Water Rescue Or Life Protecting Apparatus Patents (Class 441/80)
  • Patent number: 11767088
    Abstract: Systems to prevent water ingestion during use of an electrically powered inflation system for an inflatable device in order to ensure that the inflatable device remains either upright in the water during the inflation process, or that prevents water from entering the inflation system air intake during the inflation process, or combinations thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 2019
    Date of Patent: September 26, 2023
    Assignee: AIR CRUISERS COMPANY, LLC
    Inventors: Christian W. Thomson, Thomas W. Swierkocki
  • Patent number: 11591053
    Abstract: A life raft system for an aircraft, comprising a storage container; an inflatable life raft that is stored in the storage container in normal operation mode, an inflation device for inflating the inflatable life raft in an emergency mode, and a control unit for activating the inflation device in the emergency mode; wherein the control unit comprises a floatable control buoy with an activation member that is operable for activating the inflation device, wherein the floatable control buoy is provided for operation at a predetermined distance remote from an associated aircraft in an emergency mode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 17, 2021
    Date of Patent: February 28, 2023
    Assignee: AIRBUS HELICOPTERS DEUTSCHLAND GMBH
    Inventor: Stefan Harms
  • Patent number: 11548601
    Abstract: A flotation device that can include a multi-chamber flotation element having an active inflation chamber and a passive inflation chamber. The flotation device can have a first valve in fluid communication with the active inflation chamber but not the passive inflation chamber and an opening in fluid communication with the passive inflation chamber but not the active air chamber. The active inflation chamber can be configured to be inflated through the first valve. The active inflation chamber can be configured to expand the passive inflation chamber from a collapsed state to an expanded state as the active inflation chamber is expanded by, for example and without limitation, permitting ambient air to enter the passive inflation chamber when a pressure within the passive inflation chamber is less than an ambient air pressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 2020
    Date of Patent: January 10, 2023
    Assignee: Crusoe Survival, LLC
    Inventor: Christopher Ian Roxburgh Hugh
  • Patent number: 11518478
    Abstract: A boat in which at least a portion of at least one of the port side and the starboard side of the hull is moveable between a first position and a second position. In the first position the moveable portion forms a generally upright portion of the port or starboard side of the hull, and, in the second position, the moveable portion forms a generally horizontal deck surface. A walkway connects a seating area within the boat to an area aft of the seating area, and at least a portion of the walkway is adjacent to the moveable portion of the port or starboard side. A first seat is positioned adjacent to at least a portion of the walkway and a removable seat is configured to be positioned over the walkway and adjacent to the first seat.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2021
    Date of Patent: December 6, 2022
    Assignee: MasterCraft Boat Company, LLC
    Inventors: Nick P. Waters, David F. Ekern, Paul M. Harrison, Chadrick E. Curts
  • Patent number: 11311430
    Abstract: A stretcher including a flexible base panel sized to support a person lying thereon during a rescue or extrication operation. The base panel includes a header end and an opposite footer end, and further includes a support mat resting on the base panel between the header and footer ends. The stretcher further include a shoulder harness with a pair of shoulder straps and a groin harness with leg straps fixedly coupled to the support mat for securing the person to the base panel. A securement strap may be coupled to the base panel and extend across the flexible base panel to help prevent the injured person from rolling off the sides of the stretcher. The rescue stretcher may further include one or more flotation devices attached thereto to facilitate water evacuations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 2019
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2022
    Assignee: SKEDCO, INC.
