Abstract: A recreational flotation device (10) is provided which is designed to support a user (S) floating in water while affording a convenient holder for beverage containers. The device (10) comprises an elongated body (12) formed of synthetic resin material and having a density such that the body will float in water (e.g., extruded polyethylene). The body (12) presents a pair of opposed butt ends (14, 16), with at least one of the butt ends (14,16) being recessed to define a receptacle (18) integral with the body (12) for receiving a beverage container (24) therein. A preferred alternative device (110) is provided wherein the body (112) includes a pair of differently dimensioned receptacles (118,120) respectively located at the ends (114, 116) and integrally formed with the body (112).

Abstract: An assembly has a floating support having a periphery defined by at least one floatation device, with the periphery defining an interior space. The floating support further includes a first sheet material extending in the interior space and coupled to the floatation device(s). The assembly also has a panel having a foldable frame member that has a folded and an unfolded orientation, and a second sheet material covering portions of the frame member when the frame member is in the unfolded orientation. The panel has opposing end edges that are attached to the periphery of the floating support.

Abstract: A floating platform that has a flat low profile for use by swimmers, divers, boaters, and those engaged in other activities on water. The platform is used alone or as a module in combination with other such floating platform modules; attaching the modules to form a larger floating platform. In a preferred embodiment, the surface of the platform is provided with several connection points enabling multi-point attachment to other vessels and stationary objects, anchor straps and towing straps, and apertures configured to accommodate beverage containers, coolers, chairs, umbrellas, retractable tops and the like. In another embodiment, a detachable cover is attached to the module, the cover forming the floating platform surface. A stable platform and low profile are achieved through use of stiffeners integrated within the platform surface.

Abstract: A buoyancy device (1) is attached to a structure to be floated or sunk. The buoyancy device (1) comprises a restriction device such as a rigid tube (3) and an inflatable member (5, 15) located within the restriction device (3). The restriction device (3) restricts inflation of the inflatable member (5, 15). The inflatable member (5, 15) comprises a first flexible portion (5) and may be in the form of a tube (5) and a second flexible portion (15) which may be in the form of a diaphragm (15). The tube (5) is coupled to the restriction device (3) and the diaphragm (15) is coupled to the tube (5).

Abstract: A recreational flotation device (10) is provided which is designed to support a user (S) floating in water while affording a convenient holder for beverage containers. The device (10) comprises an elongated body (12) formed of synthetic resin material and having a density such that the body will float in water (e.g., extruded polyethylene). The body (12) presents a pair of opposed butt ends (14, 16), with at least one of the butt ends (14,16) being recessed to define a receptacle (18) integral with the body (12) for receiving a beverage container (24) therein. A preferred alternative device (110) is provided wherein the body (112) includes a pair of differently dimensioned receptacles (118,120) respectively located at the ends (114, 116) and integrally formed with the body (112).

Abstract: A flotation device adapted for use by a person in a body of water and float with minimal effort therein. The flotation device comprises a central section adapted to fit between a person's legs, a front and rear flotation packs, and an adjustable connection means. The flotation packs each have opposite ends, and a lower and upper side. The central section has opposite ends connected to the lower sides of the flotation packs. The adjustable connection means reversibly connects the respective opposite ends of the flotation packs. The flotation packs are made of any suitable floating material such as urethane closed cell foam that meets U.S. Coast Guard requirements (UL 1191). A pocket is optionally attached to one or both of the flotation packs.

Abstract: A buoyant pool chair supports a swimmer in an upright, semi-reclining or sitting position while the chair is floating in a swimming pool. Interconnected rigid frame members collectively form an open chair frame including a seat frame, left and right arm frames attached to the seat frame, and a back frame pivotally coupled to the seat frame. The back frame can be manually rotated to a folded, minimum profile position in which the chair back overlaps the chair seat, for example for shipping and storage, and rotatable to an upright, fixed position to accommodate lounging in a semi-reclining or sitting position. Stop apparatus on the chair frame is engagable with one of the seat frame and the back frame for fixing the back frame in the upright position, and releasable therefrom to permit closing rotational movement of the back frame to the folded position.

