Multi purpose apparatus

Abstract

An apparatus 10 suitable for aiding survival during outdoor activities, and as a rescue apparatus in the event of an emergency. In particular, the apparatus 10 is suitable for use as a sleeping bag, a blanket, a distress signal indicator, a stretcher, a water catcher, a hammock, a tent, a shelter or a poncho. The apparatus 10 comprises a sheet 12 defined by opposing first and second longitudinal edges 14, 16, and by first and second opposing transverse edges 18, 20. The sheet 12 is substantially bisected by a notional longitudinal mid-line 22 intermediate the first and second longitudinal edges 14, 16. The apparatus 10 also includes at least two pairs of support means 24, 26, which support means 24, 26 enable the apparatus 10 to be supported and carried, in use.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD AND BACKGROUND OF THE NVENTION [0001] The present invention relates to an apparatus suitable for aiding survival. The apparatus is primarily intended for use as an apparatus suitable for aiding survival during outdoor activities, especially in extreme weather conditions, and which can also be used as a rescue apparatus in the event of an emergency. [0002] During outdoor activities such as hiking, backpacking, mountain climbing, camping, cycling, hunting and the like, it is known that a camper, hiker, climber or the like involved in any such activity, strives to minimise the weight and volume of their equipment. [0003] Many of these activities require a sleeping bag, a tent and warm clothing to be included in the equipment to be carried. However, the more items included in the equipment, the heavier and more cumbersome the equipment becomes. Carrying heavy equipment on one's back over a period of time can often result in back strain. Furthermore, if the equipment is e...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0012] It is a further object of the invention to provide a simple, compact item that may be used for a

Problems solved by technology

However, the more items included in the equipment, the heavier and more cumbersome the equipment becomes.

Carrying heavy equipment on one's back over a period of time can often result in back strain.

Furthermore, if the equipment is exceedingly heavy and cumbersome, this can actually cause the user of the equipment, e.g. a camper, hiker or climber, to lose balance on steep terrain, for example, resulting in a fall.

The inclusion of such extra items adds further to the weight and bulkiness of the user's equipment.

Due to the problems which can arise when carrying heavy and bulky equipment, the camper, hiker or climber will tend not to carry any additional rescue or emergency apparatus that might add to their load.

An outdoor activity such as mountain climbing is particularly dangerous.

Thus, a climber who attempts to travel lightly to avoid the problems associated with a heavy load, is putting himself or herself at risk should an accident occur or an emergency arise.

Due to the high-risk nature of activities such as mountain climbing, climbers embarking on a particularly hazardous trip often travel in a group of two or more for safety.

However, it is not an easy task to transport such an injured party.

Any standard blanket, sleeping bag or tent is generally unsuitable for carrying the injured party, since it is difficult to grip and carry such a blanket or the like due to the weight of the injured party lying on it.

The injured party therefore has to be dragged from the scene of the accident by the accompanying person(s), which is both uncomfortable and also can exacerbate any injuries.

Furthermore, the material of a standard sleeping bag, blanket or a tent tends to tear under the weight of the injured party either when the party is being carried or when being dragged along the ground.

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