    Inventor: Carston R. Calkin
  • Patent number: 11136096
    Abstract: A search and rescue drone system includes a buoyant body member, a frame attached to the buoyant body member for carrying a motor and propeller, and an electronic array including a camera, GPS, an EPIRB radio distress beacon, and a transmitter/receiver for remote control flying the drone and communicating with an operator. A laser guidance system may provide coordinates for landing near a swimmer in distress. The search and rescue drone may also be programmed to simply fly to the location of an electronic wearable device, like a bracelet, that is worn by a man overboard. In another embodiment, the search and rescue drone includes pivoting motor mounts, so that it can take off and land vertically with propellers rotating in a horizontal plane, and then the propellers may pivot to rotate in a vertical plane for propulsion across water similar to a fan boat with rescued people aboard.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 10, 2019
    Date of Patent: October 5, 2021
    Inventors: Thomas Lawrence Moses, Merrill Stuart Ross
  • Patent number: 11022269
    Abstract: A lighting device according to one embodiment comprises: a housing having an opening; a half mirror member arranged in the opening; a first light source unit for emitting light at the half mirror member; a mirror member for re-reflecting light reflected by the half mirror member; a diffusion plate arranged between the first light source unit and the half mirror member; and a guide unit protruding from the lower surface of the housing, wherein the housing includes a first area and a second area formed by the guide unit, the first light source unit is arranged in the first area and the mirror member is arranged in the second area, and the diffusion plate can be supported by the guide unit. Therefore, the lighting device can implement various three-dimensional effects of an optical image according to a field of view by using the half mirror member and the mirror member during lighting.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 2018
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2021
    Assignee: LG INNOTEK CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Young Jae Choi, Seong Jin Kim, Hyun Duck Yang, Eay Jin Lim
  • Patent number: 10773778
    Abstract: The LED lights for a surfboard is a safety device. The LED lights for a surfboard is configured for use with a surfboard. The surfboard is a floating structure. The surfboard is a roughly disk shaped structure. The surfboard comprises a superior face and an inferior face. The LED lights for a surfboard illuminates when the LED lights for a surfboard is placed in water. The illumination of the LED lights for a surfboard discourages predators in the water from attacking the LED lights for a surfboard. The LED lights for a surfboard comprises a housing, an illumination circuit and the surfboard. The housing contains the illumination circuit. The housing mounts on the inferior face of the disk structure of the surfboard. The illumination circuit automatically illuminates when the LED lights for a surfboard is placed in water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 2019
    Date of Patent: September 15, 2020
    Inventors: Homer Shaffer, Michele Walter
  • Patent number: 10668997
    Abstract: A search and rescue drone system includes a buoyant body member, a frame attached to the buoyant body member for carrying a motor and propeller, and an electronic array including a camera, GPS, an EPIRB radio distress beacon, and a transmitter/receiver for remote control flying the drone and communicating with an operator. The search and rescue drone may be flown manually, or may have some autonomous flight and locator capabilities. For example, in one embodiment, the search and rescue drone may be programmed to simply fly to the location of an electronic wearable device, like a bracelet, that is worn by a man overboard. In another embodiment, the search and rescue drone includes a basket, harness, or other means for actually recovering a swimmer in distress, and flying that person back to safety on a ship or on shore.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 2018
    Date of Patent: June 2, 2020
    Inventors: Thomas Lawrence Moses, Merrill Stuart Ross
  • Patent number: 10611444
    Abstract: A personal flotation device having a vest, an inflatable balloon, a radar reflector, a gas cartridge, a pocket, a flap, a tube, a string, and a harness assembly. The vest comprises a first prong, a second prong opposite the first prong; and a connection member connecting the first prong to the second prong. The pocket extends from the first prong through the connection member to the second prong. The gas cartridge is disposed in the first prong of the vest. The tube connects the inflatable balloon to the gas cartridge. An end of the tube is directly attached to the inflatable balloon. The inflatable balloon is characterized by a deflated condition, stored in the pocket, and an inflated condition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 17, 2019
    Date of Patent: April 7, 2020
    Inventor: Jean-Francois Orsini
  • Patent number: 10357112
    Abstract: A floating assembly for suspending a person on water has a foldable frame member that has a folded and an unfolded orientation, the frame member defining a periphery for the assembly. A sheet material covers portions of the frame member when the frame member is in the unfolded orientation. A plurality of floatation sleeves are attached to the periphery. A plurality of floatation devices are removably inserted into each of the floatation sleeves.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 1, 2017
    Date of Patent: July 23, 2019
    Assignee: Patent Category Corp.
