Annular Buoyant Member Patents (Class 441/131)
  • Patent number: 11219289
    Abstract: A kit is for towing through water by a swimmer to transport items, which comprises: an inflatable flotation device and a dry bag (32). The flotation device comprises, when inflated, a lead portion (10a), two spaced side portions (10b, 10c) each extending rearwardly from the lead portion, and attachment means. The dry bag (32), which may be separate to the flotation device, has an openable, water-tight closure. The side portions, when the device is inflated, and the dry bag are respectively shaped to cooperate so that the side portions provide support for the dry bag. The flotation device including the attachment means is arranged to attach the dry bag to the flotation device such that the closure (34) is located above a lead portion of the flotation device. The kit is attachable to a tow leash (32) such that a swimmer can tow the flotation device with the dry bag attached in water and such that the lead portion leads through the water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 2019
    Date of Patent: January 11, 2022
    Assignee: Above Below Ltd.
    Inventor: William Dickson Watt
  • Patent number: 11052980
    Abstract: An underarm float for infants, comprising a main body, the main body is composed of a front part and rear parts, which are connected to each other, wherein rear parts are connected to both ends of the front part, and rear parts at the two ends of front part are oppositely arranged; a first arc groove and second arc grooves are formed at the joint between front part and a rear part, first arc groove is downwards recessed along the upper surface of the front part and the rear part, and the second arc grooves are inwards recessed along the side surface of the front part and the rear part; a shoulder strap is arranged at the joint between the front part and the rear part, and the shoulder strap is located above the first arc groove; and the oppositely arranged rear parts are provided with an elastic cord.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 2020
    Date of Patent: July 6, 2021
    Inventor: Weixin Zhou
  • Patent number: 10793235
    Abstract: The utility model relates to the field of articles for swimming, and relates to a lying ring for infants, comprising a main body; a bottom surface of the main body is provided with a chest supporting cushion, and the inner side of the main body is provided with a first waist protecting cushion and a second waist protecting cushion. The lying ring further comprises a first shoulder strap and a second shoulder strap; one end of the first shoulder strap and one end of the second shoulder strap extend to a back surface of the chest supporting cushion and are merged to form a crotch connecting strap; and the two shoulder straps are connected into a whole or integrated in one piece with the crotch connecting strap, so that the two shoulder straps are on the same connecting piece as two waist protecting cushions and the crotch connecting strap. The length of the crotch connecting strap and the shoulder straps can be adjusted at the same time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 2019
    Date of Patent: October 6, 2020
    Inventor: Weixin Zhou
  • Patent number: 10479458
    Abstract: An example inflatable paddle board includes an inflatable stand-up board chamber. The example inflatable paddle board also includes a curve-shaped front hull chamber at least partially overhanging at least a front portion of the inflatable stand-up board chamber. The example inflatable paddle board also includes a tent covering between the inflatable stand-up board chamber and the curve-shaped front hull chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 2017
    Date of Patent: November 19, 2019
    Assignee: Twitch LLC
    Inventor: Peter Hall
  • Patent number: 9861236
    Abstract: A retrofittable towel warmer for use with a hot tub preferably comprises a flexible conduit portion which is attachable to one of the jets of the hot tub together with a rigid thermally conductive portion which is detachably mountable on an exterior mast support. There is also preferably provided an exterior housing surrounding the thermally conductive portion designed to provide maximum thermal contact with the cloth material to be heated. The entire unit may be immersed in the hot tub or pool water when not in use. In an alternate embodiment a container having a thermally absorptive medium is provided in a structure which is easily mounted on the mast. In an alternate embodiment a container having a thermally absorptive medium is provided in a structure which is easily mounted on a supporting mast.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 9, 2018
    Inventors: Allen L Carl, David DiGiulio, Anthony Farinella
  • Patent number: 9572445
    Abstract: A flotation device used to house beverages above a water surface that the user is occupying. The main body will be made from polyethylene (PE) or copolymer foam, with connector arms made of plastic attached to additional floatation balls (made of polyethylene or copolymer foam) all intended to keep the beverage holder above the water surface. Alternative versions include an attachment to a user to prevent floating separation between device and user. In kit form the flotation device has four connector arms each with a flotation ball at one proximate end thereof and the distal end thereof being secured to the beverage holder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2017
