Abstract: A floatation device is provided. In some embodiments, a floatation device is provided, comprising an inflatable ring composed of a transparent material, wherein the inflatable ring includes: an outer air chamber having a first valve for inflating the outer air chamber; an inner air chamber having a second valve for inflating the inner air chamber, wherein the outer air chamber and the inner air chamber are not in communication; a cut through the outer air chamber and the inner air chamber of the inflatable ring that forms opposing ends of the inflatable ring; and a plurality of fasteners placed on a top surface and a bottom surface of the outer or inner air chamber for detachably connecting the opposing ends of the inflatable ring.

Abstract: A swim aid device comprising a belt having a hoop portion including a first tab and a second tab, a front end and a back end opposite said front end wherein the back end includes an opening and wherein the belt is biased in a first closed position and operatively openable to a second open position; and one or more buoyant elements couplable to said back end of the belt and securable in place with said tabs wherein a buoyancy of the one or more buoyant elements allows a user to remain afloat.

Abstract: A floatation device is provided. In some embodiments, a floatation device is provided, comprising an inflatable ring composed of a transparent material, wherein the inflatable ring includes: an outer air chamber having a first valve for inflating the outer air chamber; an inner air chamber having a second valve for inflating the inner air chamber, wherein the outer air chamber and the inner air chamber are not in communication; a cut through the outer air chamber and the inner air chamber of the inflatable ring that forms opposing ends of the inflatable ring; and a plurality of fasteners placed on a top surface and a bottom surface of the outer or inner air chamber for detachably connecting the opposing ends of the inflatable ring.

Abstract: In one embodiment, a personal flotation device that can be worn by a user includes an inflation system including an inflatable bladder, a gas-generating component configured to generate gas using a chemical reaction and inject the generated gas into the bladder to inflate it, and an actuator configured to activate the gas-generating component; a sensor configured to sense one or more physiological parameters of the user; and an inflation control system configured to receive physiological parameter data from the sensor, to determine whether or not the user is experiencing a medical event that places the user at risk of drowning, and, if the user is experiencing such a medical event, to signal the actuator to activate the gas-generating component so as to provide floatation to the user.

Abstract: A self-inflating personal flotation device (“SIPFD”) configured to be worn by a wearer and aid the wearer automatically. The SIPFD may communicate with a global communication network and pressurized gas cartridge assembly based on a triggering event. The SIPFD may have a wearable data transmitter of a heartbeat device; a water depth device; and a geolocation device. The SIPFD may have a neck inflation device and a torso inflation device both connected to the pressurized gas cartridge assembly to enable the pressurized gas cartridge to inflate the neck and torso inflation devices when prompted. The prompt may be automatic or on request and be performed using an actuator mechanically communicating with the pressurized gas cartridge assembly to: (i) inflate the neck and torso inflation devices; and (ii) deflate the neck and torso inflation devices associated with a wearer.

Abstract: A floatation device is provided. In some embodiments, a floatation device is provided, comprising an inflatable ring composed of a transparent material, wherein the inflatable ring includes: an outer air chamber having a first valve for inflating the outer air chamber; an inner air chamber having a second valve for inflating the inner air chamber, wherein the outer air chamber and the inner air chamber are not in communication; a cut through the outer air chamber and the inner air chamber of the inflatable ring that forms opposing ends of the inflatable ring; and a plurality of fasteners placed on a top surface and a bottom surface of the outer or inner air chamber for detachably connecting the opposing ends of the inflatable ring.

Abstract: A self-inflating personal flotation device (“SIPFD”) configured to be worn by a wearer and aid the wearer automatically. The SIPFD may communicate with a global communication network and pressurized gas cartridge assembly based on a triggering event. The SIPFD may have a wearable data transmitter of a heartbeat device; a water depth device; and a geolocation device. The SIPFD may have a neck inflation device and a torso inflation device both connected to the pressurized gas cartridge assembly to enable the pressurized gas cartridge to inflate the neck and torso inflation devices when prompted. The prompt may be automatic or on request and be performed using an actuator mechanically communicating with the pressurized gas cartridge assembly to: (i) inflate the neck and torso inflation devices; and (ii) deflate the neck and torso inflation devices associated with a wearer.