    Inventor: Yu Zheng
  • Patent number: 10092783
    Abstract: An operating handle for an avalanche rescue system, with at least one functional element, is arranged to be coupled to the at least one functional element of the avalanche rescue system. The operating handle is used to trigger the functional element. The operating handle is designed on one end as a mouthpiece or embodies such a mouthpiece. The mouthpiece of the operating handle can be coupled to a ventilation functional unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 13, 2015
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2018
    Inventor: Matthias Werz
  • Patent number: 10040527
    Abstract: A lifesaving device and a lifesaving control method are provided. Wherein, the lifesaving device includes: at least one first detection module (200) configured for detecting human body biological characteristic information, a lifesaving device body (100) capable of being worn on a body of a user, and at least one first gasbag module (300) arranged on the lifesaving device body (100); after the first gasbag module (300) is activated, a lifesaving gasbag (1) can be popped up; the first detection module (200) is in signal connection with the first gasbag module (300) and is configured for activating the first gasbag module (300) when the biological characteristic information detected meets a first preset condition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 22, 2016
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2018
    Assignee: BOE TECHNOLOGY GROUP CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Zuo Yuan, Yifei Zhang
  • Patent number: 9731801
    Abstract: The invention is directed to an airbag system and, more particularly, to such a system employed as a rescue or life-saving system to enable a person to survive an avalanche, for example. In a particular embodiment, the invention relates to an airbag system utilized with a backpack to be worn by a skier, snowboarder, hiker, or snowmobiler, for example. Instead of relying upon compressed gas cartridges or cylinders to inflate the airbag(s), the invention inflates the airbag(s) with ambient air only. In a particular embodiment, air is supplied to the airbag by means of a battery-powered electrical motor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 2016
    Date of Patent: August 15, 2017
    Assignee: AMER SPORTS CANADA INC.
    Inventors: Michael Douglas Blenkarn, Thomas Walker Clarke Fayle, Gordon Thompson Rose
  • Patent number: 9415847
    Abstract: A man-overboard rescue and retrieval system includes a net assembly having a pair of laterally spaced apart side ropes and a plurality of net portions, each net portion being constructed of a material that floats, extends laterally between the side ropes, and is spaced apart longitudinally from an adjacent net portion. The system includes a deployment capsule defining an interior space configured to selectively receive the net assembly therein. A launching device includes a framework configured to receive the deployment member. A first compressed air canister is in fluid communication with the launching device and the deployment member and configured to apply force to the deployment member when actuated that is sufficient to propel the deployment member from the launching device. Each net portion includes a net spreader connected to a second compressed air canister for selective inflation thereof so as to spread apart the side ropes and net portions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 2014
    Date of Patent: August 16, 2016
    Inventor: Paul C. Minecci
  • Patent number: 9272187
    Abstract: The invention is directed to an airbag system and, more particularly, to such a system employed as a rescue or life-saving system to enable a person to survive an avalanche, for example. In a particular embodiment, the invention relates to an airbag system utilized with a backpack to be worn by a skier, snowboarder, hiker, or snowmobiler, for example. Instead of relying upon compressed gas cartridges or cylinders to inflate the airbag(s), the invention inflates the airbag(s) with ambient air only. In a particular embodiment, air is supplied to the airbag by means of a battery-powered electrical motor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 1, 2016
    Assignee: AMER SPORTS CANADA INC.
    Inventors: Michael Douglas Blenkarn, Thomas Walker Clarke Fayle, Gordon Thompson Rose
  • Patent number: 9227706
    Abstract: A marker and recovery device has a body for securing to a torso and an arch secured to the body at spaced locations. The arch is extendable from a stored to a deployed condition. In the deployed condition, the arch extends from the torso of the wearer to function as a visible marker. The arch facilitates recovery of the wearer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 5, 2016
    Inventor: Neil Darroch
  • Patent number: 9193421
    Abstract: An ejectable floatation device includes a foldable inflatable cell coupled to a compressed gas cartridge. The inflatable cell includes a tether with one end attached to the inflatable cell and the opposite end attached to the user. The inflatable cell fits within a pocket encapsulating the ejectable floatation device, and is made buoyant upon actuation by the user of compressed gas. The inflated cell exits the pocket floating to the waters surface while still being attached to the user to identify his/her position in the water. The pocket encapsulating the ejectable floatation device may be formed on a waistband or armband or the like.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 2014
    Date of Patent: November 24, 2015
    Inventor: Pamela Bliss
  • Patent number: 9171436
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a Visual Distress Signal Device that will float vertically and provides a high-intensity pattern of light which incorporates both a radially symmetrical and omni directional/beam electrically-powered, LED light emitting electronic visual distress signaling device (eVDSD) incorporating a GPS transmitter that can interface with the internet using a cell phone adaptor to enable mobile handheld smartphone application (apps) devices to alert and locate vessels and persons in distress. This device can be used as a replacement for pyrotechnic flares utilized in search and rescue of vessels and persons in distress, especially in a marine environment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 2014
    Date of Patent: October 27, 2015
    Assignee: Sirius Signal
    Inventors: Anthony W. Covelli, Robert B. Simons, Jr.