Abstract: A collapsible flotation device is provided that uses a coilable spring coupled to a panel to collapse the device when the spring is coiled, and to expand the device when the spring is uncoiled configuration. The spring can be contained within a sleeve along the outer portion of the panel. A support member that traverses the panel is provided. An inflatable bladder disposed about a part of the outer portion of the panel and coupled to the support member buoyantly supports a body weight of a user. The combination of the inflatable bladder and the support member provide support for a user in a seated position on the panel. Many configurations are disclosed, including a multi-user collapsible flotation device, multiple connected single-user flotation devices, and so forth. A back support member and a headrest, both of which can be inflatable, provide additional support for a user to maintain a seated position on the panel. A foot support member is provided for the comfort of the user.

Abstract: A floatation device for a pregnant woman for providing a flotation device for pregnant woman to relax comfortably in a prone position. The floatation device for a pregnant woman includes a floatation raft member having a selected thickness; and also includes a headrest member being attached upon a top and along a head end of the floatation raft member; and further includes handle members being attached upon the top of the floatation raft member; and also includes an insert member being removably attached to the floatation raft member; and further includes fastening members for fastening the insert member to the floatation raft member.

Abstract: A shoreline riding toy, for use in hydroplaning along a thin layer of water at a shoreline, having a rigid lower board having a hard and slick bottom surface, and a soft, inflatable upper portion. The upper portion is adhered to the lower board. The upper portion overhangs the lower board in all horizontal directions. The upper portion supports the user such that when the user runs and dives while holding the toy to initiate hydroplaning of the lower board on the thin layer of water, the upper portion suspends the user above the lower board for the comfort and safety of the user.

Abstract: A device to be used for sitting at a table in a water filled area, such as a water pool. The device comprises an upper rigid, flat, floating body made of buoyant material and defining a table top, at least one lower seat member and a connecting member for rigidly attaching a bottom face of each lower seat member to an underface of the floating body at a level relative to the floating body such that a person can sit on the seat member while resting ones forearms or elbows on top of the floating body. The floating body and the seat member have surfaces and thicknesses enabling them to be self-stable in the water filled area while preventing a lop surface of the floating body to be submerged when the person remains seated on the seat member.

Abstract: A stretcher including a substantially rigid cavity defined by a base, opposing ends extending upwardly from the base, and opposing sidewalls disposed between the opposing ends and extending upwardly from the base. Each of the opposing sidewalls includes at least one low section so that a human limb can be extended out of the cavity to maneuver the stretcher.

Abstract: A floating platform that has a flat low profile for use by swimmers, divers, boaters, and those engaged in other activities on water. The platform is used alone or as a module in combination with other such floating platform modules; attaching the modules to form a larger floating platform. In a preferred embodiment, the surface of the platform is provided with several connection points enabling multi-point attachment to other vessels and stationary objects, anchor straps and towing straps, and apertures configured to accommodate beverage containers, coolers, chairs, umbrellas, retractable tops and the like. In another embodiment, a detachable cover is attached to the module, the cover forming the floating platform surface. A stable platform and low profile are achieved through use of stiffeners integrated within the platform surface.

Abstract: A water-swung hammock is an aquatic relaxation apparatus including floatable body means adapted to support a main body frame including leg support means adapted to secure said main body frame to said floatable body means, a staging platform including means for attachment to said main body frame adapted to support a user, a swingable sheet adapted to support a user including means for rigid support, means for swingable suspension and water-swinging means pendular associated to said main body frame adapted to receive water movement for motive power for said water-swung hammock.

Abstract: A floatation method and apparatus for effectively supporting and effectively exercising a person in a liquid. A method and apparatus for effectively playing a game in a liquid. The liquid may be water or any liquid used for cleaning or moisturizing a person's skin, such as anti-oxidants, emollients, surfactants in water, or skin conditioners such as vitamin E enriched body lotions and oils.

Abstract: A flotation device to be worn for water activities includes first and second buoyant end portions and a clamping member that may be multi-sectional. The clamping member passes from an abdominal region of a user between the user's legs to a back region of a user and is used to move the buoyant portions toward and away from each other to clamp the flotation device to and unclamp the flotation device from the abdominal and back regions of a user's trunk. Preferably, the flotation device includes one or two connectors for connecting the flotation device to a tether so that a user of the flotation device can swim in place when wearing the flotation device.