    Inventors: Matthew David Weist, Jerry Lynn Allmendinger
  • Patent number: 9415845
    Abstract: According to one aspect, embodiments of the invention provide a seat construction for a float, the seat construction comprising an upper layer made of a first plastic material, a lower layer made of a second plastic material, and a middle layer made of a reinforced plastic material, wherein the middle layer is interposed between the upper layer and the lower layer, and wherein the upper layer and the lower layer are bonded together around an outer edge of the seat construction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 16, 2016
    Assignee: Aqua-Leisure Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Ralph C. Marciano
  • Patent number: 9067646
    Abstract: An auxiliary deck assembly for a pontoon boat includes a stowable auxiliary deck and mounting structure. The mounting structure swingably supports the auxiliary deck for swinging movement between stowed and operating positions. The auxiliary deck is configured so that the auxiliary deck surface is generally aligned with the primary deck surface when the auxiliary deck is in the operating position. The auxiliary deck is further configured so that the auxiliary deck surface is oriented at a generally upright angle relative to the primary deck surface when the auxiliary deck is in the stowed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 3, 2013
    Date of Patent: June 30, 2015
    Inventor: Woodrow Wilson Admire
  • Patent number: 8888546
    Abstract: Exemplary embodiments of a manufacture of an aquatic stabilizing locus inhibiting roving, comprising: a buoyant main body comprising; a top, sky-side, surface, a bottom, water-side, surface, at least one attachment loop secured to at least one attachment loop base; at least one water-side attachment loop, secured to at least one water-side attachment loop base; and at least one stabilizing line, wherein each end of the stabilizing line forms into fixed loops enabled to concatenate with at least one concatenation element, and wherein the stabilizing line is concatenated to the water-side attachment loop. Exemplary embodiments of means for inhibiting roving, of at least one object floating in an aquatic medium, by means of a stabilizing locus comprising: a means for providing buoyancy to the locus; a means for concatenating at least one device to the locus; a means for concatenating the locus to an object that inhibits locus aquatic roving.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2014
    Inventors: Cheryl Meares Dykstra, Nancy Meares Kelly
  • Publication number: 20140329425
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: February 21, 2014
    Publication date: November 6, 2014
    Inventors: Brian Edward Le Gette, David Reeb, Alan Tipp, Justin Saul Werner, Ronald L. Wilson, II, Inna Alesina
  • Patent number: 8845377
    Abstract: According to one aspect, embodiments of the invention provide a construction for a float, the construction comprising a flotation device having a top portion, a bottom portion and an opening disposed through the top portion and the bottom portion, a seat portion located proximate the bottom portion of the flotation device, and a side wall coupled between the seat portion and an edge of the opening, wherein the seat portion is configured to support a user at a location proximate the bottom portion of the flotation device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 30, 2014
    Assignee: Aqua-Leisure Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Steven M. Berenson
  • Patent number: 8789487
    Abstract: A personal watercraft comprising: a) a generally vertical outer hull; b) a bottom member affixed to the lower edge of said outer hull and closing the watercraft from the encroachment of surrounding water into the vessel; c) a generally concave inner hull rigidly attached at its upper edge to the upper edge of said outer hull and extending downwardly toward said bottom; and d) a generally horizontal deck fixedly attached at its edges to the lower edge of said inner hull to form an enclosed space with said outer hull, inner hull, and bottom member; said deck having a size sufficient for the support of at least one person in a standing or reclining position and of sufficient cient strength and support to avoid undue bending from the weight of the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 29, 2014
    Inventor: Jeffrey D. Lizzio
  • Patent number: 8657640
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: November 28, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 25, 2014
    Assignee: Kelsyus, LLC
    Inventors: Brian Edward Le Gette, David Reeb, Alan Tipp, Justin Saul Werner, Ronald L. Wilson, II, Inna Alesina
  • Publication number: 20130323992
    Abstract: According to one aspect, embodiments of the invention provide a construction for a float, the construction comprising a flotation device having a top portion, a bottom portion and an opening disposed through the top portion and the bottom portion, a seat portion located proximate the bottom portion of the flotation device, and a side wall coupled between the seat portion and an edge of the opening, wherein the seat portion is configured to support a user at a location proximate the bottom portion of the flotation device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 31, 2012
    Publication date: December 5, 2013
    Applicant: AQUA-LEISURE INDUSTRIES, INC.
