SAND-ANCHORED BEACH BLANKET AND METHOD OF USE THEREOF

Abstract

A sand-anchored beach blanket including a base having two opposing sides separated by a length, a sand retaining frame extending away from the base and spanning the length of the base, the sand retaining frame including a sidewall at least partially defining a sand retaining channel, and at least one elastic member having a proximal end coupled to the base and a distal end coupled to the sand retaining frame, the at least one elastic member defining a gap between the sidewall of the sand retaining frame and the at least one elastic member, the gap disposed within the sand retaining channel such that the at least one elastic member at least partially defines the sand retaining channel in addition to the sand retaining frame.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application is a continuation-in-part and claims priority to U.S. application Ser. No. 13/597,102 filed on Aug. 28, 2012, which has been allowed but not yet issued, the entirety of which is incorporated by reference.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to beach blankets, and more particularly, to a blanket that resists overturning from the wind and provides a grit free sunbathing experience.

DESCRIPTION OF THE RELATED ART

Several designs for beach blankets or towels have been designed in the past. None of them, however, include a simple yet robust means to easily secure a beach blanket to the sand so that the wind will not be able to pick up an edge and so that the blanket remains taut, which in turn allows for the easy ejection of sand from the surface.

Applicant believes that one relevant reference corresponds to U.S. Pat. No. 5,110,219 issued to Lopes. However, it differs from the present invention because the Lopes device uses external disc anchors to hold the edge of a mat that tend to dangle and can be troublesome when not used as a mat, are unnecessarily complicated and can be easily damaged. Additionally, this patent does not permit sand to be ejected in the manner and with the ease that the subject design permits.

Another relevant reference is demonstrated in U.S. Pat. No. 6,192,536 issued to Connors. However, the Connors' device differs from the present invention because the Connors device weighs down a towel with pockets in the corners which will tend to get sand on the top side of the towel, where it is not desired. Also, the Connors device, by having sealable pockets, has moveable parts that are subject to wear, tear and ultimate failure. Whereas, the present device has no moving parts to wear out or fail. Further, the present device is adapted for easy anchoring onto the sand without soiling the topside of the device and for ease of ejection of sand on its top surface.

Another relevant disclosure is U.S. Pat. No. 6,721,973 issued to Cristiano. The Cristiano patent differs from the present device in that it has anchor pockets that fail to prevent wind from picking up the edges of a blanket. Cristiano also fails to provide an effective means to set the anchor pockets into the ground without getting substantial amounts of sand on top of the blanket where it is not wanted.

Other patents describing the closest subject matter provide for a number of more or less complicated features that fail to solve the problem in an efficient and economical way. None of these patents suggest the novel features of the present invention.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

It is one of the main objects of the present invention to provide a beach towel that lays flat on the sand in windy conditions.

It is another object of this invention to provide a clean, grit-free sunbathing experience.

It is still another object of the present invention to provide a beach blanket that is easy to reliably secure to sand yet is easily removed once the beach time is over.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a beach towel that is readily machine washable.

Another object of the present invention is to have a wind-proof beach blanket that has no moving parts to break or to wear out.

It is yet another object of this invention to provide such a device that is inexpensive to manufacture and maintain while retaining its effectiveness.

In accordance with a further feature of the present invention, a sand-anchored beach blanket is provided including a base having two opposing sides separated by a length, a sand retaining frame extending away from the base and spanning the length of the base, the sand retaining frame including a sidewall at least partially defining a sand retaining channel, and at least one elastic member having a proximal end coupled to the base and a distal end coupled to the sand retaining frame, the at least one elastic member defining a gap between the sidewall of the sand retaining frame and the at least one elastic member, the gap disposed within the sand retaining channel such that the at least one elastic member at least partially defines the sand retaining channel in addition to the sand retaining frame.

In accordance with another feature of the present invention, the sand retaining frame includes a free end and the distal end of the at least one elastic member is coupled to the sand retaining frame within two inches of the free end of the sand retaining frame.

In accordance with a further feature of the present invention, the base includes a stretchable material having a bottom sand contact surface, the proximal end of the at least one elastic member is coupled to the bottom sand contact surface of the base, and the at least one elastic member separates the free end of the sand retaining frame from the bottom sand contact surface of the base.

In accordance with another feature, an embodiment of the present invention also includes a plurality of elastic members disposed a distance from each other along the length of the base to at least partially defining the sand retaining channel in addition to the sand retaining frame.

In accordance with a further feature of the present invention, the sand retaining frame spans a perimeter of the base and the plurality of elastic members are disposed continuously along the perimeter of the base.

In accordance with a further feature of the present invention, the gap is between approximately 1-6 inches in length.

In accordance with another feature of the present invention, the two opposing sides of the base include at least two corners separated by the length and the at least one elastic member is disposed a distance between the at least two corners.

In accordance with a further feature of the present invention, the at least two corners are devoid of the at least one elastic member.

In accordance with the present invention, a method of anchoring a sand-anchored beach blanket to an area of sand is provided, the method including providing a sand-anchored beach blanket having a base having two opposing sides separated by a length and an upper surface opposite a bottom sand contact surface, a sand retaining frame extending away from the base and including a sidewall at least partially defining a sand retaining channel, and at least one elastic member having a proximal end coupled to the base and a distal end coupled to the sand retaining frame, the at least one elastic member separating the sidewall of the sand retaining frame from a portion of the at least one elastic member such that the at least one elastic member at least partially defines the sand retaining channel in addition to the sand retaining frame, and inserting an amount of sand into the sand retaining channel between the at least one elastic member and the sidewall of the sand retaining frame to anchor the sand retaining frame and the at least one elastic member to a preselected area of sand.

In accordance with a further feature of the present invention, the method may include placing the sand-anchored beach blanket onto the preselected area of sand with the bottom sand contact surface disposed in a sand facing direction prior to inserting an amount of sand into the sand retaining channel, translating a portion of the sand retaining frame from the sand facing direction to a user facing direction opposite the sand facing direction, inserting an amount of sand into the portion of the sand retaining frame when the portion of the sand retaining frame is in the user facing direction, translating the portion of the sand retaining frame from the user facing direction to the sand facing direction, and inserting the amount of sand into the portion of the sand retaining frame when the portion of the sand retaining frame is in the sand facing direction.

In accordance with another feature of the present invention, the method may include providing the sand-anchored beach blanket including a plurality of elastic members disposed a distance from each other along the length of the base and inserting the amount of sand into the sand retaining channel between the plurality of elastic members and the sidewall of the sand retaining frame to anchor the sand retaining frame and the plurality of elastic members to a preselected area of sand.

In accordance with a further feature of the present invention, the method may include providing the base of the sand-anchored beach blanket of a stretchable material including a rectangular shape having at least two corners, the at least two corners devoid of the at least one elastic member.

In accordance with yet another feature of the present invention, the method may include grasping the upper surface of the base, lifting the base a distance from the preselected area of sand, and releasing the base while keeping the sand-anchored beach blanket anchored to the preselected area of sand to remove any existing sand from the upper surface of the base.

In accordance with another feature of the present invention, the distance is greater than one inch from the preselected area of sand.