  • Patent number: 9126658
    Abstract: A gear rescue system is configured to attach to gear in water and to deploy when a deployment water pressure is reached. The gear rescue system includes an upper housing mechanically coupled to a lower housing and an upper cap. A line spool is housed within the upper housing with some line extending through the lower housing and attached to a locking attachment ring. The locking attachment ring is attached to the gear. A blow out plug is detachably coupled to the lower housing and configured to blow out when the deployment water pressure is reached. When he gear pulls the gear rescue system to the deployment water pressure, the blow out plug enters into the lower housing causing the line spool to deploy line enabling the gear rescue system to rise to a surface of the water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 4, 2014
    Date of Patent: September 8, 2015
    Inventors: Richard Burns Ryan, Dillon Alexander Novak, Shannon Maureen Winters
  • Patent number: 9108707
    Abstract: A light sequence generation system is provided on human associated aquatic objects such as surfboards, boogie boards, and kayaks to deter shark attacks. Light sources such as light emitting diodes (LEDs) are configured to emit sequences of pulses in arrangements and/or patterns that are unnatural to sharks. Batteries and/or capacitors may be used along with solar panels to power the light sources. The batteries and/or capacitors can also power electromagnetic repellents or may be completely shield to prevent attractant effects. The unnatural light sequence generation system can be used in conjunction with other chemical and electromagnetic repellents.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 18, 2015
    Inventor: Anantha Pradeep
  • Patent number: 9072647
    Abstract: A support assembly for an individual lying in a supine position comprises a first support unit, a second support unit, a first bridge slidably detachably engaging the first and second support units, a head rest, a second bridge detachably interconnecting the head rest and the first support unit, and a hinged torso compression alert strap mounted on and extending over the first support unit and including an indicator reflecting the degree of compression achieved by tightening the strap against the chest of an individual lying supine on the support assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 2013
    Date of Patent: July 7, 2015
    Inventors: Ryan J. Porter, Brett N. Chapman, Matthew A. Del Bianco, Robert Q. Riley, Ronald A. Dicarlo
  • Publication number: 20150118925
    Abstract: The apparatus and method of the present invention provides for improving the reliability of the rescue of a man overboard, or MoB, whether or not that person is able to assist in their own rescue and whether or not the MoB is slightly submerged. The apparatus of the present invention is comprised of a foldable set of arms that, when deployed, are fixed at 90 degrees to each other forming an “H” geometry. The advantage of the “H” geometry is that it deploys both on, above and under the surface of the water, such that when the tether attached to the rescue device passes the MoB it readily becomes entangled. Advantageously, the apparatus of the present invention may be used with the majority of contemporary rescue devices.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 28, 2013
    Publication date: April 30, 2015
    Inventor: Jonathan Ganz
  • Patent number: 9017126
    Abstract: A convertible emergency device for enabling a user to deploy a floatation device from a wearable structure in an emergency situation. The convertible emergency device comprises in one embodiment waist pack which can convert to an inflated life vest by actuation of a pull cord. Such actuation of the pull cord causes portions of the body of the waist pack to automatically inflate with air from a gas cylinder canister. The convertible emergency device comprises in another embodiment a backpack configured to convert into an inflatable life boat having a pair of oars. When in the backpack state, the uninflated life boat is releasably attached to the shoulder strap and the oars, with the pair of oars disposed on the either side of the uninflated life boat. When a pull cord is pulled, the life boat is inflated to enable it to provide a floating vessel for a user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 28, 2015
    Inventor: Paul Patrick Newmann
  • Patent number: 8998666
    Abstract: A system and method are used for dispatching a rescue flotation device to an individual who has fallen overboard from a ship. A water-activated transmitter is carried or worn by each and every passenger on a given ship. Upon detecting moisture, the transmitter is activated to send a data signal to a radio signal receiver on the ship. The contents of the data signal may be the location and/or coordinates of the victim, as determined by triangulation of the signal, a GPS receiver and/or radar. Upon transmission of the data, a rescue flotation device or vessel is automatically deployed from a portion of the vessel into the water. The rescue device may be dispatched from a portion of the ship nearest to the determined location of the victim, and/or the rescue device may be self-propelled such that it navigates to the approximate location of victim.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 2, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 7, 2015
