 250 lbs. without sinking.

4. The snorkel system of claim 3, wherein the flotation member is inflatable and comprises a drop stitch polyvinyl chloride fabric.

5. The snorkel system of claim 3, wherein the flotation member comprises a first portion and a second portion that are connected together to form the flotation member.

6. The snorkel system of claim 5, wherein the first portion comprises the opening and an

attachment portion and the second portion comprises a slot for receiving the attachment portion of the first portion to connect the first and second portions together.

7. The snorkel system of claim 6, wherein the first and second portions are connected together with one or more fasteners.

8. The snorkel system of claim 1 , wherein the opening is sized and configured such that the person can use a snorkel mask and tube when positioned on the top of the flotation member.

9. The snorkel system of claim 1 , wherein the opening comprises at least one of a circular, rectangular, square, and oval cross sectional shape.

10. The snorkel system of claim 1 , wherein the flotation member has a thickness between about 5 and 7 inches, a width between about 18 and 32 inches, and a length between about 53 and 57 inches.

1 1. The snorkel system of claim 1 further comprising at least one handle formed in the flotation member.

12. The snorkel system of claim 1 1 , wherein the handle is located proximate the opening such that it is reachable by the person positioned on the top of the floatation member with at least a portion of his or her face in the water below the bottom of the flotation member.

13. The snorkel system of claim 1, wherein the flotation member is flexible such that it may be collapsed and folded or rolled up.

14. The snorkel system of claim 1 further comprising a breathing tube having a substantially rigid first portion in fluid communication with a flexible second portion, wherein the first portion extends upward from the top of the flotation member and the second portion is fluidly connected to a mouthpiece, and wherein the second portion is configured such that the mouthpiece is accessible to a person positioned on the top of the flotation member and may be inserted into the person's mouth when his or her face is disposed in the opening.

15. The snorkel system of claim 14, wherein the first portion of the breathing tube extends into the flotation member and the second portion is directly connected to the first portion.

16. The snorkel system of claim 14, wherein the first and second portions of the breathing tube are fluidly connected to a second opening in the flotation member.

17. The snorkel system of claim 14, wherein the second portion extends from the bottom and into the opening of the flotation member.

18. The snorkel system of claim 14, wherein at least one of the first and second portions of the breathing tube comprises a first lumen and a second lumen.

19. The snorkel system of claim 18, wherein the first lumen comprises one or more valves

arranged such that the first lumen is a dedicated inhalation lumen, and wherein the second lumen comprises one or more valves arranged such that the second lumen is a dedicated exhalation lumen.

20. The snorkel system of claim 14, wherein both the first and second portions of the breathing tube comprise first and second lumens, and wherein the first lumens are in fluid

communication and are dedicated inhalation lumens and the second lumens are in fluid communication and are dedicated exhalation lumens. i s

21. The snorkel system of claim 14, wherein at least part of the second portion of the breathing tube is submerged in the water during use of the snorkel system.

22. The snorkel system of claim 14, wherein substantially the entire second portion of the

breathing tube is submerged in the water during use of the snorkel system.

23. A flotation device, comprising:

a buoyant flotation member for supporting a person in a body of water, the flotation member comprising a top, a bottom, and at least one opening extending through the flotation member from the top to the bottom, wherein the opening is sized and configured to permit submersion of at least a portion of the face of a person positioned on the top of the flotation member in the water below the bottom of the flotation member; and

at least one handle formed in the flotation member, wherein the handle is located proximate the opening such that it is reachable by the person positioned on the top of the floatation member with at least a portion of his or her face in the water below the bottom of the flotation member; and

wherein the flotation member has a thickness between about 5 and 7 inches, a first width between about 28 and 32 inches, a second width between about 18 and 25 inches, and an overall length between about 53 and 57 inches and is configured to support at least about 250 lbs. without sinking, and wherein the opening is sized and configured such that the person can use a snorkel mask and tube when positioned on the top of the flotation member.

24. The flotation device of claim 23, wherein the floatation member is inflatable and comprises a drop stitch polyvinyl chloride fabric.

25. The flotation device of claim 23, wherein the flotation member comprises a first portion and a second portion that are connected together to form the flotation member, wherein the first portion comprises the opening and an attachment portion and the second portion comprises a slot for receiving the attachment portion of the first portion to connect the first and second portions together.