U.S. patent application number 10/744573 was filed with the patent office on 2004-12-23 for personal flotation device with eccentric fixed and mobile ballast and buoyant members.
Invention is credited to Carmichael, Robert Manuel, Courtney, William L..
Application Number | 20040258481 10/744573 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 29741004 |
Filed Date | 2004-12-23 |
United States Patent
Application |
20040258481 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Courtney, William L. ; et
al. |
December 23, 2004 |
Personal flotation device with eccentric fixed and mobile ballast
and buoyant members
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.
Inventors: |
Courtney, William L.; (Elk,
CA) ; Carmichael, Robert Manuel; (Ft Lauderdale,
FL) |
Correspondence
Address: |
DANIEL S. POLLEY, P.A.
1215 EAST BROWARD BOULEVARD
FORT LAUDERDALE
FL
33301
US
|
Family ID: |
29741004 |
Appl. No.: |
10/744573 |
Filed: |
December 22, 2003 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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10744573 |
Dec 22, 2003 |
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09618333 |
Jul 18, 2000 |
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6666622 |
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09618333 |
Jul 18, 2000 |
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09225892 |
Jan 4, 1999 |
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6530725 |
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09225892 |
Jan 4, 1999 |
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08645206 |
May 13, 1996 |
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5855454 |
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08645206 |
May 13, 1996 |
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08149137 |
Nov 8, 1993 |
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5516233 |
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08149137 |
Nov 8, 1993 |
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07870244 |
Apr 17, 1992 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
405/186 ;
405/187 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B63C 11/30 20130101;
B63C 11/2245 20130101; B63C 2011/306 20130101; B63C 9/1255
20130101; B63C 9/08 20130101; B63C 2009/085 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
405/186 ;
405/187 |
International
Class: |
B63C 011/02 |
Claims
What I claim is:
1. A counterweight assembly for providing enhanced heads up surface
positioning of a person, said counterweight comprising: a weight
member; and means for attaching said weight member to a personal
flotation device, the personal flotation device worn by the person;
wherein said weight member rotates the person to ensure heads up
surface positioning if the person becomes incapacitated.
2. The counterweight assembly of claim 1 wherein said personal
flotation device is a life vest.
3. A safety garment for a water-borne person comprising a single
garment, at least one first buoyancy chamber provided in said
garment disposed on the person's back, at least one second buoyancy
chamber provided in said garment disposed on the person's front
side above the person's waist and positioned substantially
centrally about the longitudinal axis of said person, means for
inflating each of said chambers, whereby said second buoyancy
chamber effectively generates a righting moment, where by an
incapacitated water borne person's mouth and nose are positioned
and maintained out of the water at all times; said first and second
buoyancy chambers being in regulated fluid communication with each
other, whereby when said first and second buoyancy chambers are
used for diving, they can be selectively inflated to provide
increased buoyancy; valve means in said fluid communication between
said first and second buoyancy chambers for regulating the
inflation of the second buoyancy chamber from the first buoyancy
chamber, and pressure release means operatively connected to said
second buoyancy chamber.
4. The garment of claim 3 wherein said at least one first buoyancy
chamber is of a variable volume construction.
5. A quick disconnect connector for use with an intended
conventional lifting device to be deployed at depth, said quick
disconnect member comprising: a female member having an internal
passageway extending from a first end to a second end, said female
member having a valve member disposed within said internal
passageway; a male member having a first end and a second end, said
male member having an internal passageway extending from its first
end to its second end, said male member having a valve activating
bridge member disposed at its first end; wherein the first end of
said male member is snugly received within said internal passageway
of said female member to allow the bridge member to activate the
valve member to provide air flow to the intended lifting device and
to provide a secure but easily releasable attachment between said
female member and said male member.
6. The quick disconnect connector of claim 5 wherein said valve
member is a conventional Schrader valve.
7. The quick disconnect connector of claim 5 wherein said male
member further including an outer flange member disposed along said
male member intermediate the first end and the second end of said
male member, said flange member providing a stop means to properly
position the first end of said male member within the internal
passageway of said female member, said flange member also serving
as a gripping means to quickly remove said male member from within
the internal passageway of said female member in the event of an
emergency.
Description
[0001] This application is a continuation of U.S. application Ser.
No. 09/618,333, filed Jul. 18, 2000, which is continuation-in-part
of U.S. application Ser. No. 09/225,892, filed Jan. 4, 1999, which
is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 08/645,206,
filed May 13, 1996, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 08/149,137, filed November 8, 1993, now U.S.
Pat. No. 5,516,233, which is a continuation of U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 07/870,244, filed Apr. 17, 1992, now a band.,
all of the above applications are incorporated by reference.
BACKGROUND OF TH INVENTION
[0002] 1. Field of the Invention
[0003] The invention relates generally to personal flotation
devices and particularly to a personal flotation device
incorporating a ballast member.
[0004] 2. Description of the Prior Art
[0005] Heretofore, accidental immersion often resulted in death by
two causes, aspiration leading to asphyxiation or hypothermia. A
life saving system, to be viable for more than a few minutes, must
successfully address both of these issues. Current life vests
supply the requisite amount of buoyancy to return the victim to the
surface, but often require a conscious victim's involvement to keep
the airway clear. While it is common practice, as well as legally
mandated, that all civilian, commercial, and non-civilian vessels
carry Coast Guard approved life vests, many current water safety
products provide only a limited portion of the safety they are
capable of providing. They do provide for positive buoyancy during
the shock of the initial entry into the water, but by incorporation
of the concepts disclosed herein are capable of providing
significantly improved airway protection after the initial insult
with significantly increased reliability of airway protection and
less bulk, cost and, consequently, more compliance.
[0006] By force of habit, life vests are currently designed after
clothing and as such they open in the middle of the chest,
producing a point of reduced buoyancy where it is least acceptable.
The division of the forward chamber into two halves produces two
side chambers which are each capable of generating righting moments
in the water. When a righting moment is created on the body of an
exhausted or unconscious individual, they can be stabilized in a
face down or side down position. If the left or right side is out
of the water, concurrent loss of muscle tone in the neck allows the
face, nose, and mouth to be positioned underwater. Thus, current
constructions of many life vest are really only adequate for
conscious, alert, and active victims because they require
participation, constant monitoring and adjustment by the user to
keep the face and airway out of the water.
[0007] On sudden entry into the water, water on face actuates the
Dive Reflex, which is a rapid uncontrollable inhalation. This
reflex often results in aspirating water with its consequent
choking and coughing. This distress further complicates the
victim's ability to right themselves and assist in their own
rescue. It is often the case that the sailor who is knocked
overboard by the boom of the sail or is swept overboard by a wave,
can suffer a temporary loss of consciousness. During this initial
interval it is important that their life vest not only buoy them to
the surface, but that it also obtain and maintain the victim's face
and airway out of the water until consciousness is regained.
[0008] The only life vest that is of any value is the life vest
that is worn. Compliance can not be ignored as an important
criteria in the design and manufacture of any safety product. The
actual use of safety vests has begun to move forward by the hybrid
personal flotation devices. The HPFD is a combination of a certain
amount of inherently buoyant material along with an additional
amount of inflatable buoyancy. Because of the reduced amount of
bulk and therefore increased convenience associated with the hpfd,
their acceptance is growing. U.S. Pat. No. 4,681,552 issued Jul.
21, 1987 to William Courtney, addresses the value of hybrid
personal flotation devices. Like many vest style safety products
and in particular all buoyancy compensators, the BC vest described
in U.S. Pat. No. 4,681,552, when both chambers are inflated in the
configuration disclosed in FIG. 1, would stabilize the user on
their side, placing their airway underwater if the user was unable
to hold their head up.
[0009] The vest that is constructed entirely from inflatable
chambers is much more comfortable, convenient and therefore is
frequently worn by itself and is now approved by the United States
Coast Guard. The purely inflatable product such as the inflatable
sailing harness, wind breaker, safety device, because of its
compactness, is often the actual product worn by the victim. Many
purely inflatable safety products attempt to compensate for the
lack of inherent buoyancy by generating large amounts of lift. The
use of excessive lift often results in the use of air under the
arms where it creates the side up righting moment that can
jeopardize the airway, a design defect addressed by the instant
invention.
[0010] The airlines, because of their insoluble stowage problems
are allowed the use of a purely inflatable device that has
redundant chambers to guard against the failure problems inherent
in single chamber safety devices. The scuba diver also wears a
purely inflatable device known as a buoyancy compensator or "BC,"
which looks like a traditional life vest but because it lacks at
least reliability is not called such. The sailor is known to use
inflatable wind breakers. All these devices, as well as many not
described here, that are meant to provide surface flotation to
individuals in the water, would be markedly improved by
incorporation of the concepts described herein. Whether constructed
solely from inherently buoyant means as are traditional life vests,
or constructed from a hybrid composition of inherently buoyant and
partially inflatable, or constructed from purely inflatable
components, the specific location of a minimal amount of ballast in
accordance with the construction herein disclosed would confer
dramatic improvements in bulk, cost and compliance and
consequently, in safety and survival statistics at sea.
[0011] The prior art on the use of dual chambered safety vests
includes Swedish patent #203592 issued to Lindqvist on 4/1966. This
patent discloses a dual chambered product with a large forward
chamber which would allow the victim to be stabilized in either a
heads up position or if unconscious the victim could be stabilized
lying over the forward float with their nose and mouth underwater.
The device also relies on the victim's legs to apply tension to a
draw string to pull the rear chamber up behind the victim's neck.
For the active participant the product may have some utility but
would be unsuccessful if not closely regulated. In addition the
product is needlessly large and thus unnecessarily bulky when
deflated, a feature that often results in the product being stored
in a locker rather than being worn.
[0012] The buoyancy compensator is a convenience product that has
unfortunately replaced the diver's safety vest. The buoyancy
compensator is a specific adaptation of a purely inflatable safety
product that is worn by the diver for use both at the surface and
underwater. The product evolved from the orally inflated safety
vest that had the appearance of and was often called a horse collar
vest. After decades of diving it was decided that the diver would
benefit from the inclusion of a chamber to hold air while under
water to offset the loss of buoyancy that occurs as the diver's
thermal protective gear is compressed at depth. The initial
compensators for this shift in buoyancy were containers that could
be filled with air to displace water and therefore generate
increased buoyancy as the diver's wet suit was compressed by the
water. In an emergency this device could be easily disconnected
from the diver.
[0013] The next step in the evolution of the buoyancy compensator
was to use the air cylinder to inflate the safety vest, a product
designed to protect the airway at the surface. Its proximity to the
face and neck, its obstruction of the chest and therefore the site
of controls for the dry suit diver, its general bulk and appearance
left room for the advent of the life vest style buoyancy
compensator. The initial detached, canister buoyancy compensators
were of low volume and easy to ditch. The horse collar and then the
life vest style buoyancy compensator became voluminous. The larger
lift capacity became equivalent to the better the product. Buoyancy
compensators are available with 80 lb. lift capacities. At the
surface the high lift product conferred a sense of security because
it would buoy the diver far above the water as long as diver
remained in firm control of the product. As the diving population
became more diverse in health and age, the false sense of security
led to marked competitiveness over the amount of lift that could be
attached to the diver. The product is so confused with security
that a diver can not get onto a dive boat without wearing a high
lift buoyancy compensator for "safety" reasons.
[0014] The inflatable products worn by scuba divers as disclosed in
Greenwood's U.S. Pat. No. 3,436,777; Robert's U.S. Pat. No.
3,747,140; Walters' U.S. Pat. No. 4,016,616; Wright III's U.S. Pat.
No. 4,137,585; Scott's U.S. Pat. No. 4,176,418; Maness's U.S. Pat.
No. 4,324,234; or Courtney's U.S. Pat. No. 4,645,465 and U.S. Pat.
No. 4,681,552, and all buoyancy compensators in the prior art are
complicated by the attachment of an air cylinder that undergoes
shifts in buoyancy throughout each dive as the cylinder empties and
becomes more buoyant. The size of the shift in buoyancy is directly
proportional to the size of the cylinder used. The nature of the
shift in buoyancy, whether the cylinder ends up positively buoyant
or only less negative, is a combination of cylinder composition,
most commonly aluminum or steel and the water density, fresh,
brackish or salt. Some air cylinders become six pounds positively
buoyant when empty in sea water. This cylinder will float on its
longitudinal axis as will the diver who is attached to that
cylinder. Consequently, if for any reason the diver is unconscious,
such as from a minor embolism from rapid ascent, blackout, trauma,
medical problem or just over exhausted after being stranded at sea,
they will eventually lie along side the air cylinder with their
airway under the water and statistically the deaths are recorded as
drowning. The current management of the life threatening side
righting moments of every vest style buoyancy compensator is to
disclaim liability for keeping the airway out of the water.
[0015] The instant invention discloses the integration of a very
small amount of non-releasable weight exactly opposite the diver
that converts the only inflatable worn by divers into a product
that will protect the airway if the diver is unable to. The
attachment of weight to the air cylinder in the prior art has been
a way for carrying the ballast necessary for the diver to be able
to submerge, and thus were designed to carry significant amounts of
weight. Patents issued have turned on the design of the release
system. The dive community demands that the attachment of
significant amounts of weight must be able to be quickly released
by one hand, by either hand. The release mechanism must be sure in
that it must not accidentally release, but once the diver chooses
to release the ballast the mechanism must be simple enough that it
will not fail. All of the prior art by way of its incorporation of
reliable release mechanism assures the diver that as an emergency
is evolving and their weights are dropped to gain a better surface
attitude, the air cylinder that was critical for use under water
and is now empty will be attempting to float the diver on their
side. If the diver is unable to oppose this action, their nose and
mouth will be forcefully submerged.
[0016] It is to be noted that in U.S. Pat. No. 4,455,718, the quick
release means is positioned centrally to allow access by either
hand in the event of an emergency release. Prior to the release,
the central positioning of the quick release mechanism necessitates
that the weights as demonstrated in FIGS. 1 and 2 and be placed off
center, potentially reenforcing the side righting moments of the
life vest style buoyancy compensator. The keel retaining system
disclosed is built into the buoyancy compensator so it will not be
lost or left at home, the buoyancy compensator cannot be safely
used without this critical component. In U.S. Pat. No. 3,670,509 it
is noted that the ballast is located in front of the tank, close to
the back of the diver and consequently closer to the axis of
rotation which parallels the spine of the diver, thereby
drastically reducing the rotational energy generated per unit of
keel weight. This greatly reduces the effective strength of the
angular rotation generated by a particular amount of ballast. Since
some divers in the tropics may dive with only a few pounds of
weight, it is important that the keel weight be kept as far away
from the axis of rotation as is possible to maximize the strength
of the righting moment. The critical location is on the exact
opposite side of the tank from the diver. U.S. Pat. No. 3,670,509
refers to "substantial reducing" the tendency to force the diver
face into the water. Use of the disclosed improvements will not
allow the face to remain underwater. The ballast in U.S. Pat. No.
3,670,509 that attempts to reduce the face down righting moment,
positions the diver so that they are able to "activate the weight
release mechanism.", with the loss of the ballast the diver then
would be back to floating on their side with their airway
underwater. U.S. Pat. No. 3,967,459 locates the weight system
inferior and adjacent to the diver nearly the exact opposite as
disclosed herein. It is also noted that this weight system is
intended to be released in an emergency reestablishing the tendency
of the cylinder to submerge the diver's airway. The integrated
ballast system of U.S. Pat. No. 4,752,263 is similar in that it is
releasable, and located inferior and adjacent to the diver allowing
for an airway endangering surface position. The ballast system
disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 2,120,420 places weight symmetrically
about the diver which would totally eliminate any heads up righting
moment and in fact would stabilize the diver 50% of the time in a
face down position, additionally, this system is not designed to be
used with an air cylinder, but rather a surface supply air
system.
[0017] The instant invention achieves many critical features
including providing that the weight be permanently attached, so
that in an emergency it cannot be dropped. Since the keel weight
must be small enough to not compromise surface safety, it must be
located on the cylinder exactly opposite the diver where it
generates the maximal rotational energy per pound of keel,
rotational energy desperately needed to repeatedly turn the
unconscious diver over onto their back against minor righting
moments caused by limbs, variations in body density, and attached
gear. In particular, if the victim dives near heavy surf where the
waves can flip a victim over onto their face, a strong heads up
righting moment is essential.
[0018] Another critical problem with the use of all current
buoyancy compensators is that they combine high lift surface
flotation needs with low lift underwater buoyancy needs. That same
device at depth entraps pressurized air by design. The 190 lb.
diver at 120 feet underwater requires nine pounds of air in their
buoyancy compensator due to compression of their cold water wet
suit, should that diver begin an uncontrolled ascent because; their
regulator malfunctions, their tank is empty, they lose their mask
and become disoriented, the power inflator sticks on their buoyancy
compensators, they suffer a minor medical problems as they attempt
an emergency assent, for whatever the reason, as the diver ascends,
the air in their buoyancy compensator begins to expand. Ten pounds
of air at 99 feet underwater, increases to 13.3 pounds at 66 feet
and increases to twenty pounds at 33 feet and doubles forty pounds
during the last 33 feet of the water column, enough air to create
excessively fast ascent rates.
[0019] Recommended safe ascent rates are in the process of being
reduced from 60 feet per minute to 20-30 feet per minute. A
buoyancy compensator that can contain 30 lbs. of air can accelerate
a diver who is stationary less than 10 feet underwater to the
surface at average velocities over the last 4 feet, in excess of
200 to 250 feet per minute. Ascent rates from greater depths or
ascent rates with larger buoyancy compensators such as currently
available products generating 40, 60 or 80 lbs. of lift are
unknown. It is known that if a person's lungs are fully inflated
and they hold their breath while ascending three and a half
(3.+-.2) or four (4) feet, their lungs will rupture. Pulmonary
barotrauma introduces air into the circulation where it can
obstruct circulation and result in infarction of the tissue
involved. Since the diver is often vertical during an uncontrolled
rapid ascent, the embolism most often travels to the brain. Unless
the diver is re-compressed within minutes damage is permanent and
possibly fatal. The prior art on buoyancy compensators, as is
practiced in the diving community, unfortunately combines low lift
buoyancy compensation needs with high lift surface flotation. The
prior art buoyancy compensator is in desperate need of the many
advances disclosed herein.
[0020] Once the conscious or unconscious individual is supported
safely at the surface with their airway free and clear, the next
major threat to the water borne victim whether recently returned
from the depths or a survivor of a common carrier accident such as
an airplane crash, is from; not being seen by search and rescue
efforts, of being drowned while attempting a rescue or from
hypothermia.
[0021] The rapid lowering of the body's core temperature results in
interruption of life sustaining cognitive activities such as
staying in a tucked fetal position, which further aggravates heat
loss. With the loss of cognition the victim stops monitoring and
responding to changing surface conditions. Inevitably hypothermia
interferes in brain stem activities such as musculoskeletal tone
and respiration. It is widely known that hypothermia is the actual
killer in most accidental immersions. In response to such
knowledge, exposure suits have been developed to insulate
individuals and preserve core temperature thus extending survival
from minutes to hours. An effective exposure suit is a large, bulky
item that is prohibitively expensive. Despite these serious
drawbacks it is the only alternative to dying from hypothermia
within minutes and as such it is a legally mandated safety device
for the industrial sector where its costs, bulk and inconveniences
can be borne. Exposure suit costs and bulk have prevented their use
being required in the recreational, civilian or commercial carrier
sectors such as airlines, liners, ferries etc. Therefore it is
clear that despite recognition that hypothermia is the active
process in death at sea, there has not existed until this time a
viable, affordable, storable means to control hypothermia.
