Body Supporting Buoyant Device Patents (Class 441/129)
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Publication number: 20100273374Abstract: The surf and rodeo ball of the present application comprises a lower semi spherical body having an outer surface sufficient to define a volume for displacing enough water to support the apparatus itself and one or more persons riding it. The surf and rodeo ball of the present application also comprises a higher portion comprising a rope, a rope hook ring, a rope hook, for each of the hands of the user and a central elevated structure to accommodate and support the user's body. In addition to providing the amusement and exercise device, the ball has uses as a floating safety device.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 14, 2010Publication date: October 28, 2010Inventors: Anton D. ANDERSON, Anthony W. ANDERSON
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Patent number: 7811145Abstract: A device comprises a spring and a sleeve. The spring is configured to form a closed loop. The spring is moveable between a coiled configuration when the spring is collapsed and an uncoiled configuration when the spring is expanded. The spring defines a circumference while in the uncoiled configuration. The spring is disposed within the sleeve.Type: GrantFiled: March 9, 2009Date of Patent: October 12, 2010Assignee: Kelsyus, LLCInventor: David A. Arias
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Publication number: 20100237204Abstract: An expansion device, for use for flotation and as a headrest, is formed of flexible corrugated tubing capable of contracting into a compact size for storage, and said tubing capable of expanding for application about the body of the wearer, the expandable tubing including end caps capable of hermetic sealing to seal the interior of the expansion device when used for floatation. The end caps that have an eyelet provided there through, for the application of strapping, when the expansion device is applied to the body of the wearer when used as a flotation support. The expandable tubing is made of polymer, and can include a spiral wire integrated in one of the apex or valley of one tubing to reinforce the expandable tubing during repeated application.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 2, 2010Publication date: September 23, 2010Inventor: Sunny E. L. Huang
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Patent number: 7798907Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention are directed to an apparatus and system for a target game used in conjunction with a toilet or urinal, wherein a target body is positioned within the toilet basin. The target game comprises a target body and coupling members, wherein the target body is divided into sections. The coupling members secure the target body to the toilet basin and include a securing member and an attachment member, wherein the securing member is any device that is capable of attaching to the toilet and wherein the attachment member couples the securing member to the target body. Other embodiments of the apparatus and system include image projection systems to create the target.Type: GrantFiled: May 10, 2005Date of Patent: September 21, 2010Inventors: Gregory A. Piccionelli, Gary Friedman
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Publication number: 20100233924Abstract: A collapsible flotation device is provided that uses a coilable spring coupled to a panel to collapse the device when the spring is coiled, and to expand the device when the spring is uncoiled configuration. The spring can be contained within a sleeve along the outer portion of the panel. A support member that traverses the panel is provided. An inflatable bladder disposed about a part of the outer portion of the panel and coupled to the support member buoyantly supports a body weight of a user. The combination of the inflatable bladder and the support member provide support for a user in a seated position on the panel. Many configurations are disclosed, including a multi-user collapsible flotation device, multiple connected single-user flotation devices, and so forth. A back support member and a headrest, both of which can be inflatable, provide additional support for a user to maintain a seated position on the panel. A foot support member is provided for the comfort of the user.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 27, 2010Publication date: September 16, 2010Inventors: Brian Edward Le Gette, David Reeb, Alan Tipp, Justin Saul Werner, Ronald L. Wilson, II, Inna Alesina
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Publication number: 20100203781Abstract: An insulated, flexible article having insulating properties, as well as light weight and excellent buoyancy characteristics, and comprising a core mat with individual close spaced air or flexible other gas filled cells made of thin, highly flexible plastic and with one or both faces of the mat having one or more flexible face sheets laminated to the core mat to form a composite sheet that can be shaped using patterns and sewn, bonded or otherwise assembled to be a flexible, insulative and buoyant article.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 6, 2009Publication date: August 12, 2010Inventor: Walter Gellatly