    Inventor: Steven Albright
  • Publication number: 20150050852
    Abstract: A water rescue device for connecting a sling includes a frame body having a loading seat; a hollow post erected on the loading seat; a plurality of connecting rods connected between the hollow post and the frame body; and a submerged weight disposed under the loading seat. One end of the sling passes through the hollow post to connect the submerged weight.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 19, 2013
    Publication date: February 19, 2015
    Inventor: Tien-Chih YU
  • Publication number: 20150044920
    Abstract: The shark wear of the present invention provides protection against aquatic predators comprising a lanyard, gloves and flippers equipped with a defensive device comprising an arrowhead having four sides, and wherein each side has a flange, and the four flanges terminate in a single point.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 12, 2014
    Publication date: February 12, 2015
    Inventor: Deano Miano
  • Publication number: 20150044923
    Abstract: A marine lifesaving system is disclosed. A marine lifesaving system comprises an insulated container comprising a plurality of walls and a lid, at least one locking means to selectively and co-operatively secure said lid with said insulated container, at least one storage receptacle defined in one or more of the walls, or the lid, of the insulated container, at least one bladder system located in the at least one storage receptacle, at least one compressed gas canister connected to each of the at least one bladder systems, and an activation device for activating the at least one compressed gas canister, thereby inflating the at least one bladder system, wherein the activation device consists of a pull-string that extends exterior to the at least one storage receptacle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 8, 2014
    Publication date: February 12, 2015
    Inventor: Joseph Abeyta
  • Patent number: 8932096
    Abstract: Disclosed is a personal flotation and rescue device. The device includes a life vest with an interconnected backpack. The backpack includes an interior area that is enclosed by a peripheral zipper. A boom is initially stored within the backpack in an uninflated and accordion-like state. A water activated inflator is secured to the boom and is adapted to fully inflate the boom upon contact with water. Inflation of the boom causes the zipper to open and thereby permit the boom to be fully extended from the back of the wearer. Joints are included along the length of the boom such that it takes on a bounded configuration after inflation. The bounded area and then be used by rescue personnel in retrieving the wearer of the device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 13, 2015
    Assignee: Carleton Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Brian Ford, Matt Scholes, M. Elizabeth Bolint, Donald Blackman
  • Patent number: 8905803
    Abstract: A device (1) for use in recovering a person who may be exhausted, injured or unconscious from the sea. The device (1) comprises a plurality of rigid rods (2) enclosed within a sheath (7) made from flexible tubular webbing. The sheath (7) comprises at least one flange (3) extending radially outwards from the rod (2). The device (1) also comprises a plurality of linking webbing elements (4) made from a flexible material. The linking webbing elements (4) are attached to the flange (3) of the sheaths (7) encasing the rods (2) to form a network of rods (2) enclosed within tubular webbing sheaths and linking webbing elements (4).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 21, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 9, 2014
    Assignee: Fibrelight Developments Limited
    Inventors: Anthony James Patrick Hobbs, David Allan Taylor
  • Patent number: 8882555
    Abstract: A remote controlled motorized buoy is provided for rescuing people in the water. The buoy may be controlled by a person with a remote control to navigate to the person in need. The buoy may have flotation mechanisms to keep the buoy right side up in rough water conditions and includes visual indicators to help the user keep track of the buoys location, such as a flag and beacon. When the buoy is near the swimmer, the swimmer may grab the buoy and the buoy may be remotely navigated to bring the swimmer to a safe location.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 5, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 11, 2014
    Inventors: Anthony C. Mulligan, Robert W. Lautrup
  • Patent number: 8876568
    Abstract: The invention is directed to an airbag system and, more particularly, to such a system employed as a rescue or life-saving system to enable a person to survive an avalanche. In a particular embodiment, the invention relates to an airbag system utilized with a backpack to be worn by a skier, snowboarder, hiker, or snowmobiler, for example. Instead of relying upon compressed gas cartridges or cylinders to inflate the airbag(s), the invention inflates the airbag(s) with ambient air only. In a particular embodiment, air is supplied to the airbag by means of a battery-powered electrical motor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2014
    Assignee: Arc'Teryx Equipment Inc.