    Inventor: Steven M. Berenson
  • Patent number: 8523621
    Abstract: The cover for inflatable tube includes a hollow, toroidal member made from a durable, puncture-resistant, abrasion-resistant fabric, the toroidal member being adapted for covering an inflatable float tube. The cover may also include a plurality of spaced, elongate, flexible eyelets are formed about a periphery of the cover portion on the outer surface and are arranged to extend radially about the periphery of the cover. The cover may further include a flat bottom member the extends across the annular opening defined by the toroidal member, providing a flat surface so that the tube may be used for sledding on snow-covered surfaces, or to prevent swimmers from extending their torsos through the tube, thereby permitting the swimmers to sit on the bottom sheet instead of dangling their feet below the tube, presenting the risk that the swimmer's foot may be entrapped by underwater obstructions in a river or other shallow water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 19, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2013
    Inventor: Lucian D. Whitman
  • Patent number: 8187047
    Abstract: A child's canvas floatation device for use in an ocean, lake, or pool environment comprising a seat system for the child as well as a tether line for connection to a parent's or care provider's wrist is herein disclosed. The flotation device is toroidal being approximately two (2) to three (3) feet in diameter and provided with an inflation port and a series of grasping handles. The device is also provided with a textile covering over most of the entire tube area. The cover is wrapped back upon itself and covers the interior of the inner tube. The center is then provided with a pair of leg holes in which a child can insert his or her legs and be provided with a seat. As such, the child is not in danger of falling through the inner tube as is the case with conventional inner tubes. Additionally, the device is provided with an attached tether line approximately six (6) feet long that attaches to the parent's or care provider's wrist.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2012
    Inventor: Charleta Brooks
  • Patent number: 7987531
    Abstract: A portable floating hot tub that is easy to assemble and take down and can be used in environments with extremely cold and turbulent water. The hot tub has three main components: a collapsible frame made of connected rigid members, an insulated liner sized and shaped to closely fit against the deployed frame and form a subassembly, and an inflatable pontoon that may have a central aperture for receiving the subassembly. The pontoon is first inflated and placed on the body of water, after which the frame and liner subassembly are placed over the central aperture. Filling the internal volume defined by the insulated liner with water causes the subassembly to descend within the pontoon. Cooperating means on the subassembly and/or pontoon prevent the subassembly from passing completely through the central aperture. A source of heated water such as a portable heater having a heating capacity of at least 30,000 BTUs rapidly heats up the water within the hot tub.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 2, 2011
    Inventor: Paul E. West
  • Patent number: 7818842
    Abstract: A foldable mattress having an integral carrying pouch into which the mattress may be folded when not in use. Preferably, the mattress is at least partly inflatable so as to be floatable, and may have a mesh central portion surrounded by an inflatable portion. An inflatable pillow or headrest that is either fixed in place or detachable may be included. The pouch itself is preferably made, at least in part, of nylon mesh material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 26, 2010
    Assignee: Aqua-Leisure Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Ralph C. Marciano
  • Patent number: 7727038
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2010
    Assignee: Kelsyus, LLC
    Inventors: Brian Edward Le Gette, David Reeb, Alan Tipp, Justin Saul Werner, Ronald L. Wilson, II, Inna Alesina
  • Patent number: 7500893
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 10, 2009
    Assignee: Kelsyus, LLC
    Inventor: David Arias
  • Patent number: 7404371
    Abstract: The invention relates to a floating leisure platform with a heating device (A) for food and a seating facility (14) for one or several people.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 29, 2008
    Inventor: Sebastian Schmitt
  • Patent number: 7335080
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2008
    Assignee: Kelsyus, LLC
    Inventor: David A. Arias
  • Patent number: 7314399
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 1, 2008
    Assignee: Banded Mallard Co.
    Inventor: Hayes Brandon Turner
  • Patent number: 7207857
    Abstract: A floating assembly for suspending a person on water has a sheet material that defines the periphery for the floating assembly. A plurality of floatation devices are attached to the periphery. The plurality of floatation devices includes a top floatation device that forms a head pillow, a first side floatation device, and a second side floatation device positioned opposite to the first side floatation device. A first arm space is defined between the top floatation device and the first side floatation device, and a second arm space is defined between the top floatation device and the second side floatation device. The periphery can also be defined by a foldable frame member that has a folded and an unfolded orientation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2007
    Assignee: Patent Category Corp.
    Inventor: Yu Zheng
  • Patent number: 7147528
    Abstract: 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. The sleeve includes an inflatable portion disposed about at least a portion of the circumference.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 12, 2006
    Assignee: Kelsyus, LLC
    Inventor: David Arias
  • Patent number: 7137856
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 21, 2006
    Assignee: Patent Category Corp.