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Publication number: 20100190394Abstract: A float (1) suitable for use as a buoy or as a component for a wave-powered vehicle. The float (1) includes an upper member (12) whose height can be changed and/or which remained substantially vertical even when the float is in wave-bearing water. A low drag cable (2) suitable for use as a tether in a wave-powered vehicle has a streamlined cross-section and includes a tensile member (21) near the front of the cross-section, at least one non-load-bearing member (22) behind the tensile member, and a polymeric jacket (23).Type: ApplicationFiled: February 29, 2008Publication date: July 29, 2010Inventors: Roger G. Hine, Derek L. Hine, Kurt A.F. Kiesow, William Stutz, Graham Hine
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Patent number: 7744436Abstract: A portable, roll-able or fold-able mat for supporting one or more individuals includes a non-inflatable, buoyant core. The core includes buoyancy sufficient to support the one or more individuals on a surface of the mat. The core includes at least one layer of foam and a non-foam layer connected with at least one surface of the layer of foam.Type: GrantFiled: November 18, 2008Date of Patent: June 29, 2010Assignee: BRK Brands, Inc.Inventors: Robert C. Pole, III, Mark Ball, Charles G. Detmar, Jr., Jay Crookston
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Patent number: 7727038Abstract: A collapsible flotation device is provided that uses a coilable spring coupled to a panel to collapse the device when the spring is coiled, and to expand the device when the spring is uncoiled configuration. The spring can be contained within a sleeve along the outer portion of the panel. A support member that traverses the panel is provided. An inflatable bladder disposed about a part of the outer portion of the panel and coupled to the support member buoyantly supports a body weight of a user. The combination of the inflatable bladder and the support member provide support for a user in a seated position on the panel. Many configurations are disclosed, including a multi-user collapsible flotation device, multiple connected single-user flotation devices, and so forth. A back support member and a headrest, both of which can be inflatable, provide additional support for a user to maintain a seated position on the panel. A foot support member is provided for the comfort of the user.Type: GrantFiled: May 31, 2005Date of Patent: June 1, 2010Assignee: Kelsyus, LLCInventors: Brian Edward Le Gette, David Reeb, Alan Tipp, Justin Saul Werner, Ronald L. Wilson, II, Inna Alesina
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Publication number: 20100093236Abstract: A non-inflatable flotation device for pets to enjoy water play activities. The buoyant semi-rigid frame consists of PVC or similar material encased in a cylindrical buoyant tube made from closed cell polyethylene or similar material. The frame is wrapped in a woven mesh fabric of vinyl, polyester or similar material that is waterproof, ultraviolet resistant, and resistant to the effects of claws, teeth and rough play. The fabric has sleeves sewn in to allow easy insertion of the frame. The device is sized to accommodate pets of different weights. The semi flexible frame allows for the trampoline to form a sling type configuration under the weight of a pet, to provide a secure and stable semi submerged floating environment. The semi flexible and semi submersible nature of the device allows for the pet to mount and dismount the device without pet owners' assistance.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 2, 2009Publication date: April 15, 2010Inventors: Joanne Daley Harris, Klaus Juergen Harris
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Publication number: 20100075556Abstract: The present invention relates generally to buoyant cushions for use in a pool and being adaptable for use as outdoor furniture or in cooperation with outdoor furniture. The physical properties of the buoyant cushion having physical properties that include buoyancy, weather-resistance, and malleability that allow the buoyant cushion to be used dually as a lounging floatation device, in bodies of water such as pools, lakes, or the ocean, and as a cushion adapted to compliment outdoor furniture or to be used independently.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 21, 2009Publication date: March 25, 2010Inventor: Laura Starmer
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Patent number: 7648449Abstract: The present invention relates to a floating exercise mat. The mat has a substantially planar surface with distal and proximal ends. The mat has a headrest secured to the proximal end. The headrest is thicker than the body of the mat to support the head of a user. The body of the mat has two apertures therein, where each aperture has a handle disposed therein. The handles provide the user a gripping surface so that the user can perform exercises when gripping the floating mat. The distal end of the body of the mat has resistance wings secured thereon. The resistance wings can be made of a rigid material such as polycarbonate. The wings can be in the shape of a oval, triangle, semicircle, triangle, or a rectangle.Type: GrantFiled: January 10, 2007Date of Patent: January 19, 2010Inventor: Ryan Detert
