U.S. patent application number 11/818506 was filed with the patent office on 2008-09-04 for methods for snorkels and mouthpiece systems.
Invention is credited to Peter T. McCarthy.
Application Number | 20080210233 11/818506 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 39732229 |
Filed Date | 2008-09-04 |
United States Patent
Application |
20080210233 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
McCarthy; Peter T. |
September 4, 2008 |
Methods for snorkels and mouthpiece systems
Abstract
Methods and designs are disclosed for providing a chin rest
member (138) for reducing, distribution or alleviating loading
forces (82) applied on a breathing device member (124) such as a
snorkel (38), a second stage regulator (146) or other breathing
devices using a mouthpiece (30) that is held inside the mouth of a
swimmer. Methods for using a chin rest member (138) for reducing
deformation of a mouthpiece (30), reducing jaw fatigue, reducing
abrasion to the soft tissues of the mouth, improving air flow
alignment, positioning and contouring of the mouthpiece (30) under
the exertion of loading forces (82) are disclosed. Methods are also
disclosed for adjusting the position the chin rest member (138)
relative to the mouthpiece (30) as well as for accommodating
different users having different size chins and, or overbite
conditions, as well as methods for accommodating a major portion of
majority of user's with one size. Methods are provided for reducing
or eliminating bending and collapsing of the mouthpiece (30) around
a transverse axis under loading forces (82) created during use.
Methods are also provided for providing a chin rest member (138)
that is made with a relatively soft material to provide cushioning
and, or contouring to the chin of a swimmer. Molding methods and
designs are also disclosed for providing improved leverage and
control over the mouthpiece (30) and breathing tube (34) connected
to the mouthpiece (30), reduced muscle strain, reduced jaw fatigue
and reduced mouth pain during diving. Methods are also provided for
other mouthpiece systems.
Inventors: |
McCarthy; Peter T.; (Oxnard,
CA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
Peter T. McCarthy
2109 Spyglass Trail West
Oxnard
CA
93036
US
|
Family ID: |
39732229 |
Appl. No.: |
11/818506 |
Filed: |
June 13, 2007 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
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60813657 |
Jun 14, 2006 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
128/201.11 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B63C 11/205 20130101;
B63C 11/186 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
128/201.11 |
International
Class: |
B63C 11/16 20060101
B63C011/16 |
Claims
1. A method for providing an underwater breathing device,
comprising providing a mouthpiece having a U-shaped member that is
arranged to be retained inside of the mouth of a swimmer, said
mouthpiece being connected to a predetermined body that is arranged
to provide breathable gas to the swimmer through said mouthpiece,
said U-shaped member having a sealing flange member that is
arranged to create a water tight seal within the mouth of the user
during use as said swimmer breathes said breathable gas while at
least one external portion of the lips of the swimmer is in contact
with water, said mouthpiece having bite tab members arranged to be
positioned between the teeth of the swimmer, at least one external
force being applied to said predetermined body during use, and
providing said predetermined body with a chin rest member that is
arranged to contact at least one portion of the chin region of the
face of the swimmer while said mouthpiece is in a substantially
comfortable alignment within the swimmer's mouth.
2. The method of claim 1 wherein said chin rest member is arranged
to create a reduction in the amount of said external force applied
to said mouthpiece.
3. The method of claim 1 wherein said chin rest member is arranged
to increase the stability of said mouthpiece within the mouth of
the swimmer during use.
4. The method of claim 1 wherein said chin rest member is arranged
to create a reduction in jaw fatigue during use.
5. The method of claim 1 wherein said chin rest member is arranged
to create a reduction in jaw fatigue during use.
6. The method of claim 1 wherein said chin rest member is arranged
to reduce the tendency for said mouthpiece to pivot around a
transverse axis within the mouth of the swimmer during use.
7. The method of claim 1 wherein the position of said chin rest
member is arranged to be adjustable.
8. The method of claim 1 wherein said chin rest member has an
adjustable member that is arranged to permit the position of said
chin rest member relative to said mouthpiece to be adjustable.
9. The method of claim 1 wherein said chin rest member is made with
a relatively soft material.
10. The method of claim 1 wherein said chin rest member has a
curved contour.
11. The method of claim 1 wherein said predetermined body is
selected from the group consisting of snorkels, diving regulators,
and rebreathers.