    Inventors: Michael Douglas Blenkarn, Thomas Walker Clarke Fayle, Gordon Thompson Rose
  • Publication number: 20140322998
    Abstract: A marine harness (1) comprising a tow attachment (2), the tow attachment being such that a person wearing the harness can be towed along by way of attaching a tow line to the attachment, and the tow attachment arranged rearwardly of the harness.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 22, 2012
    Publication date: October 30, 2014
    Inventor: Oscar Edward Mead
  • Patent number: 8851948
    Abstract: One embodiment of the present invention relates to an avalanche safety system including an inflatable chamber, activation system, inflation system, and a harness. The inflatable chamber is a three-dimensionally, partially enclosed region having an inflated state and a compressed state. The inflated state may form a particular three dimensional shape configured to protect the user from burial and provide flotation during an avalanche. The activation system is configured to receive a user-triggered action to activate the system. The activation system also includes a reinflation algorithm configured to automatically reactivate the inflation system after a period of time to maintain the inflated state of the inflatable chamber. The inflation system may include an air intake, battery, fan, and internal airway channel. The inflation system is configured to transmit ambient air into the inflatable chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 24, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 7, 2014
    Assignee: Black Diamond Equipment, Ltd
    Inventors: James Thomas Grutta, Nathan Kuder, Peter Thomas Gompert, Derick Noffsinger, Robert Joan Horacek, Joseph Benjamin Walker, David Kuhlmann Blackwell
  • Patent number: 8851949
    Abstract: One embodiment of the present invention relates to an avalanche safety system including an inflatable chamber, activation system, inflation system, and a harness. The inflatable chamber is a three-dimensionally, partially enclosed region having an inflated state and a compressed state. The inflated state may form a particular three dimensional shape configured to protect the user from impact and/or provide inverse segregation during an avalanche. The activation system is configured to receive a user-triggered action to activate the system. The inflation system is configured to transmit gas into and out of the inflatable chamber to transition between the inflated state and compressed state. The inflation system may automatically deflate or transmit the gas from the inflatable chamber external of the system. Automatic deflation of the inflatable chamber may be via a valve corresponding to a particular value such as time or three dimensional position of the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 7, 2014
    Assignee: Black Diamond Equipment, Ltd
    Inventors: James Thomas Grutta, Nathan Kuder, Peter Thomas Gompet, Derick J. Neffsinger, Robert John Horacek, Joseph Benjamin Walker, David Kuhlmann Blackwell
  • Patent number: 8800578
    Abstract: A multifunctional walking staff, to aid in balance and support on an ice surface, and to function as a survival or a rescue tool in the event of breaking through thin ice into water. Secure traction on ice is attained by a metal tip, which may be further pressed onto the ice by a foot peg, serving also as a grapple hook. Secured onto the ice, the staff affords reliable anchorage to an attached rescue line, which is ordinarily stowed in multiple folds therewithin. An adjustable loop is formed integrally with, or adjoined to the rescue line, which loop may be maneuvred by the staff to facilitate engagement with the rescuee. A buoyant projectile linked to the loop is releasably disposed within a top section of the staff, and is of such weight that it and the loop may jointly be cast the full extent of the rescue line.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 12, 2014
    Inventor: Donald William Jackson
  • Patent number: 8777684
    Abstract: One embodiment of the present invention relates to an avalanche safety system including an inflatable chamber, activation system, inflation system, diagnostic system and a harness. The inflatable chamber is a three-dimensionally, partially enclosed region having an inflated state and a compressed state. The inflated state may form a particular three dimensional shape configured to protect the user from burial and provide flotation during an avalanche. The activation system is configured to receive a user-triggered action to activate the system. The inflation system may include an air intake, battery, fan, and internal airway channel. The inflation system is configured to transmit ambient air into the inflatable chamber. The diagnostic system includes a at least one sensor configured to measure a parameter corresponding to the inflation system and a display configured to visually, audibly, and/or tactilely display the parameter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 24, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 15, 2014
    Assignee: Black Diamond Equipment, Ltd
    Inventors: James Thomas Grutta, Nathan Kuder, Peter Thomas Gompert, Derick Noffsinger, Robert John Horacek, Joseph Benjamin Walker, David Kuhlmann Blackwell
  • Patent number: 8715023
    Abstract: The invention is both a functional piece of furniture, but also claims to serve as an emergency haven that can be used as a tornado shelter or as a floating device. The device may offer protection for people who may not have the ability to reach a shelter, due to physical handicaps, distance to shelter, and deficiencies in their habitats. It offers protection if airlifted and a shield against flying debris, in case of flood the top is detached and the bottom can be used as a canoe-shape floating device. The sofa is built with an aluminum titanium alloy covered in glass reinforced GRP; it is sized to accommodate two adults. It has ventilations slots covered with built-in air filters; it has removable cushions and non-removable foam padding. The device is equipped with a callout GPS and a safe storage compartment for valuables and medications.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 6, 2014