In accordance with a further feature of the present invention, the method may include providing the sand retaining frame surrounding a periphery of the base and repeatedly filling the sand retaining frame with the amount of sand until the periphery of the base is filled with sand to anchor the sand-anchored beach blanket to the preselected area of sand.

In accordance with a further feature of the present invention, the method may include inserting the amount of sand into the sand retaining channel until the sidewall of the base defines a height of approximately 1-6 inches.

In accordance with the present invention, a method of anchoring a sand-anchored beach blanket to an area of sand is provided the method including providing a sand-anchored beach blanket having a base of a stretchable material, the base at least partially defining a sand retaining channel and having an upper surface and a bottom sand contact surface opposite the upper surface and at least one elastic member coupled to the base, inserting an amount of sand into the sand retaining channel between the at least one elastic member and the base to anchor the sand-anchored beach blanket to a preselected area of sand, and pulling the upper surface of the base a distance away from the preselected area of sand to remove any existing sand from the upper surface of the base while keeping the sand-anchored beach blanket anchored to the preselected area of sand.

In accordance with yet another feature of the present invention, the method may include releasing the upper surface of the base while keeping the sand-anchored beach blanket anchored to the preselected area of sand.

In accordance with a further feature of the present invention, the method may include inserting a second amount of sand into the sand retaining channel between the at least one elastic member and the base to increase a height of the base.

In accordance with yet another feature of the present invention, the method may include providing a plurality of elastic members coupled to the base and configured to anchor the sand-anchored beach blanket to the preselected area of sand when pulling the upper surface of the base the distance away from the preselected area of sand.

Although the invention is illustrated and described herein as embodied in a sand-anchored beach blanket and method of use, it is, nevertheless, not intended to be limited to the details shown because various modifications and structural changes may be made therein without departing from the spirit of the invention and within the scope and range of equivalents of the claims. Additionally, well-known elements of exemplary embodiments of the invention will not be described in detail or will be omitted so as not to obscure the relevant details of the invention.

Other features that are considered as characteristic for the invention are set forth in the appended claims. As required, detailed embodiments of the present invention are disclosed herein; however, it is to be understood that the disclosed embodiments are merely exemplary of the invention, which can be embodied in various forms. Therefore, specific structural and functional details disclosed herein are not to be interpreted as limiting, but merely as a basis for the claims and as a representative basis for teaching one of ordinary skill in the art to variously employ the present invention in virtually any appropriately detailed structure. Further, the terms and phrases used herein are not intended to be limiting; but rather, to provide an understandable description of the invention. While the specification concludes with claims defining the features of the invention that are regarded as novel, it is believed that the invention will be better understood from a consideration of the following description in conjunction with the drawing figures, in which like reference numerals are carried forward. The figures of the drawings are not drawn to scale.

Before the present invention is disclosed and described, it is to be understood that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting. The terms “a” or “an,” as used herein, are defined as one or more than one. The term “plurality,” as used herein, is defined as two or more than two. The term “another,” as used herein, is defined as at least a second or more. The terms “including” and/or “having,” as used herein, are defined as comprising (i.e., open language). The term “coupled,” as used herein, is defined as connected, although not necessarily directly, and not necessarily mechanically. The term “providing” is defined herein in its broadest sense, e.g., bringing/coming into physical existence, making available, and/or supplying to someone or something, in whole or in multiple parts at once or over a period of time.

As used herein, the terms “about” or “approximately” apply to all numeric values, whether or not explicitly indicated. These terms generally refer to a range of numbers that one of skill in the art would consider equivalent to the recited values (i.e., having the same function or result). In many instances these terms may include numbers that are rounded to the nearest significant figure. In this document, the term “longitudinal” should be understood to mean in a direction corresponding to an elongated direction of the sand-anchored beach blanket between a pair of opposing ends.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

With the above and other related objects in view, the invention consists in the details of construction and combination of parts as will be more fully understood from the following description, when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings in which:

FIG. 1 represents a perspective view of the bottom side of a wind-proof beach towel;

FIG. 2 shows a perspective cross-section view, at cross-section lines shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 illustrates a plan view of a cut diagram of the device prior to final assembly;

FIG. 4 is a representative of partial cross-section of an example of a layered construction;

FIG. 5 shows a perspective view of a bottom side of an alternate version of the device;

FIG. 6 is a top side plan view of an alternate version of the device;

FIG. 7 is a bottom side plan to view of yet another alternate version of the device;

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of an alternate version of the device;

FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of the device in FIG. 8;

FIG. 10 is a perspective view of an alternate configuration of the device;

FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view of a version of the device in use on a sandy surface;

FIG. 12 is an exploded plan view of a version of the device;

FIG. 13 is a perspective view of an alternate version of the device;

FIG. 14 is a perspective view of an alternate version of the device;

FIG. 15 is a perspective view of the device as it may be in actual use;

FIG. 16 is a perspective view of a sand-anchored beach blanket depicting a base having an upper surface and a sand retaining frame extending away from the base and including a sidewall at least partially defining a sand retaining channel;

FIG. 17 is a perspective view of the sand-anchored beach blanket of FIG. 16 depicting a bottom sand contact surface and at least one elastic member having a proximal end coupled to the base and a distal end coupled to the sand retaining frame in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 18 is a fragmentary, perspective view of the sand-anchored beach blanket of FIG. 16 depicting a gap between the sidewall of the sand retaining frame and the elastic member;

FIG. 19 is a fragmentary, perspective view of the sand-anchored beach blanket of FIG. 16 depicting a plurality of elastic members coupled to the base and the sand retaining frame in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 20 is a perspective view of the sand-anchored beach blanket of FIG. 16 depicting the bottom sand contact surface of FIG. 17 and the sand retaining frame filled with an amount of sand; and

FIG. 21 is a process flow diagram depicting an exemplary method of anchoring a sand-anchored beach blanket to an area of sand.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

It should be appreciated that the present invention is sometimes referred to as the device, invention, disclosure, blanket, towel or other common reference. Similarly, the term scoop and scoop generally characterizes similar structures in the device and may be used interchangeably. The masculine is intended to include the feminine and neuter. The singular or plural should be applied as appropriate as required by the context.

The examples contained and described herein are examples, some of which are included in a preferred embodiment. Many of the features and aspects of the invention may be combined or mix-and-matched to be combined with other features, the combination of which may constitute a valuable variation of embodiment of the device.

Depending on the application of the device some or other features may be more desirable than others so the actual preferred embodiment may thus change depending on circumstances and environmental conditions beyond the scope of this invention yet may have an effect on the invention that may affect which features are preferred.

Nearly everyone has gone to the beach to relax, take in some sunshine and enjoy the views. Some bring chairs to sit in but the majority have some sort of towel or blanket on which they rest.

In the typical fashion, upon arriving to the beach and selecting a suitable location on the beach, a beach blanket is spread. On some days this poses little to no problems other than a sun burn. However, the beach is frequently a breezy place. The winds coming off a lake or ocean can wreak havoc upon a well-placed and properly smoothed out blanket on which to lie down.

The rarely ceasing wind at the water's edge blows about and can pick up an edge of that beach blanket and ruin a perfect spread. An improved device and method are disclosed herein to solve this problem. Further, the same blowing wind, whether curling over the edges of your beach blanket or not, will scatter sand all over its sunny side that can cause an abrasive situation. This same disclosed device and method can readily solve this issue as well.

