Convertible Use Article Patents (Class 441/125)
  • Patent number: 10829187
    Abstract: A water safety flotation device includes a buoyant body and a hollow core. The buoyant body has a length and a width, with the length defining a longitudinal axis of the device. The hollow core extends along the longitudinal axis of the body. The hollow core is substantially conical and provides a first opening in the body at a first end and a second opening in the body at a second end. The hollow core serves the function of a megaphone.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 2017
    Date of Patent: November 10, 2020
    Assignee: Cambium 5
    Inventor: Jeffery D. Rice
  • Patent number: 9533744
    Abstract: A lightweight, rugged and easy-to-carry beach bag is well suited to serve a primary function as a tote for containing and transporting items useful during an excursion to a beach or other waterside location—items such as towels, swimwear, swimgear, sunscreen, snacks, drinks, reading material and the like. Should an emergency arise necessitating a rescue of a person in peril of drowning, the bag's contents are jettisoned, enabling a quick collapse of the bag as a chain of hinged flotation elements that form an upstanding sidewall of the bag folds in an orderly manner so the bag forms a compact, substantially flat flotation device well suited to serve a secondary function of keeping afloat the person in peril who forcefully grasps the flotation device so a rescuer can tow the person toward shore by pulling on a lengthy tether securely connected to the flotation device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 5, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2017
    Inventor: Stephen Parker Leatherman
  • Patent number: 9194969
    Abstract: Disclosed are methods and systems for using tension feedback from steerable deflectors to adjust vessel turn time. In one example, a maximum tension for a second steerable first towed on a first side of the survey vessel may be determined. A radius of a turn of the vessel at a preselected speed may further be selected such that the tension on the first steerable deflector is less than the maximum tension. The vessel may be turned while moving at the preselected speed, wherein the turning of the vessel has the selected radius. Tension may be measured on the first steerable deflector during the step of turning the vessel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 2013
    Date of Patent: November 24, 2015
    Assignee: PGS Geophysical AS
    Inventors: Jan Erik Stokkeland, Mattias Dan Christian Oscarsson, Rune Tønnessen
  • 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: 8702463
    Abstract: A floating device of an outdoor furniture comprises a frame, at least two floaters removably disposed on the frame, at least two connecting elements respectively disposed on surfaces of the floaters for connecting with each other to bind the floaters together to form a floating system, and at least one inserter fixed on the frame, wherein at least one of the floaters is located by the inserter to block the floaters from removing from the frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2014
    Inventor: Jack Shao-Chun Chu
  • Patent number: 8622263
    Abstract: A backpack structure having a lifesaving function is made of material capable of floating on water. Connection straps are provided on each end surface of the backpack, which can be buckled with connection straps of another backpack and which can be buckled with connection straps of a water bag filled with air inside. The backpack structure enables users to cross rivers more safely, so as to increase survival possibility in the field, and also to carry personnel, goods or conduct emergency relief on water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 7, 2014
    Inventor: Lao-Ching Su
  • Publication number: 20120178320
    Abstract: A floating device of an outdoor furniture comprises a frame, at least two floaters removably disposed on the frame, at least two connecting elements respectively disposed on surfaces of the floaters for connecting with each other to bind the floaters together to form a floating system, and at least one inserter fixed on the frame, wherein at least one of the floaters is located by the inserter to block the floaters from removing from the frame.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 10, 2011
    Publication date: July 12, 2012
    Inventor: Jack Shao-Chun Chu
  • Publication number: 20080203122
    Abstract: The new discovery in the art of the said patent is the ability to assist in making your journey easier.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 27, 2007
    Publication date: August 28, 2008
    Inventor: Daryl Kahokunani-O-Betelehema Keamoai
  • Publication number: 20080203121
    Abstract: The new discovery in the art of the said patent is the ability to assist in making your journey easier.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 27, 2007
    Publication date: August 28, 2008
    Inventor: Daryl Kahokunani-O-Betelehema Keamoai
  • Publication number: 20040209536