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Patent number: 7597601Abstract: A resistance kickboard. The resistance kickboard includes plural resistance indicia that provide varying levels of resistance when the resistance kickboard is moved through water. The varying levels resistance allow swimmers, exercisers and rehabilitation patients to spend less time in a pool while obtaining additional training, exercising or rehabilitation effects. The resistance kickboard may also include a reservoir to hold a liquid. The liquid allows a user to stay hydrated while using the resistance kickboard for longer periods without stopping the activity.Type: GrantFiled: May 23, 2005Date of Patent: October 6, 2009Inventor: David J. Mravca
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Patent number: 7578716Abstract: An aquatic float comprises a torso supporting section for supporting the torso of a person using the float, a head and neck supporting section secured at one end of the torso supporting section for supporting the head and neck of a person using the aquatic float, and a leg supporting section secured at the opposite end of the torso supporting section for supporting the legs of a person lying supine on the float and for providing additional buoyant support for the torso of a person sitting upright on the float.Type: GrantFiled: April 16, 2007Date of Patent: August 25, 2009Inventor: Larry S. Hagedorn
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Publication number: 20090170389Abstract: A device comprises a spring and a sleeve. The spring is configured to form a closed loop. The spring is moveable between a coiled configuration when the spring is collapsed and an uncoiled configuration when the spring is expanded. The spring defines a circumference while in the uncoiled configuration. The spring is disposed within the sleeve.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 9, 2009Publication date: July 2, 2009Inventor: David A. Arias
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Publication number: 20090163096Abstract: A floatation device or system for teaching proper swimming techniques and a method for making the same is disclosed. The device of the present invention has an elongated flattened body that is fashioned into a figure-eight like or a pear-like shape. The elongated flattened body is made from one or more buoyant tubular structures that form a first loop with a first aperture and a second loop with a second aperture. At least one of the first and second apertures is sufficiently large enough to be positioned around a torso portion of a swimmer's body. The device is capable of being used in a number of different swimming positions for teaching proper swimming techniques.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 12, 2008Publication date: June 25, 2009Inventors: John Mix, Jima Watson, Aaron Samano
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Patent number: 7549706Abstract: A buoyant pool chair supports a swimmer in an upright, semi-reclining or sitting position while the chair is floating in a swimming pool. Interconnected rigid frame members collectively form an open chair frame for supporting buoyant cushions. The buoyant cushions include layers of flexible cushion material secured together in overlapping relation, with the frame members being sandwiched between the overlapping layers. A layer of adhesive material bonds the overlapping cushion layers together and forms a water-tight seal around the frame members. A flexible layer of a water-resistant coating material is bonded to external surface portions of the buoyant cushions to provide a further protective layer and water-tight seal.Type: GrantFiled: February 26, 2007Date of Patent: June 23, 2009Assignee: TRC Recreation, LPInventors: Robert S. Scheurer, Michael L. Perry
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Publication number: 20090156086Abstract: A flotation apparatus has a plurality of axially elongated flotation elements and a flexible web with a plurality of slits that accommodate the elongated flotation elements as a woven array. The slits each have a semicircular, S-like, or wave-like configurations. Respectively associated pairs of slits are oriented in inverted manner with respect to one another to form a supportive region between each pair of slits. At least one flexible web element is configured in some embodiments to have an elongated central portion with first and second slits therethrough for accommodating respective ones of first and second end terminations of the flexible web element after wrapping around respective ones of the first and second noodle elements. One or two flexible web elements wrap snugly around the respective ones of the first and second noodle elements.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 24, 2008Publication date: June 18, 2009Inventor: Louis Raymond Hartings