Referring now to the drawings, where the present invention is generally referred to with numeral 10, it can be observed that it basically includes, inter alia, a panel 12, a scoop 14, a scoop 16, a scoop 18, a scoop 20, a seam 22, a seam 24, a seam 26 and a seam 28. A seam 22 connects scoop 14 and scoop 16. A seam 24 connects scoop 16 and scoop 18. A seam 26 connects scoop 18 and scoop 20. A seam 28 connects scoop 20 and scoop 14. Typically each of the seams 22-28 are sewn using traditional sewing methods. Said seams 22-28 may also be made of other means such as adhesives, heat welding, stapling or other known methods of connecting a fabric to another fabric. None of the seams 22-28 are sewn or otherwise affixed to the panel 12.

In direct contrast to what may be used for a typical bed mattress sheet, in an important variation of the device there is very little depth character between the scoops 14-20 and the panel 12. In other words, when the scoops 14-20 are configured as shown in FIG. 1 there are very small pleats that form in the corners between adjacent scoops 14-20.

FIG. 3 is generally an example of a cut pattern for constructing the device. As can be seen, it is essentially made from a single sheet of material. The panel 12 is formed from the central portion of the material. The scoop 14, scoop 16, scoop 18 and scoop 20 are folded over onto the bottom side of the panel and affixed to each other at seam 22, seam 24, seam 26 and seam 28 to form essentially a continuous flap around the perimeter of the bottom side of the panel.

Looking now at FIG. 2 where a cross-section (based on the cross-section plane identifiers in FIG. 1) of the invention is shown. It can be seen that the scoop 14 and opposing scoop 18 are laid substantially parallel to the bottom side of the panel side of the panel 12.

In use, the bottom side of the panel 12 is laid onto the sand. Sand is first scooped into the four corners. The panel 12 is spread out over the sand so that there are no (or minimal) wrinkles in the panel. The user then grasps any of scoops 14-20 and scoops sand to the area between that scoop, for instance scoop 14, and the panel 12. The opposing scoop, in this example scoop 18, is then scooped under the sand to fill the space between the scoop 18 and the panel. With opposing scoop 14 and scoop 18 anchored in the sand the panel 12 is tensioned between those scoops of sand. To fully secure the device to the sand in preparation for use, the process continues to scoop sand between another point along any of the scoops 14-20 and 14 then the corresponding opposite scoop to tension the panel 12 between opposite points.

After multiple opposing points around the periphery of the panel 12 are stuffed with sand it becomes apparent that the device is then firmly affixed to the sand. There is little to no opportunity for the wind to intrude between the sand and the device and pick up an edge of the device. The device thereby becomes essentially wind proof.

Another benefit of tensioning the blanket onto the sand is recognizable when the blanket is secured onto the sand and some sand lands on the top side of the panel 12. It is then easy to clean off the top of the device by pinching the panel 12 at about the center point between the user's fingers and snapping the device up. When doing this the edges of the device remain secured to the sand and the sand on the top side of the device is flung off the edges of the blanket and thereby clearing the top side of the device.

In a preferred version of the device, the panel 12 is constructed of fabric. The fabric can be woven, knit, or other non-woven material. The material of the panel 12 is preferably absorbent, at least on the top side. The absorbent nature of the panel 12 can soak up liquid as well as having a soft skin contacting layer.

Another important version of the device is one that, in addition to having some or all of the features described herein, is made of a single layer of fabric. This fabric can be absorbent to improve the comfort of the user and also without a nap so that sand will be less likely to adhere to the device when the device is no longer being used and is being prepared for transport and/or storage. On the other hand, it may be simpler to construct the entire device from a single piece of terry cloth, with a looped nap on both sides of the device.

In some preferred versions of the device a non-absorbent nature of the panel 12 is preferred. Typically, a non-absorbent layer will also be smooth and therefore be resistant to the adherence of sand. The non-absorbent nature of the panel 12 may also be preferred when the sand is wet, perhaps after a passing sudden rain. A further variation of the panel 12 is to be constructed of an impermeable material.

It may be preferred to have a lamination of multiple types of materials, each with a distinctive characteristic. For example, an impermeable or non-absorbent layer may be preferred on the bottom side of the panel 12 combined with a softer or more absorbent layer on the top side that will contact the users skin. The panel 12 may equally be made of a single material that may reduce the costs and complexity of manufacture of the device.

Now referring to FIG. 4 where a partial cross-section of a version of the panel 12 is exemplified to have, inter alia, a nap 30 and a substrate 32. In this variation the top side of the panel 12 is shown as the nap 30. For example, the nap 30 can be a terry cloth type of loop combined with a smooth substrate 32. This is also sometimes referred to a French terry with a looped nap on one side and smooth on the other. The smooth side can inhibit the adherence of sand and other unwanted debris to the underside of the panel 12.

FIG. 5 shows an example of an alternate version of the device that is comprised of, inter alia, a panel 34, a scoop 36, a scoop 38, a seam 40, a seam 42, a seam 44 and a seam 46. The construction and dimensions of the version of the device as shown in FIG. 5 is similar to that of the version exhibited in FIG. 1. The main distinguishing features are in the configuration of the scoops 36 and 38.

The scoop 36 is generally at a head end of the panel 34 and scoop 38 is generally at a foot end of the panel 34. These scoops 36 and 38 are folded over from surplus material of the panel 34. Seams 40 and 42 affix the respective edges of the scoop 36 to edges of the panel 34 at the head end. Similarly, seams 44 and 46 affix the respective edges of the scoop 38 to the edges of the panel 34 at the foot end.

By this means, the scoops 36 and 38 essentially form a pocket that lays flat on a bottom side of the panel 34. The panel 34 in combination with the scoop 36 and seams 40 and 42 form a sand scoop. The panel 34 in combination with the scoop 38 and seams 44 and 46 form another sand scoop. Each of the sand scoops is on the bottom side of the panel 34 that comes into contact with the sand while in use.

The use of this version of the device as shown in FIG. 5 is materially similar to the use of the device as shown the earlier figures. To use the device on a sandy surface the user first spreads out the panel 34 with the bottom side having the scoops 36 and 38 down and in contact with the sand. The user can then, starting with a first scoop 36, reach with their fingers on the material of the scoop 36, scoop sand into the area formed between the scoop 36 and panel 34, bounded by the seams 40 and 42. The panel 34 is then tensioned between the first scoop 36 then set into the sand and the second scoop 38. As the panel 34 is pulled smooth and tight the second scoop 38 is anchored in the sand by scooping sand between the scoop 38 and the seams 44 and 46.

Other users find that it is effective to first set the corners between adjacent scoops into the sand sequentially around the perimeter of the device. Then, the long edges of the scoops can be set into the sand to create a tension on the panel between opposing scoops.

This version of the device shown in FIG. 5 is often sufficient to hold onto the sand by using only a single pair of opposing scoops 36 and 38 as compared to having additional scoops on the sides as well. As an alternative to the configuration shown in FIG. 5, a pair of opposing scoops can be on the longer, side edges instead of only being on the head and foot.