12. The method of claim 1 wherein said chin rest member has a
rearward portion that contacts at least one the chin region of the
swimmer's face, said predetermined body having a predetermined gap
between said rearward portion of said chin rest member and said
sealing flange of said U-shaped member, and said gap having a
forward end portion that is sufficiently forward of said rearward
portion of said chin rest member to permit the lower lip of the
swimmer to comfortably fit within said gap without being
excessively compressed by said forward end portion.
13. The method of claim 1 wherein said chin rest member has a
rearward portion that is arranged to contact at least one portion
of the chin of the swimmer in an area below the lower lip of the
swimmer while said mouthpiece is in a substantially comfortable
alignment within the swimmer's mouth during use, said predetermined
body having a predetermined gap having a forward portion that is
positioned substantially vertically between said rearward portion
of said chin rest member and said sealing flange of said U-shaped
member, and said gap being arranged to provide an area in which the
lower lip of the user can occupy without being excessively
compressed by said forward end portion during use.
14. The method of claim 1 wherein said chin rest member is arranged
to create a reduction in the amount of biting tension required by
the swimmer on said bite tab members to retain said mouthpiece
within the mouth of the swimmer during use.
15. A method for providing a mouthpiece tube, comprising providing
a mouthpiece tube having at least one portion that is arranged to
extend inside of the mouth of a user, said mouthpiece tube being
connected to a predetermined body that is arranged to deliver a
predetermined medium to the mouth of the user through said
mouthpiece tube, at least one external force being applied to said
predetermined body during use, and said predetermined body having a
chin rest member that is arranged to contact at least one portion
of the chin region of the face of the user while said mouthpiece is
in a substantially comfortable alignment within the user's mouth
and while at least one external portion of the lips of the user is
exposed to the environment, said chin rest member being arranged to
increase the stability of said mouthpiece tube within the mouth of
the user during use.
16. The method of claim 15 wherein said chin rest member has an
adjustable member that is arranged to permit the position of said
chin rest member relative to said mouthpiece to be adjustable.
17. The method of claim 15 wherein said chin rest member has a
rearward portion that contacts at least one the chin region of the
user's face, said predetermined body having a predetermined gap
between said rearward portion of said chin rest member and
mouthpiece tube, and said predetermined gap having a forward end
portion that is sufficiently forward of said rearward portion of
said chin rest member to permit the lower lip of the user to
comfortably fit within said gap without being excessively
compressed by said forward end portion.
18. The method of claim 15 wherein said chin rest member has a
rearward portion that is arranged to contact at least one portion
of the chin of the user in an area below the lower lip of the user
while said mouthpiece tube is in a substantially comfortable
alignment with the user's mouth during use, said predetermined body
having a predetermined gap having a forward portion that is
positioned substantially vertically between said rearward portion
of said chin rest member and mouthpiece tube, and said gap being
arranged to provide an area in which the lower lip of the user can
occupy without being excessively compressed by said forward end
portion during use.
19. A method for providing an underwater breathing device,
comprising providing a mouthpiece having at least one engaging
portion that is arranged to extend inside of the mouth of a
swimmer, said mouthpiece being connected to a predetermined body
that is arranged to provide breathable gas to the swimmer through
said mouthpiece, said predetermined body being subjected to
predetermined loading forces during use, said at least one engaging
portion being arranged to create a water tight seal within the
mouth of the user during use as said swimmer breathes said
breathable gas, and said predetermined body having a chin rest
member having a rearward portion that is arranged to contact at
least one the chin region of the user's face while said at least
one engaging portion is arranged to be in a substantially
comfortable alignment within the mouth of the user, said
predetermined body having a predetermined gap between said rearward
portion of said chin rest member and mouthpiece tube, and said
predetermined gap having a forward end portion that is sufficiently
forward of said rearward portion of said chin rest member to permit
the lower lip of the user to comfortably fit within said gap
without being excessively compressed by said forward end
portion.
20. The method of claim 19 wherein said chin rest member is
arranged to permit a sufficient amount of said predetermined
loading forces to be applied to the chin area of the swimmer to
increase the stability of said mouthpiece under the exertion of
said predetermined loading forces.
Description
[0001] This application claims the benefit under 34 U.S.C. .sctn.
119(e) of U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/813,657, filed Jun.
14, 2006, titled Methods for Snorkels and Breathing Systems.
