Learn-to-Swim Training Device

Abstract

A swim training flotation device system includes two oblong inflatable bags connected to a belt worn about a swimmer's waist. The swim training flotation device allows swimmers to move from a vertical position to a horizontal position and from a prone position to a supine position without adjustment of the device. In addition, the device does not inhibit a swimmer's arm stroke and the device promotes a neutral swimming position.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS[0001]This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 62 / 979,432, filed Feb. 21, 2020, which is hereby incorporated by reference.STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT[0002]Not ApplicableTHE NAMES OF PARTIES TO A JOINT RESEARCH AGREEMENT[0003]Not ApplicableINCORPORATION-BY-REFERENCE OF MATERIAL SUBMITTED ON A COMPACT DISC[0004]Not ApplicableBACKGROUND OF THE INVENTIONField of the Invention[0005]The invention relates to personal flotation devices and, in particular, to personal flotation devices used with beginners' swimming instruction.Description of the Related Art[0006]Unlike quadrupeds, such as dogs and horses, which naturally float in a horizontal position and are able to propel themselves in the water using the same motor motions as on land, i.e. “doggy paddle,” the natural floating position for humans is vertical and the learned motor skills on land for running and walking are of no benefit...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

This patent describes a device for learning to swim that can help people of all ages and abilities, including children and adults. It provides comfortable support and full freedom of movement in a horizontal or vertical swimming or floating position on the back or stomach. The device can also be used for other aquatic activities like hydrotherapy and recreational swimming. In summary, the technical effects of the patent are that it provides a versatent and comfortable training tool for swimming and other water sports.

Problems solved by technology

Because the change in position is away from the natural vertical floating position, the change is frightening to most beginner swimmers.

Some were cumbersome to wear, only permitted the user to be in one position, either on the back, stomach or vertically in the water, and some could be unintentionally detached.

In addition, many prior-art devices limited a swimmer's freedom of movement and prevented swimmers from practicing proper strokes.

In addition, many of the prior-art designs were not comfortable to be worn, which limited the duration of training sessions and inhibited widespread adoption.

The shape of the “cushions” and the attachments of the cushions to the belt do not enable the wearer to turn from front to back positions.

The attachments of the cushions to the belt do not hold the cushions securely and allow the cushions to twist.

The tie belt can be unintentionally released permitting a child swimmer to slip out of the device.

The device cannot be used in a vertical position to teach vertical swimming as needed for water sports like water polo and synchronized swimming.

The article and attachment mechanism cannot be used to teach swimmers in the prone, supine, and upright positions.

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