    Abstract: A pillow suitable for use with a water recreational apparatus is typically made from a water resistant plastic material. Defined on the outer surface of the pillow are tiny nodes having a height between about {fraction (1/16)} of an inch and about ¼ of an inch and occupying an area on the surface of the body between about 0.01 sq. in. and about 0.2 sq. in. The front surface of the body has at least 10 such nodes. Each of the nodes is spaced apart from an adjacent node by a distance between about ¼ inch and about ⅜ inch.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 22, 2003
    Publication date: October 21, 2004
    Inventor: Shiva Noble
  • Publication number: 20040137810
    Abstract: The invention relates to a device for use in retrieving an object, e.g. a pair of spectacles, a key ring or a GPS device, that falls in water. According to the invention the device is provided with a holder that is resistant in regard of spray water and atmospheric humidity in which an inflatable body is enclosed. In the event of activation of the device, the formation of gas required for the exertion of a flotation or driving force occurs within the inflatable body itself. The reagents required for the gas formation are preferably provided in mutual separation within the inflatable body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 19, 2003
    Publication date: July 15, 2004
    Inventors: Jeroen Vincenl van Mil, Philip Nicolees Bokkcr
  • Publication number: 20040023574
    Abstract: A personal wear throw bag lifeline rescue apparatus provides a lifeline-containing bag member arranged for quick release attachment to a wearer, the lifeline being secured at one of its ends to the interior of the bag member and arranged at its opposite outer, free terminal end for secure attachment to the wearer, whereby in an emergency situation the bag member may be grasped and pulled off of the wearer and thrown, carried or otherwise moved to a distant location defined by the overall length of the lifeline cord where a rescuing person may pull on the lifeline to pull the wearer connected to the lifeline to safety.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 2, 2003
    Publication date: February 5, 2004
    Inventor: Carston R. Calkin
  • Patent number: 6568977
    Abstract: A flotation device with six pieces that are removably attached to each other. The six pieces can be rearranged to create a tub and seat a leaky boat or life buoy. The pieces are removably attached to each other by a series of perforations and hook and loop material or ribbon and twine and are constructed of a buoyant foam and water resistant covering which is resistant to tears or rips.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 27, 2003
    Inventor: Pei Hua Yu
  • Publication number: 20030060102
    Abstract: The present invention relates generally a method and apparatus for adjusting the buoyancy of towed seismic arrays comprising a plurality of streamers and specifically to the dynamic buoyancy control of the buoyancy of a towed array of streamers by means of applying current to electroactive polymers (EAP) incorporated within the towed array of seismic streamers. The bulk density of the streamer array is electrically altered to accomplish neutral buoyancy for a towed array of streamers within the full range of water-densities from fresh to extremely dense seawater.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 27, 2001
    Publication date: March 27, 2003
    Applicant: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventor: Loran D. Ambs
  • Patent number: 6062930
    Abstract: A multipurpose recreational mat for primary use in water and a secondary use on an inflexible surface. The mat comprises three flotation bodies preferably made of a closed cell polyurethane foam. A waterproof unitary cover surrounds the flotation bodies formed by a specific process. A strap is provided for use in carrying or storage and while an individual is sitting on the mat while floating in the water. At least one grommet in each flotation body cover permits drainage of any water entering through the stitched seams.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 16, 2000
    Inventor: Roger A. Smith
  • Patent number: 5855498
    Abstract: A flotation device useable as a life-preserver and a water toy, the device including a casing formed of water-impermeable synthetic plastic film material shaped to define a pocket for receiving a conventional pillow having a compressible filler. The pocket is provided with a closable inlet which when closed, hermetically seals the pillow-stuffed casing to provide a compressible yet buoyant life-preserver. The casing may be die cut to assume the contours of a humanoid or animal-like figure whereby the floatation device then functions as a water toy.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 1997
    Date of Patent: January 5, 1999
    Inventor: Donald Spector
  • Patent number: 5437569
    Abstract: A floatable blanket formed of a water-proof outer layer and a plurality of intermediate layers inside the water-proof outer layer, the intermediate layers being made of foamed polyethylene and separated into two groups with an air chamber defined between, air vents being made through the bottom of the water-proof outer layer for allowing air to be induced into the air chamber, loops being aligned on the outside of the water-proof outer layer for allowing the blanket to be arranged into a ring for use as a life buoy.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 1994
    Date of Patent: August 1, 1995
    Assignee: Eurogear Corporation
    Inventor: Cheng C. Ming