BACKGROUND
[0002] 1. Field of Invention
[0003] This invention relates to snorkels and scuba diving second
stage regulators or other breathing systems, specifically to such
devices that use a mouthpiece that is held within the mouth of a
swimmer to create a water tight seal in the mouth.
[0004] 2. Description of Prior Art
[0005] Prior art snorkels and scuba second stage regulators create
jaw fatigue and discomfort in the mouth, gums, and internal mouth
tissues. This occurs as loads are applied to the snorkel or
regulator that the mouthpiece is coupled to, due to weight and, or
drag forces on such device during diving as well as leverage forces
created by bending resistance or drag in attached air supply hosing
or tubes. Such loads cause the position of the snorkel or regulator
to move relative to the mouth causing the contours of the
mouthpiece to be misaligned with the contours of the mouth and
cause the jaw, lip, face and/or cheek muscles to tighten in an
effort to reduce and, or resist movement of the mouthpiece. Muscle
strain and fatigue can be heightened by long duration and repeat
dives as well as the cooling effect of water. This can reduce the
enjoyment of diving, create headaches, jaw cramps, inability to
move the jaw muscles, and can also cause a diving hazard. In
addition, the movement of the mouthpiece under such load can lead
to chaffing, abrasion, cutting and irritation to the soft tissues
of the mouth, including gums and lips. Such movement can also cause
pressure and deformation on the swimmer's gums and lips, increased
jaw fatigue by an actual or perceived need to increase biting
tension, reduced water seal, deviated alignment of the water seal
portions of the mouthpiece, deviated alignment of airflow from the
device the mouthpiece is coupled to relative to the alignment of
the airway in the swimmer's mouth, and other problems. In addition,
such movement of the mouthpiece under load causes increased biting
pressure that reduces the longevity of the mouthpiece as the teeth
eventually tear through the soft material, which can eventually
cause an inability to retain the mouthpiece within the mouth and
can be a hazard during diving. Also, jaw strain can cause
distraction while diving and can also lead to jaw and mouth
problems and, or can be accentuated by jaw or mouth problems
including TMJ, tooth pain, muscle strain, or sores, cuts and
abrasions in the soft tissues of the mouth.
OBJECTS AND ADVANTAGES
[0006] Accordingly, several objects and advantages of the present
invention are: [0007] (a) to provide methods and design that create
reduced jaw fatigue; [0008] (b) to provide reduced movement of a
snorkels and diving regulators during use; [0009] (c) to provide
reduced chaffing and abrasion against soft tissues of the mouth;
[0010] (d) to provide reduced deformation as loads are applied to
the device that the mouthpiece is coupled to; [0011] (e) to provide
improved water tight seal during diving as loads are applied to the
device that the mouthpiece is coupled to; [0012] (f) to provide
improved alignment of airflow through the passageway of the
mouthpiece relative to the alignment of the airway through the
swimmer's mouth as loads are applied to the device that the
mouthpiece is coupled to; [0013] (g) to provide increased longevity
and reduced structural failure under biting tension; [0014] (h) to
provide increased security of the mouthpiece during use; [0015] (i)
to provide reduced need for biting tension to retain mouthpieces;
[0016] (j) to provide improved structural stability; [0017] (k) to
provide improved alignment of contoured surfaces with the contours
of the mouth, teeth, lips and gums; [0018] (l) to provide increased
comfort for increased dive duration and increased repeat dives;
[0019] (m) to provide increased diving enjoyment and relaxation;
[0020] (n) to provide methods for opposing loads applied to
snorkels and regulators during swimming with reduced effort and
increased comfort; [0021] (o) to provide methods for resting
snorkels and regulators on the user's chin below the lower lip
without avoiding discomfort to such lower lip while using U-shaped
flexible mouthpieces within the mouth to create water tight seals
inside of the user's mouth relative to the surrounding water;
[0022] (p) to provide methods for reducing deformation to the
swimmer's lower lip during use; [0023] (q) to provide methods
reducing or even eliminating the need for the user to bit down on
the mouthpiece being held inside of the mouth; [0024] (r) to
provide methods and designs for providing adjustability of a chin
rest for different size chins; and [0025] (s) to provide methods
for providing a relatively soft and compressible material connected
to a snorkel or regulator for providing a cushion that can rest
against the chin of the user during use to reduce or eliminate
torsional forces to the mouthpiece during use.