Abstract: A skim board is provided which incorporates a flat circular form for use in the receding surf at the waters edge. A rigid flat structure of sufficient weight, thickness and circumference so as to carry a rider across the shallow water and wet sand with little resistance. A circumference large enough to allow the rider side to side and fore and aft stepping about the platform surface, thus affording a certain measure of control and maneuverability.

Abstract: A submersible article comprises a buoyancy body formed from polyurethane foam having a first density, which is at least partly overmolded with a protective skin of polyurethane foam having a second density higher than the first density. The lower density foam of the body gives the article buoyancy, while the higher density protective skin strengthens the article and gives impact resistance. The protective skin can be stiffened, either uniformly or locally, by the addition of glass fiber or other reinforcing material which is arranged over the buoyancy body prior to the overmolding. The article can be made by a two-stage molding process.

Abstract: A buoyant recreational device for use in swimming, sunbathing or exercise on a water surface has an annular buoyant frame with an interior opening and a flexible resilient water permeable platform having an outer perimeter edge connected to the interior opening of the frame. The platform is polypropylene fibre fabric with inherent resilient properties and may be connected to the frame with resilient connectors such as springs or bungee cords. The frame is a hollow rotation moulded polyethylene plastic structure, preferably at least seven feet in outer diameter and five feet in inner diameter and capable of supporting the weight of six adult persons resting on the platform while immersed upon a water surface. The frame may include mounting means for attaching accessories such as: an umbrella; a rudder; an anchor; a towline; and a motor, and optionally includes a storage socket or compartment for sun tan oil or beverage containers.

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.

Abstract: A counterweight assembly is provided to enhance heads up surface positioning of a person. The assembly includes a weight/ballast member strategically disposed on a cylinder/tank worn by a diver during a dive. The weight member can be attached by several different embodiments. Preferably, the weight member is attached such that the diver cannot release or adjust the weight member while he or she is diving. The weight member rotates the person to ensure heads up surface positioning in the event the person becomes incapacitated. Also provided are several other water safety and survival devices. Also disclosed is a combined ballast and signaling device preferably neutralized by attachment to an eccentrically buoyant personal flotation device.

Abstract: An elongated inflatable tubular device bendable about spaced apart folds in multiple directions about the longitudinal axis. Spaced apart bendable folds are formed across the tubular member by attaching only the central areas of opposite portions of the side walls. Air within the tubular member is thus free to flow through each fold to balance air pressure. The central attached portions are sized in length along the longitudinal axis such that the outer unattached portions of each fold inflate and expand sufficiently to resiliently resist bending and stiffen the device while still allowing useful flexing of the device. The ends of the device may be cooperatively shaped having a central aperture formed therethrough to pliably receive the other end of the device. One or more of the central areas may also be open to alternately receive one of the ends in the same manner.

Abstract: An anchorable wave ride, including an anchor, attached to an anchor line, releasably connected to an anchor line attachment, which is attached to a flexible, elongated, shock-absorbing flotation core having a passenger stabilizer attached and positioned to the core for supporting a rider; thereby providing a buoyant, anchorable, vertically stable, and shock absorbing ride such the rider can enjoy the ocean waves on the ride.

Abstract: A buoyant lounge chair supports a swimmer in an upright, semi-reclining or fully reclining position while the chair is floating in a swimming pool. Interconnected rigid frame members collectively form an open chair frame including a seat frame, left and right arm frames attached to the seat frame, and a back frame pivotally coupled to the seat frame. The back frame is pivotally coupled to the seat frame on opposite sides by dual axle shafts. A manually operable clutch is mounted on each axle shaft for releasably connecting the seat frame to the back frame. Each clutch is manually releasable to permit pivotal movement of the back frame relative to the seat frame, and is manually engagable to fix the angle of recline of the back frame with respect to the seat frame.

Abstract: An end portion of an elongate personal flotation device includes a hand-held tool. In one embodiment, a hand-held tool head assembly has a mounting cup with a cylindrical wall and a flat cup base. The cup is fitted over an end portion of a flexible, cylindrical, noodle-type flotation device. In an alternative embodiment, a squeeze-ball bladder pumping device in located within an end portion of an elongate personal flotation devise formed of resilient deformable material such that, when the end portion is squeezed, a stream of fluid is expelled through an orifice in a surface of the end portion. In another embodiment, the end portion is of a paddle tool shape and may be used to propel a flotation device user through the water in which the device is afloat.