    Inventor: Cecilia Francina Montero
  • Patent number: 8691253
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method of use, of a mixture of chemical compounds for a shark repellent, as well as methods of protection garments in using such material(s). Generally, there are not many shark repellents. This shark repellent contains a mixture of chemical compounds that are highly toxic and trenchant, which will deter the shark from injured or non-injured humans or animals, once the mixture is immersed in water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 8, 2014
    Inventor: Rhonda Tracy
  • Patent number: 8636554
    Abstract: A buoyant rescue device for retrieval of drowning victims, particularly those that have fallen through floating ice, in the configuration of a catamaran with an opening in the bow to allow a ladder structure to rotate into the water. The ladder is pivotally mounted to the center of the craft and is lowered into the water the so the victim can climb the ladder onto the craft, or if the victim is injured or too weak to do so, a rescuer can provide a downward force at the top of the ladder and lift the victim out, such as a teeter totter would operate. The centrally located pivot point alleviates most of the listing or tilting and potential capsizing that would occur if a person were to climb onto the edge of the boat or if rescuers were reaching into the water to retrieve the person.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 28, 2014
    Inventors: John Patrick Connolly, Joseph Patrick Farais
  • Patent number: 8613637
    Abstract: A water survival system and a method are disclosed for detecting the danger of a person drowning in a body of water. The water survival system includes a breast belt and a life jacket. The breast belt has at least one physiological condition sensor affixed thereto while the life jacket has an expandable chamber connected to a compressed gas supply via an activating mechanism. As the compressed gas enters the expandable chamber, the life jacket increases in buoyancy. The life jacket also has a water contact sensor, a global positioning system device, first and second body orientation sensors, a transmitter which is capable of sending a signal to a remote receiver, and a control unit capable of receiving real time signals from each of the sensors and evaluating and comparing the real time signals against corresponding ranges of preset acceptable values to determine if the person wearing the life jacket is in danger of drowning.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 24, 2013
    Inventors: Juergen Puls, Frank Richard Fassbender
  • Patent number: 8591162
    Abstract: A transfer device for transferring people and/or personal equipment from a first location to a second location, the transfer device being coupled to a lifting device and comprising an outer structure in the form of a cage connected to a base and defining an inner space. Seating elements are disposed on the device's base, arranged radially around its center. The device also comprises shock absorbing means situated on the sides of the outer structure facing each of the seating elements to protect passengers from frontal impacts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 9, 2013
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2013
    Assignee: Reflex Marine Ltd.
    Inventor: Philip A. Strong
  • Publication number: 20130309923
    Abstract: The invention is both a functional piece of furniture, but also claims to serve as an emergency haven that can be used as a tornado shelter or as a floating device. The device may offer protection for people who may not have the ability to reach a shelter, due to physical handicaps, distance to shelter, and deficiencies in their habitats. It offers protection if airlifted and a shield against flying debris, in case of flood the top is detached and the bottom can be used as a canoe-shape floating device. The sofa is built with an aluminum titanium alloy covered in glass reinforced GRP; it is sized to accommodate two adults. It has ventilations slots covered with built-in air filters; it has removable cushions and non-removable foam padding. The device is equipped with a callout GPS and a safe storage compartment for valuables and medications.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 18, 2012
    Publication date: November 21, 2013
    Inventor: CECILIA FRANCINA MONTERO
  • Patent number: 8523622
    Abstract: A rescue appliance for evacuating physically-compromised persons is disclosed. A rescue appliance includes a platform configured to support a prone evacuee, a set of wheels coupled with the platform to support the platform relative to a floor surface, and a protection assembly coupled with the platform. The protection assembly is configurable to surround the prone evacuee to protect the evacuee from a fire. The protection assembly can be configured to encase the prone evacuee. The rescue appliance can be configured to be sufficiently buoyant to support an evacuee on water to allow evacuation in a flooding emergency. Two or more rescue appliances can be coupled together to form a train so that multiple persons can be evacuated simultaneously.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2013
    Inventor: Wanda Grimes
  • Patent number: 8508382