[0026] Still further objects and objectives will become apparent
from a consideration of the ensuing description and drawings.
DRAWING FIGURES
[0027] FIG. 1 shows a side view of a prior art snorkel in the mouth
of a swimmer while swimming.
[0028] FIG. 2 shows the same view as shown in FIG. 1 except that
the swimmer is holding the mouthpiece loosely in the mouth while
swimming.
[0029] FIG. 3 shows a side view of an improved snorkel that is in
the mouth of a user.
[0030] FIG. 4 shows a side view of an improved scuba regulator that
is in the mouth of a user.
[0031] FIG. 5 shows a side view of an improved underwater breathing
device that is in the mouth of a user during use and has a chin
rest member.
[0032] FIG. 6 shows the same side view as shown in FIG. 5 except
that in FIG. 6 the jaw of the user is more open with upper and
lower teeth being farther apart.
[0033] FIG. 7a shows a close up side view of an improved underwater
breathing device that is in the mouth of a user.
[0034] FIG. 7b shows a side view of the improved breathing device
shown in FIG. 7a.
[0035] FIG. 8a shows a close up side view of an improved underwater
breathing device.
[0036] FIG. 8b shows a side view of the improved breathing device
shown in FIG. 8a, but within the mouth of a user.
[0037] FIG. 9a shows a close up side view of an improved underwater
breathing device.
[0038] FIG. 9b shows a side view of the improved breathing device
shown in FIG. 9a, but within the mouth of a user.
[0039] FIG. 10 shows a side perspective view of an alternate
embodiment.
[0040] FIG. 11a shows a cross section view taken along the line
11-11 in FIG. 10.
[0041] FIG. 11b shows an alternate embodiment of the cross section
view shown in FIG. 11a.
[0042] FIG. 11c shows an alternate embodiment of the cross section
view shown in FIG. 11b.
[0043] FIG. 12 shows a perspective view of an alternate
embodiment.
[0044] FIG. 13a shows a top view of the mouthpiece and connector
shown in FIG. 12.
[0045] FIG. 13b shows the mouthpiece and connector of FIG. 13a in
an extended position.
[0046] FIG. 13b shows the mouthpiece and connector of FIGS. 13a and
13b in a retracted position.
[0047] FIG. 14 shows a perspective view of an alternate
embodiment.
[0048] FIG. 15 shows an alternate embodiment cross section view
taken along the line 15-15 in FIG. 14.
[0049] FIG. 16 shows the same cross sectional view of the alternate
embodiment shown in FIG. 15 in an extended position.
[0050] FIG. 17 shows a side view of an alternate embodiment
breathing device having an adjustment member that is a pivoting
member on the breathing device.
[0051] FIG. 18 shows a side view of an alternate embodiment
breathing device having an adjustment member that is a pivoting
mouthpiece.
[0052] FIG. 19 shows a side view of an alternate embodiment
breathing device having a chin rest member that is retractable and
extendable.
[0053] FIG. 20 shows a side view of an alternate embodiment
breathing device having a chin rest member that is retractable and
extendable.
[0054] FIG. 21 shows a side view of an alternate embodiment
breathing device having a chin rest member that can be rotated and,
or removed.
[0055] FIG. 22 shows a side view of an alternate embodiment
breathing device having a chin rest member that is deformable.
[0056] FIG. 23 shows a side view of an alternate embodiment
breathing device having a chin rest member that is removable.
[0057] FIG. 24 shows a side view of an alternate embodiment
breathing device having a chin rest member that is adjustable.
[0058] FIG. 25 shows a side view of an alternate embodiment
breathing device having a chin rest member that is arranged to be
pivotally adjustable.
DESCRIPTION AND OPERATION
[0059] FIG. 1 shows a side view of a prior art snorkel in the mouth
of a swimmer while swimming. A cutaway view of a mouthpiece 30 is
shown within the mouth of a user. Mouthpiece 30 is connected to a
breathing tube 34 and breathing tube 34 is connected to a snorkel
38. Snorkel 38 has a lower portion 42, a lower end 46, a purge
valve 50 near lower end 46, an upper end 54 and an upper opening 58
that extends above a surface 62 of the water during surface
swimming to deliver breathable air to the swimmer through
mouthpiece 30. Mouthpiece 30 is seen to have a bite tab 66 shown in
a cutaway view between the teeth of the swimmer and a U-shaped wing
member 70 that is shown by dotted lines and typically fits between
the outside of the user's teeth and gums and the inside of the
user's cheeks and lips.
