Personal flotation device with closure envelope

Inactive Publication Date: 2008-12-18
ONEILL PATRICK F +1
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  • Summary
  • Abstract
  • Description
  • Claims
  • Application Information

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0008]The present invention provides two panels that are attached at an offset to the edges of a personal flotation device and co

Problems solved by technology

Although there are a number closures that may be used with a personal flotation device that provide ease of operation and secure fastening of the personal flotation device to the wearer, the closures are typical exposed on the surface of the device and can be susceptible to snags.
Exposed closures and straps can also cause abrasion to the arms of the user and are a potential safety hazard.
Due to the requirem

Method used

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  • Personal flotation device with closure envelope
  • Personal flotation device with closure envelope
  • Personal flotation device with closure envelope

Examples

Experimental program
Comparison scheme
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Embodiment Construction

[0026]FIG. 1A shows a fully open view 100 of an embodiment of a personal flotation device. panels 110a and 110b are attached to the front surfaces of a buoyant trunk portion 105, and zipper halves 115a and 115b are attached to panels 110a and 110b, respectively. Although panels 110a and 110 are shown as attached at on offset from the edge, in other embodiments one of the panels may be attached to an edge.

[0027]Buoyant trunk portion 105 is fabricated from materials that are capable of providing buoyancy when immersed in water. For example, a trunk portion 105 may be fabricated from a closed-cell foam core covered by a nylon fabric shell.

[0028]At least one of panels 110a and 110b, and preferably both, are fabricated from a material that is both flexible and stretchable (e.g. nylon / spandex fabric). Panels 110a and 110b are each attached at an offset from the mating edges of the trunk portion 105.

[0029]FIG. 1B shows a closed front view 101 of the personal flotation device of FIG. 1A, wi...

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PUM

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Abstract

Two zippered panels attached to a personal flotation device with at least one panel being attached at an offset to an edge of the personal flotation device and at least one panel being stretchable. When zipped together the two panels provide a smooth exterior surface for the personal flotation device. The stretchability of the panels allow for a close fit of the personal flotation device while maintaining freedom of movement. The offset of the panels allows for the attachment of closures to the surface of the personal flotation device within the envelope formed by the panels.

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0001]1. Field of the Invention[0002]The present invention relates to buoyant garments for use in an aquatic environment.[0003]2. Description of Related Art[0004]Personal flotation devices such as a lifejacket or life vest are constructed with various types of closures. Closures with a quick and positive locking mechanism, such as a buckle or a snap hook and dee ring, are generally preferred. Zippers and buttons are not considered closures with a quick and positive locking mechanism.[0005]Although there are a number closures that may be used with a personal flotation device that provide ease of operation and secure fastening of the personal flotation device to the wearer, the closures are typical exposed on the surface of the device and can be susceptible to snags. Exposed closures and straps can also cause abrasion to the arms of the user and are a potential safety hazard.[0006]Due to the requirement for strength of the closures used in personal flotation...

Claims

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Application Information

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IPC IPC(8): B63C9/08
CPCB63C9/11
Inventor ONEILL, PATRICK F.HUNTER, JOHN D.
Owner ONEILL PATRICK F
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