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Publication number: 20090137167Abstract: This pool apparatus functions as a floating platform on the pool that a person can relax or recreated with or set on a solid area to lounge on. The main functions are the timed or manually controlled sprinkler mechanism that is intended to cool a person off while they are relaxing on it, a speaker system that will enable a user to hear sound such as music, optional maneuverability through manual or remote control.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 26, 2007Publication date: May 28, 2009Inventor: Brian William Doty
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Publication number: 20090075537Abstract: An assembly, preferably for use near the ankle, preferably made, at least in part, of a soft buoyant flexible material is disclosed. The assembly has two basic forms. The first basic form is a band that wraps around the user's lower leg above the user's ankle joint above, or in one embodiment, on the user's foot gear. This form of the assembly has a mechanism for holding the assembly on the leg of the user. The other basic form is one that incorporates the assembly into or on a boot, sock, wet or dry suit, pants or similar device at a location that wraps the assembly around the user's lower leg when in use. The assembly helps move the user's lower leg toward the surface of the water and hold it on the surface of the water to help prevent foot entrapment with rocks, trees or other objects in the water and also helps to prevent the foot or leg from being injured due to contact with underwater and river-surface objects.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 10, 2008Publication date: March 19, 2009Inventor: James F. Devers
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Patent number: 7481745Abstract: A floating aquatic stair stepper (1) having a frame (2) with support bars (6, 7), two extension legs (4) secured to the frame (2) and two foot placement steps (3) movably secured to each extension leg (4). The support bars (6, 7) permit a user to comfortably rest his or her hands, arms and shoulders, thereby permitting him or her to float. The foot placement steps (3) are each preferably slidably secured to extension legs (4). To use, a person raises and lowers each foot so as to simulate climbing stairs. The extension legs (4) may be fixedly secured to the frame (2) to provide for upward and downward movement only, or pivotally secured to the frame (2) to provide forward and backward movement of the legs as well. To further intensify the up and down movement of the present invention, resistance bands (5) may be used to secure the frame (2) to the foot placement steps (3).Type: GrantFiled: April 10, 2006Date of Patent: January 27, 2009Inventor: Dennis M. Malazinsky
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Publication number: 20090017707Abstract: In one embodiment, a buoyant device includes multiple buoyant members with each buoyant member defining a first aperture and a second aperture. Each buoyant member is coupled to an elongate member such that the elongate member extends from that first aperture to that second aperture.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 13, 2007Publication date: January 15, 2009Inventors: David A. Arias, Alfred E. Grimm, Monica Jones
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Publication number: 20080227346Abstract: 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.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 7, 2008Publication date: September 18, 2008Inventor: Ernest A. Von Zell
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Patent number: 7425190Abstract: The instant invention relates to a kit for converting an elongated flexible noodle-type personal floatation device into a floating exercise assembly. Specifically, the rider straddles the flexible noodle-type device while rotating the first exercising assembly and/or the second exercising assembly for exercising the user's lower and upper body, respectively.Type: GrantFiled: November 29, 2006Date of Patent: September 16, 2008Inventors: Robert Kolarick, Jacquelin Kolarick
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Publication number: 20080176467Abstract: A cover for a flotation device includes a single piece fabric configured and dimensioned so as to slip over and completely enclose an individual noodle type flotation device and adapted for removal and replacement by the same or another cover. The cover possesses reopenable closures such as drawstring, zipper, button, snap and/or hook and loop type closures at the ends of the cover or along its length.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 24, 2007Publication date: July 24, 2008Inventor: Margaret K. Williams