Now referring to FIG. 6 where several optional features are exhibited on the top side of the panel 12 to include, inter alia, a pillow 48, an opening 50, a pocket 52, a zipper 54, a series of slits 56, a series of buttons 58 and a pair of ties 60.

The pillow 48 is provided to give the user a place to rest their head as well as a place to store bulky items. For example, a shirt, a beach cover-up or other clothing article can be placed inside the opening 50 on the side of the pillow to fill it. The pillow 48 could also have an inflatable bladder to give shape to the pillow 48. Alternately the pillow 48 could be filled with a plush fill material similar to how a traditional pillow would be formed. Optionally the pillow 48 may be removable from panel 12 or may be permanently attached to the panel 12.

Of course, the pillow 48, slits 56 and buttons 58 are possibly located at different areas of the device or may be entirely absent either individually or in combination.

Another version of a pillow feature is embodied in a pocket dimensioned to fit around a pillow affixed to an edge of the panel 12. This allows the pillow feature to essentially hinge about the edge of the panel 12 so that it can be flipped from on top of the panel 12 to immediately adjacent to the panel 12. This version of the pillow may also be dimensioned to fit the user's clothes so that these clothes act as stuffing for the pillow.

The pocket 52 is optionally incorporated into the top side of the panel 12. Preferably the pocket 52, if present, has a zipper 54 to seal the contents of the pocket 52. The pocket 52 may be dimensioned to fit, for example, a set of keys, a phone of other personal effects. Preferably the pocket 52 is made of a waterproof material to protect the contents from the incidence of rain or a wet bather.

A series of buttons 58 on one edge of the device are optionally available as a means to attach one copy of the wind-proof beach towel to another copy. The series of slits 56 are on the edge of the panel 12 opposite the series of buttons 58. The slits 56 may be a reinforced similar to a button hole on a common shirt. The slits 56 correspond one-to-one with the respective buttons 58. The buttons 58 are spaced sufficient to prevent the majority of sand from entering the space between adjacent towels yet few enough to avoid tedium when attaching or detaching the series of complimentary connectors.

It should be appreciated that a fastening means other than buttons 58 and slits 56 may be used with efficiency and efficacy. For example, a series of male and complementary female clips, snaps or other similar fixtures may be incorporated into the edges of the panel 12. It may be equally possible to have grommets that are laced, magnets, hook and loop fasteners (known commercially as Velcro) or other commonly available attachment means.

The pair of ties 60, shown at the foot end of the panel 12 may be used to secure the device for transport. The user may roll the panel 12 as well as other non-included items such as a regular towel, dry clothes, beach toys, etc. . . . , and use the ties 60 to secure the roll. Obviously the ties could be constructed of rope, ribbon, belts or other obviously available means to secure the roll.

Although a single person size device is shown in the set of accompanying drawings, it should also be appreciated that the dimensions of the panel 12 may be larger or smaller. For example, a panel size of about thirty inches wide by about seventy inches long may be suitable for a single person. In another example, a two person panel 12 might be about seventy inches square. These specific dimensions are provided only as mere examples and myriad other sizes or variations can equally embody an effective size.

FIG. 7 shows another variation of the bottom of a panel 62, corner scoops 64, elastic 66, end scoops 68 and side scoops 70. In this version of the device, as in the other versions described supra, the end scoops 68 and side scoops 70 lay flat against the panel 62 when not in use secured to the sand. The main difference between the design shown in FIG. 7 and the other versions are the elastic 66 reinforced end scoops and side scoops 64 between adjacent corner scoops 68 and corner scoops 70. This allows the user to push more sand into the end and side scoops 64 areas to secure the device stronger to the sand.

The elastic 66 may be any stretchable material, preferably incorporated into the edges of the border between the corner scoops 64 and adjacent corner scoops 68. The material attached to the elastic 66 may be bunched up or gathered together to a predetermined degree to essentially allow the corner scoops 64 to have more volume and grip on the sand between the scoops 64 and the main panel for holding more sand, thus providing more weight and grip to secure the device to the ground.

In a preferred version of the device the panel feature is constructed of a stretchable material so that a point on any portion of the panel can be plucked to spring and propel the sand off the edge so that it does not come into contact with a user lying on the device. In contrast, the scoop feature of any of the versions of the device is better performing when it has a limited elasticity or stretchability character. However, the device can remain essentially functional with a wide range of stretchability in each of the subcomponents. Generally, most woven, non-woven, knit, terry and other fabrics perform well. In some versions the material is also better suited with an absorbent character so that it can also be used to dry off the body of the user as a traditional, simple towel.

The dimensions of the several scoops, including for example scoops 16-18 and scoops 68-70, are important to both the ability of the device to be secured to the sand and to the economy of production. A balance must be struck between having too small of a width dimension so that an insufficient amount of sand is captured under said scoops or scoops and too large of a dimension where the scoop or scoop becomes cumbersome and cannot be easily filled with sand. At a minimum, the width of any of the scoops should be about one inch with a preferred performance threshold at about three inches. At a maximum the scoops may be about ten or fourteen inches. A preferred balance for width of the scoops is about three to ten inches.

FIGS. 8 and 9 show a variation of the device that includes, inter alia, a base 72, seams 74, scoops 74, scoops 76, risers 78, seams 80, edges 82 and seams. The scoops 74 and scoops 76 can be seen inwardly disposed in a direction toward a center of the base 72 (exemplified in FIG. 8). The risers 78 and the scoops 74 and scoops 76 form an inwardly facing channel 83 adapted to retain an amount of sand therein. These figures demonstrate optional features that generally include the added depth provided by the risers 78 that are around the periphery of the base 72. The risers 78 separate the base 72 from the scoops 76 to allow a greater amount of sand to be placed inside the scoops 76 thereby strengthening the device's bond to the sand.

Each of the scoops 76 have along one long side an edge 82 and along the other are affixed to the riser 78 at a seam 80. In turn, the riser 78 is affixed to the periphery of the panel 72 at seam 84. At the intersection between adjacent scoops 76 are seams 74 that connect the adjacent scoops 76.

In a preferred version each of the seams 74, 80 and 84, the edge 82 and the panel 86 are each treated with piping 85 to give a degree of structure to those parts. The piping 85 is shown more clearly in the cross-section in FIG. 9 at the cross-section indicators in FIG. 8. The piping 85 can aid the user in setting up the device and filling the scoops 76 with sand. The piping 85 has a degree of rigidity but is not still and allows the entire device to still roll, fold or pack tightly for storage and transport. Typically, the piping 85 could be manifested in a roll of material, bunch of thread, string, filing, cover or other materials and method in the common art to reinforce the seams of the device.

Whether the design includes a riser 78 or is in a flat configuration as the variety of the device as shown in FIG. 1, the intersection between scoops, such as scoops 76 or scoops 14-18, may optionally have a mitered joint either with or without a piping element. All seams may have optional piping.

FIG. 10 is an example principally demonstrating an alternate configuration of a panel 86 shown in combination with a scoop 88. A panel 86 can have virtually any shape, including those with curvy or straight perimeters. Generally, and in most circumstances, the scoop 88 will match and follow the dimensions of the perimeter of the panel 86. The scoop 88 is affixed to the panel 86 at the perimeter of the panel 86 thereby creating a scoop 88 that is adapted to scoop under the sand upon which it is placed to secure it to the ground.

