Floatation device and related method of use

Abstract

The invention is directed to a floatation device that includes a plurality of buoyant tubes in parallel relationship to one another, where each buoyant tube has a first end, a corresponding second end and a middle portion. Positioned between the plurality of buoyant tubes is a series of tethers capable of securing two or more buoyant tubes together. Preferably, there is at least one tether positioned between a first buoyant tube and a corresponding second buoyant tube, each tether including a first tether portion and a corresponding second tether portion. The floatation device includes a plurality of adjustable couplers, each positioned between the first tether portion and second tether portion. Each adjustable coupler is capable of expanding, contracting, and sizing a tether to a specific linear space to conform to a user's unique body size. Each buoyant tube is preferably made of polystyrene, can include fluorescent coloring and have ornamentation.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS[0001]Not applicable.STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT[0002]Not applicable.FIELD OF THE INVENTION[0003]This invention is directed to a floatation device for recreational use, as well as emergency rescue. More specifically, the invention is directed to a portable flotation device that includes a plurality of buoyant tubes connected to one another by one or more tethers.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0004]A floatation device is designed to assist the user, either conscious or unconscious, to keep afloat with his or her mouth and nose above water while in a pool or other body of water. There exist multiple forms of floatation devices for varying commercial, military and residential uses—all of which function to provide different levels of protection against drowning. Examples of floatation devices include life-preservers (worn about the torso), buoyant rafts (where the user sits or lays on the surface to keep above water...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

"The invention is a new type of floatation device for recreational and emergency response use. It is designed to be compact, easy to use, and adjustable. The device includes a plurality of flexible buoyant tubes in parallel relationship to each other, with tethers that secure the tubes together. Each buoyant tube can be adjusted to different sizes to fit users of different body sizes. The device can be inflated and deflated as needed. The invention also includes a method for using the device on a body of water. The technical effects of the invention are improved design and ease of use for floatation devices, making them more accessible to users."

Problems solved by technology

Current pool loungers, pool hammocks and rafts present multiple design and functional limitations.

First, these recreational floatation devices must be inflated prior to use.

This takes a significant amount of time.

Moreover, should a user desire to later reuse the floatation device, they may be required to add additional air to maintain buoyancy.

In addition, once any of these recreational floatation devices are used, they are not easily stored.

If the user desires to maintain these flotation devices in an inflated state, they are typically bulky and take large amounts of room up for storage.

Alternatively, if the user opts to deflate these devices, the process includes the unfortunate need to again later inflate these items.

Both acts of deflating and later inflating limits the overall use of these floatation devices—as many users will opt to not use them when engaging in a recreational activity at a pool or other body of water.

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