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Publication number: 20080124991Abstract: The instant invention relates to a kit for converting an elongated flexible noodle-type personal floatation device into a floating exercise assembly. Specifically, the rider straddles the flexible noodle-type device while rotating the first exercising assembly and/or the second exercising assembly for exercising the user's lower and upper body, respectively.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 29, 2006Publication date: May 29, 2008Inventors: Robert Kolarick, Jacquelin Kolarick
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Patent number: 7363668Abstract: The embodiments relate to an active carbon cocofiber mattress with the functions of floating and life saving. The embodiment can be folded to form a floating bed. The mattress core comprises prefabricated solid and rigid cocofiber mattresses with an ultra-thick sandwiched layer sandwiched therebetween; thus, when integrated as a whole, has a specific gravity of less than about 1. On said cocofiber mattress, there is provided with a high elastic cocofiber mattress. Within the ultra-thick sandwiched layer, air holes and channels filled with active carbon are provided. Active carbon layers cover the surface of the cocofiber mattress core.Type: GrantFiled: September 21, 2005Date of Patent: April 29, 2008Inventor: Qiang Chen
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Publication number: 20080081526Abstract: An aquatic float comprises a torso supporting section for supporting the torso of a person using the float, a head and neck supporting section secured at one end of the torso supporting section for supporting the head and neck of a person using the aquatic float, and a leg supporting section secured at the opposite end of the torso supporting section for supporting the legs of a person lying supine on the float and for providing additional buoyant support for the torso of a person sitting upright on the float.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 16, 2007Publication date: April 3, 2008Inventor: Larry S. Hagedorn
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Patent number: 7335079Abstract: A multipurpose throwable personal flotation device includes a pair of flat buoyant panels pivotally connected at inward ends to a central buoyant panel with parallel hinges. Each of the panels is enclosed in a fabric cover, with lines of stitching connecting layers of the cover between the panels forming the hinges. A strap is affixed along the upper faces of the panels, with two loops projecting beyond the ends of the panels to form handles for throwing the device.Type: GrantFiled: October 16, 2006Date of Patent: February 26, 2008Inventor: Gregory D. Darling
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Publication number: 20080026656Abstract: One is a floating platform made in the shape of a segment of a sphere (so in the shape of spherical dish,—previously in the text: “Dish”). The radius of the sphere is longer than the height of the center of gravity of the child (22). The Dish (10) is equipped with a round rim (12) and a flexible bellow (14) located on the edge of the Dish (10). The other is a round pool (20), mainly inflatable, for placing the Dish (10), so the pool (10) diameter is about that of the submerged Dish diameter, corresponding to the sum of the Dish's weight and the child's weight. The floating platform can be made also in the shape of a zone of a sphere (so in the shape spherical barrel,—previously in the text: “Barrel”). The Barrel's (16) radius is equal to the Dish's (10) sphere radius and the Barrel's (16) width is equal to the Dish's (10) diameter. For either the Dish (10) or the Barrel (16) the round pool (20) can be formed by placing a circular float (26) on the surface of the water, for example a swimming pool (24).Type: ApplicationFiled: March 15, 2007Publication date: January 31, 2008Inventor: Eugene Zeyger
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Patent number: 7318762Abstract: A flotation device includes an elongated and flexible member with a channel extending between longitudinal ends of the flexible member, where the flexible member is configured to support an individual within water during a recreational activity, and a nozzle member securable to the flexible member. The nozzle member includes a flexible bulb member with at least one opening and a shaft suitably dimensioned to fit within the channel of the flexible member to secure the nozzle member to the flexible member. The bulb member can be squeezed to establish a pressure differential between a location within the bulb member and a location near the at least one opening.Type: GrantFiled: April 10, 2006Date of Patent: January 15, 2008Assignee: Rand International, Inc.Inventor: Steven Goldmeier