Abstract: An inflatable personal floatation systems includes the manually inflated personal floatation device for aviation use including arm-strap loops, an inflation pull cord, a pack breakaway tether, and an inflation canister, a sealed pouch, an individual floatation device pack and a strap. The individual floatation device is configured to be worn in a waist belt. The individual floatation device is housed within the sealed pouch and connected to the sealed pouch via the pack breakaway tether. The inflatable personal floatation system provides a safety device for the user-wearer.

Abstract: An infant recreational floatation device is provided. In some embodiments, a floatation device for an infant is provided, the floatation device comprising an inflatable ring having a top surface and a bottom surface, wherein the inflatable ring includes: an air chamber having an upper chamber portion and a lower chamber portion that are divided by a layer; a cut through the air chamber of the inflatable ring that forms a first end of the inflatable ring and a second end of the inflatable ring, wherein the first end and the second end of the inflatable ring are displaced to insert a neck of the infant into an interior space; a plurality of cut-out portions adjacent to the interior space; and a plurality of fasteners placed on the top surface and the bottom surface of the inflatable ring that detachably connect the first end and the second end of the inflatable ring.

Abstract: An equipment protector including a tubular body extending from a first end to a second. The tubular body is manufactured from a waterproof, collapsible material and has a first diameter. A buoyancy ring is sealingly connected to the first end of the tubular body and defines a through passage. The buoyancy ring has an outer diameter which is larger than the first diameter such that the buoyancy ring extends radially outwardly from the tubular body and is susceptible to a buoyancy force created at the exterior of the tubular body. A method of protecting equipment is also provided.

Abstract: An infant recreational floatation device is provided. In some embodiments, a floatation device for an infant is provided, the floatation device comprising an inflatable ring having a top surface and a bottom surface, wherein the inflatable ring includes: an air chamber having an upper chamber portion and a lower chamber portion that are divided by a layer; a cut through the air chamber of the inflatable ring that forms a first end of the inflatable ring and a second end of the inflatable ring, wherein the first end and the second end of the inflatable ring are displaced to insert a neck of the infant into an interior space; a plurality of cut-out portions adjacent to the interior space; and a plurality of fasteners placed on the top surface and the bottom surface of the inflatable ring that detachably connect the first end and the second end of the inflatable ring.

Abstract: An improved canine flotation apparatus that uses a segmented panel construction and varying densities of foam within the panels of the apparatus to comfortably and evenly float canines of a wide variety of weights and dimensions. The chest yoke panel and belly panel cradles the canine in the apparatus, helping to keep the head above water. The chest yoke panel further provides a measure of insulation around the heart and lungs, permits easier lifting of the canine due to the more secure fit and facilitates more natural movement by the canine in the water.

Abstract: A vest personal flotation device saver includes: (a) a saver pillow portion, and two substantially mirror image saver tail portions extending from the pillow portion, with at least four substantially parallel body strap slots; (b) a central open neck; (c) an open-ended gap extending down from the open neck between the two tail portions; (d) three closable, adjacent body sides; (e) a central main chamber; and (f) a releasable closure mechanism attached to each of the body sides; wherein the personal flotation device saver has an open position and a closed position. The vest-type personal flotation device saver may include a closed tail end pocket at the end of each tail portion, a releasable saver waist strap device attached to the tail portion; and a locking mechanism adjacent the closure mechanism. This simplified abstract is not intended to limit, and should not be interpreted as limiting, the scope of the claims.

Abstract: This present invention relates to a life jacket that includes a collar that is intended to be positioned behind the head of the wearer, and a main body attached to two lateral extremities of the collar. This life jacket includes positioning resources designed to pass the collar from a down position, in which it is intended to rest upon the top of the back, to an up position, in which it is intended to rest behind the head of the wearer.