[0060] In FIG. 1, snorkel 38 is seen to have experienced a
deflection 72 from a neutral position 74, shown by broken lines, to
a deflected position 78. This occurs as a loading force 82 is
created by drag applied to snorkel 38 due to a relative movement 86
between the swimmer and surrounding water. In this case relative
movement 86 is forward directed due to forward swimming or opposing
an oncoming current or surge within the surrounding water. Relative
movement 72 can result from Force 82 can also be at least partially
caused by the weight of snorkel 38 which can cause snorkel 38 to
pivot downward relative to the mouth of the user during use. While
this example shows a snorkel being used, the same problems
described also occur with second stage scuba regulators and other
under water breathing devices which have a mouthpiece that extends
into the mouth of a swimmer.
[0061] Relative forward movement 86 creates drag on snorkel 38 in
the form of force 82 that is substantially opposite to swimming
relative movement 86. Force 82 causes snorkel 38 to experience
deflection 72 which causes wing member 70 (shown by dotted lines)
to bend within the swimmer's mouth. Deflection 72 to deflected
position 78 causes an upper portion 90 of mouthpiece 30 to tilt
forward and away from the upper teeth and gums of the user, press
outward on the upper lip of the user. Deflection 72 also causes a
lower portion 94 to also press downward and inward on the lower
gums as well as downward and outward on the user's lower lip, which
causes the lower lip to curl outward and downward along the chin.
This increases discomfort, reduces the quality and integrity of the
water tight seal intended by wing member 70. In addition, a
significant portion of mouthpiece 30 is no longer able to properly
conform to the contours of the user's mouth and uneven pressure
points and chaffing is applied to the soft tissues of the user's
mouth. This can also cause the user to tighten muscles within the
lips, cheeks and chin and jaw, which can increase muscle strain and
fatigue.
[0062] In deflected position 78, a passageway 98 of mouthpiece 30
is oriented at an upward angle to create a passageway flow
direction 102 having a passageway flow alignment 106 shown by
broken lines. Passageway flow direction 102 is seen to be at a
deflected angle 110 to an airway flow direction 114 within the back
of the user's mouth that has an airway flow alignment 118 shown by
broken lines. Passageway flow direction 102 is seen to be directed
substantially toward the roof of the user's mouth rather than
substantially parallel to airway flow alignment 118 and this can
reduce flow efficiency, ventilation capacity during exertion, and
create increased drying to the tissues on the roof of the mouth.
Also, the downward movement of mouthpiece 30 during deflection 78
causes a rearward opening 122 within passageway 98 to move
downward. This causes an increased amount of rear opening 122 of
internal passageway 98 to be blocked by the lower front teeth of
the user to reduce airflow capacity which can increase work of
breathing and ventilation flow capacity. In addition, this further
increases the deflection of passageway flow alignment 106 as
passageway flow direction 102 is deflected upward and then over the
front surfaces and upper edges of the lower front teeth of the
user.
[0063] In addition, deflected position 78 causes the contours of
mouthpiece 30 to be misaligned with the tissues of the user's mouth
to cause point pressures, chaffing, irritation, discomfort and
increased muscle strain.
[0064] Muscle strain and discomfort is further heightened as the
direction and magnitude of force 82 continually changes with
changes in swimming speed, changes in relative direction such as
when the swimmer's head is turned up or down or from side to side
relative to a direction of swimming or current, changes in current,
oscillating reversals in surge direction as waves approach and then
pass by, wave chop during surface swimming, and even wind pressure
and waves exerted on snorkel 38. Many of these same changing
situations occur when mouthpiece 30 is connected to a second stage
scuba regulator, including additional forces from drag, bending
resistance and, or weight exerted on the air supply hoses. Changes
in the magnitude and direction of force 82 and, or combinations of
alternating forces that make up force 82 can cause deflected
position 78 to move to new orientations and different locations.
This can create additional chaffing of soft tissues and can also
create additional muscle strain as different muscle groups need to
be tightened, moved and adjusted.