The application of this concept can be to have a panel that is a particular shape of significance. For example, the panel 86 could be made to resemble to silhouette of an animal, a corporate or sports team logo or mascot. Other shapes can be equally effective such as geometric shapes or a series of amorphous curved segments combined in an amoebic-like form factor.

The referenced configurations can each be constructed with or without an equivalent to the riser 78 shown in FIG. 8 or may be a flat construction as demonstrated in FIG. 1.

FIG. 11 is a cross-section of a variation of the device to show more clearly how the device is configured for use on a sandy surface, such as a beach to include, inter alia, a point 90, a panel 92, scoops 94 and sand 96. Sand is scooped into the scoops 94 to tension the panel 90 between the scoops 94. Each of the variations of the device is applied to the sand in a similar way.

Generally, and depending on the overall shape of the panel 92, scoops 94 on opposite sides have an arbitrary point 90 near the mid-point between the scoops 94. Once the device is set into the sand and the scoops 94 are filled with sand to create tension, the point 90 may be grasped by the fingers and plucked to spring any errant sand on top of the panel 92 off of the edge of the panel 92, past the scoops 94 and off of the edge and back onto the beach proper.

Yet referring to FIG. 11, a preferred use of the device is scoop sand 96 underneath the panel 92 so that it is slightly elevated above the surrounding level of sand 96. This allows any sand that is on the top of the device to be more easily shed off the sides with the aid of gravity. It also has the added benefit of reducing the amount of low, blowing sand from being able to land on top of the device. The slight elevation difference also enables the plucking method described above to be more effective at removing all traces of sand from the top of the panel.

The tension between the scoops 94 (or any of the other versions of scoops) allows a user to easily walk on the top of the blanket without significant deformation of the sand underneath or displacement of the edge of the panel. Sand can also be easily brushed off or naturally blown off the edge by the prevailing breeze. Once set by tension, readjustment is not necessary because the device stays where it has been anchored. For larger versions of the device a build-up of sand under only the periphery of the blanket without necessarily a build-up under the entire panel will suffice to provide the added benefits of a raised edge while still permitting tension between opposing scoops.

It should be appreciated that the differences in elasticity of materials, cost of materials and the density of the sand onto which the device will be secured may all factor in to the preferred dimensions of the width of the scoops. The width of the scoops for a single design need not be all the same width. For example, the head and foot may benefit from a wider scoop and the sides a narrower width may be sufficient for best performance.

Referring now to FIG. 12 where an exploded view of the device is shown to include, among other elements, risers 23, scoops 25, risers 27 and scoops 29. This view is an example of a possible cut and assembly pattern that could be used during the fabrication of the device. Each of the elements of this view can be affixed together, typically by stitching and may include optional piping between some or all of the elements. The dimensions of the risers 23 and 27 as well as the scoops 25 and 29 may be adjusted to balance the distance under the sand that the device is anchored.

Similar to other versions of the device there is a panel 31 and a series of scoops 33, 35, 37 and 39 affixed about the periphery of the panel 31. Scoops 33 and 35 are joined at a mitered seam 41. Scoops 35 and 37 are joined at a mitered seam 43. Scoops 37 and 39 are joined at a mitered seam 45. Scoops 39 and 33 are joined at a mitered seam 47.

There are optionally risers 51, 53 and the unseen complement to these elements that are demonstrated in FIG. 14 that can provide a degree of depth to the scoops. By including these risers in addition to the scoops 55, 57, 59 and 61 the amount of sand that can be used to anchor the device is adjustable. For reference the bottom side of the panel 49 is also identified.

FIG. 15 shows a view of the device as it might in actual use anchored to sand 68. Visible in this view are the top of the main panel 72, scoop 76, and riser 78. All edges of the panel 72 have scoops and optionally risers as shown in other figures and described herein. As can be seen in this figure the device is anchored into the sand 68 with the top surface of the panel 72 adjusted to be slightly higher than the surface of the sand. This aids in preventing sand from getting onto the surface of the panel 72 as well as removing any sand that finds its way onto the panel 72.

The invention disclosed herein can also fairly be described as a beach blanket comprising a main panel having a top side, a bottom side, a first edge, a second edge, a third edge and fourth edge. The main panel is doubled over to a predetermined width forming a scoop onto said bottom side of said main panel at said first edge to form a first scoop and at second edge to form a second scoop and at said third edge to form a third scoop and at said fourth edge to form a fourth scoop. The first scoop and third scoop have an approximate width of between one and fourteen inches. This dimension could be more or less depending on the makeup of the soil and size of the blanket. The second scoop and fourth scoop having an approximate width between one and ten inches and can be similarly adjusted in size. A first seam connects said first scoop to said second scoop at the intersection between the first scoop and the second scoop. The seam can be mitered on a forty five degree angle or other aesthetically pleasing or strong angle. A second seam connects the second coop to the third scoop at the intersection between the second scoop and the third scoop. A third seam connects said third scoop to said fourth scoop at the intersection between said third scoop and said fourth scoop. A fourth seam connects said fourth scoop to said first scoop at the intersection between said fourth scoop and said first scoop. The main panel is formed of a flexible and absorbent fabric, possibly terry cloth, cotton, woven or unwoven, knitted, plastic coated (liner) or other commonly available material.

An important option includes a plurality of first fasteners are along the first edge and a plurality of second fasteners are along the third edge. The first and third edges are opposite or possibly adjacent sides, depending on the effect the manufacturer is going for. For example, the blankets could be connected side by side or end to end or end to side. The fasteners and are adapted so that said first fasteners on a first beach blanket selectively attach to said second fasteners on a second beach blanket resulting in the joining of said first beach blanket joined to said second beach blanket at their respective edges forming a larger, rectangular or other shaped beach blanket. These fasteners might be buttons and button holes, hook and loop fasteners, clips or other available means to attach one device to another.

Optionally, a pillow can be integrated into the design at the first end on said top side on the edge seam. Also optionally, elastic gussets that reinforce the seams may be included in the corners or where further reinforcement is needed.

Some versions of the device may also include one or more sealable pockets is included on the top side of the main panel. These can be used to store a phone, keys or other accoutrements of a beach trip.

The beach blanket can be further characterized as having a panel (main top surface) that is comprised of a main panel having on its top side an absorbent layer having a nap (i.e. a terry cloth or French terry) and on said bottom side having a smooth layer adapted to resist to adherence of sand (i.e. a tightly woven fabric or plastic laminate).

The invention can also be fairly described as being a beach blanket comprising a main panel and a sand scoop. The main panel has a top surface, a bottom surface and a perimeter edge. Generally, the user lays on the top surface while the bottom surface is against the sand. The sand scoop is affixed to, or integrated along, a first edge of the perimeter edge of the main panel and lays against the bottom surface of said main panel. The sand scoop is adapted and configured to contain a soil to act as an anchor at substantially the perimeter of said main panel by scooping and containing sand along and under the perimeter of the main panel. The sand scoop generally has a width of between two and fourteen inches. The main panel is preferably constructed of a fabric having a predetermined degree of stretchiness and adapted to resist the adherence of soil. However, the sand scoops are constructed of a material that is substantially stretch-free.