Abstract: The present invention is a dog “swim safe” floatation system, including flanking water wings sewn directly to a suspension-type harness for the dog. The harness can be adjusted by a system of Velcro and latches and thus the entire apparatus can be conveniently modified to promote stability. A canine floatation collar is also disclosed.

Abstract: A personal flotation apparatus including an inflatable bladder assembly coupled along a sleeve. The inflatable bladder assembly includes an inflatable bladder extending at least part way along the sleeve and a gas canister coupled with the inflatable bladder. The inflatable bladder assembly further includes an opening mechanism sized and shaped to open the gas canister. A heart monitor is in communication with the opening mechanism. In one option, the opening mechanism is adapted to open the gas canister and inflate the inflatable bladder when the heart monitor detects a heart rate outside of a predetermined range.

Abstract: An inflatable necklace designed to be worn around the neck of a young child is provided. The necklace contains a sensor which, in response to a pre-determined period of immersion and/or a sudden increase in pressure, will activate a gas source which inflates one or more bladders which expand outwardly from the necklace. The inflated bladders provide sufficient buoyancy and floatation to keep a child afloat until the child can be rescued.

Abstract: Apparatus useful for providing buoyancy for animals are described. One apparatus includes a strap-like carrier and one or more non-inflatable floatation members secured substantially adjacent the carrier by a cover material stitched to the carrier. Another apparatus includes hook and loop fasteners to both fasten the ends of the carrier together as well as fasten the non-inflatable floatation members to the carrier.

Abstract: A personal flotation apparatus including an inflatable bladder assembly coupled along a sleeve. The inflatable bladder assembly includes an inflatable bladder extending at least part way along the sleeve and a gas canister coupled with the inflatable bladder. The inflatable bladder assembly further includes an opening mechanism sized and shaped to open the gas canister. A heart monitor is in communication with the opening mechanism. In one option, the opening mechanism is adapted to open the gas canister and inflate the inflatable bladder when the heart monitor detects a heart rate outside of a predetermined range.

Abstract: This invention describes a swim ring for an infant, which is an inflated circular ring. The circular ring comprises an inner ring and an outer ring, and the outer ring is thicker than the inner ring. A cut is formed through the inner ring and the outer ring. A fastener selectively connects the inner ring and the outer ring. The outer ring is a two-part structure. Two air holes are formed in the outer ring, and an inner air chamber of the inner ring communicates with one of the chambers of the outer ring. A recess to hold an infant's chin is formed in the inner ring. This structure allows the inflated circular ring to be attached around an infant's neck and make the infant float perpendicularly in water without restricting movement of the infant's limbs or restricting breathing.

Abstract: A support collar having a bladder and a shell. The bladder is adapted to be inflated by a fluid. The shell is adapted to be attached to a harness. When inflated, the bladder is shaped by the shell to form an air chamber. The air chamber is characterized by a cross-section having a center of gravity and a dimension through the center of gravity. The dimension is larger at an open end than at the close end.

Abstract: A multi-chambered torque personal flotation device for corrective turning action of a weighted individual. The multi-chambered device is capable of being adjusted to provide a wide range of buoyancy as might be needed under differing degrees of ballistic protection. An eccentric mobile buoyant system complements a massive displacement required to float the armored victim by providing the energy required to reliably initiate corrective turning action, regardless of the gear worn, position of water entry, or state of consciousness of the wearer. In the event the conscious victim desires to shed the body armor, a series of quick release members allow the victim to shed their ballistics vest while retaining their life jacket. The integrated life jacket upon separation from the heavily ballasted body armor continues to provide reliable airway protection.