[0065] FIG. 2 shows the same view as shown in FIG. 1 except that
the swimmer is holding mouthpiece 30 loosely in the mouth while
swimming. This example is to show what can happen if a swimmer
loosens biting tension on bite tabs 66 as force 82 is applied to
snorkel 38 (or a second stage scuba regulator or similar device).
Bite tab 66 is seen to have pivoted against the upper teeth and is
spaced from the lower teeth. This permits deflection 70 to be
greater in FIG. 2 than shown in FIG. 1. In FIG. 2, defection 72 to
deflected position 78 causes increased movement of mouthpiece 30 so
that upper portion 90 has pivoted far away from the upper front
teeth of the user and is also no longer in contact with the upper
lip of the user. This causes the water tight seal intended by
mouthpiece 30 within the user's mouth to be broken so that water
can enter the user's mouth during breathing, which can be a hazard.
In order to re-establish the water tight seal between upper portion
90 and the upper lip of the user, the swimmer must apply a
tightened grip on bite tab 66 and close the jaw as shown in FIG. 1.
This increases jaw fatigue and prevents the user from relaxing his
bite. In FIG. 2, the lower lip of the user is also seen to have
increased deformation as it is forced to curl downward and outward
over the user's chin area. This can also cause the muscles of the
lips, checks and face to need to be tightened so as to help
restrain mouthpiece 30 and oppose deflection 72 and force 82. In
addition, deflection 110 is increased as the pivoting of mouthpiece
30 causes passageway flow alignment to have an increased upward
angle against the roof of the mouth and opening 122 becomes further
blocked by the lower teeth of the user as lower portion 94 pivots
further downward and against the soft gum tissues below the lower
teeth. Even in a compromised position between FIGS. 1 and 2 where
the water tight seal is not yet broken, jaw fatigue, muscle strain,
pain, discomfort, chaffing and tissue deformation can be
significantly high and the integrity of the water tight seal can be
greatly reduced and can lead to some leaking.
[0066] FIG. 3 shows a side view of an improved snorkel 38 that is
in the mouth of a user. Mouthpiece 30 is connected to a breathing
device member 124. In this example, breathing device member 124 is
snorkel 38; however, in other embodiments, breathing device member
124 may be any suitable device arranged to supply air to a swimmer.
The user is seen to be wearing a mask 126 having a mask strap 130
and snorkel 38 is seen to be connected to mask strap 130 with a
connection member 134. Force 82, which can result from the weight
of member 124 and, or drag forces within the surrounding water
created during use, is applied to member 124. Member 124 is seen to
have a chin rest member 138 which is arranged to contact the chin
of the user during use. It is preferred that rest member 138
contact the chin of the user sufficiently to permit the user's chin
to apply a supporting force 142 that can reduce or even eliminate
excessive pivoting of mouthpiece 30 under the exertion of force 82
during use. In this example, chin rest member 142 is seen to be
convexly shaped from a side view; however, alternate embodiments
may use shapes that are relatively concave, flat, curved, use
multiple curves or may use any suitable shape. In this example,
rest member 138 is seen to be arranged to contact the portion of
the chin that is concavely shaped beneath the lower lip of the
user; however, rest member may be arranged to contact any portion
or multiple portions of the chin area of the user during use. Rest
member 138 is preferably made with an injection molded
thermoplastic connected to breathing member 124 with any suitable
chemical and, or mechanical bond. Preferably, rest member 138 is
injection molded with a relatively flexible and, or relatively soft
thermoplastic material to provide cushioning and comfort to the
chin of the user; however, in alternate embodiments, chin rest
member 138 may be made with any suitable material including
relatively hard and, or relatively stiff materials. Examples of
materials that may be used to make rest member 138 include, PVC,
thermoplastic rubber, rubber, neoprene, fabric covered neoprene or
similar materials, foam rubber, neoprene foams or other suitable
foams, thermoplastic elastomers, thermoplastic olefins,
thermoplastic silicones, silicones, polypropylene, polyethylene, or
any other suitable material or thermoplastic material. Preferably,
when stiffer materials are used for member 138, the surface area of
contact with the chin should be sufficiently large enough to reduce
or even prevent excessive point pressures on the tissues of the
chin during use sufficiently to provide comfort to the chin during
use. In alternate embodiments, rest member 138 may be made with any
suitable material molded integrally with any portion of breathing
device member 124 and, or may include a bulbous, curved, extended,
or contoured region of member 124 that is arranged to contact at
least one portion of the general chin area during use. Rest member
124 may be any portion of breathing device member 124 and, or
mouthpiece 30 that is arranged to contact any portion of the chin
region of the user during use.