The device is typically set up using a method of securing the beach blanket to a preselected area of sand by: spreading a bottom side of said beach blanket onto said sand with the beach blanket having a sand scoop about a periphery of said beach blanket on said bottom side. The user then at an initial point on said periphery of said beach blanket reaches with a hand under said sand scoop and filling said sand scoop with sand. At a subsequent point a predetermined interval from said initial point again fill sand scoop with sand. The user continues filling additional sand scoops at repeated subsequent intervals until the entire sand scoop is full of sand. The tension is imparted onto the main panel between a plurality of opposing point pairs which results in a very secure setup.

Referring now to FIG. 16, a sand-anchored beach blanket 1600 is shown in a perspective view. The sand-anchored beach blanket 1600 may be considered an improvement of the beach blanket 10 described above, through the use of at least one elastic member configured to increase the strength of the bond between the sand-anchored beach blanket 1600 and the sand, as will be described in further detail herein. The sand-anchored beach blanket 1600 may include features such as a pillow, hinged pockets, pockets, slits, buttons, ties, and the like, similar to those described above, for example with respect to FIG. 6. Such features are intended to be incorporated herein with respect to the sand-anchored beach blanket 1600 and are not repeated for the sake of brevity.

In one embodiment, the sand-anchored beach blanket 1600 includes a base 1602 which may be referred to herein as a panel and may have the same or similar features with respect to the panel 12, described above. In other embodiments, the base 1602 may have different features with respect to the panel 12. Generally speaking, the base 1602 is a support structure configured to provide the user with a place to sit or lay when relaxing at a location, such as the beach, and may include an upper surface and a bottom sand contact surface as will be described further herein. The base 1602 may be made of any material, including, but not limited to a stretchable material, e.g., a knit material configured to stretch, or a non-knit material that preferably includes at least a minimal amount of elasticity. The term “stretchable” is defined herein as capable of being drawn out or extended in length.

In one embodiment, the base 1602 may be of a rectangular shape and may include two opposing sides, e.g., a right side 1604 and a left side 1606, respectively, separated by a length 1608. In the same vein, the base 1602 may include a pair of opposing sides 1610, 1612, respectively, defining a width 1614 of the sand-anchored beach blanket 1600. In one embodiment, the length 1608 may be approximately 70-80 inches. In another embodiment, the length 1608 may be approximately 55-65 inches. In other embodiments, the length 1608 may be outside of this range. In the same vein, in one embodiment, the width 1614 of the sand-anchored beach blanket 1600 may be approximately 30-40 inches. In other embodiments, the width 1614 may be outside of this range. The dimensions provided herein are provided for exemplary purposed only and are not intended to be limiting. The sand-anchored beach blanket 1600 is not limited to being of a rectangular shape but rather, may be square, round, oval, or another suitable shape conducive for allowing a user to sit or lay on an upper surface 1616 of the sand-anchored beach blanket 1600.

In one embodiment, in order to anchor the sand-anchored beach blanket 1600 to a pre-selected area of sand, the sand-anchored beach blanket 1600 may include a sand retaining frame 1618 extending away from the base 1602 and spanning the length 1608 of the base 1602. More specifically, in one embodiment, the sand retaining frame 1618 may include a sidewall 1620. In one embodiment, the sand retaining frame 1618, more specifically the sidewall 1620, may include a scoop having the features of one or more of the scoops described above. In another embodiment, the sand retaining frame 1618 may include the scoop and a riser having the features of one or more of the risers described above. In other embodiments, the sand retaining frame 1618 may be a different component from the scoops and/or risers above. In one non-limiting embodiment, the sidewall 1620 may be coupled to the base 1602 using conventional coupling means, e.g., sewing, adhesive, heat welding, stapling, etc. In another embodiment, the sidewall 1620 and the base 1602 may be the same piece of material. Said another way, in one embodiment, the base 1602 and the sidewall 1620 may be a continuous piece of material.

With reference now to FIG. 17, a perspective view of the sand-anchored beach blanket 1600 is shown depicting a bottom sand contact surface 1700 opposite the upper surface (FIG. 16). Naturally, in use, the bottom sand contact surface 1700 is the portion of the sand-anchored beach blanket 1600 configured to face in a direction toward the sand.

In one embodiment, in order to anchor the sand-anchored beach blanket 1600 to a preselected area of sand, the sand retaining frame 1618, more specifically the sidewall 1620, at least partially defines a sand retaining channel 1702 that may be filled with sand to anchor the sand-anchored beach blanket 1600 to the sand. In a preferred embodiment, the sand retaining channel 1702 spans a perimeter of the base 1602. In other embodiments, the sand retaining channel 1702 may span a portion of the perimeter of the base 1602, such on the opposing sides 1610, 1612.

In one embodiment, the sand-anchored beach blanket 1600 may include at least one elastic member 1704 defining the sand retaining channel 1702 in addition to the sand retaining frame 1618. Generally speaking, with reference to FIG. 17, in conjunction with FIG. 20 depicting a perspective view of the bottom sand contact surface 1700, the sand retaining channel 1702 may be the portion of the sand-anchored beach blanket 1600 spanning around an inner perimeter of the sand retaining frame 1618. The sand retaining channel 1702 is also depicted extending from the sand retaining frame 1618 in a direction toward the bottom sand contact surface 1700 to overlap a portion of the bottom sand contact surface 1700. The portion of the sand retaining channel 1702 that overlaps the bottom sand contact surface 1700 will naturally vary depending upon the amount of sand used to fill the channel. The dimensions of the sand retaining channel 1702 depend upon the overall dimensions of the sand-anchored beach blanket 1600 and the descriptions provided herein are not intended to be limiting.

With reference again to FIG. 17, the elastic member 1704 is configured to strengthen the bond between the sand-anchored beach blanket 1600 and the sand when the sand retaining channel 1702 is filled with sand. For example, in use, if the user were to pull the upper surface 1616 (FIG. 16) in a direction toward the user and thereafter release the upper surface 1616, such as to eject the sand from the sand-anchored beach blanket 1600, the elastic member 1704 would assist in maintaining the sand-anchored beach blanket 1600 anchored to the sand. The elastic member 1704 may be any flexible piece of material capable of returning to its original length or shape after being stretched, deformed, or expanded, such as a piece of elastic, rubber, or the like.

In one embodiment, the right side 1604 and the left side 1606 may include at least two corners 1706, 1708, respectively, separated by the length 1608 (FIG. 16) and the elastic member 1704 may be disposed a distance between the corners 1706, 1708. Naturally, the distance may vary depending on the length 1608. In one embodiment, the corners 1706, 1708 are devoid of the elastic member 1704. As such, the location of the elastic member 1704 with respect to the sidewall 1620 may prevent the sand-anchored beach blanket 1600 from fitting over a structure, such as a mattress. Said another way, in contrast to known sheets, e.g., standard fitted sheets conducive for a mattress, the elastic member 1704 would prevent the sidewall 1620 from fitting over the sides of a mattress or would, at a minimum, apply force to the mattress that would cause the sheet to remove itself from any coupling relationship with the mattress.