    Inventor: Yu Zheng
  • Patent number: 7134930
    Abstract: 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. The sleeve includes an inflatable portion disposed about at least a portion of the circumference.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 3, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 14, 2006
    Assignee: Kelsyus, LLC
    Inventor: David Arias
  • Patent number: 7097524
    Abstract: 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. The sleeve includes an inflatable portion disposed about at least a portion of the circumference.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 29, 2006
    Assignee: Kelsyus, LLC
    Inventor: David Arias
  • Patent number: 7083487
    Abstract: An emergency rescue and recovery device includes a portable bundle with an inflatable bladder in a storage position. In one example, the inflatable bladder has a substantially toroid geometry when inflated. The portable bundle further includes a gas canister in communication with the inflatable bladder, and an opening mechanism coupled to the gas canister. A tether is coupled to the inflatable bladder. A manual trigger is coupled to the opening mechanism, and is operable to initiate inflation of the bladder. Optionally, the portable bundle includes a pouch and at least the inflatable bladder, the gas canister, and the opening mechanism are disposed within the pouch. A method for using an emergency rescue and recovery device includes coupling the portable bundle to a vehicle or person. A manual trigger is operated to inflate the bladder. The method includes inflating the bladder into a substantially toroid geometry splitting the enclosure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 1, 2006
    Inventor: John Weinel
  • Patent number: 6971936
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 6, 2005
    Assignee: Kelsyus, LLC
    Inventors: Brian Edward Le Gette, David Reeb, Alan Tipp, Justin Saul Werner, Ronald L. Wilson, II, Inna Alesina
  • Patent number: 6908353
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 21, 2005
    Assignee: Patent Category Corp.
    Inventor: Yu Zheng
  • Patent number: 6896569
    Abstract: A float tube cover for covering the exterior of an inflated inner tube or the like with a fabric material which will prevent adhesive burns and abrasions and also prevent the inner tube from becoming excessively heated from exposure to the sun. The cover is desirably provided with a leash to allow the user to retrieve the tube should the fall off of the tube as well as one or more pockets for holding items such as suntan lotion, sunglasses, and the like.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 24, 2005
    Inventor: Linda J. Wittenrich
  • Patent number: 6840830
    Abstract: A buoyant lounger. The buoyant lounger has an outer loop constructed of a plurality of releasably secured resilient foam sections. A resilient containment band is placed within the outer loop and a plurality of mesh chairs are coupled between the containment band and the outer loop to produce a floating, buoyant lounger, which can accommodate a plurality of users. The buoyant lounger may be quickly and easily disassembled for transport and storage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 11, 2005
    Inventor: Matthew Harlan
  • Publication number: 20040214487
    Abstract: 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. The sleeve includes an inflatable portion disposed about at least a portion of the circumference.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 18, 2004
    Publication date: October 28, 2004
    Inventor: David A. Arias
  • Patent number: 6793550
    Abstract: 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. The sleeve includes an inflatable portion disposed about at least a portion of the circumference.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 21, 2004
    Assignee: Kelsysus, LLC
    Inventor: David Arias
  • Patent number: 6758710
    Abstract: A marine buoyancy unit which fits at least partly around a marine object such as a riser with auxiliary conduits is composed of syntactic foam with an external layer or skin of harder polymeric composite. To reinforce the unit slots or channels are cut in the exterior of the unit or borings are created which extend within the unit and reinforcement in the form of webs or strips are placed into the slots or channels or borings. The reinforcement is embedded into the slots, channels or borings by introducing a curable resin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 6, 2004
    Assignee: CRP Balmoral Inc.
    Inventors: Gary Lee Brown, Ronald Northcutt, Jeffrey Peck
  • Patent number: 6749474
    Abstract: An inflatable flotation device for use by persons in a swimming or wading pool includes an inflatable floating chamber for providing buoyancy in water. A bottom seat is provided for supporting a person. The bottom seat includes a pair of penetrations formed therein for enabling the person to extend their legs through the bottom seat. A pair of inflatable arches are removably attached to the inflatable floating chamber, and a canopy is affixed to the inflatable arches for blocking sunlight. At least one of the inflatable arches is removable from the inflatable floating chamber for facilitating entry into and exit from the inflatable floating chamber. An alternative embodiment of the inflatable flotation device having a removable canopy exhibits a construction in which the canopy is fully detachable from the inflatable floating chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 15, 2004
    Assignee: Intex Recreation Corp.