[0022] To address this deficiency in the prior art, the current
invention addresses both aspects of safety at sea. Rescue can
rarely be performed within minutes. Often the sailor on watch is
not missed until the next watch, obviously the single handed sailor
is never missed. The sinking of a civilian or commercial carrier is
often unattended for many hours or longer. As is noted in
Harrigan's U.S. Pat. No. 2,114,301; Bennett's U.S. Pat. No.
3,105,981; or DeSimone's U.S. Pat. No. 4,187,570, there exists
complex, bulky and costly means whereby jet pilots and navy
personnel have personal power inflated life rafts. These
automatically inflated life rafts require a cylinder whose cost
alone is prohibitive to private and commercial carriers. The bulk
of the cylinder, the bulk of the raft constructed from a fabric
capable of withstanding pressurized inflation and high impact
forces results in a device that is incompatible with civilian and
commercial carriers such as airlines or ferries, yet alone
individuals wind surfing, fishing from rubber rafts or touring
ocean kayaks.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0023] The present invention relates to water safety gear including
life vests, integrated rescue products, and hypothermic protective
gear, adapted for one-time use by the victim placed in the water by
accident or for regular use by the water enthusiast whether a
sailor or scuba diver.
[0024] The smallest safety vest that reliably protects the victim's
airway is ideal because of its lower cost, reduced bulk when
deflated, and improved appearance, all factors that contribute to
compliance with use, the true basis of success in any emergency.
The current water safety vest distinguishes the two critical points
of buoyancy, one behind the neck and head with the second point of
buoyancy being in the area of the umbilicus, and one of ballast,
behind the victim and their flotation chamber. A very small amount
of buoyancy and ballast securely attached to the victim at these
two points is sufficient to roll an individual over and put them on
their back, thereby protecting their airway from submersion. Entry
and adjustments are from below, from the side or if from the front
then the front chamber must overlap and be maintained and secured
in a central position. Only this combination of small buoyant
chambers reliably creates safe positioning of the victim's neck and
head. This face up righting moment is generated regardless of the
angle of entry into the water or level of conscious participation.
This strong righting moment also compensates for the ongoing
effects of rotational forces such as waves that at a certain point
will overcome the lateral stabilization provided by the rear
perimeter chamber.
[0025] Ideally the rear chamber is constructed to cradle the head
and neck preventing it from drooping over backwards or sideways and
becoming submerged. The chamber can be extended along the sides
where they act much as outriggers, stabilizing the body from being
rolled over because of wave action. The perimeter rear buoyant
chamber defines a space, and actually forms a containment means for
stowing a separating flotation chamber, such as a multi-function
rescue safety product. It also is the ideal site of expansion that
occurs when an inflatable life vest is actually inflated. All
inflatable buoyant chambers upon inflation convert from a two
dimensional product to a space occupying three dimensional object.
This creates a shortening that results in constriction. Power
inflated vests generally have an over pressure valve to protect
against rupture but before this is actuated an unacceptable amount
of pressure is applied to the thorax of the wearer. To compensate
for this either the garment is very loose so that when it is
inflated the wearer can still breathe or the chamber slides along a
retaining strap or belt shifting the position of the inflatable
bladder and thereby shifting the righting moment. Current
inflatable vests upon inflation slide to the rear as an
accommodation to the front entry. This pulls the buoyant means
towards the back and results in greater moments of stability in the
side high position which submerges the airway. In the current
embodiment if the vest is entered from the front its closure is
fixed. The rear buoyant chamber upon inflation stretches away from
the center of the back and out towards the sides strengthening the
lateral stability of the vest and the forward central buoyant
bubble remains aligned along the center.
[0026] There are several reasons that most life jackets are vest
style; the historical basis of clothing design, the need to locate
the required amount of lift required by the regulatory agencies and
the degree of fit. The buoyancy generated by the life vest must be
able to be secured reliably about the torso of the wearer. Entry
into the water or rough surface action must not strip the life
jacket from the victim, in this regard the secure closure,
appropriate sizing and an elastic component combine to provide a
reasonable attachment. The only way to be assured that the victim
and their life jacket will not be separated is by the inclusion of
a crotch strap. Once again compliance is a function of comfort. If
the crotch strap is loosely attached prior to entry into the water
then easily adjustable while in the water, it might be used. A wet,
limp, unconscious victim being tossed about by waves will require a
retaining strap between the legs to optimize the survival value of
any buoyant product attached to the victim. Its inclusion in a life
saving system is necessary, the option of its timely use is a
function of comfort and cosmetics. Another reason for the current
vest design of water safety products is that the Coast Guard use to
require certain amounts of buoyant lift for varying classes.
Commercial requirements exceed those for personal use, but all
classes displace such a large volume of water that the buoyant
means needs to be spread out over a large surface area such as is
provided by a vest style life jacket configuration, despite its
serious drawbacks.
[0027] Some vest style life jackets have four righting moments;
face up, back up, left side up and right side up. The current
invention creates a broad base triangle. Central to this
invention's uniqueness is a small buoyant bubble that is centrally
located in front of the wearer, and a small amount of ballast
posterior. The front chamber is responsible for initiating the
righting moment and the counterweight eliminates the side position,
and supplies the rotational energy needed to roll the victim over
onto their back thereby assuring that the victim's face will be out
of the water regardless of the angle of entry. Once the forward
chamber has reached the surface, it in conjunction with the
dynamics of a limp unconscious body, will oppose any tendency for
the waves to roll the victim over into a face down position that
would compromise the airway. If the front chamber is too wide, it
can combine with the rear buoyant bladder and create a second, life
threatening righting moment in which either side could be held at
the surface and concomitantly the airway submerged. In summary, the
rear buoyant chamber provides a base of support for the head and
neck, supporting the airway and providing lateral stabilization,
opposing rotational motion of the waves from over turing the victim
into a face down position, but in the event that occurs, the
forward buoyant bubble that is located at the umbilicus will
automatically flip the victim back over onto their back,
reestablishing the heads up orientation.
[0028] While the forward and rear buoyant chambers could be
constructed form a single chamber, ideally two or more chambers
confer several advantages. In this design one of the chambers is
retained by a releasable system. This feature allows the wearer the
option of being able to remove a chamber and use it as a distress
marker, thus the preferred embodiment is to construct the forward
chamber from a highly visible and radar reflective material.
Separation also allows the chamber to be used as a rescue device.
It can function as a rescue board to approach a swimmer in distress
or used as a buoyant assist beneath the arms of the rescuer to
provide lift in the event the rescuer is attempting to perform
artificial respiration while in the water.
[0029] In adapting the product for the scuba diver, the separating
chamber can be used under water by the advanced diver to mark a
dive site such as in search and rescue attempts. The separating
bladder can also be used as an underwater lift or salvage device
rather than the common but unsafe practice of using the divers high
lift buoyancy compensator as a salvage device. In the event that
the object being salvaged slips from the divers grasp, the diver
suddenly becomes markedly buoyant and is thrown into an
uncontrolled ascent. In the event of a sudden increase in boat
activity the diver could leave the separating chamber at the
surface marking the dive site, so that boaters will avoid driving
over the partially submerged diver. The universal retaining strap
of the releasable chamber ideally has an elastic component to allow
for distention of the bladder when it is inflated. The separating
chamber when modified for use underwater in a buoyancy compensator
must be reliably regulated. Safe and secure containment of the
bladder underwater is critical. As helpful as additional buoyancy
is at the surface, that same buoyancy underwater represents serious
exposure to rapid ascent with its numerous serious problems. On the
other hand the surface flotation chamber must also be simply and
quickly deployed to be of assistance of an emergency at the
surface.
[0030] Because the volume of the buoyancy compensator has been
reduced to mitigate the chances of rapid ascent, it is foreseeable
that the forward surface flotation chamber may not be deployed in
an acute emergency underwater so the rear chamber and the disclosed
keel weight have to be sufficient to protect the airway by
establishing a heads up orientation with or without the deployment
of the forward chamber.
[0031] When an air cylinder is attached to the heads up life vest,
the life vests counterweight must increase in size to offset any
additional outrigger effect. It is called a keel, because when the
diver is lying face down at the surface and goes limp, the tank
compensating keel weight, like the keel of the sail boat will roll
the diver over onto their back, stabilizing the airway out of the
water. The compensating portion of the name is because the size of
the weight is in proportion to the type and size of the vest,
cylinder and whether the water is fresh or salt. If the cylinder
when empty is neutral to slightly negative it will sink allowing
the diver to roll over onto their back. The keel weight in other
words compensates for the buoyancy shifts of the diver's jacket and
air cylinder. If the cylinder remains negative when empty then the
keel weight can be smaller but still must generate sufficient
angular momentum to offset the secondary righting moments generated
by an imbalanced weight belt and attached gear or bladders. If the
keel weight is used as an adaptation to existing vest style
buoyancy compensator, then it has to be strong enough to overcome
the side righting movements generated by the common practice of
using buoyancy under the arms.
[0032] Central to the tank compensating keel weight's design is
that it be made of a very dense material such as lead, and be
located exactly opposite the diver on the back side of the tank.
Traditionally the buckle that generates pressure on the belt that
attaches the buoyancy compensator to the tank is located in the
center at the back of the tank. Because the posterior central
position is so critical for the performance of the keel, the buckle
has to be moved off center. This shift in the cam buckles location
results in a slight inconvenience in terms of reduced access but is
necessary to preserve the critical location and therefore the
righting moment of the compensating keel weight.
[0033] Ninety (90%) percent of drowned divers are often found with
their weight belts still on and fifty (50%) percent of such are at
the surface. Usually the weights are located along the waist and
the amount runs from a couple of pounds to more than forty pounds.
As the amount of weight increases, the keel weight needs to be
located higher up the air cylinder to offset the placement of the
weight belt. The dual tank band allows for a wide variation of
weight placement. Obviously, the keel weight could be incorporated
into the metal of the cylinder, adhered to the cylinder, enclosed
in a covering of any sort, or even attached with magnetism. A pouch
or cylinder could be used to contain lead shot or beach sand as
long as it is located along the longitudinal axis of the cylinder
and thereby serves to generate the heads up righting moment.
[0034] Additionally the concept of critical ballast is such that a
certain amount of ballast is absolutely required in order for the
diver to stay underwater. To facilitate the concept of safe diver
weighting the tank compensating keel weight is also used to offset
the inherent buoyant material from which the buoyancy compensator
itself is constructed. Thus, because of the tank compensating keel
weight, the buoyancy compensator, the tank, and regulator
combination is neutral and as such does not contribute to the
consolidation of additional ballast on the weight belt. If the
quick release buckle of a consolidated weight belt should snag on a
plant or slip out of hand during adjustment at depth the dangers of
an uncontrolled buoyant ascent are somewhat mitigated because the
shift in buoyancy is reduced by the amount of ballast used as a
tank compensating keel weight.
[0035] While the forward chamber is not critical for protecting the
airway of the scuba diver because of the effectiveness of the tank
compensating keel weight, the forward chamber's ability to provide
additional high lift surface flotation fulfills an expectation in
the sport. The key to the addition of high lift surface flotation
to the diver underwater is its safe regulation. The operation of
the forward chamber requires diametric opposed properties of the
valve chosen to regulate the chamber. One embodiment employs the
use of a variable fabric valve fabricated from a self releasable
hook and loop fastener such as VELCRO.RTM. that can operate in
three different modes, as a manual on/off valve, semi-automatic
valve or a fully automatic valve. In addition, as the fabric valve
ages its strength can be renewed by further increasing the
interactive surface area.
[0036] The value of including a variable valve in line between the
rear chamber and the forward chamber is that the diver can become
more responsible with experience and training for the total amount
of lift available to the diver underwater as well as at the surface
and thus more responsible for uncontrolled ascent rates and
consequently the risk of pulmonary barotrauma, arterial gas
embolism and its frequent outcome cerebral infarction as well as
the risks of decompression sickness.
[0037] Some dive instructors fear that the beginning student will
not be able to perform an additional task in an emergency and
therefore prefer that the entire buoyancy system automatically
inflate choosing simplicity of operation at the expense of exposing
the beginning diver to the consequences of a more rapid
uncontrolled ascent, despite the fact that deaths have occurred
during buoyant ascents while training in a swimming pool. In
particular, since the student will be involved in a lot of surface
drills and exercises, such as determining how much weight they
require in order to be able to submerge, clearing their masks and
snorkels, and since the first dives will be shallow, the
consequences of rapid ascent are severe. As their experience grows
and their comfort in the water with their gear and the concepts of
correct weighting develop, they will be making deeper dives where
the consequences of sudden ascent continue to mount and become
progressively more severe. As the student begins to submerge and
the lungs become more pressurized the manual operation mode of the
valve is necessary for the diver to safely regulate the total
amount of lift attached to their body underwater and thereby
mitigate one of the major risks of diving.
[0038] As the buoyancy compensator is reduced to a device dedicated
to contain the small amounts of lift actually required while
underwater, some instructors are concerned that the diver will not
be able to rely on the buoyancy compensator for a buoyant ascent.
The problem with buoyant ascents is that they are very difficult to
control when all the divers' faculties are intact. In an emergency
the ability to regulate a high lift buoyancy compensator at depth
is very unlikely. Optionally, one of the forward chambers can be a
low volume chamber designed for emergency ascent which has
incorporated a rupture plug, disc or weld so that if the product is
deployed unintentionally by use of a CO2 cylinder or the divers air
cylinder, or accidentally, it will self destruct at a preset
pressure differential, limiting its buoyant assist to the first leg
of an emergency ascent allowing the diver a second chance to regain
control and reduce their velocity to a safe rate. Some of the
larger high lift surface flotation chambers may never fill to
rupture so its containment system that regulates its inflation must
be very secure to be assured that it will only be deployed
intentionally, otherwise the diver would be in the same high lift
rapid ascent predicament that they currently find themselves in
with today's product.
[0039] Incorporated within the multi-chambered heads up safety vest
is a multi-function rescue safety product which can culminate into
a raft for removal of the victim from the water and thereby confer
protection from hypothermia. The needs and use of this rescue
safety product determines its requirements for durability which in
turn determines the type of fabric, its storable volume and
therefore the location of the rescue product within the safety
vest. The primary flotation device or life vest stays secured to
the individual to assist them during their entry, and support them
while they are deploying the rescue product. Once inflated if the
product is not needed for rescue or signaling, the rescue product
evolves into a raft that the individual can crawl into. The life
vest remains on the victim protecting the individual should they be
washed overboard as well as insulating the trunk, further helping
to maintain core temperature.
[0040] The need and uses of a rescue device varies with the
application. For the civilian airline passenger suddenly thrust
into a survival situation, they are provided with a floating
cushion or a lightweight inflatable life vest. In this situation a
single use, ultra lightweight product is ideal. Such a rescue
product might be constructed from an all welded mylar film. A
multiplicity of layers would confer separate air chambers within
the product providing for insulation, conferring a puncture
protection while remaining small enough to fit inside a seat
cushion or within a pocket of a purely inflatable life vest. To
facilitate the single use products operation the oral inflator
would lead to a manifold which could be constructed of differing
diameters and/or which would pass through separate one way check
valves of differing relief pressures. The diameter and/or pressure
relief valves would direct the flow of air such that the chambers
could be inflated sequentially. As pressure in the system builds up
after inflating the first air chamber the second begins to inflate.
The arrangement would allow for the inflation of a life ring first,
followed by the rescue float, then if necessary a large outer tube
would convert the rescue product into a raft with a canopy arch.
The mylar, in addition to reflecting the radiant energy back
towards the victim, is mirrored so that it is highly visible and
radar reflective both of which would facilitate search and rescue.
It structurally would resemble a single use raincoat. With the
advantages conferred by this invention the victim could be of
assistance to themselves and to others. Survival would be increased
from minutes to days, dehydration would become the next serious
threat to the survivor. An off the shelf plastic solar still could
be easily included for trans-oceanic passages.
[0041] The water enthusiast on the other hand may find themselves
in the water more often than the civilian airline passenger and
their needs may tolerate slightly more bulk from the stored rescue
product in exchange for reusability. The bulk increases because of
the demands of a more durable and reusable product requires a more
substantial choice of fabric. As the bulk increases, the location
for stowing the rescue product becomes more critical. The ideal
location is built into the back of the life vest where it is out of
the way but securely and accessibly stowed until needed. In this
posterior and inferior position the actions of the new and improved
life vest are retained, that is the perimeter of the torso is
supported by the rear inflation chamber of the life vest,
stabilizing the victim against inadvertent rotation to a face down
position. The location of the raft, is ideally within the walls of
the life vest, protecting the raft from the shearing forces of
entry, freeing the hands to assist entry and recovery once in the
water. An envelope for containing the rescue product could be
provided so that it could be attached to the inside or outside of
any current life vest and thereby confer the protective advantages
to all owners of a life vest without having to incur the cost of
buying a new life vest. This would allow all current owners of a
safety vest to upgrade to a dual chambered separating water
survival system. This attachment system employs a hook and loop
fastener looped through the arm holes and is universally adaptable
to all life vests, of all sizes. Any releasable fastener such as
buttons, zippers, snaps, hook and loop, etc. would allow for the
rescue product and its stowage and release system to be located
comfortably centered both up and down as well as side to side.
While it could be positioned outside the life vest, its inclusion
within the life vest will ensure its secure attachment. The
inflation of the rescue product is determined by its use, cost, and
available stowage space but since oral inflation is not restricted
by shelf life, it is always present and most affordable. Inflation
via a manifold will allow the rescuer to provide a rapidly inflated
life ring to help stabilize the victim through the initial insult
and then provide a float while the remainder of the chambers are
inflated. In the current embodiment the rescue product is built
into the safety vest or floating cushion, if anyone in the water
intentionally or accidentally and is sequentially inflated through
a series of rescue products that culminates in a raft for removal
of the individual from the hypothermic effect of the water.
[0042] An additional advantage of the disclosed invention is
directed to the adaptation necessary when the safety vest is used
underwater by the scuba diver. In this application the heads up
safety vest would be called a buoyancy compensator or BC. Because
of the serious consequences of rapid ascent on pressurized lungs,
in addition to the reliable regulation of the high lift surface
flotation component of the buoyancy compensator, the primary
buoyancy compensation bladder should be variable size. By design
the buoyancy compensator is to be used underwater where it is
vulnerable to inflation from entrapped pressurized air at two to
three atmospheres, as well as subject to inflation from panicked
misuse or mechanical failure of the power inflator, all causes
leading to the same result, dangerously rapid ascent rates. The
volume of the bladder should be tailored to the dive environment.
The dedicated buoyancy compensator can be adjusted to the lowest
volume needed to accomplish the goal of compensating for
compression of thermal protective gear and the resultant loss of
buoyancy. As the dive environment changes, so does the need for
thermal protective gear. In tropical water minimal or no protective
gear is worn and therefore the diver has nothing to compress and so
experiences no loss of buoyancy at depth. For the diver in a
bathing suit, the need for a power inflatable bladder underwater is
limited to the shift in buoyancy that occurs in their air
cylinders, and usually is well under 5 or 6 pounds of lift. This
chamber is only needed to cover the initial overweighting needed to
allow the diver to be neutral at the end of the dive in order to
make a safety stop. This product should not be called a buoyancy
compensator as a first step in reeducating the diving population
about the dangers of power inflatables underwater.