With reference now to FIG. 18, depicting a fragmentary, perspective view of the sand-anchored beach blanket 1600, in one embodiment, in order to couple the elastic member 1704 to the sand-anchored beach blanket 1600, the elastic member 1704 may include a proximal end 1800 coupled to the base 1602 and a distal end 1802 coupled to the sand retaining frame 1618. More specifically, in one embodiment, the sand retaining frame 1618 includes a free end 1804 and the distal end 1802 of the elastic member 1704 may be coupled to the sand retaining frame 1618 within two inches of the free end 1804. In other embodiments, the distance between the distal end 1802 of the elastic member 1704 and the free end 1804 of the sand retaining frame 1618 may be greater than one inch, depending on the overall width of the sand retaining frame 1618. In the same vein, the proximal end 1800 of the elastic member 1704 may be disposed at an angle with respect to the distal end 1802 of the elastic member 1704 or may be disposed at a vertical orientation with respect to the distal end 1802. Advantageously, the elastic member 1704 separates the free end 1804 of the sand retaining frame 1618 from the bottom sand contact surface 1700 of the base 1602 so that the user can easily and conveniently insert sand therein.

Although FIG. 18 depicts the distal end 1802 of the elastic member 1704 coupled to bottom sand contact surface 1700 of the base 1602, the elastic member 1704 may also extend through the bottom sand contact surface 1700 to the upper surface 1616 (FIG. 16). Nevertheless, the coupling of the distal end 1802 to the bottom sand contact surface 1700 is a preferred embodiment for an improved aesthetic appearance. The elastic member 1704 may be coupled to the sand-anchored beach blanket 1600 using sewing, adhesive, a fastener, e.g., a hook and loop fastener, or another suitable coupling mechanism.

In one embodiment, in contrast to known blankets and/or sheets which include elastic directly coupled to and contouring a side of the sheet, the elastic member 1704 may define a gap 1806 between the sidewall 1620 of the sand retaining frame 1618 and the elastic member 1704. In one embodiment, the gap 1806 is disposed within the sand retaining channel 1702 such that the elastic member 1704 at least partially defines the sand retaining channel 1702 in addition to the sidewall 1620. Advantageously, sand can be inserted between the elastic member 1704 and the sidewall 1620 when the bottom sand contact surface 1700 of the base 1602 is facing in the direction toward the sand. The weight of the sand assists with anchoring the sand retaining frame 1618 and the elastic member 1704 to the sand in a stationary position. In one embodiment, the gap 1806 is approximately 1-6 inches in length. In other embodiments, the gap 1806 may be outside of this range, such as when the proximal and distal ends 1800, 1802 respectfully, are disposed at a vertical orientation with respect to each other.

With reference now to FIG. 19, depicting a fragmentary, perspective view of the sand-anchored beach blanket 1600, in one embodiment, the sand-anchored beach blanket 1600 may include more than one elastic member 1704a-n where the indicator “n” is intended to represent any number greater than one. In one embodiment, the elastic members 1704a-n may be disposed a distance from each other along the length 1608 (FIG. 16) of the base 1602 to at least partially define the sand retaining channel 1702 in addition to the sand retaining frame 1618. In one non-limiting embodiment, the distance between elastic members 1704a-n may be 12-18 inches. In another embodiment, the distance may be outside of this range. The distance between elastic members 1704a-n may be repetitive or may differ, i.e., may be non-repetitive or staggered.

In a preferred embodiment, the elastic members 1704a-n are disposed continuously along the perimeter of the base 1602 to strengthen the bond between the sand-anchored beach blanket 1600 and the sand. For example, the elastic members 1704a-n strengthen the bond between the sand-anchored beach blanket 1600 and the sand when a user pulls the sand-anchored beach blanket 1600 toward the user and thereafter releases the sand-anchored beach blanket 1600 to eject the sand from the upper surface 1616 of the sand-anchored beach blanket 1600. The term “continuously” is defined herein as uninterrupted or void of additional components being coupled to the sand-anchored beach blanket 1600 between respective elastic members 1704a-n. In other embodiments, the elastic members 1704a-n may be disposed discontinuously along the base 1602, e.g., staggered or not otherwise following a specific arrangement.

With reference now to FIGS. 16-20, in conjunction with the process flow diagram of FIG. 21, there is provided a method of anchoring a sand-anchored beach blanket to an area of sand. The area of sand may be any area chosen by the user of the sand-anchored beach blanket 1600, such as an area of sand found at the beach. Although FIG. 21 shows a specific order of executing the process steps, the order of executing the steps may be changed relative to the order shown in certain embodiments. Also, two or more blocks shown in succession may be executed concurrently or with partial concurrence in some embodiments. Certain steps may also be omitted in FIG. 21 for the sake of brevity. In some embodiments, some or all of the process steps included in FIG. 21 can be combined into a single process.

In one embodiment, the method begins at step 2100 and moves directly to step 2102, where, a sand-anchored beach blanket, such as the sand-anchored beach blanket 1600 described above, is provided by a user. More specifically, the user may place the sand-anchored beach blanket 1600 onto a preselected area of sand with the bottom sand contact surface 1700 disposed in a direction facing the sand, i.e., a sand facing direction.

In one embodiment, the method may continue to step 2104 including inserting an amount of sand into the sand retaining channel 1702 between the elastic member 1704 and the sidewall 1620 of the sand retaining frame 1618 to anchor the sand retaining frame 1618 and the elastic member 1704 to the sand. In one embodiment, the user may insert, e.g., scoop, the sand into the sand retaining channel 1702 between at least two of the elastic members 1704a-n such that the elastic members 1704a-n and the sidewall 1620 are filled with sand to anchor the sand-anchored beach blanket 1600 to the area of sand.

In one embodiment, prior to inserting the sand into the sand retaining channel 1702, the user may flip, i.e. turn, a portion of the sand retaining frame 1618, e.g., one of the corners 1706, 1708, from the sand facing direction to a user facing direction opposite the sand facing direction. While the portion of the sand retaining frame 1618 is in the user facing direction, the user may insert the sand into the sand retaining frame 1618. Once the user selected portion of the sand retaining frame 1618 is filled with the sand, the user may flip the portion of the sand retaining frame 1618 back to the sand facing direction. Thereafter, the user may continue to push the sand into the sand retaining frame 1618. In other embodiments, the user may scoop the sand into the sand retaining channel 1702 with the sand retaining frame 1618 and the bottom sand contact surface 1700 disposed in the direction facing the sand.

As best shown in FIG. 20, in one embodiment, the user may repeatedly fill the sand retaining frame 1618 with the sand until the periphery of the base 1602 is filled with sand. The amount of sand inserted into the sand retaining channel 1702 may vary depending on the dimensions of the sand-anchored beach blanket 1600, the user's preference as to the height of elevation between the upper surface 1616 of the base 1602 and the sand, etc. For example, the user may insert the sand into the sand retaining channel 1702 until the sidewall 1620 of the base 1602 defines a height of approximately 2-3 inches. Advantageously, because the sidewall 1620 and the elastic member 1704 are configured to stretch, the sidewall 1620 and the elastic member 1704 may increase in height as the user places increasing amounts of sand into the sand retaining channel 1702.