Abstract: An integrated or attached (built in or retrofitted) space occupying (fills space beneath the chin) cephalic restraint collar (holds the head in the axis of rotation) for improved personal flotation device (“PFD”) performance. The restraint assists with aligning and securing the head and neck in line with the axis of rotation. In this position the ballast of the head is divided evenly about the axis of rotation negating its ability to oppose effective rotation. The cephalo-cervical restraint improves the efficacy of all PFD designs elements targeting turning. By guiding the head into a cylindrical notch in the posterior cervical foam behind the victim's head the head is then aligned along the axis of rotation where the heads 14-17 pounds of ballast is symmetrically distributed about that axis.

Abstract: An apparatus to be worn as a necklace around the neck of a small child, which, when submerged in water, will inflate and float the child's head above water. The necklace will be composed of a gas generation chamber, two attached, inflatable balloons, a cosmetic sheath, or covering, and a small clasp to connect the necklace around the child's neck. When submerged in water a collapsible gas generation chamber, weighted on the bottom side, and an air bubble on the top side, will expand the gas generation chamber so that water is pulled, through a one-way valve, where it will start a reaction with anhydrous carbonate and acid, and from carbon dioxide gas. The gas will build pressure inside the chamber and push stoppers from the outlets into the balloons, and fill the deflated balloons, radially, away from the child's neck in order to float the child's head above the water.

Abstract: The invention, is an improved PFD is flexible tube shell with caps urged over and preferably sealed onto each end, each cap end having a clasp and preferably worn as a necklace by joining the clasps on each end. The flexible tube shell has a longitudinal groove and a long distensible sack with ends each having gas source. Said sack is disposed internally through the length of the tube. To activate, the PFD is streatched or jerked to pull the end caps off the tube. This releases gas from to fill sack expanding outward causing adequate pressure to cause the flexible tube shell to be split along the internal groove and is jettisoned. The PFD is a gas filled ring shape.

Abstract: An apparatus to be worn as a necklace around the neck of a small child, which, when submerged in water, will inflate and float the child's head above water. The necklace will be composed of a gas generation chamber, two attached, inflatable balloons, a cosmetic sheath, or covering, and a small clasp to connect the necklace around the child's neck. When submerged in water a collapsible gas generation chamber, weighted on the bottom side, and an air bubble on the top side, will expand the gas generation chamber so that water is pulled, through a one-way valve, where it will start a reaction with anhydrous carbonate and acid, and from carbon dioxide gas. The gas will build pressure inside the chamber and push stoppers from the outlets into the balloons, and fill the deflated balloons, radially, away from the child's neck in order to float the child's head above he water.

Abstract: A floatation device, particularly a floatation device for children that can be easily worn, easily positioned, effective in operation, and sufficiently innocuous in appearance comprises an self-inflating tube that is worn around the neck, lies relatively flat against the wearer, and nests under and against the chin when inflated, without pressing tightly against the neck as would restrict breathing. The uninflated device may be plain or decorated and should respond to direct contact with water by inflating within no more than one minute of contact with water, and preferably in less than 15 seconds of contact with water. The device should not inflate nor generate gas when contacted with 85° C. and 98% relative humidity for 15 minutes.

Abstract: An Elizabethan collar is circular in shape having an outer periphery. A central aperture forms an opening for the animal's head. The collar is inflatable, either having a valve filling the collar or a circular bladder placed within the collar and having a valve extending through the cover of the collar for access by the user. In addition to being inflatable, a foam layer may be provided in the collar or the collar may be permanently preinflated without a valve. With the provision of a valve, the foam can be compressed and the valve closed. With the valve closed, the foam will not re-expand until the user opens the valve. This allows the collar to assume a compact configuration when not in use. The collar can be split from the inner periphery formed by the central aperture to the outer periphery of the collar. The two edges formed by the split are joined to one another. The split allows the collar to be put around the animal's neck without sliding the collar over the animal's head.

Abstract: A personal floatation device comprising: first means comprising at least a buoyant member provided with a neck receiving opening; and second means allowing to apply the weight of the wearer to said first means; wherein said second means are positioned underneath said first means to position the center of gravity of a combination “wearer—personal floatation device” substantially under the water level and prevent overturning of the same.