[0067] It is preferred that breathing device member 124 is arranged
to have a gap 154 between chin rest member 138 and mouthpiece 30
that is arranged provide a space for the lower lip of the user to
occupy without becoming excessively compressed or pinched during
use. Gap 154 preferably provides enough space around the lower lip
of the user so that the outer and, or lower tissues of the lip are
sufficiently free of pressure to reduce or even prevent discomfort
to the lower lip during use. Preferably, gap 154 provides a
relatively cavernous shape, recess, void, corridor or channel that
has a forward portion 158 that is forward of a rearward portion 162
of chin rest member 138. Preferably, forward portion 158 is
sufficiently forward to not create discomfort to the lower lip and
rearward portion 162 of rest member 138 is preferably rearward
enough to rest against the chin during use, including when force 82
is applied to breathing device member 124. In alternate
embodiments, forward portion 158 may be relatively even with
rearward portion 162 or gap 154 may also be not used at all if
desired.
[0068] FIG. 4 shows a side view in which breathing device member
124 is a second stage scuba regulator 146. In this example,
mouthpiece 30 is attached to regulator 146 with breathing tube 34.
An air supply hose member is seen to be connected to regulator 146.
In this example, chin rest member 138 is seen to contact the lower
portion of the user's chin; however, any portion of the general
chin area can be used. Preferably, portions of the chin area below
the lower lip are used so as to provide leverage and support to
reduce, oppose or even eliminate downward pivoting of breathing
device member 124 and, or mouthpiece 30 during use as force 82 is
applied. In this example, gap 154 is seen to be a relatively large
space between mouthpiece 30 and forward portion 158 of chin rest
member 138.
[0069] FIG. 5 shows a side view of breathing device member 124 that
is in the mouth of a user during use while chin rest member 138
rests against the chin as force 82 is applied to member 124.
Breathing device member 124 may be any suitable breathing device,
such as a snorkel, second state scuba regulator, surface supplied
pressurized air, rebreather mouthpiece, emergency air supply
device, or any other suitable source of air supply. In this
example, force 82 is at least in part due to relative movement 86
which in this case is directed forward from forward swimming and,
or opposing an oncoming current or oncoming surge within the
surrounding water. Mouthpiece 30 may be connected to breathing
device member 124 in any suitable manner.
[0070] The cut-away view in FIG. 5 permits mouthpiece 30 to be
viewed within the user's mouth. Upper portion 90 and lower portion
94 of mouthpiece 30 are seen to be aligned with the upper and lower
teeth and lips of the user for providing comfortable and a
beneficial water tight seal. U-shaped wing member 70 is seen to be
aligned with the contours of the user's mouth to reduce or prevent
the build up of point pressures on the soft tissues of the mouth
during use. Chin rest member 138 is arranged to contact the chin so
that the chin can providing supporting force 142 sufficient to
permit mouthpiece 30 and, or breathing device member 124 to
experience reduced or even eliminated pivoting within the mouth as
force 82 is applied to breathing device member 124 during use.
Because supporting force 142 successfully opposes force 82 to
control, reduce or preferably eliminate excessive pivoting of
mouthpiece 30 as force 82 is exerted, the user can reduce biting
pressure on bite tab 66. In this example, a small amount of space
is shown between bite tab 66 and the upper and lower teeth to show
that the jaw is relaxed and preferably reduced, negligible or even
no biting tension is required to be applied to bite tab 66 in order
to retain mouthpiece 30 within the mouth as force 82 is applied
during use. This is a major improvement that can greatly reduce or
even eliminate muscle fatigue, jaw strain, headaches and
interference from or aggravation to jaw related problems such as
TMJ. In addition, the reduction or elimination of pivoting,
deflection or deformation of mouthpiece 30 under force 82 can
greatly reduced movement, abrasion, chaffing and irritation to the
soft tissues of the mouth during use. Preferably, chin rest member
138 sufficiently contacts the chin to permit the user to completely
relax the jaw during use. Experiments with these methods of the
present invention have shown that the swimmer can greatly reduce or
even completely eliminate perceptible biting tension so that the
jaw muscles, lip muscles and face muscles are extremely or even
completely relaxed even when force 82 and relative movement 86 are
significantly high due to fast swimming speeds and, or fast current
or surge.