[0043] In cold water, at 120 feet of depth, a 190 lb. diver in a
{fraction (1/4)} inch neoprene wet suit experiences a loss of 9
lbs. of lift due to compression of the wet suit. Most sport divers
are smaller and therefore are wearing less neoprene, dive in warmer
waters and/or making shallower dives. There is no justification for
subjecting a diver to unnecessary risks of rapid ascent. Due to the
extreme danger of pulmonary rupture and secondary air embolism that
results from a rapid uncontrolled ascent it is imperative that the
buoyancy compensation chamber be restricted to the lowest volume
absolutely necessary to accomplish its goal. Any lift over and
above the minimum amount exposes the diver to unnecessary risk. The
diver doing repetitive dives in one day is advised to do their
deepest dive of the day first and will need a buoyancy compensation
capacity commensurate with their thermal protective gear and dive
plan. As the dives become shallower and consequently warmer as
well, the volume of an adjustable buoyancy compensator can be
reduced, and consequently reduce the divers exposure to the risk of
rapid ascent. Recommended ascent rates are dropping from 60 feet
per minute to 20-30 feet per minute. The medical literature notes
that a 30 lb. buoyancy compensator can produce average velocities
in excess of 250 feet per minute from less than ten feet under the
water. For several generations, divers dove without a buoyancy
compensator so its use cannot be construed as critical. The advent
of this convenience product has resulted in ballistic ascent rates
because of the air entrapped inside the product which is
pressurized at depth which then doubles and possibly quadruples
upon ascent depending on the initial depth. An inexperienced diver
in an "out-of-air" situation is prone to forget about the
intellectual concept of arterial gas embolism in the hypoxic and
hypercapnic driven race to the surface, only to die from an
arterial gas embolism before ever getting a chance to drown.
Drowning is a slow, reversible process that lends itself to rescue
for quite some time after the event, unlike arterial gas embolism.
When using an adjustable dedicated buoyancy compensator the diver
can very precisely control their exposure to the dangers of an
emergency ascent through the water column and thereby significantly
reduce the risks of rupturing a lung and suffering an arterial gas
embolism to the brain or heart or similarly reduce the risks of
suffering the bends because of missed decompression stops.
[0044] An alternate location for a separating forward surface
flotation chamber is for its inclusion within the shoulder straps.
The redundant personal flotation device is designed to be separated
away from the remainder of the dive gear to provide complete
duplication of personal flotation devices in the event of failure
of the primary chamber. The chamber can also be used as a rescue,
signaling, salvage product or snorkeling vest.
[0045] Appropriately sized releasable shoulder trim weights offset
the operation of the buoyancy compensator underwater, improving
swimming position, decreasing frontal area, producing less
hydrodynamic resistance and consequently less diver fatigue. Once
again, the shoulder trim weight results in a reduction of the
consolidated weight belt with its inherent advantage of protecting
the diver from accidental loss of all ballast at one time.
[0046] In summary, a multiple chambered life vest can be of a low
volume, low lift, and low profile design as long as at least two
points in need of buoyancy are covered, behind the neck and at the
umbilicus and one point of ballast along the vertical posterior
axis. Excessive buoyancy can be extremely detrimental either
because the product is not actually worn because it is too bulky or
because side righting moments have been created that jeopardize the
airway. The separating chamber in the hands of a conscious, capable
user can be removed providing a signaling device for facilitating
search and rescue efforts or used as a rescue board minimizing the
risk associated with attempting to rescue another victim who has
become hypoxic. After the initial insult has been survived the user
can deploy the incorporated inflatable rescue product that
sequentially inflates into a life ring, then rescue board and
distress marker and culminates in a raft to remove the victim from
the water with its inevitable and often rapid hypothermia. The
entire water safety survival system constructed for a single use
application could easily fit within the air line seat cushion,
dramatically improving survival statistics for accidents at
sea.
[0047] The multi-chambered heads up safety vest as adapted for the
scuba diver allows for reliable segregation of a variety of high
lift surface flotation chambers while underwater. In addition a
variable volume dedicated buoyancy compensator allows the diver to
further reduce the amount of lift attached to the smallest amount
necessary for a particular dive environment. The combination of
these two improvements will markedly reduce the largest cause of
pulmonary barotrauma, and secondary embolism, a major cause of
injury and death in the field of diving.
[0048] The inclusion of a couple of pounds of weight integrated
into the posterior axis of the victim's vest will allow the victim
to overcome numerous minor righting moments that can place the
airway of the exhausted or distressed victim under the water
leading to drowning another major cause of death in the sport of
diving. The benefits of the tank compensating keel weight are so
dramatic that they can be included into a separate product that can
retrofit existing buoyancy compensators, converting them into a
heads up product. The inclusion of the multi-function rescue
product within the walls of the buoyancy compensator confers on
that diver the ability to respond to a number of problems
frequently encountered by the diver in rescue, marking and
salvage.
[0049] Thus, a water safety and survival system that provides a
multi-chambered personal flotation device that operates on minimal
volume to create a single heads-up righting moment that reliably
stabilizes an unconscious victim with his' airway out of the water
is disclosed in one embodiment. This is accomplished with a minimal
amount of lift, less deflated bulk, improved cosmetic appeal, and
reduced cost. These combined advances result in a safety vest
conducive to actually being worn, a key feature for a safety vest.
The system also provides for incorporation of a separating second
inflatable life ring, rescue board, artificial respiration assist
platform, and ultimately a raft for removal of the victim from the
water to protect him from hypothermia. This sequentially inflated,
multi-chambered, multi-faceted inflatable rescue product is
incorporated within the body of the safety vest. The incorporation
of a wide range of rescue products into the body of the person
flotation device will reduce the incidence of that dual tragedy
that occurs when the rescuer becomes the second victim. This water
survival system, when adapted to the special needs of the scuba
diver, requires the incorporation of a tank compensating
counterweight to offset the deleterious effects of a buoyant empty
tank whose buoyancy can force the diver's airway under the water.
Further adaptation for use underwater also includes a system to
adjust the volume of the primary buoyancy compensation chamber and
variable valve for segregation and reliable regulation of one or
more additional surface flotation chambers underwater. The design
of the separating chambers' coincides with responsibilities and
goals of the diver. These and more modifications for the safe
underwater use of the heads-up safety vest are critical in order to
mitigate the risk of rapid ascent and its consequences, arterial
gas embolism and decompression sickness.
[0050] In accordance with these and other objects which will become
apparent hereinafter, the instant invention will now be described
with particular reference to the accompanying drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0051] FIG. 1 is a view of a personal flotation device shown
incorporating the multi-function rescue product within the back
wall of the vest.
[0052] FIG. 2 is a view of an existing buoyancy compensator with
the multi-function rescue product attached.
[0053] FIG. 3 is a view of an airline life vest carrying a
multi-function water rescue safety product.
[0054] FIG. 4 is a view of an airline seat cushion modified by the
inclusion of an ultra lightweight disposable multi-function rescue
safety product.
[0055] FIG. 5 is a view of an inflation manifold.
[0056] FIG. 6 is a top view of a multi-chambered rescue
product.
[0057] FIG. 7 is a cross section view of the multi-function rescue
product fully inflated.
[0058] FIG. 8 is a view of a face up personal flotation device
modified for scuba diving.
[0059] FIG. 9 is a view of the scuba diver with an inflated
separating horse collar, and self rupturing emergency ascent
chamber.
[0060] FIG. 10 is a view of the inflatable cummerbund, with a
releasable forward chamber, carrying an alternatively forward
chamber in the form of a float.
[0061] FIG. 11 is a view of the pyramidal structure with central
forward buoyant chamber and rear buoyant chamber.
[0062] FIG. 12 is a combined view of the elements of the water
safety and survival system as it is adapted to the scuba diver.
[0063] FIG. 13 is a front view of the adjustable buoyancy
compensator.
[0064] FIG. 14 is a rear view of an alternate adjustable buoyancy
compensator.
[0065] FIG. 15 is a front perspective view of a first counter
weight member in accordance with the present invention.
[0066] FIG. 16 is a back perspective view of the counter weight
member illustrated in FIG. 15.
[0067] FIG. 17 is a front elevational view of the counter weight
member illustrated in FIG. 15.
[0068] FIG. 18 is a back elevational view of the counter weight
member illustrated in FIG. 15.
[0069] FIG. 19 is a side elevational view of the counter weight
member illustrated in FIG. 15.
[0070] FIG. 20 is a top plan view of the counter weight member
illustrated in FIG. 15.
[0071] FIG. 21 is a front perspective view illustrating a first
attachment embodiment for a first counterweight assembly in
accordance with the present invention.
[0072] FIG. 22 is a front perspective view illustrating a second
attachment embodiment for a first counterweight assembly in
accordance with the present invention.
[0073] FIG. 23 is a back perspective view illustrating the second
attachment embodiment for the first counterweight assembly.
[0074] FIG. 24 is a perspective view illustrating a connection
portion of a coupling strap in accordance with the present
invention.
[0075] FIG. 25 is a front perspective view illustrating a second
attachment embodiment for a first counterweight assembly in
accordance with the present invention.
[0076] FIG. 26 is a top plan view of the counter weight member
illustrated in FIG. 15 having at least one suction cup.
[0077] FIG. 27 is a side elevational view of the counter weight
member illustrated in FIG. 15 having a plurality of suction
cups.
[0078] FIG. 28 is a front elevational view of a second embodiment
counterweight assembly in accordance with the present invention in
a flap open position.
[0079] FIG. 29 is a top elevational view of the second embodiment
counterweight assembly with the flap removed.
[0080] FIG. 30 is a front elevational view of the second embodiment
counterweight assembly in a flap closed position.
[0081] FIG. 31 is a side elevational view of the second embodiment
counterweight assembly.
[0082] FIG. 32 is a front elevational view of a third embodiment
counterweight assembly in accordance with the present
invention.
[0083] FIG. 33 is a side elevational view of a weight member
utilized with the third embodiment counterweight assembly.
[0084] FIG. 34 is a perspective view of a fourth embodiment
counterweight assembly in accordance with the present
invention.
[0085] FIG. 35 is a top plan view of the fourth embodiment
counterweight assembly.
[0086] FIG. 36 is a perspective view of a fourth embodiment
counterweight assembly in accordance with the present
invention.
[0087] FIG. 37 is a perspective view of a fifth embodiment
counterweight assembly in accordance with the present
invention.
[0088] FIG. 38a is a front elevational view of the fifth embodiment
counterweight assembly.
[0089] FIG. 38b is a front elevational view of a soft weight member
in accordance with the present invention.
[0090] FIG. 38c is a front elevational view of a hard weight member
in accordance with the present invention.
[0091] FIGS. 39a through 39e illustrate the various steps which are
performed for removing a pouch member and associated weight member
from a pocket member for the fifth embodiment counterweight
assembly of FIG. 37.
[0092] FIG. 40 is a front perspective view illustrating a
combination of counterweight assemblies in accordance with the
present invention utilized together.
[0093] FIG. 41 is a back perspective view illustrating a
combination of counterweight assemblies in accordance with the
present invention utilized together.
[0094] FIG. 42 is a perspective view of a diver having his or her
airway submerged.
[0095] FIG. 43 is a perspective view of a diver having his or her
airway protected in accordance with the present invention.
[0096] FIG. 44 is a perspective view of a training device for
determining proper size and location for the weight member in
accordance with the counterweight assemblies of the present
invention.
[0097] FIG. 45 is a perspective view of a quick disconnect member
in accordance with the present invention.
[0098] FIG. 46 is an enlarged perspective view of a male portion of
the quick disconnect member illustrated in FIG. 45.
[0099] FIG. 47 is a perspective view of a prior art quick
disconnect member having its female portion in section.
[0100] FIG. 48 is a view of the personal flotation device shown in
Figure and incorporating a counterweight member.
[0101] FIG. 49 is a view of the airline life vest shown in FIG. 3
and incorporating a counterweight member.
[0102] FIG. 50 is a view of the face up personal flotation device
shown in FIG. 8 and incorporating a counterweight member.
[0103] FIG. 51 is a view of the scuba diver with the inflated
separating horse collar shown in FIG. 9 and incorporating a
counterweight member.
[0104] FIG. 52 is a view of the pyramidal structure with central
forward buoyant chamber and rear buoyant chamber shown in FIG. 11
and incorporating a counterweight member.
[0105] FIG. 53 is a posterior view of a vest style personal
flotation device ("PFD") illustrating middling mobile ballast.
[0106] FIG. 54 is a cephalic view of a victim wearing a vest style
PFD illustrating the eccentric positioning of mobile ballast.
[0107] FIG. 55 is a side view of a mobile ballast attachment means
illustrating numerous components facilitating mobility of the
ballast member.
[0108] FIG. 56 is a cephalic view of a victim wearing a vest style
PFD illustrating a freely mobile ballast within a container that
redirects the ballast's movement as the victim rolls.
[0109] FIG. 57 is a lateral and cephalic view of the mobile
ballast's container illustrating the multiple points of stability,
as it is reoriented in three dimensions.
[0110] FIG. 58 are lateral views of a deflated then inflated PFD
illustrating stowage then deployment of the ballast member.
[0111] FIG. 59 is a posterior view illustrating a dual position
minimally active eccentric fixed keel that can be released by the
wearer into a maximally active mobile position.
[0112] FIG. 60 is a posterior view showing an immobilized ballast
member that can be released by the wearer into an active mobile
position.
[0113] FIG. 61 is a posterior view of a yoke collar PFD with an
attached mobile ballast contained in a sealed semi-circular
container.
[0114] FIG. 62 is a lateral view of a yoke collar PFD illustrating
a PFD in accordance with the present invention constructed to
accommodate a recyclable contained mobile ballast member.
[0115] FIG. 63 is a posterior view of a yoke collar style or
stackable PFD illustrating an externally attached eccentric
cylindrical container for a mobile ballast member that can be put
in place without having to remove the jacket.
[0116] FIG. 64 is a lateral view of a yoke collar PFD showing the
integrated form of FIG. 63 where the mobile ballast and containment
means are embedded in the foam of the neck of the jacket.
[0117] FIG. 65 is a lateral view of a yoke collar PFD while being
worn and showing multiple external pouches built into the fabric of
the jacket that allow the user accessible adjustment of an amount
of ballast without having to remove the vest.
[0118] FIG. 66 is a posterior view of a cervical portion of a yoke
collar style PFD illustrating eccentric placement of quick release
mobile ballast members, one of which can preferably be added while
wearing the PFD, one of which preferably cannot.
[0119] FIG. 67 is a right anteriolateral view of a yoke collar
style PFD showing an externally attached eccentric fixed ballast
system that can be adjusted while wearing the PFD.
[0120] FIG. 68 is a posterior view of a thermal protective suit
illustrating multiple fixed and mobile ballast and buoyant
members.
[0121] FIG. 69 is a posterior view of a yoke collar style PFD
illustrating a fixed hemi-circumferential ballasting member.
[0122] FIG. 70 is a posterior view of a yoke collar style PFD
illustrating a mobile ballast secured via multiple attachment
points crossing a victim's midline within a ventilated
container.
[0123] FIG. 71 is a posterior view of a yoke collar style PFD
illustrating a mobile ballast secured via multiple attachment
points crossing a victim's midline secured to a PFD strap but
otherwise open for unlimited range of motion.
DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0124] FIG. 1 shows victim 201 wearing a vest 203 that can function
separately as a snorkeling vest, personal flotation device for
boating or alternately hooked up to the primary bladder of a
buoyancy compensator through quick release means 91 and hose 70
that is attached within pocket 74. Vest 203 can also be inflated
through oral inflation means 72. Additionally, vest 203 can be
incorporated with a ballast means 100 (FIG. 48). A multi-function
rescue product and raft 207 is stowed within the back pocket of the
lift vest between the outer wall 208 and inner wall 209. A
retrieval strap 211 opens the pouch formed by wall 208 and wall
209, and is wrapped around raft 207 allowing the user to remove
rescue product and raft 207, comprised of an expansible material
allowing inflation chamber portion 73 located along the perimeter
of the back to roll forward upon inflation.
[0125] FIG. 2 shows a diver 202 adapting an existing vest style
buoyancy compensator 204 to carry the rescue product 207 within a
containment pouch 210, held in place by band 23 that is supported
by arm holes 24. A retrieval strap 211 is wrapped around rescue
product 207 so that it can be removed from the containment pouch
210 without having to remove the vest 204. The scuba tank 102 is
standard.
[0126] FIG. 3 shows a typical inflatable vest 205, as might be worn
by an airline passenger 201, that is strapped to the victim by
strap 214, in the event of a water landing. The typical vest 205 is
modified by addition of a containment pocket 213 that stows a
single use rescue product 207. Additionally, vest 205 can be
modified by the addition of a counterweight 100 (FIG. 49).
[0127] FIG. 4 shows an airline cushion 206 containing rescue
product 207. The victim puts their arms through straps 15 to secure
the cushion 206 to the victim during water entry.
[0128] FIG. 5 shows a manifold device 17 that connects an oral
inflator 16 through barbed fittings 18 to a series of one-way check
valves that can also function as variable pressure relief valves
19, 29, 39, 39, and 59 that connect via tubing 20, 30, 40, 50, and
60 to a series of inflatable chambers as are demonstrated in the
next drawing, FIG. 6.
[0129] FIG. 6 shows a multi-function rescue product and raft 207,
comprised of life ring 21 which is inflated by tube 20 which
because it has the largest diameter tubing and because the pressure
relief valve 19 has the lowest relief pressure setting, will
inflate first. Inflation chamber 31 or the floor is the second to
inflate. Chamber 41 is a second chamber in the floor and because of
the setting of the pressure relief valve and/or the diameter of
tube 40 would be the third chamber to fill. The first three
chambers; the life ring 21, and the floor chambers 31 and 41 form a
rescue board or distress marker. The next chamber is a wall tube 51
and that can be inflated while resting on combined chambers 21, 31,
and 41. The final chamber 61 forms an arch, supporting a protective
canopy. In its last configuration, the multi-function rescue
product 207 can be inflated to a raft constructed from radar,
solar, and infrared reflective material.
[0130] FIG. 7 shows construction of rescue product 207 in cross
section, highlighting the various chambers and their sequence in
inflation, life ring 21 first, portion of floor 31, remainder of
floor 41 second, high volume tube wall 51 third, arch canopy tube
60 last. Ideally, the floor is doubled or tripled to provide
thermal insulation from the water and puncture resistance.
[0131] FIG. 8 scuba diver 202 is shown wearing a heads up,
multi-chambered, dedicated, rear mounted, adjustable buoyancy
compensator having an inflatable chamber 85 connected with hose 83
through quick release coupling 91, and through one-way pressure
release valve 82 to a releasable inflatable shoulder harness 80
that is stowed in a folded configuration. In FIG. 9, the shoulder
harness 80 is inflated. In FIG. 8, an alternate or concurrent
surface flotation bladder having an inflatable chamber 90 can be
connected to buoyancy compensation chamber 85 by tube 93, which is
regulated by one-way check valve 92, and can be separated from the
diver for rescue, salvage or marking activities by quick release
coupling 91. In FIG. 8, it is noted that the life vest comprised of
inflatable chambers 85 and 90 is snug but releasably attached to
diver 202 by a crotch strap 94. The diver 202 in FIG. 8 is holding
an air hose 191 which couples to the male quick release coupling
192 on the power inflator 87, or can be used to inflate rescue
product 207 of FIG. 2 or can be used as a high pressure air source
for the rapid inflation of chamber 90 when it is being used in a
rescue attempt. Additionally, a counterweight 100 can be provided
(FIG. 50).