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Patent number: 7314399Abstract: An improved float tube arrangement for outdoor water-related activities, particularly hunting and fishing. The float can be deployed as a blind for partially concealing and camouflaging a user, who sits in the circular middle of the float upon an adjustable seat supported by suitable straps. When used as a blind a canopy and net are selectively deployed. The stable base is formed by a pair of coaxially stacked inner tubes that are tightly bound by a covering fabric. Mechanical integrity is enhanced by frame loops encircling the inner tubes, and an encircling belt that concentrically tensions the float within a depressed region formed at the juncture of the stacked inner tubes. A canopy mounted to the frame loops and an optional net can be deployed as desired.Type: GrantFiled: December 19, 2005Date of Patent: January 1, 2008Assignee: Banded Mallard Co.Inventor: Hayes Brandon Turner
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Patent number: 7238075Abstract: Apparatus for protecting users of surfboards, kayaks and other personal water activity apparatus against sharks and other water-borne predators is provided. A plurality of lights is provided on the bottom and side surfaces of the personal water activity apparatus. The lights are actuated to mask and distort the shadow, shape or outline of the user together with the personal water activity apparatus, in effect camouflaging the user and his or her personal water activity apparatus. The lights may be actuated either manually or automatically. Sensors are provided to detect the stage of ambient light in order to automatically actuate the light sources.Type: GrantFiled: October 27, 2005Date of Patent: July 3, 2007Inventor: Mark A. Brodsky
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Patent number: 7238073Abstract: A towable structure is configured to be towed behind a boat while floating above the surface of a body of water. In one implementation, the towable structure has a platform for supporting one or more passengers thereon extending between or otherwise supported by at least three water engaging base members. The base members are buoyant to extend above the surface of the body of water. The platform extends from a location sufficiently elevated on each of the base members so that the platform stays out of the water under normal operation when unloaded and when supporting one or more passengers.Type: GrantFiled: June 30, 2004Date of Patent: July 3, 2007Assignee: HO Sports Company, Inc.Inventor: Kyle J. Hendrickson
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Patent number: 7232356Abstract: A towable structure is configured to be towed behind a boat while floating above the surface of a body of water. In one implementation, the towable structure has a platform for supporting one or more passengers thereon extending between or otherwise supported by at least three water engaging base members. The base members are buoyant to extend above the surface of the body of water. The platform extends from a location sufficiently elevated on each of the base members so that the platform stays out of the water under normal operation when unloaded and when supporting one or more passengers.Type: GrantFiled: December 28, 2005Date of Patent: June 19, 2007Assignee: HO Sports Company, Inc.Inventor: Kyle J. Hendrickson
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Patent number: 7210976Abstract: An inflatable play structure includes an inflatable platform and an inflatable slide attached to the platform. The platform provides stability to the slide when the structure is used in water so that it does not easily turn over. Further, the slide is preferably positioned on the platform so that the platform provides a resting and staging area for the slide. When used on land, the slide may be positioned so the platform provides a cushioned area for a user to land when coming down the slide.Type: GrantFiled: November 3, 2001Date of Patent: May 1, 2007Assignee: Aviva Sports, L.L.C.Inventor: Donald W. Gordon
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Patent number: 7182401Abstract: A buoyant pool chair supports a swimmer in an upright, semi-reclining or sitting position while the chair is floating in a swimming pool. Interconnected rigid frame members collectively form an open chair frame including a seat frame, left and right arm frames attached to the seat frame, and a back frame pivotally coupled to the seat frame. Buoyant cushions attached to the frame members form a chair seat, a chair back, a left chair arm and a right chair arm. The buoyant cushions include layers of flexible cushion material secured together in overlapping relation, with the frame members being sandwiched between the overlapping layers. A layer of adhesive material bonds the overlapping cushion layers together and forms a water-tight seal around the frame members.Type: GrantFiled: July 3, 2004Date of Patent: February 27, 2007Assignee: TRC Recreation, LPInventors: Robert S. Scheurer, Michael L. Perry
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Patent number: 7137856Abstract: An assembly has a foldable frame member that has a folded and an unfolded orientation, a sheet material covering portions of the frame member when the frame member is in the unfolded orientation, and one or more floatation devices. The floatation devices can be attached to any number of locations, including but not limited to the sheet material, the top of the sheet material, the bottom of the sheet material, and the periphery of the frame member.Type: GrantFiled: June 10, 2005Date of Patent: November 21, 2006Assignee: Patent Category Corp.Inventor: Yu Zheng