Abstract: A personal floatation device comprises a wide buoyant collar hinged to a thoracic float. The collar has a front portion projecting forwardly under the chin of the wearer to cooperate with the thoracic float to limit forward tilting movements of the wearer's head. The hinge between the collar and the thoracic floater provides for the combination of the buoyancy of the collar and the thoracic float when a wearer fall face down in the water. The juxtaposition of the collar and the thoracic float contributes to rapidly pivot the wearer's head out of the water. A buoyant flap is articulated to a rear end of the collar so as to be only responsive to backward movements of the wearer's upper body.

Abstract: A personal floatation device comprising. first means comprising at least a buoyant member provided with a neck receiving opening; and second means allowing to apply the weight of the wearer to said first means; wherein said second means are positioned underneath said first means to position the center of gravity of a combination “wearer—personal floatation device” substantially under the water level and prevent overturning of the same.

Abstract: An integrated or attached (built in or retrofitted) space occupying (fills space beneath the chin) cephalic restraint collar (holds the head in the axis of rotation) for improved personal flotation device (“PFD”) performance. The restraint assists with aligning and securing the head and neck in line with the axis of rotation. In this position the ballast of the head is divided evenly about the axis of rotation negating its ability to oppose effective rotation. The cephalo-cervical restraint improves the efficacy of all PFD designs elements targeting turning. By guiding the head into a cylindrical notch in the posterior cervical foam behind the victim's head the head is them aligned along the axis of rotation where the heads 14-17 pounds of ballast is symmetrically distributed about that axis. Therefore, whatever eccentric forces are applied in the generation of angular acceleration or torque, do not have to overcome the offsetting effects of the heads ballast acting as a mobile ballast element.

Abstract: A personal floatation device comprising an improved float to provide buoyant lift to the body of the wearer of the device when in water and a strap assembly to connect the improved float about the wearer. The improved float includes a front sized to generally overlay the front torso of a wearer, a head support to generally overlay the shoulder region, and a neck opening sized to loosely confront the neck of the wearer, with a portion of the neck opening disposed in the front and in the head support, and further, includes an inner neck contacting surface about a perimeter of the neck opening. The improved float includes a back sized both to overlay a portion of the back of a wearer and dwell at least partially within the neck opening, with the back being movably connected to the head support and movable between a first position wherein it dwells within the neck opening and another position wherein the neck opening is fully opened to permit a wearer's head to pass therethrough.

Abstract: A first belt of the invention--substantially hollow and worn about the waist--is able to be filled with a compressed gas from a cartridge coupled with it so as to unfold and expand outwardly under action of the compressed gas which fills it. A second belt of the invention--also worn about the waist--underlies the first belt and is coupled with it by a drawstrap. When the first belt is filled with the compressed gas, its length increases to form a horizontal tube which serves as a life preserver. Putting it over the head, about the neck and shoulders, and pulling down the end of the drawstrap snugly secures the first belt to the second belt (which continues to be worn about the waist) to convert it to a life vest. Couplings are provided on the first belt for maintaining a circular configuration across the chest area, while an elongated tube allows the wearer to orally inflate the vest should the compressed gas tend to leak over time, in keeping the head of the user out of the water.

Abstract: A small bouyant tube is concentrically joined to a larger bouyant tube. The circle of joinder may be at any point from the inner circumference of the outer, larger tube up to the top of the outer tube. Thus, the inner, smaller tube may fit entirely within the outer tube, or be relatively larger in size and positioned upwardly from, but still partially within, the outer tube. The inner and outer tubes are preferably inflatable, wherein the inner tube may have an irregular contour for a more comfortable fit around the neck of the user floating in water. By comfortably and safely supporting the neck region above the surface of the water, the present invention inhibits movement of the spinal cord and reduces pressure thereto for relaxation and/or therapeutic purposes.