[0132] FIG. 9 shows an adjustable buoyancy compensation chamber 85
reduced in volume by rolling up the side chamber as shown at 130.
An automatic rupturing emergency ascent chamber 180 is inflated
from buoyancy compensation chamber 85 through quick release coupler
91, or by a separate compressed gas cylinder such as a CO2 cylinder
215. Standardized retaining strap 110 as found on all the
interchangeable forward bladders. Strap 110 keeps bladder 180 from
separating from diver 202 until the quick release buckle 103 is
opened. Retaining band 104 is expandable allowing for the forward
chamber to expand away from the diver upon inflation. In an
uncontrolled ascent the diver is unlikely to operate the venting
mechanism 183 in which case a rupture plug 182, can be provided,
which crosses a weld line 181 weakening it so that as the chamber
180 pressurizes upon ascent, it will rupture out at the weakened
point, thereby reducing total lift attached to diver 202 and
helping to control the ascent velocity. In FIG. 10 diver 202
demonstrates two of a wide variety of different releasable forward
chambers indicated generally as inflatable means 90 stored in the
waist band in FIG. 8. Additionally, a counterweight 100 can be
provided (FIG. 51).
[0133] FIG. 10 shows the diver 202 whose waist band 95 is retaining
releasable separating forward chamber 97 which is a redundant horse
collar life vest and rescue product. Expansible element 104
stretches upon inflation of the forward chamber 97. In an emergency
the horse collar vest 97 can be released from the divers buoyancy
compensator by quick release buckle 103. The same quick release
buckle is used for releasing the shoulder strap as is standard in
the art, and familiar to divers. After releasing the forward vest
97 from the waist, the diver then disconnects the horse collar life
vest 97 from its source of power inflation the buoyancy compensator
85, by using the quick release coupling 91. Once the forward
chamber has been separated from the rear chamber 85 and diver 202,
it can be employed as a rescue board, tied off as a bottom marker,
left at the surface to warn boat traffic, or held aloft as a high
visibility distress marker. In FIG. 10, the diver 202 is carrying a
rescue board, distress marker, surf mat as an alternate separating
forward surface flotation chamber indicated as 96. Chamber 96 can
be retained by guides 110 on strap 104 of the divers waist band. In
FIG. 10, chamber 96 is shown with oral inflation means 98 and quick
release coupling means 192 which couples to quick release coupling
91 thereby connected to the rear buoyancy compensator 85, or to the
air hose from the air cylinder for more rapid inflation. Retaining
flap 106 serves to store the releasable forward chamber 97 or 96.
Pouch 160 is sealed by flap 161 and is used to contain a small
amount of lead shot to offset the buoyancy of the materials used to
construct the forward chamber as well as its containment system. On
the upper shoulder straps of the diver 202 in FIG. 10, D-ring 172
is attached to hook and loop covering flat 173 that is attached to
underlying fabric walls 175 to create a quick release pocket for a
lead shot filled pouch 174.
[0134] FIG. 11 demonstrate the pyramidal structure of the multiple
chambered heads up life vest. The vest is comprised of a rear
U-shaped buoyant chamber 121 and the forward centrally located
buoyant chamber 120. The triangle 123, formed by chamber 120 and
121 has a single righting moment, face up. The victim 201, and his
airway 124 are maintained out of the water whether or not the
victim is conscious. A counterweight 100 can also be provided with
the life vest (FIG. 52).
[0135] FIG. 12 shows a composite of the water safety and survival
elements disclosed herein. In FIG. 12 the diver 202 is unconscious
but his airway 124 is held out of the water. A generic centrally
located inflated chamber 105 is retained by expansible strap 104
and could be released by quick release buckle 103 if the diver was
alert and it was needed for rescue or for use as a distress marker
for search and rescue activities. Waist band 95 is secured in place
by buckle 178 which is mounted on a Velcro.RTM. base 179 that
allows the waist buckle to be adjusted along the length of the left
side of the waist band 177 to accommodate the variation in waist
size that occurs as different types of thermal protective gear are
worn. The buckle 178 is off to the side so that the generic forward
flotation chamber 105 retains its critical central location. The
forward chamber retaining flat 106 is attached by hook flap 108 to
the loop material that covers the entire length of the waist band
indicated as strap 95. This allows the forward chamber 105 to be
quickly but securely adjusted to its central position. Operation of
forward chamber 105 is regulated by the variable fabric valve 171
built into the retaining flag 106. The hook and loop components 171
of flap 106 can be varied by the inclusion of a reducer strip of
hook 107. The size of the reducer strip 107 determines whether the
flap 106 will open quickly under pressurized inflation from the
rear chamber 85, open slowly or not at all. If the entire reducer
strip 107 is removed the hook and loop means 171 are of sufficient
strength to lock off the forward chamber. An over pressure valve
111 is located on the opposite side of the chamber 85 so that the
diver can vary the position of the power inflator from the rear to
the front by interchanging the power inflator 87 and over pressure
relief valve 111. Rescue product 207 is contained in a pocket built
into the rear wall of the buoyancy compensator 85 and is accessible
by strap 211. Rescue product 207 is attached to the diver by a
releasable lanyard 212. The tank compensating keel weight 100 is
permanently attached to the tank retaining strap 109. Ideally, the
tank compensating keel weight 100 is of a hydrodynamic
conformation, made from a dense substance such as lead, coated in a
soft film such as plastic so it will facilitate keel weight 100
being securely clamped in place by cam buckle 101. The soft coating
will also avoid damaging the protective coating of the tank 102.
The tank compensating keel weight 100 may be replaced by a standard
lead weight so that the diver traveling abroad will not have to
transport a lead weight. A diver in tropical waters may only
require 5 pounds to descend while use of a dry suit in cold water
can require 40 lbs. or more to be able to submerge, the greater the
weight of keel weight 100, the stronger the face up righting moment
it will generate. As the weight belt is increased because of the
use of buoyant thermal protection, it is critical the keel weight
100 be increased. Regardless of the size of the keel weight 100 it
is critical that it be located exactly opposite the diver and thus
its position must be adjustable so that as the diver changes
between diving cylinders of different diameters, keel weight 100
can be easily adjusted, by a non-user, to maintain its critical
position. Ideally strap 109 is marked with a scale 176 to guide the
diver in selecting the correct placement of keel weight 100 on
cylinders of different diameters. If the keel weight 100 is
slightly off center, it could summate with an imbalanced weight
belt and stabilize the diver in side up position which will allow
the airway 124 to submerge. Because the position of the keel weight
100 cannot be compromised, the cam buckle 101 is moved to a less
accessible position on the side. A waist buckle 178 is attached to
a hook fastener base 179 that allows it to be positioned anywhere
along the left side of loop fastener covered waist band 177.
[0136] FIG. 13 discloses one of many designs for the construction
of an adjustable buoyancy compensator 85. The portion of the
buoyancy chamber that is held inaccessible to inflation is
indicated as a rolled up portion of the buoyancy compensation
chamber 130. The loop portion of a hook and loop fastener forms the
inside back of the buoyancy compensator and is indicated as 131.
Loop 131 serves to attach the side chamber 136 by hook strips 132
to the body of the buoyancy compensator 85. Flap 138 is formed from
the forward facing loop strip 137 and the rear facing hook strip
132. As the volume of the buoyancy chamber is reduced by rolling up
the side chambers, the hook strip 132 adheres to the loop strip 137
to form and secure the roll 130. Clip 196 secures the rolled up
grommets to prevent the chamber from unrolling under pressure from
the air in the buoyancy compensator 85. The portion of the buoyancy
compensator behind the neck is indicated as 134. In the current
drawings the side chambers 136 are reduced in an infinitely
variable fashion and an indicator 133 informs the diver of the
remaining amount of lift provided by the buoyancy compensator 85.
The indicator 133 allows the diver to quickly return to
preestablished buoyancy compensator lift volumes as indicated for a
particular set of dive gear. Quick release shoulder strap buckles
135 rely on quick release buckle 103 and are common in prior art.
The lower shoulder straps 195 rely on nylon webbing loop 194 to
establish structural integrity and internal hook fastener for
positioning webbing loop 194 on the loop fastener covered nylon
webbing waist band 95 and 177.
[0137] FIG. 14 depicts another retaining system for reducing the
volume of adjustable buoyancy compensator 85. Double sided hook
strip 151 and double sided loop strap 150 are used to lock off the
reduced portion of the buoyancy compensator chamber 85. Double
sided hook flap 152 attaches the rolled up chamber securely to the
loop covered body of the buoyancy compensator 85. The reducible
portion of the buoyancy compensator chamber is indicated as 136.
The portion of the buoyancy compensator 85 that supports the neck
and head is indicated as 134. The keel weight 100 is threaded on
tank band 109, that is secured to the air cylinder by cam buckle
101. The hook flat 161 seals off the lead shot filled pouch 160
used to neutralize the inherent buoyancy of the buoyancy
compensator.
OPERATION OF THE INVENTION
[0138] In FIG. 1, the water enthusiast is shown wearing a
traditionally designed vest 203 which could be used in any
recreational water sport. The vest 203 contains a multi-function
rescue product and raft 207 within its rear pocket. If the ocean
kayaker should become separated from his kayak at sea the victim
201 could pull on lanyard 211 and remove the rescue product and
begin inflating it. A releasable attachment cord 212 will keep the
rescue product from blowing or washing away. Because the vest 203
includes quick release coupler 91, the vest can also eventually be
used as a forward chamber with the appropriate dedicated buoyancy
compensator if the user becomes certified in diving.
[0139] FIG. 2 shows that the diver 202 wearing a current vest style
buoyancy compensator 204 can adapt the rescue product 207 contained
in pocket 210 to be carried between the diver and the tank by use
of a strap 23 which passes through the arm holes of the buoyancy
compensator. Access and use of the rescue product 207 is the same
as described in FIG. 6 below.
[0140] FIG. 3 shows the victim 201 of a common carrier accident
wearing a traditionally designed inflatable vest 205, modified with
pocket 213 which contains a single use multi-function rescue
product and raft 207 constructed from a mylar film and vacuum
packed much as a single use raincoat. After surviving the initial
entry the product is inflated and used as a life ring, then rescue
board or distress marker, and finally inflated to a raft if
necessary to remove the victim from the hypothermic effects of the
water.
[0141] FIG. 4 shows the airline or ferry safety seat cushion 206
containing the multi-function rescue product and raft 207. The
victim's arms are placed through straps 15. The cushion 206
provides minimal safety in the water. The incorporated rescue
product 207 would confer dramatic improvements in survival at
sea.
[0142] Referring to FIG. 5, as the user exhales through oral
inflator 16, the air passes into manifold 17 that connects multiple
chambers to the oral inflator 16. The air is directed to the
appropriate chamber according to the diameter of the tubing
indicated as 20, 30, 40, 50, and 60. The one way check valves 19,
29, 39, 49, and 59 create structural integrity for each of the
chambers down stream. If a puncture should occur only that chamber
will lose pressure. If the oral inflator fails, the manifold 17 at
its barbed connectors 18 can be disconnected from connector tubes
22 allowing separate inflation through each check valve. The
simplicity of a single oral inflator will help the victim focus on
a single task. Obviously, separate oral inflators could be used and
the significance of which oral inflator is to be inflated first
could be printed on the raft in multiple languages.
[0143] FIG. 6 is a top view of the multi-function rescue product
and raft 207, fully inflated. The life ring 21 because of its small
diameter is inflated first and quickly because of its low volume.
This life ring could be used by the individual or extended to a
family member. The floor chamber 31 and 41 would be inflated next
also because they are low volume. Once inflated the first three
chambers forms a float that gives the victim a sense of
accomplishment. Inflated chambers 21, 31, and 41 create a four foot
rescue board for approaching a flailing, distressed victim. The
float can also be held aloft as a high visibility distress marker
signaling other victims or search and rescue efforts. The inflated
floor also gives a platform for the victim to rest on. If necessary
the victim can rest on the first three chambers as they begin
inflating the high volume side wall tubes 51. Once inside the raft
the infrared reflective mylar would help to offset further loss of
body temperature. Finally, the canopy arch 61 is inflated and the
victim creates an enclosed space that is highly visible to the
naked eye as well as radar. The multiplicity of chambers confers
protection from puncture.
[0144] FIG. 7 is a view of the inflated raft 207 in cross section.
The sequence of inflation, 21, 31, 41, 51, then 61 shows how the
life ring would convert to a rescue float and ultimately to a
raft.
[0145] FIG. 8 shows the scuba diver 202 holding a pressure hose 191
with its common female quick release coupler 91 disconnected from
the male quick release coupler 192 of the power inflator 87. The
common female coupler 91 can be attached to any of the other
incorporated chambers such as the horse collar vest which is
deflated and stored in the shoulder straps indicated at 80, or any
of a multiplicity of deflated chambers that can be interchangeably
stored in waist band as indicated at 90 or in the pocket. The high
pressure hose 191 is employed to effect a more rapid inflation in
an emergency. For routine operation of the chambers stored in the
waist band or shoulder straps, they are in fluid communication with
the buoyancy compensator chamber 85 through quick release couplers
91 and check valves 92. The crotch strap 94 is the only way the
user can be assured that he will not be separated from his
inflatable rescue product in heavy surf. With the auxiliary
chambers deflated and stored, the diver has a sleek profile with
reduced hydrodynamic drag while swimming under water. Most
importantly with the high lift surface flotation chamber stored it
will not contribute its buoyancy to the total lift available to the
diver under water.
[0146] FIG. 9 shows a diver 202 with a redundant separating
shoulder mounted horse collar 80 inflated. The diver also is
demonstrating the self rupturing emergency ascent chamber 180
inflated at the diver's waist. It is to be noted that the dedicated
adjustable buoyancy compensator 85 has been reduced by rolling up
the lower portion of the chamber as indicated at 130. If this
reduced chamber was providing insufficient lift at a depth and the
diver chose to attempt an emergency buoyant ascent the forward
chamber 180 at the waist could be released. If the diver was out of
air, the air pressure in the rear chamber would spill forward
causing chamber 180 to inflate. Alternatively, chamber 180 can be
inflated from its own compressed cylinder 215 when chamber 180 is
disconnected at quick release coupling 91 or if air cylinder 102
and buoyancy compensator 85 are both empty. If the emergency ascent
was uncontrolled, and the diver forgot to deflate chamber 180, it
would self destruct at rupture plug 182, releasing its entrapped
air that had become pressurized because of the ascent. At that
point the ascent rate would slow allowing the diver to regain
control, further slowing his ascent rate to within the recommended
rate of 20 to 30 feet per minute, rather than the ascent rates of
200 to 300 feet per minute, generated during an emergency buoyant
ascent. If the diver should snag a fish hook in their primary
chamber 85, then the horse collar vest stored in the shoulder
straps would provide a redundant personal safety vest. In the event
that the diver needed to ditch the dive gear, the power inflated
forward horse collar safety vest can be quickly disconnected by
quick release coupling 91. Alternatively, the horse collar can be
separated and extended to the diver's buddy who has suffered a
failure of his single chambered buoyancy compensator. If the diver
was snorkeling the horse collar safety vest could be disconnected
and inflated via oral inflator 84 and used independently from the
remainder of the heads up safety vest.
[0147] FIG. 10 shows a diver 202 with a flap 106 which was used to
enclose the flotation chamber 97 now shown in the open position. In
front of flap 106 is the separating horse collar forward surface
flotation chamber 97, inflated at the diver's waist. The forward
chamber is retained by elastic webbing 104 that allows the chamber
to expand away from the diver rather than constrict the diver's
abdomen and therefore breathing. Quick release buckle 104 allows
the diver to separate the forward bladder which can then be
disconnected via quick release coupler 91. Once the flotation
chamber 97 is free it can be used as a rescue float for approaching
a hypoxic diver, held aloft as a distress marker, left floating at
the surface to warn boat traffic of diver activity, used underwater
as a bottom marker in search and rescue activities, or used as a
small salvage device. For rapid emergency inflation the product can
be stored in a pocket and connected to the air hose. Chamber 97 as
it is currently shown is retained by strap 104 providing the
central point of buoyancy that contributes to the heads up surface
position. Though not required, the diver can be provided with quick
release shoulder trim weights 174, retained by hook and loop
fastener 173 and 175. The diver by pulling on D-ring 172 peels open
the pocket and lead shot filled container 174 can fall away from
the diver. The trim weights are exactly opposite the site of
underwater buoyancy contained in the buoyancy compensator and helps
the diver achieve an ideal balanced underwater and surface
position. The diver 202 is also shown carrying an alternate forward
or flotation chamber 96 which can be substituted for chamber 97 and
secured to the diver by elastic retaining strap 104 which passes
through strap eyelets 110 mounted on the edges of bladder 96. This
larger float has all the same functions of the horse collar forward
chamber 97 with the addition that it can be used as a transport
raft for a disabled diver or act as a surf mat at the end of the
dive for swimming back to shore.
[0148] FIG. 12 illustrates a composite of several of the disclosed
inventions. The multi-chambered heads up safety vest modified for
use by the scuba diver by inclusion of tank bands 109 which attach
the tank 102 to a fully inflated adjustable buoyancy compensator
85. The tank bands 109 are longer than those currently located on
buoyancy compensators in the marketplace. The extra length in tank
band 109 is needed to allow the diver to thread on the tank
compensating keel weight 100. The keel weight 100 can be located on
the top, bottom, or on both tank bands 109 as needed. A diver in a
bathing suit needs to locate the keel weight on the lower band. A
diver wearing a buoyant thermal protective suit requiring a weight
belt can shift the keel weight to the top tank band 109 to
establish the ideal surface position. Cam buckle 101 is located off
the side of the tank 102 so that the back side of the tank is
available for placement of the keel weight 100. Over pressure
relief valve 111 is located opposite the buoyancy compensator power
inflator 87 allowing the two to be interchanged. The beginner is
accustomed to the power inflator 87 coming over the shoulder but
when located in this position power inflator 87 floats free and is
often hard to locate underwater. When the power inflator 87 is
mounted on the front of the buoyancy compensator chamber 85 it
hangs straight down between the diver and the tank and is easily
located when needed. The multi-function rescue product and raft 207
is located between the diver 202 and the tank 102. Lanyard 211
wraps around rescue product 207 allowing the diver to remove the
rescue product 207 for use without having to remove any other dive
gear. A generic forward chamber 105 is inflated and retained by
elastic strap 104. The flap 106 includes a variable fabric valve
comprised of hook and loop fasteners 171 that variably regulates
the use of the forward chamber 105. Reducer hooks strip 107
decreases the amount of interactive surface in the fabric valve
allowing the diver 202 to vary the operation of the fabric valve
from automatic to semi-automatic, to manual. With the reducer strip
in place the air pressure from the rear chamber is capable of
forcing open the valve deploying the forward chamber without the
diver needing to do anything. In the semi-automatic mode, the diver
202 partially removes the reducer strip 107, now the fabric valve
171 will swell because of the mounting air pressure, after a period
of time flap 106 will eventually open. As the diver becomes more
skilled and capable of operating the fabric valve 171 in flap 106
in the manual mode, he will totally remove the reducer strip 107.