    Abstract: A light emitting inflatable safety beacon is disclosed for identifying a location of the beacon. The beacon comprises an elongated bladder defining an interior chamber extending between an upper end and a lower end. A tether extends between a first end and a second end. A couple links the tether with the elongated bladder for suspending the tether within the interior chamber. A light source is secured to the tether for emitting an electromagnetic radiation. The electromagnetic radiation internally illuminates the elongated bladder for creating an illuminated beacon. The electromagnetic radiation traverses the elongated bladder for creating a location beacon.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2013
    Inventor: John C. Novak
  • Publication number: 20130203310
    Abstract: The present invention is a convertible emergency device that includes a waist pack that includes an interior portion with a first zipper is disposed on the front side of the interior portion, a pair of straps each that extend from the interior portion that wrap and secure the convertible emergency device around a user's waist and a pair of snaps that fasten the pair of straps around the user. The device also includes a backpack portion with a front that includes an inflatable life boat with two sides, a pair of oars disposed on the sides of the inflatable life boat and a second zipper disposed on the front portion of the backpack portion that is opened to access a second pull cord to inflate the inflatable life boat. There is also a pair of straps and snaps to attach the emergency device to a user's vest and inflatable boat.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 7, 2012
    Publication date: August 8, 2013
    Inventor: Paul Newman
  • Patent number: 8496507
    Abstract: A swiftwater rescue board capable of traveling across a river or other current flow under guidance of a single land-based rescuer using a single line. The board has a generally planar, double-ended flotation body with a longitudinal fin offset to the “victim” side of the board's centerline, and line attachment points located adjacent the ends of the board and offset to the “rescuer” side of the board's centerline. The board is placed in a river with the fin generally aligned with the current and closer to the victim being rescued, with a line attached to the attachment point at the upstream end of the board. The rescuer stays on land or in a relatively safe location and pays out line in a manner allowing the board to be driven across the river diagonally to the victim, driven only by the current flow.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 30, 2013
    Inventor: Terry W. Poston
  • Patent number: 8482405
    Abstract: The invention is a health monitoring system that determines the spine stress dose value for an individual on a high speed boat. The boat can produce impact injury from whole-body vibration embedded with multiple shocks. The system includes an RFID tag; a GPS; a display; a RFID reader; a multi-axis sensor unit that is an accelerometer which enables the determination of impact, vibration and shock, impact and vibration; and a central data acquisition apparatus. The apparatus includes processors in communication with the GPS, the sensor unit, and the RFID reader. The apparatus samples the RFID reader frequently, confirming the status of all individuals having RFID tags as being onboard or overboard. An application records a GPS location and time if an individual is overboard, and generates a course to the GPS location. The display illustrates a ride roughness graphically, in terms of injury potential at a particular speed and heading.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 9, 2013
    Assignee: United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Navy
    Inventors: Eric C. Pierce, Jeffery Blankenship, Brian L. Price, Eric Tuovila, Ronald S. Peterson
  • Publication number: 20130149923
    Abstract: One embodiment of the present invention relates to an avalanche safety system including an inflatable chamber, activation system, inflation system, and a harness. The inflatable chamber is a three-dimensionally, partially enclosed region having an inflated state and a compressed state. The inflated state may form a particular three dimensional shape configured to protect the user from burial and provide flotation during an avalanche. The activation system is configured to receive a user-triggered action to activate the system. The inflation system may include an air intake, battery, fan, and internal airway channel. The inflation system is configured to transmit ambient air into the inflatable chamber. The harness may be a backpack that enables a user to transport the system while engaging in activities that may be exposed to avalanche risk. The harness may include hip straps, shoulder straps, internal compartments, etc.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 13, 2011
    Publication date: June 13, 2013
    Inventors: Joseph Benjamin Walker, David K. Blackwell, Derick J. Noffsinger, James Thomas Grutta, Nathan Miles Kuder, Peter Thomas Gompert, Robert John Horacek
  • Publication number: 20130149924
    Abstract: One embodiment of the present invention relates to an avalanche safety system including an inflatable chamber, activation system, inflation system, diagnostic system and a harness. The inflatable chamber is a three-dimensionally, partially enclosed region having an inflated state and a compressed state. The inflated state may form a particular three dimensional shape configured to protect the user from burial and provide flotation during an avalanche. The activation system is configured to receive a user-triggered action to activate the system. The inflation system may include an air intake, battery, fan, and internal airway channel. The inflation system is configured to transmit ambient air into the inflatable chamber.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 24, 2012
    Publication date: June 13, 2013
    Inventors: James Thomas Grutta, Nathan Kuder, Peter Thomas Gompert, Derick Noffsinger, Robert John Horacek, Joseph Benjamin Walker, David Kuhlmann Blackwell