Abstract: An inflatable personal flotation device for positioning at the shoulders of a user has front and rear float portions, automatic inflating apparatus for operation upon immersion in water, a harness comprising a belt disposed about the user, at least one shoulder strap between the belt and the float, and elastic straps between the harness and the float front and rear portions to urge downwardly thereon on the float portions in response to the weight of a user urging downwardly the central portion of the float. Hinges are preferably provided between the front and rear float portions for improved bendability therebetween. A chin strap may be provided for the user's head when the float is inflated.

Abstract: The present invention features a pocket-sized, portable, flotation device that folds into a carrying case, which is the size of a cellular phone or camera. It can be carried upon a person in a shirt pocket or clipped to a waistline belt. The flotation device inflates into a diamond-shaped collar. The diamond shape of the flotation collar is uniquely constructed, so as to provide sufficient buoyancy to keep the user's head afloat. The diamond shape is also useful in preventing deflation of the device; it uniquely separates the flotation balloon into four separate compartments or cells, each of which is substantially sealed from adjacent compartments to prevent or reduce deflation of the adjacent cells through puncture or other mishap to one of the cells. The unique sealing construction is operative by the simple means of an approximately sixty-degree construction angle at the apex seam between the lobes.

Abstract: A self inflating flotation device comprising a pouch adapted to be worn about the waist of a user until needed. The device includes an inflatable chamber therein. A compressed air cylinder is coupled to a one-way valve in fluid communication with the interior of the chamber for quickly and easily inflating the chamber.

Abstract: This invention concerns a new type of Mini-Collar which can be worn continuously around the neck, its very small, very light, not bulky, comfortable, and brought into use rapidly and very easily. The Collar is formed from two symmetrically almost identical, independent major elements. The invention provides for each major element to be independent and to include apparatus to deliver compressed air, to inflate an expansible envelope providing support for an individual in the water. The inflatable assembly of each independent element comprises essentially a frame shaped as a semicircle which is a container frame filled with compressed air. Cooperation between the two elements provides that each one forms at one end, half of a hinge which secured to each other will form a solid coupling element.

Abstract: An inflatable cushion including a watertight container adapted thereto, the container being provided with an eye for threading a carrying strap therethrough. The container includes an upper and a lower hollow part, each of which is open at the front face, and an intermediate piece whereby the container is provided with separated upper and lower cavities. The upper and lower parts are attachable directly to one another without said intermediate piece to form a cavity of about double size. The cushion is adjusted in its dimensions to the container so that it will fit into one of the separated cavities only when in a non-inflated condition. The watertightness of each one of the cavities is maintained when the other part (forming the respective other cavity) is separated from the intermediate piece.

Abstract: A distress signaling device is disclosed which may be used on land or water which supports a light system spelling out S.O.S. or other indicia which may also become inflated automatically when coming in contact with water and which also may contain a switch which activates the lights automatically when the device is unrolled from it's carrying position. It may also be inflated automatically by a compressed air canister when coming in contact with water or may be blown up manually by mouth and also becomes an emergency air supply. Also the device has a cavity in it's center through which a person's head may be inserted to keep their head above water and becomes an emergency supply of air.

Abstract: A life preserver formed of a flat, rectangular sheet body made of a cellular low density polyethylene in thickness within 0.5-1.5 m/m, the sheet body including a male fastener and a female fastener aligned on the longitudinal center line of the bottom edge thereof at two opposite ends, a zip fastener on the longitudinal center line of the bottom thereof at the center, self-sticking fastening elements longitudinally symmetrically aligned along two opposite longer sides of teh bottom edge thereof, and male and female snap fasteners alternatively arranged along the border of the top edgte thereof. The zip fastener is unfastened for inserting the user's head. With the fastening elements thereof respectively connected together, the life preserver is put on the user to serve as a life jacket.