With no reducer strip 107 in place the strength of the fabric valve
171 exceeds the 2.5 psi over pressure relief valve 111 on the rear
chamber or the small bore over pressure relief valve built into the
oral inflator 193. On a rapid ascent from significant depths,
pressure will build up at such a fast rate that the small bore oral
inflator over pressure relief valve 193 cannot keep up and the
forward chamber will rupture, protecting the diver from any further
acceleration and will contribute to the diver's deceleration by
removing the buoyancy contributed by the forward chamber. With no
reducer strip 107 in place the high lift surface flotation device
is safely locked away while the diver is underwater, reducing the
amount of lift attached to the diver's body that entraps air or
could be inflated by panic or mechanical failure of the power
inflator 87. Waist band buckle 178 is attached to hook and loop
base 179 that allows the diver to quickly and reliably shift the
position of the waist band buckle 178 to adapt the product to
different divers or the same diver with different thermal
protective gear.
[0149] FIG. 13 illustrates one way that an adjustable buoyancy
compensator 85 can be assembled from the front. The body of the
buoyancy compensator 85 is covered with loop fastener 131. The
inside edge of the side chamber forms a flap 138 which has loop
fastener 137 on the front side and hook fastener 132 on the back
side. As the chamber is rolled up the hook and loop adhere along
the inside edge and clip 196 locks the outer edge from unwinding
under pressure from the air contained in the buoyancy compensator.
The adjustable buoyancy compensator 85 gives the diver the ability
to further reduce the amount of lift attached to his body to the
absolute minimum needed for each dive profile and dive environment.
Reducing unnecessary risk of rapid ascent, embolism and the
bends.
[0150] FIG. 14 shows an alternate way to reduce the volume of a
chamber using hook straps 151 and loops traps 150. As the chamber
is rolled up to the desired amount of lift as indicated on
indicator gauge 133, straps 150 and 151 are fastened. The side
chambers are attached to the loop body of the buoyancy compensator
by way of hook strap 152. Hook flap 161 closes loop pouch 160 that
contains lead shot to neutralize the inherent buoyancy of the
buoyancy compensator 85 so that ballast is not consolidated onto
the weight belt. Keel weight 100 is shown on the top tank band 109.
There are many ways that the chambers could be secured after being
reduced in volume such as by buttons, snaps, zippers, pins,
constricting bands, fabric flaps and fabric valves. The final
result is that the diver can vary the volume of their buoyancy
compensation chamber as required for a safe dive.
[0151] The side chambers 136 can be rolled to any point as
indicated by the demands of the particular dive. Double sided
velcro loop 150 connects with double sided hook 151. A piece of
double sided velcro hook 152 attaches to the loop body of the
buoyancy compensator. The cam buckle 101 of tank band 109 generates
the pressure between the buoyancy compensator and the tank and
secures the hook strap 152 from peeling off. In an emergency at the
surface the reduced volume can be accessed by releasing the velcro
valve straps 150 and 151. It is noted that the chamber behind the
neck 134 is not accessible to being reduced.
SUMMARY, RAMIFICATIONS, AND SCOPE
[0152] Accordingly, the correct positioning of a very small amount
of buoyancy can accomplish what five to ten times that same amount
of buoyancy cannot, a single heads up righting moment that will
protect the airway. After surviving the initial entry into the
water, signaling search and rescue efforts can make the difference
between life and death. Dual tragedy is the term applied to the
death of the rescuer by a hypoxic victim, an inflatable float is
one of the safest ways to approach a floundering victim. It can
take hours for available life rafts to round up survivors, often
victims who have survived the initial insult of entry perish within
thirty minutes of hypothermia. The only solution to hypothermia is
to remove the victim from the water whether they are waiting to be
picked up by the life raft of it they are going to be spending an
extended period at sea until land based search and rescue efforts
arrive. The multi-function rescue product and raft comprised of a
multiplicity of chambers, constructed from the appropriate
material, can be built into the heads up safety vest where it is
safely stored until needed.
[0153] The principles of a heads up safety vest need to be modified
for use underwater by separating out high lift surface flotation,
incorporating a variable volume buoyancy compensation chamber that
can be reduced to the lowest volume necessary for a particular set
of dive gear and dive environment. The current invention makes
great strides in reducing the emergency ascent rate and thus
reducing the exposure to pulmonary barotrauma, arterial gas
embolism as well as the chances of developing decompression
sickness. The buoyancy of some air cylinders when empty and the use
of a primary back mounted buoyancy compensator, require the
addition of a tank compensating keel weight to assure the diver
that with or without the deployment of the forward chamber that
once the diver is at the surface, that their only inflatable
product will roll them over and place their airway out of the water
if they are unable to do so themselves. A third self rupturing
emergency buoyant ascent chamber can be an option if the diver
insists on using an underwater propulsion device. The incorporation
of numerous rescue devices as integrated chambers in fluid
communication with the power inflated dedicated buoyancy
compensator, allows the user rapid access to rescue boards,
distress markers, transport rafts, dive site markers, underwater
markers, salvage devices, tender crafts and surf mater. This wide
range of power inflatable products confers significant advances in
water safety, survival and enjoyment.
[0154] FIGS. 15 through 25 illustrate a first alternative
embodiment for a counterweight assembly 300 which generally
includes a weight member 302 and means for attaching weight member
302 to assure reliable and consistent heads up position of the
person at surface level. A first means for attaching weight member
302 embodiment includes a pair of vertical slots 304 and 306
defined by weight member 302 and a tank band or strap 320 which
includes a first end 322 and a second end 324. A tank band
connection member can be provided at first end 322 of tank band
320. Preferably, the connection member is a tensioning device such
as a conventional cam buckle 330, however, such is not limiting and
other attachment mechanisms, such as D-rings, hook and loop
fasteners, magnets, suction cup devices, etc., are considered
within the scope of the invention.
[0155] To properly attach weight member 302 to air tank 301 second
end 324 is inserted through vertical slots 304 and 306, weight
member 302 is properly positioned with respect to air tank 301 and
tank band 320 is tightly wrapped around air tank 301 with weight
member 302 properly positioned. Cam buckle 330 provides for
attachment of second end 324 with first end 322 to maintain weight
member 302 in proper position along tank 301. Weight member 302 is
preferably secured such that the diver or user cannot remove or
release weight member 302 during his or her underwater travels.
This guarantees reliable and consistent heads up positioning of the
diver at the water surface level in the event the diver becomes
incapacitated.
[0156] A non-skid means can be provided to prevent weight member
302 from moving out of position with respect to tank 301.
Preferably, the non-skid means is a non-compressible rubber or
plastic member 328 sewn to the inside surface of tank band 320,
however, other conventional non-skid means can be provided and are
considered within the scope of the invention.
[0157] As seen in FIGS. 26 and 27, one or more suction cups 380 can
be mechanically fastened into weight member 302 by conventional
means. Alternatively, a sheet of suction cups (not shown) can be
glued or molded into weight member 302. The sheet of suction cups
is provided to cover a majority of the interior surface of
counterweight 300. The sheet of suction cups is provided with
apertures which are shaped and aligned with vertical slots 304 and
306 and horizontal slots 314 and 316, described in detail below, so
not to interfere with the insertion of tank band 320 or coupling
strap 340, also described in detail below, through slots 304 and
306 or 314 and 316, respectively.
[0158] In either suction cup embodiment, the suction cups are
provided to provide a quick attachment of weight member 302, as
well as a quick removal means for weight member 302. The suction
cups are particularly useful during training or practices where the
exact amount of ballast for the diver or person is uncertain and
various weight members 302 of differing weights are to be attached
and detached from cylinder 301 until the proper amount of ballast
(weight) required for the specific individual is determined.
Without the suction cups, the trainer or person determining the
proper amount of ballast (weight), has to repeatedly attach and
detach various weight members 302 via straps 320 or 340 as
described above, which is very time consuming. The use of suction
cups provide a quick and accurate method for readily determining a
proper weight member 302 for the individual. Additionally, the
suction cups are also useful for maintaining weight member 302 in
proper position, while weight member 302 is properly secured by
either tank band 320 or coupling strap 340 in conjunction with
strap 360 of buoyancy compensator 359.
[0159] Alternatively, a hook and loop/pin/snap system along the
tank's longitudinal axis would allow rapid determination of size
and location by a dive master/instructor. Thus, a multitude of
known attachment devices could be incorporated and utilized by a
second person assisting the user for determining the proper size
and location of the weight member for the specific user.
[0160] An alternative means for attaching weight member 302
embodiment includes a pair of horizontal slots 314 and 316 and a
relatively small coupling strap 340 for joining weight member 302
to a conventional buoyancy compensator strap 360 which is provided
for conventionally attaching air cylinder 301 to a conventional
buoyancy compensator 359.
[0161] Coupling strap 340 includes a first end 342, a second end
344, an outer surface 346 and an inner surface 348. Preferably,
hook and loop fastening means 350 and 352 are provided on inner
surface 348 at first end 342 and second end 344, respectively.
However, other conventional attachment means, though not preferred,
can also be utilized and are considered within the scope of the
invention. Coupling strap 340 can also be provided with a pull
strap 354 at first end 342.
[0162] To properly attach weight member 302, cylinder or tank 301
is initially conventionally loosely attached to buoyancy
compensator 359 in conjunction with strap 360 which utilizes a
conventional cam buckle for its connection means. Once cylinder 301
is loosely attached to buoyancy compensator 359, first end 342 of
coupling strap 340 is inserted between strap 360 and cylinder 301.
Second end 344 of coupling strap 340 is inserted through horizontal
slot 314 or 316 from behind weight member 302 and then back through
the other horizontal slot 316 or 314, respectively, for attachment
to first end 342 by mating of hook and loop fastening means 350 and
352. Strap 360, having weight member 302 attached thereto, is
tightened around cylinder 301 in conjunction with its cam buckle as
is conventionally known, to securely attaching cylinder 301 to
buoyancy compensator 359. It is to be understood that the roles of
ends 342 and 344 can be reversed with second end 344 being inserted
through and between strap 360 and cylinder 301 and first end 342
being inserted through horizontal slots 314 and 316 for mating with
second end 344.
[0163] Prior to tightening strap 360, weight member 302 is properly
positioned with respect to cylinder 301 and preferably, the mating
of first end 342 to second end 344 is positioned between buoyancy
compensator strap 360 and cylinder 301. This attachment position
prevents inadvertent detachment of ends 342 and 344 from each
other, once strap 360 is properly tightened, thus, assuring that
weight member 302 will remain properly secured.
[0164] A slight recess 319 on the interior aspect of weight member
302 is preferably provided when attaching weight member 302 by a
coupling strap 340. As the cam buckle generates tension in the
buoyancy compensator strap 360, the tension also pulls on coupling
strap 340. This pulling on coupling strap 340, tightens the
attachment of weight member 302 to strap 360. The secured and
tightened strap 360 compresses the hook and loop attachment of ends
342 and 344, thus, preventing accidental release. The point where
ends 342 and 344 are positioned between strap 360 and cylinder 301
protrudes outward slightly which is received within recess 319 of
weight member 302, when weight member 302 is properly secured.
Thus, recess 319 helps couple weight member 302 specifically to the
exact shape of each tank or cylinder 301 so that there is no
opening to ensnare objects underwater.
[0165] When removing weight member 302, strap 360 is loosened by
conventional means, and tab 354 is pulled to break the attachment
of ends 342 and 344 to each other, which allows weight member 302
to be removed. However, it is important to note, that weight member
302 is preferably secured such that the diver or user cannot remove
or release weight member 302 during his or her underwater travels.
This guarantees reliable and consistent heads up positioning of the
diver at the water surface level in the event the diver becomes
incapacitated.
[0166] The threading of the cam buckle, in conjunction with strap
360, is a complicated process. Thus, by providing slots 314 and 316
and coupling strap 340, weight member 302 can be removed without
having to re-thread the cam buckle.
[0167] Preferably, buoyancy compensator strap 360, similar to tank
band 320, is provided with a non-skid means to prevent tank 301
from moving out of position with respect to its attachment by strap
360 and assuring that weight member 302 remains properly placed
with respect to tank 301. Also like tank band 320, in the preferred
embodiment, the non-skid means is a non-compressible rubber or
plastic member 363 sewn to the inside surface of strap 360.
[0168] Preferably, the radius of weight member 302 is the same as
the cylinder or tank 301 to which it is attached to prevent
snagging of various underwater objects, such as fishing lines, when
a diver, having a tank 301 and counterweight assembly 300 attached
to his or her buoyancy compensator, is moving underwater.
Accordingly, weight member 302 is preferably configured
specifically to tank 301's circumference and is provided with a
feathered edge (rounded/tapered leading edge) to eliminate any gaps
which might snag kelp.
[0169] Though the various counterweight assembly described above
and below are discussed in conjunction with a buoyancy compensator,
it should be understood that the counterweight assemblies can also
be utilized with personal flotation devices such as life jackets
and life vests. Thus, where reference is made to a buoyancy
compensator throughout the application, it is also intended to
include other personal flotation devices such as the life jackets
and life vests.
[0170] Weight member 302 can be provided with a soft coating to
also prevent weight member 302 from sliding when properly attached,
as well as increasing the adherence of weight member 302 and
buoyancy compensator 359 to cylinder 301. The soft outer coating of
weight member 302 also protects cylinder 301's protective and
cosmetic coating from being scratched.
[0171] Weight member 302 is provided with a relatively thin flat
profile which increases the total surface area between weight
member 302 and cylinder 301 and increases the security of the
attachment of buoyancy compensator 359 to cylinder 301. The lower
profile is designed to provide less drag and less chance of
snagging underwater objects such as kelp. Weight member 302 can be
provided with a feathered edge to couple specifically to the exact
shape of each tank or cylinder 301 so that there is no opening to
ensnare objects underwater.
[0172] Preferably, weight member 302 can weigh approximately six (6
lbs) pounds. However, this weight amount is not limiting, and other
weight amounts for weight member 302 can be utilized, as determined
by a particular diver's needs, and are considered within the scope
of the invention.
[0173] FIGS. 28 through 30 illustrate a second alternative
embodiment counterweight assembly generally designated as reference
numeral 400. Counterweight assembly 400 can either be utilized with
conventional buoyancy compensator strap 360 or can be utilized in
conjunction with a tank strap or band 420, which is similar to tank
band 320. Counterweight assembly 400 consists of a flexible pouch
member 430 and one or more weight members 460. Pouch member 430 is
preferably constructed from a fabric material, and can be either
slidably and removably attached or permanently attached to either
tank band 420 or buoyancy compensator strap 360.
[0174] When removably attaching pouch member 430 to either tank
band 420 or strap 360, a loop member 434 is preferably attached to
the back of pouch member 430, by conventional means such as
stitching, and either tank band 420 or strap 360 is inserted
through loop member 434 until pouch member is properly positioned
with respect to cylinder 301. Where strap 360 is utilized, pouch
member 430 is preferably properly positioned prior to final
tightening of strap 360 around cylinder 301.
[0175] Alternatively, two loop portions (not shown) can be provided
each being attached at their respective first ends to pouch member
430 by conventional means such as stitching. The second outer ends
of the loop portions can respectively be provided with attachment
means such as hook and loop fasteners. When removably attaching
pouch member 430 to strap 360 or tank band 420, the outer ends of
the loop portions being disposed between strap 360 or tank band 420
and cylinder 301, where the loop portion outer ends mate to define
a loop member. Once the outer ends are mating and properly
positioned, strap 360 or tank band 420 is properly tightened
sandwiching the outer ends between cylinder 301 and strap 360 or
tank band 420 to prevent inadvertent releasing of the outer ends,
as well as assuring proper positioning of pouch member 430.
[0176] When permanent attachment of pouch member 430 is desired,
such attachment is preferably accomplished by conventional means
such as stitching or sewing (FIG. 29). Preferably, the permanent
attachment of pouch member 430 to tank band 420 or strap 360 is
such that pouch member 430 is properly positioned when tank band
420 or strap 360 is tightened.
[0177] Pouch member 430 can be provided with a plurality of
individual weight receiving pockets 432. Preferably, four (4) to
eight (8) individual pockets 432 are provided. However, this number
of pockets 432 is not limiting, and other pocket 432 amounts can be
provided and are considered within the scope of the invention.
Alternatively, pouch member 430 can be provided with large weight
receiving area.
[0178] Individual weights 460, which act as ballast members, can be
inserted into one or more of pockets 432 or into the large weight
receiving area, depending on the amount of weight required.
Alternatively one large hard weight (i.e. lead, steel etc.) or soft
weight (i.e. sand, loose ballast, etc.) can be provided in the
large weight receiving area. Weight members 460 are preferably
constructed from lead, though other materials can be utilized and
are considered within the scope of the invention.
[0179] The use of one or more weight members 460 allows for fine
tuning of the amount of weight necessary for reliable heads up
positioning at water surface level of an incapacitated diver,
taking into consideration the diver's weight, equipment, etc. Thus,
the exact amount of weight or ballast can be provided to assure
that the user's airway will be protected in the event of an
emergency.
[0180] A flap member 440 can be attached to pouch member 430 by
conventional means such as sewing or stitching. In use, flap member
is folded over and attached to pouch member 430 preferably by
conventional means such as by the mating of hook and loop fasteners
435 and 437 disposed on at least a portion of an inner surface of
flap member 440 and on at least a back outer surface of pouch
member 430. However, other attachment means can be provided such as
snaps, buttons, zippers, etc., and are considered within the scope
of the invention. Flap member 440 prevents weight members 460 from
inadvertently being removed from their placement within pocket
member 432 or the large weight receiving area. Thus, when
counterweight assembly is properly positioned, flap member 440 is
compressed, to guarantee it remains in its closed position, by tank
strap 420 or strap 360. Flap member 440 can be provided with a
non-skid member 441, similar to the non-skid members discussed
above.
[0181] Additionally, in lieu of inserting weight members 460 across
in a horizontal manner, pouch member 430 can be constructed such
that the weight members are inserted within pouch member 430 in a
vertical fashion. Preferably, each individual weight member 460
weighs approximately two (2 lbs) pounds, though such is not
limiting and other weight amounts can be utilized and are
considered within the scope of the invention. Furthermore, weight
members 460 can be symmetrical, however, such is also not
limiting.
[0182] Pouch member 430 can be constructed from neoprene, spandex,
canvas, nylon, or other conventional soft and flexible fabric
materials. Furthermore, elastic or other stretch means can be
incorporated into pouch member, to assure a tight and snug fit of
one or more weight members 460 within pouch member.
[0183] In this embodiment, pouch member 430 is preferably secured
such that the diver or user cannot remove or release weight
member(s) 460 during his or her underwater travels. This guarantees
reliable and consistent heads up positioning of the diver at the
water surface level in the event the diver becomes incapacitated.
This feature of not allowing the diver or user from having access
to the weight members during his or her underwater travels is found
in all of the tank mounted counterweight assemblies of the present
invention, described above or below.
[0184] As seen in FIGS. 32 and 33, one or more individual weights
500 can be attached directly to conventional buoyancy compensator
strap 360 or to tank band 320. In this counterweight assembly
embodiment, weight members 500 are provided with a slot 502 for
insertion therethrough of either strap 360 or tank band 320.
Similar to above, a non-skid means (not shown) can also be provided
on either strap 320 or 360 or weight members 500 to prevent weight
members 500 from moving out of proper position. Also similar to
above, the number of weight members 500 provided is dependent on
several factors such as diver's weight, equipment weight, etc.
Weight members 500 are preferably constructed from lead or steel,
though other materials can be utilized and are considered within
the scope of the invention. Weight members 500 preferably weigh
between one (1 lb) pound to three (3 lbs) pounds each. However,
this weight amount is not limiting, and other weight amounts for
weight members 500 can be utilized and are considered within the
scope of the invention.