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Patent number: 7101241Abstract: A floatation method and apparatus for effectively supporting and effectively exercising a person in a liquid. A method and apparatus for effectively playing a game in a liquid. The liquid may be water or any liquid used for cleaning or moisturizing a person's skin, such as anti-oxidants, emollients, surfactants in water, or skin conditioners such as vitamin E enriched body lotions and oils.Type: GrantFiled: September 6, 2002Date of Patent: September 5, 2006Inventor: Kenneth R. Monroe
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Patent number: 7101344Abstract: A multi-functional float board structure uses a wedge shape design and is constructed with buoyant materials. The float board includes an the inclined surface design on one side of the float board which when placed on a level surface can facilitate foot stretching for a user prior to any aquatic activities. Furthermore, massage nodes on the inclined surface serve as a sole massage device when a user steps on the incline surface.Type: GrantFiled: April 7, 2003Date of Patent: September 5, 2006Inventor: Hsi-Fen Wu
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Patent number: 7052347Abstract: A flotation device includes an elongated and flexible member with a channel extending between longitudinal ends of the flexible member, where the flexible member is configured to support an individual within water during a recreational activity, and a nozzle member securable to the flexible member. The nozzle member includes a flexible bulb member with at least one opening and a shaft suitably dimensioned to fit within the channel of the flexible member to secure the nozzle member to the flexible member. The bulb member can be squeezed to establish a pressure differential between a location within the bulb member and a location near the at least one opening.Type: GrantFiled: March 22, 2005Date of Patent: May 30, 2006Assignee: Rand International, Inc.Inventor: Steven Goldmeier
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Patent number: 7000558Abstract: A floating platform that has a flat low profile for use by swimmers, divers, boaters, and those engaged in other activities on water. The platform is used alone or as a module in combination with other such floating platform modules; attaching the modules to form a larger floating platform. In a preferred embodiment, the surface of the platform is provided with several connection points enabling multi-point attachment to other vessels and stationary objects, anchor straps and towing straps, and apertures configured to accommodate beverage containers, coolers, chairs, umbrellas, retractable tops and the like. In another embodiment, a detachable cover is attached to the module, the cover forming the floating platform surface. A stable platform and low profile are achieved through use of stiffeners integrated within the platform surface.Type: GrantFiled: October 15, 2004Date of Patent: February 21, 2006Inventor: David Cyrus Johnson
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Patent number: 6971133Abstract: An air mattress apparatus includes a first mattress section which contains a number of first flotation-bottle-reception chambers which are separated from each other by first stitches. First mattress section closure means enable access to inside the first flotation-bottle-reception chambers. First flotation bottles are received in the first flotation-bottle-reception chambers through the first mattress section closure means. A second mattress section is connected to the first mattress section. The second mattress section contains a number of second flotation-bottle-reception chambers which are separated from each other by second stitches. Second mattress section closure means enable access to inside the second flotation-bottle-reception chambers. Second flotation bottles are received in the second flotation-bottle-reception chambers through the second mattress section closure means. The air mattress apparatus can be used as a floating raft on water or as an air mattress on land.Type: GrantFiled: May 7, 2004Date of Patent: December 6, 2005Inventor: Ronald A. See
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Patent number: 6931678Abstract: A water-swung hammock includes a floatable body for supporting a main body frame including at least one leg support for securing the main body frame to the floatable body. A staging platform may be coupled to the main body frame and capable of supporting a user. A swingable sheet may be provided for supporting the user and includes a support for swingable suspension of the swingable sheet relative to the main body frame. A water-swinging pendular assembly may be coupled to the main body frame for receiving water movement and thereby imparting motive power to the swingable sheet of the water-swung hammock.Type: GrantFiled: June 17, 2003Date of Patent: August 23, 2005Inventor: Peter Dunbar Boyd