    Inventors: Yaw-Yuan Hsu, Chin-Hsiang Pan, Kun Chao Hsu
  • Patent number: 6702635
    Abstract: An inflatable chair including an annular body 2 forming a toroidal chamber 3 which has a top axial end 8 and a bottom axial end 9 and can be filled with air, two plane walls 10, 11 perpendicular to the axis of revolution 4 of the annular body 2, a central chamber 12 coaxial with the annular body 2 formed by an interior portion 6 of the annular body 2 and said two plane walls 10, 11 fixed to the interior portion 6 of the annular body 2, characterized in that the plane walls 10, 11 are at an axial distance from the top and bottom axial ends 8, 9 of the annular body 2 in order to leave free spaces 13, 14 in the vicinity of the top and bottom axial ends 8, 9 of the annular body 2.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2004
    Assignee: PSCV
    Inventor: Dominique Soares
  • Publication number: 20030220032
    Abstract: An inflatable flotation device for use by persons in a swimming or wading pool includes an inflatable floating chamber for providing buoyancy in water. A bottom seat is provided for supporting a person. The bottom seat includes a pair of penetrations formed therein for enabling the person to extend their legs through the bottom seat. A pair of inflatable arches are removably attached to the inflatable floating chamber, and a canopy is affixed to the inflatable arches for blocking sunlight. At least one of the inflatable arches is removable from the inflatable floating chamber for facilitating entry into and exit from the inflatable floating chamber. An alternative embodiment of the inflatable flotation device having a removable canopy exhibits a construction in which the canopy is fully detachable from the inflatable floating chamber.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 21, 2002
    Publication date: November 27, 2003
    Inventors: Yaw-Yuan Hsu, Chin-Hsiang Pan, Kun Chao Hsu
  • Patent number: 6648707
    Abstract: An inflatable towable vehicle including an inflatable bladder and a protective shell having a rigid lower portion and a flexible upper portion. The bladder includes an inflation valve that is positioned to underlie a closeable access opening in the flexible upper portion of the shell, and hand grips and a towing strap are attached to the upper portion of the shell. The rigid lower portion of the shell is made of a durable material that effectively protects the bladder in abrasive environments that are present when the vehicle is used on ice or snow.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2003
    Assignee: Sportsstuff, Inc.
    Inventor: Leroy L. Peterson
  • Patent number: 6547615
    Abstract: A flotation device 10 for veering out a lifeline 11 from a moving vessel has parallel keels 13 projecting from opposite sides of its base 14 so that the device will continue to veer laterally of the vessel whichever way up it lies in the water. The point of attachment 12 of the lifeline is on the bisector A of an outwardly-opening angle between keels 13 and 15 on opposite sides of the base 14 and lies at the intersection of lines B and C which are perpendicular to the keels 13 and intersect their planes at points D and E a quarter of the length of the respective keel 13 and 15 from its leading end. In other embodiments there is only one keel on each side of the base, or the base is virtually dispensed with, the point of attachment lying in a corner between upper and lower keels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2003
    Inventor: Adrian Keith Fletcher
  • Publication number: 20030068940
    Abstract: 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. The sleeve includes an inflatable portion disposed about at least a portion of the circumference.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 18, 2002
    Publication date: April 10, 2003
    Inventor: David A. Arias
  • Patent number: 6508682
    Abstract: The water trampoline includes a generally doughnut-shaped inflatable tube having an open center area. A mesh rebound member extends over the open center area and is secured around its entire periphery to the tube on the upper surface of the tube member. The attaching/securing elements include a plurality of side-by-side loop elements which extend toward the open center area of the tube from the upper surface thereof and a plurality of side-by-side loop elements which extend from the periphery of the rebound member. A first cord extends through the loop members, alternately between alternate tube loop members and rebound element loop members. A second cord member extends through the loop members through which the first cord does not extend. The cord members are tightened, moving the loop members together endwise.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 21, 2003
    Inventor: David P. Clark
  • Publication number: 20020182951
    Abstract: An inflatable chair including an annular body 2 forming a toroidal chamber 3 which has a top axial end 8 and a bottom axial end 9 and can be filled with air, two plane walls 10, 11 perpendicular to the axis of revolution 4 of the annular body 2, a central chamber 12 coaxial with the annular body 2 formed by an interior portion 6 of the annular body 2 and said two plane walls 10, 11 fixed to the interior portion 6 of the annular body 2, characterized in that the plane walls 10, 11 are at an axial distance from the top and bottom axial ends 8, 9 of the annular body 2 in order to leave free spaces 13, 14 in the vicinity of the top and bottom axial ends 8, 9 of the annular body 2.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 31, 2002