Abstract: A personal flotation system for allowing a user to float in the water. The personal flotation system includes a plurality of flotation devices designed to individually support both the body and the head while the user is in the water.

Abstract: An inflatable raft tethering arrangement includes an inflatable raft and a tether. The inflatable raft has an aperture and a rigid reinforcement. The rigid reinforcement is disposed about the aperture. The tether includes a clasp, a cord, and a suction mechanism. The clasp is secured to the raft through the aperture and the cord secured to the clasp and the suction mechanism.

Abstract: A personal swim craft that has a liquid filled viewing area that is simply and inexpensively created within the craft requiring no tooling for molds or related costs. A walled cavity through the craft is sealed at its upper and lower openings with transparent panes. These panes are sealed in place without drilling or tapping holes or otherwise altering the surface area of the panes. The void between the transparent panes is filled with a transparent liquid via a vent that can be within the upper transparent pane or integrated into the craft adjacent to the upper pane and extending through the craft into the cavity void. The upper pane of the viewing area is slanted aft to allow extraneous water to run off into scuppers or vertical vents adjacent to the aft perimeter edge of the upper pane. These vertical vents and a forward set of vertical vents also remove air bubbles that may become trapped below the outer surface of the lower transparent pane.

Abstract: An assembly for use in water activities is provided. The assembly comprises a first flexible member and a second flexible member. A spring mechanism is secured between the first flexible member and the second flexible member for urging the first flexible member and the second flexible member into a substantially flat configuration.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a fabric cover for encasing a flotation device. Loops are attached to the cover along the periphery of the cover to allow the user to secure additional flotation devices or anchors to the cover. The covering is preferably made from porous fabric that dries rapidly, that is relatively impervious to exposure to sunlight, saline solutions, and aqueous chlorine solutions and that has a “soft” feel against the user's skin.

Abstract: A supplied air snorkeling device is provided. This device includes a flotation vest coupled with a tank holder. This flotation vest contains flotation material that cannot be deflated and substantially prohibits a user from submerging. A tank cover is positioned within the tank holder for holding an air tank. Still further, a hose retainer is coupled with the vest. In use, an air tank is placed within the tank cover which is then placed within the tank holder. A hose extends from the air tank through the hose retainer and is connected to a regulator that is connected to a mouthpiece which fits into a user's mouth. The hose retainer keeps the mouthpiece in close proximity to the user's mouth. Another aspect of the present invention is a method of making this supplied air snorkeling device. This method includes coupling a tank holder with a flotation vest.

Abstract: A life jacket in which impact absorption materials are provided on both of inner and outer sides of a hard protection material in which a high-intensity fiber cloth such as a textile fabric or a knit fabric made of aramid fiber is incorporated. An interior material provided with a floating material on the outside of one impact absorption material is packaged in cortexes of front and back bodies which are bonded in such a manner that the back body is formed to be longer than the front body and they are parted in the middle at a shoulder region, such that the interior material substantially takes the form of a waistcoat. By extending an upper portion of said hard protection material of the back body of the life jacket along a neck region of the front and back bodies, a head region retroversion protective portion is configured and the front and back bodies of the life jacket are fastened by at least one belt upon wearing the life jacket.

Abstract: A device and method for training a young child how to swim. The child is restrained in an open rectangular shaped cradle which is pivotally mounted for rotation in a floatable body. Pointed screws engage spindles to lock the cradle to the floatable body with the child in an upright position. The inclination of the child is adjusted in increments from an upright position toward a horizontal position to permit the child to practice the arm and leg movements of a swimmer. The floatable body is comprised of a cellular plastic body and a reinforcement attached to an upper surface of the body. In an alternate embodiment, the floatable body is comprised of a thin planar center member and front and rear floatable members. Outriggers and keels increase the overturning resistance of the device. Extensible hand cranks increase the effectiveness of the training device.