[0185] As seen in FIGS. 34 through 36, a weighted sleeve member 600
can be positioned along tank or cylinder 301 to provide ballast in
order to assure heads up positioning at water surface level of an
incapacitated diver. Weighted sleeve member 600 is tightly slid
along cylinder 301 to its proper position with respect to cylinder
301. Weighted sleeve member may be fastened by conventional means
such as bolting.
[0186] A flexible pouch member 620, similar to the various
embodiments pouch member of described above and below, can also be
provided in addition to weighted sleeve member 600. Pouch member
620 can be provided with one or more weight 630 receiving pockets
632. Pouch member 620 is preferably constructed from a fabric
material and can include a flap member (not shown). Pouch member
620 is preferably disposed around sleeve member 600 and can be
attached by conventional means such as hook and loop fastening
members 622 or by buckle means. Thus, weighted sleeve member 600
can have a non-user releasable connection securing an additional
counterweight assembly to weighted sleeve member 600. Furthermore,
weighted sleeve member 600 can be positioned at the bottom of tank
301 for use in warm water.
[0187] Alternatively, a pouch member 650 (FIG. 36), can be provided
which is constructed from a rigid material, such as plastic and is
preferably constructed integral with sleeve member 600. Pouch
member 650 can be provided with one or more weight 630 receiving
pockets 652. Rigid receiving pockets 652 can be provided with holes
in their bottom to push weight members 630 out after the dive. As
receiving pockets 652 are constructed from a rigid material,
preferably, the weight members to be inserted within, should
correspond in shape to pockets 652. Furthermore, conventional cap
means is preferably provided for each pocket 652 to prevent the
weight members from falling out during the dive. Pouch member 620
or 650 and sleeve member 600 function similar to the other
embodiment pouch members of the present invention. The lateral edge
of weight members 630 can be modified to allow it to easily slide
into tracks (pockets 652) built into or formed integral with
weighted sleeve member 600.
[0188] FIGS. 37 through 39 illustrate another counterweight
assembly embodiment generally designated as reference numeral 700.
Counterweight assembly 700 includes a pocket member 710 which can
be either permanently or removably fixed to buoyancy compensator
strap 360 or tank band 320, in any of the methods previously
described above, and a hard weight member 780 or soft weight member
790 disposed within a pouch member 740 with pouch member 740 being
at least partially disposed within pocket member 710. Pouch member
740 is provided with a quick release handle 754 which is attached
to pouch member 740 by a strap member 770 and allows a person,
other than the user, to remove pouch member 740 and weight member
780 or 790 from pocket member 710 when a diver or other swimmer is
finished with his or her underwater travels. Normally a person
standing on a boat, dock or other type of surface, pulls off the
diver's equipment (including his or her buoyancy compensator 359
and attached air tank 301) while the diver remains in the
water.
[0189] This removal of equipment makes it easier for the diver to
climb onto the boat or dock. Buoyancy compensator 359 and air tank
301 typically weigh together approximately fifty (50 lbs) pounds.
With the use of certain buoyancy compensators currently available,
an attached weight member 780 or 790 may add up to approximately
eighteen (18) to twenty (20) additional pounds to the amount of
weight the person in the boat has to remove. The person in the boat
normally bends over towards the water in order to reach the diver
who is in the water. This position, seriously exposes the person's
back to strains and pulls, as well as potential hernias.
Individuals who work on dive boats are constantly lifting the
equipment onto the boat, in such awkward position, throughout the
day. Accordingly, any reduction in the amount of weight to be
lifted each time, becomes significant when such tasks are performed
on numerous occasions during one outing or continuously throughout
the day.
[0190] Thus, by providing a quick release means for weight members
780 or 790, the person in the boat can initially remove weight
members 780 or 790, thus, reducing the weight of the buoyancy
compensator and air tank to be lifted by approximately up to
eighteen (18) to twenty (20) pounds. This reduction in weight could
help to prevent many back problems commonly experienced by persons
removing the diver's equipment onto the boat or dock.
[0191] FIG. 39 illustrates the various steps of removing quick
release weight member 780 or 790 from pocket member 710 by the
person on the boat or dock. As previously mentioned, it is to be
understood that weight members 780 or 790, as well as all of the
counterweight assembly embodiments of the present invention, are
positioned such that the weight members cannot be removed or
released by the diver in order to assure that the diver is
consistently maintained in a heads up position in the event he or
she becomes incapacitated.
[0192] Pocket member 710 is shown having an outer surface 712. A
hook and loop fastening means 714 is provided on outer surface 712
adjacent an open end of pocket member 710. A pocket flap member 716
is provided having an outer surface 718 and an inner surface 720. A
first flap hook and loop fastening means 722 is provided on outer
surface 718 and a second hook and loop fastening means 724 is
provided on inner surface 720. Pocket member 710 can be provided
with a perforated portion.
[0193] Pouch member 740 houses removable weight member 780 or 790.
The weight member can be a sandbag (soft weight 790), lead weight
(hard weight 780), or other appropriate ballast member which can be
disposed within pouch member 740. A hook and loop fastening means
772 is provided on a first surface of strap member 770 and hook and
loop fastening means 776 and 778 are provided on a second surface
of strap member 770. A first end of strap member 770 is attached to
pouch member 740 and a second end of strap member 770 is attached
to handle means 754 both by conventional means. Handle means 754
includes a triangularly shaped gripping member 756 having a
gripping surface 758.
[0194] Weight members 780 or 790 act as ballast means to assure
heads up positioning of an incapacitated diver at water surface
level and in use are disposed within pouch member 740 which in turn
is disposed within pocket member 710 with strap member 770 and
handle means 454 protruding out of pocket member 710. A portion of
hook and loop fastening means 724 mates with hook and loop
fastening means 778, hook and loop fastening means 772 mates with a
portion of hook and loop fastening means 714, and a remaining
portion of hook and loop fastening means 724 mates with a remaining
portion of hook and loop fastening means 714, by folding flap 716
inward along a fold line 717. At this point, strap 770 is folded
inward over flap 716 to allow hook and loop fastening means 776 to
mate with hook and loop fastening means 722 to securely retain
weight member 780 or 790 within pocket member 710, to assure
consistent heads up positioning of an incapacitated diver, while
allowing a person standing on a boat or dock to remove weight
member 780 or 790 when the diver is ready to climb onto the boat or
dock.
[0195] To remove weight member 780 or 790, the person on the boat
or dock grabs handle means 754 at gripping surface 758 and pulls
handle means 754 with a normal, but strong, tugging motion force,
which nearly simultaneously breaks the attachment of fastening
means 776 to fastening means 722, fastening means 714 to fastening
means 724, fastening means 772 to fastening means 714, and
fastening means 778 to fastening means 724, to allow weight member
780 or 790 to be quickly removed from pocket member 710. Once
removed, the person on the boat or dock, merely drops weight member
780 or 790 and pouch member 740, on the boat or dock, respectively,
where it can be properly redisposed within pocket member 710, when
the diver or another prepares to enter the water again.
[0196] As seen in FIGS. 40 and 41, a combination of the previously
described weight members can also be provided. As shown,
counterweight assembly 300 is provided with a counterweight
assembly 700 attached thereto. Weight member 302 provides a certain
amount of ballast (weight), while the amount of ballast (weight
member 780 or 790) provided within pocket member 710 varies
depending on the weight of the diver and his or her equipment.
Though, pocket member 710 is shown removably attached to weight
member 302, it is to be understood, that the other pouch members
described above, as well as one or more individual weights 500, can
also be utilized in combination with weight member 302, and such
other combinations are also within the scope of the invention.
Furthermore, other combinations of counterweight assembly 700,
counterweight assembly 300, individual weights 500 and the other
pouch members described above can be provided and are all
considered within the scope of the present invention.
[0197] To attach pocket member 710, or the other pouch members,
tank band 320 is inserted through one of the vertical slots 304 or
306 of weight member 302, through a loop member attached to the
back of pocket member (the loop portions described above could also
be utilized), through the other vertical slot 306 or 304,
respectively, and then tightened by conventional means, such as
D-rings members, buckle means, etc, as described above.
[0198] Where weight member 302 is attached with buoyancy
compensator strap 360, if loop portions are provided, the loop
portions can be inserted through horizontal slots 314 and 316 and
attached to each other, in lieu of providing coupling strap 340.
Thus, in this embodiment, the loop portions provide the mechanism
for attaching both weight member 302 to cylinder 301 and pocket
member 710 to weight member 302.
[0199] It should also be understood in some applications, more than
one of the same type of weight member, described above, may be
utilized. For example, a first weight member 302 could be attached
relatively high with respect to cylinder 301 and a second weight
member 302 could be attached relatively low with respect to
cylinder 301.
[0200] Furthermore, the vertical positioning of any of the weight
members described above can be easily adjusted between dives or
possibly by a person, other than the diver, during the dive. The
weight member and tank band 320 are infinitely adjustable along the
length of the horizontal axis. The ability to move tank band 320
and the attached weight member up and down the tank allows for
optimal position of the weight member. This in turn allows the
angle of the hyperextension of the "distressed" diver's neck at the
surface to be accurately adjusted for optimal airway comfort. Thus,
tank band 320 can be quickly and securely adjusted to attach the
appropriate weight member in the appropriate position in response
to any specific set of dive gear or dive environment.
[0201] A warm water diver may be diving with a minimal weight belt
(i.e. four (4) to ten (10) pounds). Some divers may feel that
attaching six (6) pounds of non-releasable ballast to their air
cylinder 301 would result in a significant reduction in the amount
of releasable ballast at depth. In order to incorporate the
critical ballast counterweight (weight member) while preserving the
diver's current releasable weight, the diver can use an offsetting
buoyant means, fixed or releasable. The diver that requires a four
(4) pound counterweight (weight member) to provide reliable airway
protection can add a four (4) pound buoyant pad to protect their
tail bone from the tank, fill the space between the small of the
back and their tank or use the buoyant material to pad the thorax
or their head. The foam can be alternatively attached to the front
of the buoyancy compensator where it can be released in the event
of an uncontrolled emergency (i.e. ascent due to accidental loss of
weight at depth as might occur if the weight belt is snagged). The
foam on the front would also increase the strength of the face up
righting moment at the surface as might be desired by the beginning
diver.
[0202] It is notable that if the counterweight is large enough it
will overcome all other righting moments. The larger the ballast
the stronger the righting effect. The balance is that cylinder 301
is already heavy, at the point of barely manageable. The
combination of the forward buoyant means and four (4) to eight (8)
pounds of ballast in the counterweight keeps the total system light
enough that it can be comfortably maneuvered. If the forward
chamber is left at the surface to protect the diver from boat
traffic then the counterweight must be approximately doubled to
preserve the heads up safety feature. If the counterweight is large
enough, it can act alone to right the diver. Its key requirement is
that it be located exactly opposite the diver, easily adjusted to
maintain that position. A securely attached counterweight can be
used to retrofit existing buoyancy compensators, as long as they
have an adherent element to assure that the counterweight will not
slide from position.
[0203] The counterweight is critical in balancing out the entire
set of dive gear so that in an emergency the diver's gear provides
a single stabilized righting moment that places the distressed
divers airway out of the water.
[0204] The counterweight embodiments described above (FIGS. 15
through 41) can be relatively easily incorporated into other
products, such as any and all other life vests, life jackets, etc.
Thus, the life jacket or other personal flotation device
(collectively referred to as "life jacket") can be provided with a
ballast/weight member attached to the back of the jacket, which as
a counterweight member to provide angular momentum in rolling the
diver or other wearer over in the water, such that the diver floats
face up in the water. Preferably, the counterweight is attached
posterior central.
[0205] A conventional life vest/life jacket can be comprised of
inherently buoyant material, such as (1) kapok, closed foam; (2)
mixed inherently buoyant material and inflatable ("hybrid" personal
flotation device"); and (3) purely inflatable design. All of these
design of a lifesaving buoyant means are improved by the addition
of the ballast/counterweight. Preferably, the counterweight is able
to be varied in size and position depending on the other equipment
worn by the user and the user's anatomy. Typically the
counterweight is between three (3) and six (6) pounds and is
securely attachable to the life jacket adjacent and between the
neck and lower back area of the user.
[0206] Furthermore, a conventional air tank or cylinder can have a
weight member constructed integral with the tank if the intended
wearer knows the specific amount of counterweight he or she
requires, and the exact location of the weight member with respect
to the air tank.
[0207] Additionally, where steel tanks or cylinders are utilized, a
weight member having magnet means associated there with can be
provided for directly attaching the weight member to the tank. This
use would only be for training purposes and/or for determining the
proper amount of weight, as well as the proper location of the
weight on the tank, for the specific individual. This attachment
embodiment would not be used during normal dives and underwater
travels, as there is a chance that the weight member may move or
inadvertently fall off. However, the weight member could also be
provided with a strap, to provide a second attachment means for the
weight member, as well as providing a secure attachment.
[0208] The counterweight allows for the application of ballast
mediated airway protection to enhance surface airway management and
promote self sufficiency. The reliable protection of a distressed
diver's airway depends on the ballast not changing position in any
of the three axis (up, down or around cylinder). The instant
invention achieves many critical features including providing that
the weight be permanently attached, so that in an emergency it
cannot be dropped. Since the weight member (counterweight) must be
small enough to not compromise surface safety, it must be located
on the back of the life jacket or on the back of the cylinder
exactly opposite the diver where it generates the maximal
rotational energy per pound of weight, rotational energy
desperately needed to repeatedly turn the unconscious diver over
onto their back against minor righting moments caused by limbs,
variations in body density, and attached gear. In particular, if
the victim is near heavy surf where the waves can flip a victim
over onto their face, a strong heads up righting moment is
essential. It should be understood that references to a "victim"
include, but are not limited to, water accident victims and/or
diving accident victims.
[0209] The counterweight assembly utilized is responsible for
initiating the righting moment, and supplies the rotational energy
needed to roll the victim over onto their back thereby assuring
that the victim's face will be out of the water regardless of the
angle of entry. Once the diver has reached the surface, the
counterweight, in conjunction with the dynamics of a limp
unconscious body, will oppose any tendency for the waves to roll
the victim over into a face down position that would compromise the
airway. In summary, the counterweight assembly provides lateral
stabilization of the water accident victim or diver (victim), and
opposes rotational motion of the waves from over turning the victim
into a face down position, but in the event that occurs, the
counterweight assembly will automatically flip the victim back over
onto their back, reestablishing the heads up orientation.
[0210] When an air cylinder is attached to the life vest or
buoyancy compensator, the tank compensating counterweight becomes
critical. If the victim is lying face down at the surface and goes
limp, the counterweight will roll the diver over onto their back,
stabilizing the diver's airway out of the water. The size of the
weight member selected is in proportion to the type and size of
life vest or size of buoyancy compensator and cylinder and whether
the water is fresh or salt. The cylinder when empty is neutral to
slightly negative, but lacks sufficient rotational energy to roll
the victim over onto their back. The counterweight assembly in
other words compensates for imbalances in the life vest, buoyancy
compensator or the buoyancy shifts of the life vest or buoyancy
compensator or the diver's air cylinder. If the cylinder remains
negative when empty then the weight member can be smaller but still
must generate sufficient angular momentum to offset the secondary
righting moments generated by an imbalanced weight belt and
attached gear or bladders. If the counterweight assembly is used as
an adaptation to existing vest style buoyancy compensator, then it
has to be strong enough to overcome the side righting movements
generated by the common practice of using buoyancy under the
arms.
[0211] Central to the weight member's design is that it be made of
a very dense material such as lead, and be located exactly opposite
the diver on the back side of the life vest or the tank.
Traditionally the buckle that generates pressure on the belt that
attaches the buoyancy compensator to the tank is located in the
center at the back of the tank. Because the posterior central
position is so critical for the performance of the counterweight
assembly, the buckle has to be moved off center. This shift in the
cam buckles location results in a slight inconvenience in terms of
reduced access but is necessary to preserve the critical location
and therefore the righting moment of the compensating counterweight
assembly.
[0212] Drowned divers are often found with their weight belts still
on. Usually the weights are located along the waist and the amount
runs from a couple of pounds to more than forty pounds. As the
amount of weight increases, the weight member needs to be located
higher up the air cylinder to offset the placement of the weight
belt. A dual tank band (providing two weight members) allows for a
wide variation of weight placement.
[0213] The weight member can also be incorporated into the metal of
the cylinder, adhered to the cylinder, enclosed in a covering of
any sort, or even attached with magnetism. A pouch or cylinder can
be used to contain lead shot or beach sand as long as it is
non-releasable and ideally located along the longitudinal axis of
the cylinder and thereby serves to generate the heads up righting
moment, with the least amount of weight. The various weight member
embodiments, described above, guarantee a single surface position
every time. That surface position being heads up.
[0214] The inclusion of a couple of pounds of weight integrated
into the tank band of the buoyancy compensator will allow the diver
to overcome numerous minor righting moments that can place the
airway of the exhausted or distressed diver under the water leading
to drowning, the major cause of death in the sport of diving.
[0215] The various counterweight embodiments provide for ballast
mediated airway protection, namely, the protection of the diver's
airway at water surface level, particularly in an emergency when
the diver is unable to protect his or her airway. The various
present invention counterweight assemblies reduce the current
problem of airway submersion which normally leads to shallow water
drowning, the number one cause of recreational diver
fatalities.
[0216] The attachment of the buoyancy compensator to the tank has
always created problems. A cam buckle is provided at the end of the
strap to generate tension in the strap. The strap which attaches
the tank to the buoyancy compensator, stretches when wet, which can
cause the tank to slide down if not out. Thus, the critical ballast
compensating counterweight (weight member), in addition to rolling
the distressed diver over to protect his or her airway, through
increasing the surface area for attachment, serves to markedly
improve the attachment of the buoyancy compensator to the tank.
[0217] Thus, the present invention illustrates the use or
attachment of a relatively small, non-releasable weight, which is
applied to a variety of positions along the back of an air tank.
The location at the back of the tank allows the size to be reduced
to its minimum and still be able to provide reliable airway
protection. In warm water the weight is provided relatively lower
with respect to the air tank. In cold water where the diver has
significant ballast already attached, the weight member is moved
relatively higher with respect to the air cylinder towards the head
to maintain optimal airway protection. The positioning of the
weight member along the back of the tank, optimizes the angular
momentum generated per unit of weight. The use of the smallest
amount of weight possible to provide airway protection allows the
warm water diver, who is by definition already using minimum
weight.
[0218] With the use of a weight member as described above, from any
position a distressed diver can be rolled over onto their back,
repeatedly if necessary, with their neck hyper-extended and their
airway positioned free and clear. The distressed diver is provided
with ballast mediated airway protection which allows only a single,
stable, surface position. Thus, when the diver cannot protect their
airway, they can count on their counterweight assembly to act as a
self rescue device providing emergency heads up surface flotation.
Self rescue requires that at all times throughout the entire dive
or underwater travel that the diver's gear is balanced such that
their airway will not suddenly become vulnerable to submersion
solely because they have become a couple of pounds out of balance
in the last minutes of the dive or underwater travel due to the
loss of air.
[0219] The above described counterweight assemblies roll the diver
over, out of his or her side high airway submerging position and
onto his or her back when the diver is unconscious. Accordingly,
from any position the diver is rolled over onto their back, neck
hyper-extended as it drops back, opening the airway. A diver in
balance has a single stable airway protective righting moment,
while a diver out of balance is susceptible to airway submersion
and shallow water drowning.