In one embodiment, the method may continue to step 2106 including grasping, i.e., pinching, the upper surface 1616 of the base 1602 and lifting the base 1602 a distance from the preselected area of sand. Said another way, in use, the user may pull the upper surface 1616 of the base 1602 the distance away from the preselected area of sand in a direction away from the sand toward the user and then release the upper surface 1616 the for ejection of the sand. The distance is configured to remove any existing sand from the upper surface 1616 of the base 1602 while permitting the sand retaining frame 1618 and the elastic member 1704 to remain anchored to the preselected area of sand. In one embodiment, the distance is greater than one inch from the preselected area of sand. In other embodiments, the distance may be less than one inch from the preselected area of sand while still achieving the purpose of removing any sand from the upper surface 1616. Thereafter, the user may release the upper surface 1616 of the base 1602 such that the base 1602 conveniently returns to the preselected area of sand while keeping the sand-anchored beach blanket anchored to the preselected area of sand. The method ends at step 2108.

A sand-anchored beach blanket has been disclosed that includes a sand retaining channel and at least one elastic member configured to strengthen a bond between the sand-anchored beach blanket and the sand when a user desires to fill the sand retaining channel with sand. The user may also easily and conveniently pinch and pull the upper surface of the base a distance from the preselected area of sand and release the upper surface to remove any existing sand from the upper surface, while permitting the sand retaining frame and the elastic member to remain anchored to the preselected area of sand. Other features of the invention have been disclosed, but are not limited to the particular details disclosed herein.

The foregoing description conveys the best understanding of the objectives and advantages of the present invention. Different embodiments may be made of the inventive concept of this invention. It is to be understood that all matter disclosed herein is to be interpreted merely as illustrative, and not in a limiting sense.

Claims

1. A sand-anchored beach blanket comprising:

a base having two opposing sides separated by a length;

a sand retaining frame extending away from the base and spanning the length of the base, the sand retaining frame including a sidewall at least partially defining a sand retaining channel; and

at least one elastic member having a proximal end coupled to the base and a distal end coupled to the sand retaining frame, the at least one elastic member defining a gap between the sidewall of the sand retaining frame and the at least one elastic member, the gap disposed within the sand retaining channel such that the at least one elastic member at least partially defines the sand retaining channel in addition to the sand retaining frame.

2. The sand-anchored beach blanket according to claim 1, wherein:

the sand retaining frame includes a free end; and

the distal end of the at least one elastic member is coupled to the sand retaining frame within two inches of the free end of the sand retaining frame.

3. The sand-anchored beach blanket according to claim 2, wherein:

the base includes a stretchable material having a bottom sand contact surface;

the proximal end of the at least one elastic member is coupled to the bottom sand contact surface of the base; and

the at least one elastic member separates the free end of the sand retaining frame from the bottom sand contact surface of the base.

4. The sand-anchored beach blanket according to claim 1, further comprising:

a plurality of elastic members disposed a distance from each other along the length of the base to at least partially defining the sand retaining channel in addition to the sand retaining frame.

5. The sand-anchored beach blanket according to claim 4, wherein:

the sand retaining frame spans a perimeter of the base; and

the plurality of elastic members are disposed continuously along the perimeter of the base.

6. The sand-anchored beach blanket according to claim 1, wherein:

the gap is between approximately 1-6 inches in length.

7. The sand-anchored beach blanket according to claim 1, wherein:

the two opposing sides of the base include at least two corners separated by the length; and

the at least one elastic member is disposed a distance between the at least two corners.

8. The sand-anchored beach blanket according to claim 7, wherein:

the at least two corners are devoid of the at least one elastic member.

9. A method of anchoring a sand-anchored beach blanket to an area of sand, the method comprising:

providing a sand-anchored beach blanket including: a base having two opposing sides separated by a length and an upper surface opposite a bottom sand contact surface; a sand retaining frame extending away from the base and including a sidewall at least partially defining a sand retaining channel; and at least one elastic member having a proximal end coupled to the base and a distal end coupled to the sand retaining frame, the at least one elastic member separating the sidewall of the sand retaining frame from a portion of the at least one elastic member such that the at least one elastic member at least partially defines the sand retaining channel in addition to the sand retaining frame; and

inserting an amount of sand into the sand retaining channel between the at least one elastic member and the sidewall of the sand retaining frame to anchor the sand retaining frame and the at least one elastic member to a preselected area of sand.

10. The method according to claim 9, further comprising:

placing the sand-anchored beach blanket onto the preselected area of sand with the bottom sand contact surface disposed in a sand facing direction prior to inserting an amount of sand into the sand retaining channel;

translating a portion of the sand retaining frame from the sand facing direction to a user facing direction opposite the sand facing direction;

inserting an amount of sand into the portion of the sand retaining frame when the portion of the sand retaining frame is in the user facing direction;

translating the portion of the sand retaining frame from the user facing direction to the sand facing direction; and

inserting the amount of sand into the portion of the sand retaining frame when the portion of the sand retaining frame is in the sand facing direction.

11. The method according to claim 9, further comprising:

providing the sand-anchored beach blanket including a plurality of elastic members disposed a distance from each other along the length of the base; and

inserting the amount of sand into the sand retaining channel between the plurality of elastic members and the sidewall of the sand retaining frame to anchor the sand retaining frame and the plurality of elastic members to a preselected area of sand.

12. The method according to claim 9, wherein:

the base is of a stretchable material including a rectangular shape having at least two corners, the at least two corners devoid of the at least one elastic member.

13. The method according to claim 9, further comprising:

grasping the upper surface of the base;

lifting the base a distance from the preselected area of sand; and

releasing the base while keeping the sand-anchored beach blanket anchored to the preselected area of sand to remove any existing sand from the upper surface of the base.

14. The method according to claim 13, wherein:

the distance is greater than one inch from the preselected area of sand.

15. The method according to claim 9, further comprising:

providing the sand retaining frame surrounding a periphery of the base; and

repeatedly filling the sand retaining frame with the amount of sand until the periphery of the base is filled with sand to anchor the sand-anchored beach blanket to the preselected area of sand.

16. The method according to claim 9, further comprising:

inserting the amount of sand into the sand retaining channel until the sidewall of the base defines a height of approximately 1-6 inches.

17. A method of anchoring a sand-anchored beach blanket to an area of sand, the method comprising:

providing a sand-anchored beach blanket including: a base of a stretchable material, the base at least partially defining a sand retaining channel and having an upper surface and a bottom sand contact surface opposite the upper surface; and at least one elastic member coupled to the base;

inserting an amount of sand into the sand retaining channel between the at least one elastic member and the base to anchor the sand-anchored beach blanket to a preselected area of sand; and

pulling the upper surface of the base a distance away from the preselected area of sand to remove any existing sand from the upper surface of the base while keeping the sand-anchored beach blanket anchored to the preselected area of sand.

18. The method according to claim 17, further comprising:

releasing the upper surface of the base while keeping the sand-anchored beach blanket anchored to the preselected area of sand.

19. The method according to claim 17, further comprising:

inserting a second amount of sand into the sand retaining channel between the at least one elastic member and the base to increase a height of the base.

20. The method according to claim 17, further comprising:

a plurality of elastic members coupled to the base and configured to anchor the sand-anchored beach blanket to the preselected area of sand when pulling the upper surface of the base the distance away from the preselected area of sand.