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Patent number: 6918347Abstract: An aquatic floating kit variable in combination for leisure and sports, said floating kit comprises: a seat for seating and lying and at least an arciform floating member, the seat and the floating members are mutually detachably connected, changing in amount and in positions for combination of the floating members makes the floating kit have multiple functions used in leisure and sports as a surfing board, a floating bed for leisure, a rocking horse or a boat etc.Type: GrantFiled: June 27, 2003Date of Patent: July 19, 2005Assignee: Hi-Mark International Design Inc.Inventors: Chin-Min Lu, Lai-Chung Lee, Jun-Xing Lee
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Patent number: 6901619Abstract: A swimming pool mattress, for floatably supporting a user on a water surface includes a plurality of floatable mattress members, each having two engaging end portions and a mattress surface extending between the two engaging end portions, and at least two spacedly apart frame holders respectively engaging the two engaging end portions of each of the mattress members in a detachably connecting manner. Therefore, the mattress members are retained between the two frame holders to align the mattress surfaces of the mattress members to form a floating platform for supporting the user to rest thereon and to float on the water surface.Type: GrantFiled: December 1, 2003Date of Patent: June 7, 2005Inventor: Ben M. Hsia
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Patent number: 6887186Abstract: A flotation device for water aerobics comprising a single piece of foam shaped to form a main central member having positive buoyancy and a pair of float arms having positive buoyancy. Each float arm terminates in a handle, and the foam arms of the device attached to the main central member may bend flexibly according to the motion of a user's arms.Type: GrantFiled: August 16, 2003Date of Patent: May 3, 2005Inventor: Melina Bambanian
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Patent number: 6881114Abstract: An assembly has a floating support having a periphery defined by at least one floatation device, with the periphery defining an interior space. The floating support further includes a first sheet material extending in the interior space and coupled to the floatation device(s). The assembly also has a panel having a foldable frame member that has a folded and an unfolded orientation, and a second sheet material covering portions of the frame member when the frame member is in the unfolded orientation. The panel has opposing end edges that are attached to the periphery of the floating support.Type: GrantFiled: May 11, 2003Date of Patent: April 19, 2005Assignee: Patent Category Corp.Inventor: Yu Zheng
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Patent number: 6872111Abstract: A kickboard comprising a relatively thin, buoyant board no longer than twenty six inches. The board has a back edge and a front edge joined by side edges. The board also has top and bottom surfaces joined by the front, back and side edges. Two, spaced-apart, forearm receiving depressions are provided in the top surface of the board, the depressions extending forwardly from the back edge of the board over a major portion of the length of the board to near the front edge. The depressions help to retain the forearms of a swimmer using the board on the board. The kickboard has hand grips located in front of the forearm receiving depressions. Preferably, at least the front portions of the side edges are bent toward each other, and the hand grips are located on the bent front portions, preferably just in front of, and aligned with, the forearm receiving depressions. Gripping the bent front portions allows the wrists to remain in a normal position relative to the forearms thus reducing stress.Type: GrantFiled: February 3, 2003Date of Patent: March 29, 2005Inventors: Robert Katz, Sylvain Duchesne
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Patent number: 6843695Abstract: The water walker assistant is a rectangular shaped buoyant frame with handles for assisting physically challenged individuals walk or float in water. The frame is made of interconnected elongated buoyant members, such as PVC tubing, which are fitted with sections of buoyant foam. The interconnected members define front, rear and side sections of the frame, and the front section is optionally a removable crossbar. The user enters the device by either removing the crossbar or placing the device over his/her body. The water walker assistant features two handles with hand-grips, and cushioned side sections to support the user's forearms inside the device. Elongated members with foam fittings extend from the rear and front of the invention, adding stability to the device, while providing shock absorption in the event of contact with obstacles.Type: GrantFiled: August 21, 2003Date of Patent: January 18, 2005Inventors: Barbara B. Jackson, Raymond W. Jackson