  • Patent number: 5374192
    Abstract: A survival and training apparatus for children is constructed in the form of a teddy bear. The teddy bear has an exterior casing formed of multiple durable materials including a fluorescent fabric of lime yellow color that is visible during daytime conditions and a reflective fabric to facilitate visibility during nighttime conditions. A third fabric which stores light energy during the day and then emits it at night can also be included in the casing materials. The teddy bear also includes in interior filling material of polystyrene beads that facilitates human body heat insulation when the survival teddy bear is held by the child and imparts buoyancy to enable the survival teddy bear to operate as a floatation device. The survival apparatus hits a pocket formed in the back to receive and warm a child's hands. A whistle is attached via a chord to the pocket and can be alternatively inserted into the pocket for storage and retrieved therefrom for use by the child.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 1993
    Date of Patent: December 20, 1994
    Inventors: Cheral A. Marble, Alan F. Marble
  • Patent number: 5370113
    Abstract: A self contained breathing apparatus comprises a compressed air cylinder, facemask and hose which when not in use are stored and carried within a case formed from an assembly of flexible sheet material. The elements of the case are constructed such that when it is opened and reversed it is adapted to form a garment to be worn over the torso and support the air cylinder for use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 1992
    Date of Patent: December 6, 1994
    Assignee: Racal Panorama Limited
    Inventor: Patrick Parsons
  • Patent number: 5318312
    Abstract: A portable folding utility carrier, is capable of carrying a maximum load of sixty (60) pounds and used for transporting objects from place to place. The portable folding utility carrier is very similar to that of a suitcase but with wheels attached to the interior surface for easy maneuvering. When the portable folding utility carrier is not utilized, the portable folding utility carrier can be folded and carried around like a suitcase.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 1993
    Date of Patent: June 7, 1994
    Inventor: Jesse Montemayor
  • Patent number: 5226184
    Abstract: A floatable wave subduing blanket made from cellular low density polyethylene in a rectangular shape having a plurality of cylindrical inflatable floats detachably fastened to the four sides thereof. The cylindrical inflatable floats subdue water waves as the blanket floats on the water for carrying a person.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 1992
    Date of Patent: July 13, 1993
    Inventor: Chun-Ming Cheng
  • Patent number: 5219308
    Abstract: A lightweight, non-inflatable flotation device for assisting a person engaged natatorial activities or one engaged in aquatic therapy who might not otherwise be capable of performing such functions. The flotation device attaches to the extremities of the user to provide additional buoyancy. It is comprised of a elongate piece of relatively soft, pliable material, i.e., closed cell expanded polymer material, which is folded around the hand or foot of the user and held in place by retaining straps.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 1992
    Date of Patent: June 15, 1993
    Inventor: Reed Rothhammer
  • Patent number: 5074815
    Abstract: An improved storage container for a lifesaving device is provided herein. Such storage container includes the combination of an oar or paddle, the upper end of which is hollowed-out, to give a pocket of sufficient dimension to accommodate an inflatable lifesaving device which is in deflated form, e.g., an inflatable life jacket or life raft which is in deflated form. A quickly- and easily-removable cap is provided at the inboard end of the hollowed-out pocket to retain such lifesaving device therewithin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 9, 1990
    Date of Patent: December 24, 1991
    Inventor: William C. Gibson
  • Patent number: 5049102
    Abstract: A recreational raft apparatus which comprises an inflatable, floatable body portion, and at least one closable pocket in association with the body portion of the raft. The raft may further comprise an inflatable pillow which is attached to the body portion, as well as handles attached to the body portion of the raft for carrying the raft. A towel may be attached to the top side of the raft by clips.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 1988
    Date of Patent: September 17, 1991
    Inventor: Michael Hull
  • Patent number: 5033497
    Abstract: A padded body, that is adapted to be used as a ground pad and as padded tent bottom is folded over a surfboard and secured in closed position. The surfboard is thus effectively protected while being shipped and stored. A tent is adapted to be connected to the tent bottom at the beach, so as to provide a comfortable padded-floor tent for use during the day or night. During shipment of the apparatus, the tent is secured adjacent the skegs of the surfboard.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 3, 1990
    Date of Patent: July 23, 1991
    Inventor: Ruben R. Hernandez
  • Patent number: 4822309