[0220] By it's variable position, high or low, the above-described
counterweight assemblies also assists in balancing all of the
buoyancy and ballast attached to the diver, creating improved
airway support for the distressed diver, from the beginning through
the end of their dive or underwater adventure. Diver airway
protection is provided regardless of whether the diver's gear is
attached or dropped in part or in whole, as may occur in an
emergency. The counterweight assemblies are designed to compensate
for loss ballast or shift in balance to extend airway protection
throughout the dive or underwater travels. Even if the diver is
originally face down and unconscious at the surface, the
counterweight assembly, when properly positioned tends to almost
immediately right the diver face up, thus, protecting the diver's
airway should such diver lose consciousness on the surface.
[0221] Additionally, a variable displacement device can be provided
for providing additional buoyancy to the diver and his or her gear
to offset any excess ballast that must be attached to acquire
airway protection through ballast mediated airway management as
described above.
[0222] Some divers, in particular warm water tropical divers, may
dive with very little ballast. On occasion, the diver requires a
tank mounted ballast that exceeds the amount of ballast needed to
submerge. Some reasons why this is required includes (1) diver
anatomy (i.e. large "Barrel Chest"); (2) composition of the diver's
cylinder (i.e. aluminum); (3) large displacement buoyancy
compensator may require up to eighteen (18) to twenty (20) pounds
of tank mounted counterweight to provided airway protection yet
only require approximately seven (7) pounds to submerge while
diving in a bathing suit in warm water; (4) diver wishes to retain
the entire amount of releasable ballast so he or she can quickly
acquire a net positive surface flotation by dropping his or her
weight belt. In such situations the addition of buoyancy will allow
the diver to retain his or her releasable weight belt while
acquiring the ability to self rescue, as described above, i.e.
protect his or her airway from submersion if the diver becomes
unconscious. Preferably, the buoyancy added is non-compressible
which can occur through the use of a rigid container built into the
diver's buoyancy compensator back pack. Thus, the buoyancy means is
attached to the diver/gear to offset the required airway protective
tank mounted ballast (weight member). Preferably, the buoyant means
is a rigid, non-compressible means for the provision of a specific
amount of buoyancy, such as a non-compressible foam with permanent
flotation qualities or fixed buoyancy bladder with adjustment inner
valve for custom sizing to diver's buoyancy needs. Other
alternative embodiment include a closed cell foam. However, with
the use of a closed cell foam, as the diver submerges the bubbles
in the foam compress, thus, reducing the buoyancy and requiring air
to be added to the diver's buoyancy compensator jacket. The added
air needs to be vented on ascent.
[0223] The buoyancy means preferably has a variable volume to allow
for volume adjustments specific to the diver/dive environment.
Additionally a single or multiple buoyant means can be provided and
arranged to enhance surface flotation attitude.
[0224] As seen in FIG. 44, a training device for a tank mounted
counter weight member is shown and generally references as device
800. A dive instructor during training, such as pool training,
needs to individualize the size and location of the tank mounted
counter weight member for each student (diver). To facilitate this
time consuming process a longitudinal attachment means 800 is
affixed to tank 301 with a quick release coupling means, such as
quick side release buckles 802, thus, allowing for rapid attachment
and adjustment of size and position of weight member(s) 820 which
are housed in sleeve members. Hook and loop fastening means is
disposed on at least a portion of the outer surface of the sleeve
members for mating with hook and loop fastening strips 804 and 806
associated with training device 800.
[0225] The very security that is demanded of the tank mounted
counter weight member when used as a life saving means complicates
its rapid change and adjustment. As a pool training aid, speed of
adjustments is more important than security. As such, training
device 800 can be preferably clearly marked with a warning label
stating that the device in not to be used for diving.
[0226] The vertical tank mounted attachment means can be secured by
a wide variety of mechanical means, including, magnetic, zippers,
snaps, spring loaded pins, hook and loop fasteners, etc. For
example, a fabric jacket having a strip of hook and loop fastening
means attached along its length can be provided. Weights in
specific sizes can be quickly affixed in combination to establish
the correct size, then adjusted vertically to optimize the exact
surface flotation position for hyperextension of the diver's neck.
The weights are not limited to any specific, but preferably
approximately one (1) or two (2) pounds each.
[0227] Training device 800 can be preferably provided with a
vertical index 810 which identifies location, such as a measurement
means from the bottom of tank 301. Thus, the instructor can inform
the student of the exact location where the weight member should be
attached to tank 301, as well as the exact amount of weight
required at such location.
[0228] The fabric jacket can also be secured by a wide variety of
means. Preferably, hook and loop fastening means is provided to
allow the jacket to be easily attached to a wide variety of
cylinder diameters. One or more adjustable locking belts can be
provided for use with large tank mounted counter weights, which may
be required with certain technical buoyancy compensators. The
jacket may also be secured by a variety of other means such as
belts, buckles, zippers, snaps, etc. Furthermore, the inside
coating of the fabric is preferably of a high coefficient of
friction to reduce any tendency of the jacket to slip or slide from
proper position during adjustment and testing of various tank
mounted counter weight member.
[0229] FIGS. 45 and 46 illustrate a quick disconnect connector
embodiment generally designated as connector 900. Connector 900
generally includes a male member 910 associated with a lifting
device 902 and a female member 930 commonly associated with an
inflating hose member of a conventional buoyancy compensator (not
shown). Typically, lifting device 902 is deployed at depth. Lifting
device 902 can be any type of device which contains a flotation
chamber, including, raft 96 shown in FIG. 10. When raft 96 is the
intended lifting device, male member 910 replaces a conventional
male member 192 (FIG. 10) and which is shown in greater detail as
conventional male member 980 (FIG. 47).
[0230] With the use of a conventional connector (FIG. 47), male
member 980 is provided with a groove member 982 for a locking
attachment with female member 930, when the intended lifting device
is to be inflated (i.e. emergency situation). Once male member 980
is properly connected to female member 930, an activating member
984 presses a Schrader valve 932 disposed within an internal
passageway 934 which extends through female member 930 from its
first end 936 to its second end 938. The activation of Schrader
valve 932 allows air to flow into the flotation chamber of the
lifting device for inflation purposes.
[0231] However, with the connection of male member 980 to female
member 930, the user (diver) is also attached to the lifting
device. Under pressure it is often difficult to release male member
980 from its locking attachment to female member 930. Thus, as the
lifting device begins to ascent, the diver (user) is placed in a
position of uncontrolled ascent, possibly, leading the diver to one
or more of the dangerous conditions described above.
[0232] As seen in FIGS. 45 and 46, male member 980 is replaced with
a male member 910. Male member 910 includes a first end 912, a
second end 914 and an internal passageway 916 extending through
said male member 910 from first end 912 to second end 914. Male
member is not provided with a groove member to avoid the locking
problems described in the previous paragraph. Male member 910 can
also be provided with an outer circular flange member 918 and a
Schrader valve activating bridge member 920.
[0233] In use, male member 910 is received within internal
passageway 934 of female member 930 until flange member 918 abuts
an outer first end 936 of female member. Thus, flange member 918
acts as a stop means to properly position the first end of male
member 910 within internal passageway 934 of female member 930.
This positioning of male member 910 with respect to female member
930 allows bridge member 920 to activate Schrader valve 932 to
allow air to flow within a flotation chamber of lifting device
940.
[0234] Male member 910 is slightly smaller in outer diameter as
compared to the inner diameter of internal passageway 934. This
allows male member 910 to be snugly and tightly received and
maintained within internal passageway 934 of female member 930,
while at the same quickly and easily releasable. Lastly, outer
flange member 918 also serves as a gripping means to quickly remove
male member 910 from within internal passageway 934 of female
member 930 once the flotation chamber of lifting device 902 is
properly inflated or in the event of an emergency.
[0235] FIGS. 53 through 60 illustrate swing keel embodiments for a
ballasted personal flotation device ("BPFD") which allows the use
of a relatively small (light) keel (weight/ballast) to enhance
comfort and compliance of a personal flotation device ("PFD") while
retaining the efficacy necessary to self rescue a unconscious
victim. While permanent eccentric placement of the ballasting
member achieves enhanced rotation, it leaves the victim floating
off to one side, placing one corner of the mouth in closer
proximity to the waters surface i.e. decreasing freeboard, a
parameter used by testing laboratories to determine PFD efficacy.
The placement of the mobile ballasting moment 1a on a centrally
attached flexible 2a or rigid arm 11a allows movement of the
keeling member towards either the left or right side. Once set in
motion the keeling moment gains momentum, accelerating the victim
about their axis of rotation, towards the position of greatest
stability i.e. where the ballasting moment is suspended beneath the
center of buoyancy rather than balanced above it and the victim's
airway is consequently positioned out of the water.
[0236] The keel's arm can either be flexible 2a or rigid 11a. The
swing of the keel is preferably constrained such that its course
allows access to the left or right about a caudal arc but
restricted in its cephalic swing such that the ballasting member
cannot strike the victim's head. The location of attachment 6a of
the keel's arm can be variable as dictated by location of the PFD's
buoyant members or the individual's anatomy, i.e. such as one who
has had a lung or limb removed with its dramatic impact on surface
positioning. In general a central positioning provides the greatest
symmetric freeboard. The keel's range can be limited by rigid 13a
or flexible 5a member that constrains range of motion but ideally
without impinging upon the ballasting member in such away that it
would impair freedom of movement. A rigid cover 13a is preferred in
protecting the head of the victim from being struck by the keel and
provides reliable constraints upon the lateral and posterior range
of motion. To reduce cost, a fabric cover 5a sewn above the keel
arm 2a can alternatively be provided and determines the keel's
lateral and posterior range of motion.
[0237] To enhance mobility of the keel a spherical design 1a
promotes easy rotation about its arc, though other shapes are
considered within the scope of the invention. Comfort, aesthetics
and therefore compliance argue for a portion of the keeling member
to be more cylindrical 14a to reduce the protuberance of the keel
from the back of the PFD.
[0238] A swivel 3a integrated into the flexible arm 2a or rigid arm
11a of the swing keel can be provided to reduce resistance of the
ballasting member rolling along its arc. Swivel 3a eliminates the
opposition to rotation that can arise from twisting the rigid or
flexible arm that attaches the keel to the BPFD and/or eliminates
the drag that can arise as the keel is skidded or dragged along the
surface rather than rolled.
[0239] Modification of the dorsal surface of the PFD into a
complementary convexity 4a further reduces the incidence of the
center of ballast to be stabilized above the center of buoyancy.
While the foam of the jacket could be shaped into a convex surface
4a to meet this need, the storage of the BPFD might result in the
high density keel deforming the foam, creating a depression with
significant memory such that when the PFD is pressed into use the
depression might entrap the keel allowing the victim to once again
be stabilized in a face down position. Ideally convexity 4a is
formed of some rigid material. The rigid surface can be independent
or fused to the PFD's closed cell foam. Rigid convex surface 4a
further reduces the coefficient of friction between rolling swing
keel 1a and the surface of the PFD over which the keel is rolling.
The improved ease of movement of the rigid keel upon the rigid
convexity further contributes to the reduction in keel mass without
sacrificing reliable airway protection.
[0240] A rigid container 20a can alternatively contain the
ballasting member, to be freed from the constraints of the flexible
or rigid arm. Fully enclosed the ballast sphere 1a could roll
across a surface designed to enhance self-rescue. In the face down
position the keel preferably resides on a rigid convexity 4a
initiating movement to the left or right lateral gully the lowest
point to the left or right upon face down entry into the water.
Upon reaching the lateral gully of the container the surface would
angle off towards the legs or Caudal gully 22a. This inferior
movement of the mobile ballast 1a complements the naturally
occurring motion of the victim where the initial axial rotation is
supplanted by a pendular motion as the legs swing from the flexed
position of the face down position into the extended position of a
victim floating face up. The containers third low point, the
posterior gully 23a would attract the mobile keel from either the
left or right caudal gully 22a, moving the ballast away from the
back of the victim, establishing then stabilizing the victim in the
safe zone, approximately thirty (30.degree.) degree off of dead
vertical. The dangerous zone is identified as vertical to less than
approximately twenty (20.degree.) degrees off of vertical, in which
position the head of the unconscious victim can flex forward
submerging the victim's face and/or seriously compromising the
victim's airway. The rigid container 13a provides a
three-dimensional rigid surface upon which the keel can easily
relocate, directing the mobile ballast 1a through a progressive
series of angled surfaces complementing and thereby driving the
complex maneuvers associated first with initiation of rotation then
converting the victim's rotary motion into a cephalo-pedal swing
and finally stabilizing the unconscious victim in the airway
protected surface position known as the "safe zone".
[0241] The container if sealed 24a can contribute an inflatable
element equal to its displacement minus the mass of the keel, to
the buoyant means of the PFD. The "neutral" buoyant mobile ballast
"swing" keel can thus be integrated into the body of the PFD,
reducing bulk and thereby enhancing comfort appearance and
therefore supporting the compliance critical to real world
efficacy. Any decrement in comfort is outweighed by the superior
performance of the BPFD over current PFDs.
[0242] The BPFD shifts the onus of rotating the unconscious victim
from buoyancy alone to a system combining ballast and buoyancy. The
secondary gain associated with the advent of the BPFD is that
buoyancy now relieved of the task of rotation can be relocated from
the ventral area to the peri-cervical-cephalo area where its
displacement can be employed to improve freeboard enhancing victim
viability in an inclement sea state rather than sitting uselessly
above the water line upon the chest of the unconscious victim.
Additionally, with the improved physics of self rescue accomplished
by using a combined ballast/buoyant PFD, some of the buoyancy
previously employed for rotation in prior art PFDs can be
eliminated reducing bulk and further increasing comfort and
compliance.
[0243] For the individual occupied around the water environment, a
soft coating of the mobile keel 26a and/or inner surface 25a of the
container can be provided to mute the sound of the movement of the
ballasting member 1a, promoting day in/day out comfort and
compliance while retaining the advances of BPFD's reliable airway
protection.
[0244] Environmental concerns mandate that the keeling members,
ideally of high density comport with environmental responsibility.
Given the life span of the fabric bodice of the PFD it is preferred
that a non-lead keel be selected, though such is not considered
limiting. The corrosive marine environment can be negotiated by an
epoxy coated ferrous material that would exceed the life span of
the other component of the PFD and not lead to a lead recovery
problem.
[0245] There is currently a movement under way to convert the
current complex classification of PFD's which is Type I through V
into a more succinct and clear labeling of life jackets, Type A
& B. Clear labeling would identify Type A as Airway Protective
and Type B as a Buoyant Aid but not airway protection. The Type B
can be identified with a pictograph showing a slash across a victim
floating in a face up position. Complementing the new direction in
PFD nomenclature, a quick release coupling 12a in the swing keel's
arm 5a can be provided to allow the recreational boater required to
wear PFD to comply with the law by routinely wearing a Type B
Buoyant Aid, but in the event of deteriorating weather or impending
emergency the connection of ballasting member 1a would allow the
boater to upgrade the performance of their Type B PFD into a Type A
Airway Protective PFD.
[0246] For the individual engaged in or about water, mobile ballast
member 1a can be restrained in an inactive position 42a until
released in the event of an emergency into its central active
position 44a. Such release converts the BPFD from Type B into Type
A. Ideally the outer shell of the PFD 50a continues down towards
the waist to envelope a secure belt 40a to which the inactive
immobilized ballast member 41a is secured by a quick release means
42a. In one embodiment, a pair of hook and/or loop fastening
members can be closed or the immobilized ballast member 41a by a
releasable piece of hook and/or loop fastening member connected by
a pull cord 43a to the front of the BPFD. The secure belt holding
the ballast in close and tight proximity to the body of the wearer
8a allows the ballast to be comfortably borne by the hips of the
wearer rather than swinging about on their back. The dual position
BPFD is preferably used with active water sports where the decision
to convert from Buoyant Aid to Life Jacket occurs rarely, in
contrast to the commercial Type A jacket which is only donned in
the event of an impending emergency water entry.
[0247] Additionally the mobile ballast 1a can be specifically
adapted to inflatable PFD where it is stowed and restrained within
the cover. Upon inflation of the buoyant chamber the mobile keel
would be released into its active position.
[0248] Some of the advantages achieved with and/or features of the
embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 53 through 60 include the
following:
[0249] (1) Mobile ballast member integrated into the buoyant means
of a personal flotation device;
[0250] (2) Mobile ballast member attached to life jacket by
flexible means;
[0251] (3) Mobile ballast member attachable at variable positions
to the life jacket by flexible means;
[0252] (4) Mobile ballast member attached to life jacket by
flexible means held in inactive position until released;
[0253] (5) Flexible means connected through swivel to ballast
member;
[0254] (6) Flexible means connected through quick release coupler
to ballast member;
[0255] (7) Mobile ballast member attached to life jacket by rigid
means;
[0256] (8) Rigid means connected through swivel to ballast
member;
[0257] (9) Rigid means connected through quick release coupler to
ballast member;
[0258] (10) Ballast member of spherical configuration to facilitate
movement along arc;
[0259] (11) Rigid convex surface over which ballast member rolls
throughout the arc of rotation determined by attachment means;
[0260] (12) Rigid convex surface integrated with displacement foam
of life jacket;
[0261] (13) Rigid cover limiting range of motion of ballast
member;
[0262] (14) Flexible cover limiting range of motion of ballast
member;
[0263] (15) Enclosed container restricting range of motion of
ballast member;
[0264] (16) Enclosed container with convex surface--With second
intersecting surface angled caudally--With third intersecting
surface angled dorsally;
[0265] (17) Enclosed container permanently sealed off to create
buoyant means, less than, equal to or greater than ballasting
means;
[0266] (18) Enclosed container reversibly sealed off to create
buoyant means, less than, equal to or greater than ballasting
means;
[0267] (19) Container and or ballast means coated with sound
absorbing material;
[0268] (20) Mobile Ballast secured quick release inactive
position--Secured to belt about waist;
[0269] (21) Belt loosely connected to PFD contained in Fabric of
outer shell;
[0270] (22) Quick release mobile ballast secured to crotch strap
securing PFD to wearer;
[0271] (23) Mobile ballast immobilized within storage shell of
inflatable PFD, released upon inflation; and
[0272] (24) Inflatable.
[0273] FIGS. 61 through 67 illustrate the eccentric fixed and
mobile ballasted life jackets embodiments of the present invention.
While sufficient ballast placed along the posterior midline of a
PFD will create instability of the face down position and therefore
eventually initiate the airway protective roll, central positioning
requires significantly more ballast and time to destabilize the
face down position. The current invention provides several
embodiments that allow a relatively small keel to achieve, more
rapidly and comfortably, reliable airway protection. Given that a
stackable Type I PFD only weighs 3-5 lbs., the addition of
excessive amounts of high density ballast is quite noticeable and
uncomfortable to the wearer. Previously discussed tank mounted
ballast for a typical midline keel weigh from the 6-8 lbs. The
present invention reduces the weight to 1-2 pounds of highly
effective eccentric mobile ballast.
[0274] In the fixed posterior midline position discussed above, the
keel is stabilized directly above the center of buoyancy, the
horizontal distance of the keel from the axis of rotation is
consequently zero and the rotational energy generated by the fixed
midline keel is also unfortunately zero. A keel located top dead
center is described as being at zero (0.degree.) degrees on the
circumference about the victims axis of rotation.