Abstract: The device has a source of acoustic signals placed beneath the hull of the boat, a beacon, an alarm pack worn by the navigator around the neck. If the navigator falls overboard, an acoustic sensor built into the pack detects the emission of the source and actuates the jettisoning of the beacon by remote control. This beacon has a measuring head fitted out with a directional acoustic sensor and a compass capable of computing information on the position of the beacon, transmitted by radio to a control box fixed in the boat. As the beacon is supposed to be near the castaway or man overboard, he is thus found.

Abstract: An apparatus is disclosed and method for using same wherein a life vest is formed by a single heat sealing operation which effectively forms a front and rear sealed chamber for flotation and effectively interconnects a neck member therebetween for providing a neck gusset also heat sealed in place simultaneously therewith. The apparatus includes a heat sealing body jig for simultaneously sealing of four layers of pneumatically impervious material with respect to one another to form two flotation chambers. Also a neck sealing jig is included as a two member configuration pivotally secured with respect to one another to allow a neck member to be stretched thereover to facilitate attachment thereof by sealing with respect to both flotation chambers. The neck jig includes attachment means for quickly securing the neck material in place.

Abstract: Life preserver collar for use in preventing drowning and to be worn by an individual around the neck, the collar (10) being provided with means to deliver fluid under pressure and with expansible envelope means and consisting of two identical elements (11) connected together as an extension of each other to form the collar (10), the elements (11) being separable from each other at least at a reciprocal joint so as to enable the collar (10) to be put about the neck of the user, each element (11) comprising a container (13) of an expansible envelope (20) and a container (12) of fluid.

Abstract: An inflatable emergency flotation device to be worn around the neck of the wearer and strapped to the front of the wearer's body. The device includes a folded, flexible, airtight tube; a strap which is slidably attached to the ends of the tube; an oral inflation tube; and an inflation assembly including a holder for holding a carbon dioxide cylinder and a hand operated or automatic activating mechanism.

Abstract: Device for water therapy and exercise that allows the human body to float in an essentially vertical position suspended along a line of the chin, jaw and lower rear cranium just above the nape of the neck without constricting wearer's throat. The device is an annular inflatable tube divided into upper and lower hermetically sealed separate chambers of different sizes, having a cross-section which increases gradually from the chin portion to the nape portion, and as seen in plan has generally the shape of the Greek capital letter omega.

Abstract: An inflatable lifejacket for providing buoyancy in water to a wearer of the lifejacket includes an inflatable buoyancy envelope which is donned by a wearer who passes his head through a neck opening in the envelope to bring a main body portion of the envelope to overlie the chest with a neck portion of the envelope passing round the sides and back of the neck and resting on the shoulders. The neck portion of the envelope is formed by two inflatable neck sections extending upwardly from the main body portion at each side thereof and at their upper ends being connected together in the region of the back of the neck of the wearer by constraining straps which hold the upper ends together in a manner which permits spacing of them when the envelope is uninflated to provide a neck opening through which the wearer can pass his head but which so constrains the two ends when the envelope is inflated as to define a neck opening which obstructs passage of the wearer's head.

Abstract: A life preserving device is shown having a body portion with a pair of floating sections which extend in opposite directions from a centrally located fold. Each of the floating sections has an aperture adapted to receive a wearer's head. The floating sections are foldable together along the central fold for use by a single wearer with the single wearer's head passing through both of the apertures. The floating sections are foldable apart for use by two wearers with each of the wearer's heads passing through a selected one of the apertures. A pressure sensing switch is shown for use with the life preserving device. The pressure sensing switch includes a pressure sensing membrane which is affixed to the body and which is responsive to an increase in inflation pressure within the floating section of the body to complete and actuate an electrical circuit. The electrical circuit can be used to power a radio transmitter to transmit a distress signal.

Abstract: A floatable collar having a floatable chin bar to secure the collar on the neck of the swimmer and having an inflatable and expandable section to provide greater buoyancy and stability to the swimmer.