    Abstract: The invention comprises generally square buoyant cushions. A separate fabric skirt is attached to each side of each cushion. Each skirt has fastening means so the skirts on one cushion can be fastened to the skirts on another cushion. If the cushions are stacked one on top of another, and the skirts of the stacked cushions are connected together, the skirts are sufficiently long so the buoyant compartment formed by the facing surfaces of the cushions and the connected skirts of the cushions will have sufficient volume for storing emergency supplies. In another configuration the skirts on the cushions can be connected together in side by side relationship to form a chain of buoyant cushions or a raft which can support a number of people so they will not drift apart in the water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 1987
    Date of Patent: April 18, 1989
    Inventor: John A. Vandenberg
  • Patent number: 4668201
    Abstract: A substantially indestructible, long wearing, life preserver teddy bear toy is constructed with a shaped body of foam plastic enveloped in a tough, snug fitting, water repellant, close fitting fabric outer layer so that the body absorbs less than 5% of its total weight when immersed in water and has enough buoyancy to support a child.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 1985
    Date of Patent: May 26, 1987
    Inventor: Richard Stark
  • Patent number: 4657516
    Abstract: A life preserver device which is constructed with an inflatable inner bag located inside an inflatable outer bag, with the device being deployed in the back of a seat in an aircraft. When extremely rough turbulance is encountered or a crash landing is envisioned, pressurized air is supplied to the inner bag through a break-away tube, causing the inner bag to inflate, expanding the outer bag around it from the back of the seat to act as an impact cushion. Following a landing in the water, the device may be removed from the seat by breaking the break-away tube and causing the device to deflate, put on by the passenger, and the inflatable outer bag reinflated by a gas cylinder prior to exiting the aircraft into the water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 1985
    Date of Patent: April 14, 1987
    Inventor: Tomas Tassy
  • Patent number: 4650432
    Abstract: A plurality of rod elements, an inflatable mattress and a cover are configured so that they can be assembled to form a stable raft having good flotation characteristics for supporting an adult individual while traversing a body of water. The components used to form the raft can be reassembled to form a tent. The components can also be disassembled and packaged into a compact, lightweight parcel for easy backpacking.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 1986
    Date of Patent: March 17, 1987
    Assignee: AirSamplex Corporation
    Inventor: Cleo L. Sainsbury
  • Patent number: 4619623
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a life-jacket assembly primarily intended for aircraft passengers, including a buoyant body (7) furnishing at least the principal part of the buoyancy, and straps or the like adapted to retain the life-jacket assembly in position on persons in emergency situations, said buoyant body (7) being utilized as upholstery in a chair or the like.The novel feature is that the life-jacket includes an elongated, generally flat buoyancy body (7) substantially made of buoyancy material, that the life-jacket is entirely contained in an upwardly open compartment in the back-rest of a chair where the buoyant body (7) forms at least part of the upholstery, that an end surface of the life-jacket is provided with a pull handle (6) which is accessible at the top end of the back-rest, and that the generally flat body (7) has, at some distance from that end which is provided with the pull handle, an opening (8) through which the user has to pass his head.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 1984
    Date of Patent: October 28, 1986
    Assignee: KB Elverskog Ide & Konstruktion
    Inventor: Bernt Elverskog
  • Patent number: 4619622
    Abstract: A swim-safe play suit is provided and consists of a plurality of substantially equi-spaced flexible waterproof buoyant elements arranged within upper portion of the play suit in parallel relation so that if wearer of the play suit enters water the wearer will not drown.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 13, 1983
    Date of Patent: October 28, 1986
    Inventors: Edith N. McDonald, George Spector
  • Patent number: 4380441
    Abstract: Foam buoyancy sections carried in the front of a flotation vest are formed in four separate pieces that are cut from rectangular sheets of buoyancy material without any waste material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 1981
    Date of Patent: April 19, 1983
    Assignee: America's Cup, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert G. Harr, Gaylord T. Soli
  • Patent number: RE32023
    Abstract: Foam buoyancy .[.section.]. .Iadd.sections .Iaddend.carried in the front of a flotation vest are formed in four separate pieces that are cut from rectangular sheets of buoyancy material without any waste material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 1984
    Date of Patent: November 5, 1985
    Assignee: America's Cup, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert G. Harr, Gaylord T. Soli