Abstract: A floating caddy for holding and storing the gear of wading hunters comprising an inflatable tube formed from an impermeable fabric for providing flotation for the caddy. The tube is configured to create a water resistant storage compartment within its periphery. The top of the storage compartment has weather resistant zipper for access into the storage compartment. The caddy is fitted with straps for attaching a shotgun and shoulder straps mounted to the tube to allow the caddy to be carried on the back of the hunter in knapsack fashion. The caddy may be floated in and out of a flooded area by a wading hunter by means of a tether attached to the tube. The fabric forming the caddy maybe printed in a desired camouflage pattern.

Abstract: The present invention is a one-piece lightweight, yet very durable submersible-floating device that affords various positions for sitting or reclining or hanging suspended in water. The one-piece construction makes this device relatively effortless to utilize.

Abstract: A recreational device having a moisture and tear and UV resistant outer surface is disclosed. The core is manufactured from a flexible, lightweight material having a weight of about 2.0-2.5 pounds per cubic foot, such as two-part polyurethane or closed cell foam through injection or open molding. An inner core can be placed concentrically within the outer core, with the inner core having a second density. The flexible outer surface can be integral to the core or applied subsequent to manufacturing and can be materials such as a latex or neoprene. Preferably at least one indentation is molded into the core to receive a container. At least one connector receiving area, such as a directly inserted clip, ring or other fastener, can be embedded into the core to receive an attachment strap to attach multiple devices together.

Abstract: An aquatic device for carrying a rider, includes a buoyant mat having handles and towing attachments. The mat has inflatable air channels which are formed to permit the mat to arch over the water, carrying the rider when towed at proper speed. One or more air channels extend transversely to the major axis along a forward portion of the mat. A rear portion has air channels which radiate out towards a peripheral air channel. The towing attachments are mounted to the forward edge of the mat.

Abstract: A buoyant lounge chair supports a swimmer in an upright, semi-reclining or fully reclining position while the chair is floating in a swimming pool. Interconnected rigid frame members collectively form an open chair frame including a seat frame, left and right arm frames attached to the seat frame, and a back frame pivotally coupled to the seat frame. The back frame is pivotally coupled to the seat frame on opposite sides by dual axle shafts. A manually operable clutch is mounted on each axle shaft for releasably connecting the seat frame to the back frame. Each clutch is manually releasable to permit pivotal movement of the back frame relative to the seat frame, and is manually engagable to fix the angle of recline of the back frame with respect to the seat frame.

Abstract: An inflatable raft tethering arrangement includes an inflatable raft and a tether. The inflatable raft has an aperture and a rigid reinforcement. The rigid reinforcement is disposed about the aperture. The tether includes a clasp, a cord, and a suction mechanism. The clasp is secured to the raft through the aperture and the cord secured to the clasp and the suction mechanism.

Abstract: A device (10) for moving an individual (12) over a surface (14) with the assistance of wind (16) is provided herein. The device (10) includes a support section (18), and a sail section (20) which is pivotally fixed to the support section (18). The sail section (20) catches wind (16) to move the support section (18) and the individual (12) relative to the surface (14) The sections (18, 20) are made from a resiliently deformable material, and may be inflatable, non-inflatable, or a combination of both. The device (10) can also include one or more rudders (66) secured to the support section (18) for steering the device (10). Further, the device (10) can include one or more skegs (76) secured to the support section (18) to guide movement of the device (10). The sail section (20) preferably includes a sail controller (40) for directionally catching wind (16) to steer the device (10).

Abstract: An inflatable shaded float that includes a horizontal base upon which a number of users may sit or recline, a vertical support extending up from the base, and a horizontal canopy attached to the support to provide shade for a portion of the base. The base, support, and canopy are all inflatable so that the float may be entirely deflated to a compact package that is easily transported from one location to another. The support and canopy are shaped to give the appearance of the tail of a whale while making a dive.

Abstract: An improved aquatic flotation device particularly useful for dogs. The preferred embodiment of the device includes a relatively flat rectangular platform supported by two floats located on opposite sides of the platform. Each float is connected by two or more straps to the platform. The device is designed so that it can be thrown from shore or from a boat, and land in a manner that the platform is submerged about 1 to 8 inches without a load, and approximately 2 to 15 inches with a load. When a person or a dog attempts to crawl onto the platform, the platform will tip toward the animal to permit the animal to climb aboard the platform. The platform will then stabilize in a level position. The device thus allows for mounting and dismounting with little or no assistance from an outside source.