    Publication date: December 5, 2002
    Inventor: Dominique Soares
  • Patent number: 6485344
    Abstract: A collapsible flotation device has an uncollapsed configuration and a collapsed configuration. The device includes a spring which is forced to coil in upon itself by folding to achieve the collapsed configuration of the device and which is biased towards the uncoiled configuration. The spring is located along the perimeter of the device in a pocket formed along the perimeter of a panel of flexible material or on the external perimeter of the device. Also located within the pocket are one or more inflation chambers which are inflated to provide buoyancy. Additional or alternate pockets which include inflatable chambers may be located in the central portion of the flexible panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2002
    Assignee: Gray Matter Holdings, LLC
    Inventor: David A. Arias
  • Patent number: 6352461
    Abstract: A water rescue device which can be easily secured to the arm of a victim, thereby, enabling the victim to be pulled from the water without having to grasp onto the device is provided. The water rescue device has a floatation member with an aperture extending therethrough to receive the victim's arm, a belt having an adjustment means to allow the belt to be secured to the victim's arm, an attachment means for securing the belt to the floatation member and a rescue line attached to the adjustment means. A rescuer, while holding onto the rescue line, can throw the flotation member to the victim. The victim can place his or her arm through the aperture in the flotation member. Once the victim has placed his or her arm through the aperture, the rescuer can pull on the rescue line causing the adjustment means to secure the belt to the victim's arm. And, then the rescuer can use the rescue line to pull the victim from the water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 5, 2002
    Inventor: Lance D. Hoffman
  • Patent number: 6345744
    Abstract: A floating caddy for holding and storing the gear of wading hunters comprising an inflatable tube formed from an impermeable fabric for providing flotation for the caddy. The tube is configured to create a water resistant storage compartment within its periphery. The top of the storage compartment has weather resistant zipper for access into the storage compartment. The caddy is fitted with straps for attaching a shotgun and shoulder straps mounted to the tube to allow the caddy to be carried on the back of the hunter in knapsack fashion. The caddy may be floated in and out of a flooded area by a wading hunter by means of a tether attached to the tube. The fabric forming the caddy maybe printed in a desired camouflage pattern.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 12, 2002
    Inventor: Ezekiel Clay Eldridge
  • Patent number: 6331128
    Abstract: A recreational device having a moisture and tear and UV resistant outer surface is disclosed. The core is manufactured from a flexible, lightweight material having a weight of about 2.0-2.5 pounds per cubic foot, such as two-part polyurethane or closed cell foam through injection or open molding. An inner core can be placed concentrically within the outer core, with the inner core having a second density. The flexible outer surface can be integral to the core or applied subsequent to manufacturing and can be materials such as a latex or neoprene. Preferably at least one indentation is molded into the core to receive a container. At least one connector receiving area, such as a directly inserted clip, ring or other fastener, can be embedded into the core to receive an attachment strap to attach multiple devices together.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 1999
    Date of Patent: December 18, 2001
    Inventor: Christie Liscomb Schmick
  • Patent number: 6234857
    Abstract: A non-inflatable flotation device that includes a substantially flat non-inflatable buoyant base portion, and a non-inflatable buoyant rim wall extending from the base portion. The rim wall extends at least partially around the periphery of the base portion. A tow line connection lug extends from an edge of the base portion, and in one embodiment a tow line is connected to the connection lug. The non-inflatable base portion and the non-inflatable rim wall are formed from a resilient foam having a density less than water. The resilient foam is formed from polyurethane resins or polystyrene beads. A protective layer covers all outer surfaces of the flotation device. The protective layer is formed from a protective coating applied to the outer surfaces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 22, 2001
    Inventor: Kevin M. Suellentrop
  • Patent number: 6213832
    Abstract: A personal flotation device is configured and sized so that it is adapted to be positioned beneath a person's body to cause the person to be suspended in equilibrium in a partially-submerged state. The device includes a ring-shaped body and a plurality of side floats extending radially away from the ring-shaped body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 9, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2001
    Inventor: Otto P. Fest, Sr.