[0275] When the keel is at ninety (90.degree.) degrees the
horizontal distance from the axis of rotation is at its maximum and
therefore, for a given amount of ballast, so is the effort applied
in rotation of the victim about their axis. When the keel is at one
hundred eighty (180.degree.) degrees it is suspended directly
beneath the victim and the entire system's center of buoyancy. The
effect of gravity upon the keel at one hundred eighty (180.degree.)
degrees is straight down once again i.e. no energy is being applied
in an attempt to rotate the victim about their axis. This position,
with the keel one hundred eighty (180.degree.) degrees, places the
victim face up airway protected and is the only stable moment in a
correctly ballasted self rescuing BPFD (Ballasted Personal
Flotation Device). In the event that a large wave throws the victim
over onto their face, once again the keel will seek its lowest
point, suspended directly beneath the center of buoyancy, restoring
airway protection.
[0276] The rate of self rescue is dependant upon numerous factors
in addition to size of the keel and are discussed below. Compliance
(the presence of the Life Jacket on the victim at the onset of a
water emergency) has been shown to be critical in drowning
prevention as opposed to the PFD carried aboard the vessel but
stowed rather than worn. The eccentric mobile ballast of the
present invention by either its site of attachment off of the
midline or its rapid movement away from the midline is able to
initiate the self rescue roll with relatively less energy input
i.e. less weight. The eccentric keel optimizes the rotational
energy per unit mass allowing reliable airway protection to coexist
with wearer comfort which has been shown to be a non-negotiable
bottom line necessary to achieve real world compliance and
therefore efficacy.
[0277] There are a wide variety of prior art life jackets, with
each design group unique in how they locate ballast about the
victims neck and torso. What is referred to as the stackable PFD is
a flat PFD that allows easy stowage. Some jurisdictions require the
highest rated Life Jackets to roll a face down unconscious victim
into and airway protected position within five (5) seconds in calm
fresh water. FIGS. 61 through 67 illustrate a Yoke Style Collar or
stackable PFD 66a having pericervical buoyant means 71a that
supplies the displacement of the cervical collar 72a. FIG. 67 shows
a relatively simple, reliable attachment means for securing one or
more ballast moments to the perimeter of an existing PFD. Without
any ballast the existing PFD is a buoyant aid, i.e. only capable of
airway protection if the conscious wearer can position themselves
in a face up position. This buoyant aid may be all that can be
tolerated or necessary. If an emergency were to arise and the
wearer was in warm water wearing minimal clothing a single ballast
element is sufficient, if the emergency arise in an inclement
environment in which the impending water victim is wearing thermal
protective clothing, two or more elements maybe required to right
an unconscious victim draped in water logged clothing. The
eccentric ballast attachment member 126a is preferably comprised of
a cylindrical ballast 100a which is threaded onto a strap 124a. The
strap is secured by attachment means 121a to the mounting strap
120a that envelopes the PFD. The mounting means 120a is secured by
fastener member 122a which preferably makes a reliable connection
by relying upon multiple overlapping surfaces. If this closure
mechanism were to fail the ballast would drop away and the life
jacket would be reduced back to an airway submerging buoyant aid.
Similarly cover strap 123a secures and protects the ballast belt
124a from being snagged and possibly released with the same
consequences described above. Stiffener 125a supplies critical
rigidity necessary to prevent ballast 100a from sliding from its
position on the PFD's lateral surface onto the PFD's ventral,
dorsal or medial surface where the selected ballast may be
insufficient to effectuate the self rescue roll. Notably ballast
100a is specifically selected so that it can be transferred to an
integrated mobile ballast PFD as shown in FIG. 64. Once the ballast
is located in a tubular containment member 87a it can be continued
to be used indefinitely, allowing its cost and ecological impact to
be minimized.
[0278] Typically, a PFD's inherently buoyant means is comprised of
multiple layers placed symmetrically about the wearer. However, the
size of eccentric ballast can be reduced removing a portion of the
buoyant means whether inherently buoyant, inflatably buoyant or of
mixed origin. The eccentric placement of buoyant means about the
PFD can be used to facilitate the self rescue roll by reducing the
symmetry as well as by reducing the size of the buoyant moment that
must be submerged by the ballast during the initiation phase of
self rescue (zero to ninety degrees).
[0279] The fixed, eccentric ballast as shown in FIG. 65 integrated
into the construction of a new PFD locates the containment means
101a in an accessible area for wearer manipulation in the field.
Significantly the jacket does not have to be removed in order to
convert the jacket from a buoyant aid device into a Life Jacket
with varying strengths of active self rescue. FIG. 67 shows a "fix"
for PFDs currently in existence. The eccentric fixed ballast means
100a are only applicable to those select PFDs which through
specific placement of the buoyant means of the PFD, only need
assistance with the initiation phase of the self rescue roll, i.e.
zero (0.degree.) to ninety (90.degree.) degrees. Once PFDs of this
design are moved out of the stable face down position the buoyant
means alone is capable of completing the phase two of self rescue,
i.e. ninety (90.degree.) to one hundred (180.degree.) degrees.
[0280] Other PFD designs in order to achieve reliable airway
protection with minimal amounts of ballast require mobility of that
ballast means to assist not only with phase one initiation but with
phase two completion of active self rescue. A mobile ballast
requires a containment means to limit and direct the keels movement
to effectuate the conversion of stabilize face down flotation into
face up. In PFDs of this design an eccentric fixed keel will roll
the victim off their back and onto their side where they become
stabilized in a side high position. However, the unconscious
victim's flaccid airway is severely flexed to the point of
obstruction and their airway remains submerged. In this side high
position the victim often rapidly succumbs to Shallow Water
Drowning. Notably both the eccentric fixed and mobile ballast
elements rely upon being located off the midline to achieve phase
one rotation with a minimum amount of ballast.
[0281] As seen in FIG. 61, another embodiment is shown where an
exterior attachment of a semi-circular container 60a containing a
mobile ballast 1a allows existing jackets to acquire active self
rescue. Container 60a and mobile ballast is of such a design that
it can also be used within the cervical collar of a new stackable
PFD. Container 23 and ballast 1 have a longer useful life
expectancy than the fabric lives of several current PFDs. This
recyclable feature allows the cost to be spread out over many
jackets and minimizes the disposal problems presented by high
density metals such as lead. Furthermore, the stackable PFD 66a of
FIG. 63 shows a straight container means 87a within a fabric sleeve
83a attached to a fabric hood 80a secured to stackable PFD 66a by
attachment means 81a allowing an in field fix of an existing
stackable PFD. One advantage of straight container means 87a is it
allows the use of one, two, as well as three or more mobile ballast
elements 1a since they all stack up the same corner of the PFD.
With semicircular 60a containment means 23a, mobile ballast 1a
elements are preferably provided in an odd number (i.e. 1, 3, 5 . .
. ) to prevent an even distribution of the ballast elements. With
only two elements one could be located at each end effectively
balancing each other out leaving the victim floating face down. The
advantage to multiple elements is that the container diameter can
be reduced allowing easier manipulation as well as comporting with
the size restrictions of infant or children's PFDs.
[0282] The stacking linear containment means finds slightly
divergent applications in other PFD designs. The multiple stacking
of the ballast elements moves and facilitates container 23a
relocation as is necessary in effecting the first phase of active
self rescue (i.e. zero (0.degree.) to ninety (90.degree.) degrees),
then the ballast must relocate to the other end to optimally
facilitate phase two of the active self rescue roll (i.e. ninety
(90.degree.) to one hundred eighty (180.degree.) degrees.
[0283] While cervical container means 60a and 87a benefit from
being closed in that they contribute displacement in the critical
cephalic area, helping to maintain freeboard, the distance measured
from the corner of the mouth to the water's surface, when used
within the back of a vest style PFD, perforated end caps 101a allow
the air to exhaust so that the container's displacement does not
oppose the containers relocation during the conversion from phase
one to phase two of the active self rescue roll.
[0284] Some of the advantages achieved with and/or features of the
embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 61 through 67 include the
following:
[0285] (1) Eccentric Single or Multiple ballasting means, Attached
to Inherently buoyant, Inflatable buoyant, or Hybrid buoyant,
Personal Flotation device;
[0286] (2) Fixed Eccentric ballast means;
[0287] (3) (New Construction) Internal or external Integrated Fixed
eccentric ballast member Accessible for placement and or removal,
Inaccessible, combination of partially inaccessible with the option
to add additional ballasting elements;
[0288] (4) (Fix of in existing products) Externally Attached
eccentric ballast member, with independent reversible or Permanent
attachment means, accessible, inaccessible, mixed;
[0289] (5) Ballast Means, cylindrical or spherical for use in fixed
and mobile ballast systems;
[0290] (6) Mobile ballast member integrated into the buoyant means
of a personal flotation device;
[0291] (7) mobile ballast member attached to life jacket by
flexible means;
[0292] (8) mobile ballast member attachable at variable positions
to the life jacket by flexible means;
[0293] (9) Mobile ballast member attached to life jacket by
flexible means held in inactive position until released;
[0294] (10) Mobile ballast attached midline;
[0295] (11) Eccentric mobile ballast member attached at point off
midline;
[0296] (12) Flexible means connected through swivel to ballast
member;
[0297] (13) Flexible means connected through quick release coupler
to ballast member;
[0298] (14) Mobile ballast member attached to life jacket by rigid
means;
[0299] (15) Rigid means connected through swivel to ballast
member;
[0300] (16) Rigid means connected through quick release coupler to
ballast member;
[0301] (17) Ballast member of spherical configuration to facilitate
movement along arc;
[0302] (18) Rigid convex surface over which ballast member rolls
throughout the arc of rotation determined by attachment means;
[0303] (19) Rigid convex surface integrated with displacement foam
of life jacket;
[0304] (20) Rigid cover limiting range of motion of ballast
member;
[0305] (21) Flexible cover limiting range of motion of ballast
member;
[0306] (22) Enclosed container restricting range of motion of
ballast member;
[0307] (23) Enclosed container with convex surface--with second
intersecting surface angled caudally--with third intersecting
surface angled dorsally;
[0308] (24) Enclosed container permanently sealed off to create
buoyant means, less than, equal to or greater than ballasting
means;
[0309] (25) Enclosed container reversibly sealed off to create
buoyant means, less than, equal to or greater than ballasting
means;
[0310] (26) Vented non-buoyant container for mobile ballast;
[0311] (27) pivoting straight container attached at laterally,
swinging cephalo-caudal;
[0312] (28) container and/or ballast means coated with sound
absorbing material Inflatable;
[0313] (29) stiffener means;
[0314] (30) asymmetric buoyant means; and
[0315] (31) mobile buoyant means.
[0316] Individuals employed offshore are often supplied with whole
body thermal protective garments 130a as seen in FIG. 68. Currently
despite the garments massive buoyant moment such individuals are
also required to wear a life jacket. The inclusion of eccentric
fixed and mobile ballast and buoyant means of the present invention
allows the buoyancy inherent in the thermal protective garment 130a
to fulfill the dual purposes of warmth and surface support. FIG. 68
is a posterior view of one such exposure suit or thermal protective
garment 130a. The traditional neoprene suit of a wind surfer or
water enthusiast is likewise capable of protecting core temperature
as well and is also considered with the scope of the invention. A
ventral eccentric buoyant means 131a combines with a posterior
eccentric buoyant means 132a to help destabilize the face down
position. The addition of multiple ballast members such as a
midline mobile ballast system 133a with an eccentric fixed ballast
system maybe sufficient for a tight fitting neoprene protective
garment. In the exposure suits designed for north sea offshore oil
rigs there is a need for peripheral ballast members, 135a and 136a
to assure the victim will maintain a heads up position. Preferably,
the identified direction of turning is reinforced by the placement
of eccentric ballast such that there is sufficient energy to
initiate the first phase of self rescue, i.e. the size of 136a
exceeds 135a. In the vertical position this difference is
negligible.
[0317] Some of the advantages achieved with and/or features of the
embodiments illustrated in FIG. 68 include the following:
[0318] (1) Thermal protective gear with one or more eccentric fixed
buoyant means;
[0319] (2) Thermal protective gear with one or more eccentric
mobile buoyant means;
[0320] (3) Thermal protective gear with one or more eccentric fixed
ballast means;
[0321] (4) Thermal protective gear with one or more quick release
eccentric fixed ballast means;
[0322] (5) Thermal protective gear with one or more eccentric
mobile ballast means; and
[0323] (6) Thermal protective gear with one or more quick release
eccentric mobile ballast means.
[0324] FIG. 69 illustrates a PFD Strap ballast embodiment in
accordance with the present invention. One PFD design that is
popular in children is a yoke type collar PFD or stackable PFD. The
children's PFD does not lend it self to the same solution as the
adult, i.e. the eccentric fixed ballast locate along the lateral
cervical area. The combination of the child's body density, narrow
pulmonary fields and predominance of mass in the cephalic area
makes them resistant to the lateral ballast moment. FIG. 69 shows
the wearer 8a wearing a stackable PFD 72a held by strap 65a. The
ballast moment is spread by attachment means 142a along the
posterior width of the individual. The ballast may be a lead shot
140a, though such is not limiting. Lead shot 140a, in a soft
coating, preferably conforms to the body's surface. Alternatively,
lead shot 140a may be comprised of small rigid blocks of ballast
such as 141a. The posterior horizontal distributed ballast means
142a is located upon the back of the wearer 8a and held in place
from slippage there from by a stiffener that conforms to the wearer
143a.
[0325] Alternatively, in FIG. 70 the child 8a wearing an inflatable
PFD 31a achieves the keeling action from mobile ballast contained
within a container 60a with curved surface 4a. The mobile ballast
1a is preferably attached to both ends ventilated end caps 150a,
which allow water end thereby avoiding placement of a
counterproductive buoyant moment low on the victim's back. Mobile
ballast 1a is suspended from diametric points via left flexible
means 151a and a right flexible means 152a. This dual suspension
transfers across the midline of the victim to the opposite side of
the ballast's location. FIG. 71 adapts this dual suspension to a
strap attachment means 160a that can be added or built into the PFD
strap 65a. Unrestrained mobile ballast 1a is free to roll to either
side yet when it reaches the end of its flexible arm 151a or 152a
it exerts a turning force across the midline. As the self-rescue
roll nears the end of the second phase, the mobile ballast is
suspended from both arms and is located in the midline, swung away
from the victim, stabilizing them in the safe zone. Due to the lack
of a container that invariably restricts motion and consequently
location, the open device can be of smaller size for a given rate
of turning.
[0326] Some of the advantages achieved with and/or features of the
embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 69 through 71 include the
following:
[0327] (1) Horizontal band of ballast, fixed or mobile along PFD
Strap or belt or back of vest;
[0328] (2) Body Stiffener conforming sized and conforming to the
wearer;
[0329] (3) Mobile ballast suspend from left and right arms;
[0330] (4) Attached to PFD Strap;
[0331] (5) Contained in ventilated means--With curved surface
beneath mobile ballast
[0332] Eccentric and Mobile Ballast and Bouyancy Parts List (FIGS.
53 through 71)
[0333] 1a Mobile Ballast Member
[0334] 2a Flexible Arm
[0335] 3a Swivel
[0336] 4a Curved Surface
[0337] 5a Flexible Retaining Cover
[0338] 6a Arm Attachment Point
[0339] 7a Life Jacket
[0340] 8a Wearer of PFD
[0341] 9a Lower Edge of PFD Fabric Back Panel Covering Ballast
Components
[0342] 10a Pivoting Attachment Point
[0343] 11a Rigid Arm
[0344] 12a Quick Release Coupler
[0345] 13a Rigid Retaining Cover
[0346] 14a Conical Mobile Ballast
[0347] 20a Container for Mobile Ballast Member
[0348] 21a Lateral Gully Low Point
[0349] 22a Caudal Gully Low Point
[0350] 23a Posterior Gully Low Point
[0351] 24a Airtight Lid for placing/servicing mobile ballast
member
[0352] 25a Sound Reducing Coating of inside of Container
[0353] 26a Sound Reducing Coating of Mobile Ballast Member
[0354] 27a Surrounding Foam of PFD
[0355] 30a Stowed Inflatable PFD
[0356] 31a Inflated PFD
[0357] 32a Deflated PFD Retaining Cover
[0358] 40a Secure belt
[0359] 41a Inactive Immobilized Ballast Member
[0360] 42a Quick Release Retainer Means
[0361] 43a Quick Release Activation Means--Pull Cord
[0362] 44a Activated--Mobile Ballast Member
[0363] 50a Continuation of Outer Shell of PFD
[0364] 51a Loop Portion of Hook and Loop Fastening Member/Quick
Release Means
[0365] 52a Hook Portion of Hook and Loop Fastening Member/Quick
Release Means
[0366] 53a Crotch Strap
[0367] 60a Semi-Circular Container
[0368] 61a Foam Pad insulating end cap
[0369] 62a Resealable End Cap
[0370] 63a Flexible Fabric Joint between Thoracic-Ventral and
Cervical-Dorsal
[0371] 64a Ventral Buoyant Means
[0372] 65a PFD Strap
[0373] 66a Yoke Collar Style or Stackable PFD
[0374] 67a Resealable Closure for container
[0375] 68a Cervical Foam Pad
[0376] 69a Semicircular Fabric Hood
[0377] 70a Resealable Closure Means
[0378] 71a Layers of closed cell foam
[0379] 72a Cervical collar of stackable PFD
[0380] 80a Fabric Hood
[0381] 81a Hood Attachment means
[0382] 82a Tube Cap
[0383] 83a Tube Sleeve Cover
[0384] 84a Tube Sleeve Cover Opening
[0385] 85a Tube Sleeve Closure Means, Loop Portion of Hook and Loop
Fastening Member
[0386] 86a Tube Sleeve Closure Means, Hook Portion of Hook and Loop
Fastening Member
[0387] 87a Straight tube Containing Mobile Ballast
[0388] 88a Second Mobile Ballast Element
[0389] 90a Ventral Surface of PFD
[0390] 91a Posterior Surface of PFD
[0391] 92a Cervical Buoyant Means Embedding Container means
[0392] 93a Posterior-Medical End of Container Means
[0393] 94a Ventral-Lateral End of Container Means
[0394] 100a Eccentric Fixed Ballast Means
[0395] 101a Ballast Container Means
[0396] 102a Sealable Container Cover
[0397] 110a Eccentric Inaccessible Mobile Ballast Element
[0398] 111a Eccentric Accessible Mobile Ballast Element
[0399] 120a Mounting Means for addition of Ballast, Strap
[0400] 121a Attachment Point of Ballast Belt
[0401] 122a Secure Closure Means
[0402] 123a Safety Cover for termination of Ballast Belt
[0403] 124a Ballast Belt for secure mounting of eccentric
ballast
[0404] 125a Stiffener Means
[0405] 126a Eccentric Ballast Attachment Means
[0406] 130a Thermal Protection Garment
[0407] 131a Ventral Eccentric Buoyant Means
[0408] 132a Posterior Eccentric Buoyant Means
[0409] 133a Midline Mobile Ballast System
[0410] 134a Eccentric Fixed Ballast System
[0411] 135a Single Eccentric Peripheral Ballast Means
[0412] 136a Multiple Eccentric Peripheral Ballast Means
[0413] 140a Shot Ballast
[0414] 141a Solid Block Ballast
[0415] 142a Posterior horizontal distributed ballast means
[0416] 143a Stiffener sized to conform to wearer
[0417] 150a Ventilated End Cap
[0418] 151a Left Flexible Arm
[0419] 152a Right Flexible Arm
[0420] 1 60a Attachment means for multiple suspended mobile
ballast
[0421] The instant invention has been shown and described herein in
what is considered to be the most practical and preferred
embodiment. It is recognized, however, that departures may be made
therefrom within the scope of the invention and that obvious
modifications will occur to a person skilled in the art.
* * * * *