Abstract: The back rest and arm rests of the chair each include a separate elongated buoyant flotation member having a hole extending longitudinally therethrough. A flexible connector such as a rope extends through the holes to interconnect the back rest and arm rests with one another. The opposite ends of the rope extend outwardly of the forward end of the arm rests, and manually operable adjuster devices are attached to the ends for varying the length of rope between the adjuster devices to vary the distance of the back rest relative to the arm rests. A seat is formed of flexible material and is suspended between the arm rests by sleeves formed at opposite sides of the seat which receive the flotation members of the arm rests. The sleeves surrounding each of the flotation members have end portions which enclose end portions of the associated flotation members to prevent the flotation members from escaping from the sleeves.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a combination type of floating cylinder for swimming and storing articles comprising at least at least a base floating cylinder, and a secondary floating cylinder, both being with a hollow interior, and a plurality of fins. The surrounding surface of the floating cylinder is provided with at least a dovetailing seat. One end of the floating cylinder is provided with a hook, and the other end is provided with a removable cap body which can be opened and shut for the storage of articles or articles within the interior of the base floating cylinder or the secondary floating cylinder. A plurality of dovetailing seats are provided along the surrounding surface of a cylindrical base, one end of the dovetailing seat being an urging cap which can tightly fasten the dovetailing seats, and the other end of the dovetailing seat is provided with a hook.

Abstract: Swimmers have long relied on a variety of flotation devices to enhance their enjoyment of the water. These range from simple, inflatable rafts to surfboards, bodyboards and kneeboards which can be paddled by hand, ridden on the waves or towed behind a power boat. Water activities also bring out an irresistible need to splash one another. The present invention combines the fun of a paddle board, a towed board and a water gun to provide a floating platform for drifting, paddling, being towed or water battles.

Abstract: An inflatable recreational vehicle including an inflatable body member and a pair of passenger cockpits defined by a pair of elongated fore-and-aft directed laterally spaced recesses disposed inwardly from the peripheral edge of the body member. A first inflatable backrest is disposed adjacent one of the cockpits between the cockpit and the rear of the body member. A second inflatable backrest is positioned next to the other of the cockpits between the cockpit and the front of the body member. The arrangement of the cockpits and the backrests allows two passengers to be seated laterally spaced from and facing each other.

Abstract: A steerable towcraft is provided with a steering fin mounted on a lateral surface to allow the user to control the direction of travel of the towcraft while being pulled behind a watercraft.

Abstract: A non-inflatable flotation device that includes a substantially flat non-inflatable buoyant base portion, and a non-inflatable buoyant rim wall extending from the base portion. The rim wall extends at least partially around the periphery of the base portion. A tow line connection lug extends from an edge of the base portion, and in one embodiment a tow line is connected to the connection lug. The non-inflatable base portion and the non-inflatable rim wall are formed from a resilient foam having a density less than water. The resilient foam is formed from polyurethane resins or polystyrene beads. A protective layer covers all outer surfaces of the flotation device. The protective layer is formed from a protective coating applied to the outer surfaces.

Abstract: A substantially rigid or semi-rigid chair suitable for white-water use with a hydrodynamically efficient underwater profile, capable of efficient human propulsion, using hands and/or legs, which supports the user in a semi-reclining position and which is sufficiently maneuvrable, in both forward and reverse direction, to enable the user to engage in white-water river use. In one embodiment, the chair consisting of two floats (2, 3), rigid/semi-rigid seat base (4), bow hull floor section (12) an adjustable seat back (8) and a waterproof covering (7). The floats (2, 3) are separated by a rigid/semi-rigid central section (15) comprised of the seat base (4), bow hull floor section (12) which extends from the bow (6) for a majority of the chair's length, and together with the seat back (8) providing a semi-reclining body position enabling the user to use hands and/or legs for propulsion/maneuvring.

Abstract: A floatable park that includes a trampoline and a first inflatable object attached to the trampoline. The first inflatable object is constructed to support a human being thereon. The park is floatable on water.