[0071] In addition, because chin rest member 138 permits mouthpiece
30 to experience reduced or even eliminated pivoting under force
82, internal passageway 98 of mouthpiece 30 is seen to permit
passageway flow direction 102 to be significantly aligned with
airway flow direction 114 within the mouth of the user. This can
increase flow efficiency, increase ventilation flow capacity
especially during exertion or deep dives in which density is
greatly increased, and reduce the work of breathing. In addition,
because the swimmer is able to reduce, loosen or even eliminate
biting tension on bite tab 66, the jaw can be opened for further
increased flow capacity, further reduced work of breathing and
increased comfort and increased safety during strenuous or
demanding diving conditions.
[0072] A comparison between FIG. 1 and FIG. 5 shows the methods of
the present invention can provide substantial improvements and
benefits over the prior art.
[0073] FIG. 6 shows the same side view as shown in FIG. 5 except
that in FIG. 6 the jaw of the user is more open with upper and
lower teeth being farther apart. This view shows that even when the
mouth is completely relaxed so that the upper and lower teeth do
not even contact bite tab 66, preferred embodiments can permit the
position of mouthpiece 30 and, or breathing device member 124 to
have increased stability during use as supporting force 142
successfully opposes force 82 without any need for biting tension.
In such preferred embodiments, jaw fatigue is dramatically reduced.
In addition, in this example a small space is seen to exist between
the upper and lower front teeth of the user and upper portion 90
and lower portion 94, respectively, of mouthpiece 30. This space is
provided to show that the methods of the present invention can
permit upper portion 90 and lower portion 94 of mouthpiece 30 to
provide a quality and well distributed seal against the front lips
of the user without the user having to pull inward on mouthpiece 30
with the lips to retain mouthpiece 30 within the mouth or to
maintain a water tight seal. This demonstrates that the methods of
the present invention can also be arranged to reduce muscle strain
and tension within the lips and surrounding face muscles during
use. In addition, while a space between the user's teeth and upper
portion 90 and, or lower portion 94 is not necessary, such a space
can exist and if no space exists, the methods of the present
invention can permit mouthpiece 30 to apply reduced or even
eliminated levels of tension or pressure against the teeth and
surrounding gums and lips during use. This can greatly increase
comfort, reduce pressure on soft tissues within the mouth, reduce
chaffing, reduce point pressures, reduce pressure against any
irritations previously existing within the mouth, and significantly
increase comfort and diving enjoyment. While it is preferred that
the methods of the present invention are used to maximize
improvements in comfort and reductions in strain or discomfort,
alternate embodiments may be arranged to provide only a certain
area or level of improvement without having to provide maximum
benefits or multiple benefits.
[0074] FIG. 7a shows a close up cutout side view of breathing
device member 124 that is in the mouth of a user. In this example,
a rearward opening vertical alignment 166 is shown by dotted lines
extending between the rearward ends of upper portion 90 and lower
portion 94 near rearward opening 122 of internal passageway 98.
Alignment 166 is seen to be angled downward and rearward because
the upper teeth of the user have a usual slight over bite relative
to the lower teeth and this causes mouthpiece 30 and breathing
device member 124 to be tilted downward. This causes mouthpiece 30
to be oriented at a horizontal alignment 174, shown by a dotted
line, when upper portion 90 rests against the upper front teeth and
lower portion 94 rests against the lower front teeth.
[0075] Rearward opening 122 has an upper opening portion 178 and a
lower opening portion 182. A chin rest alignment line 170 is shown
by dotted lines that originate at upper opening portion 178 and
extends to rearward portion 162 of chin rest member 138.
[0076] Alignment 170 shows the position of rearward portion 162
relative to upper opening portion 178. This is useful because many
people have a chin bone or a chin region that is nearly vertically
beneath the upper front teeth. While this can vary for people with
overbites as well as for people with shorter or longer chin
regions, many if not most people can derive benefits if rearward
portion 154 of chin rest 138 is arranged to be approximately below
upper opening 178 of mouthpiece 30; however, the position of
rearward portion may be varied to be further forward or further
rearward from such a position. In this example, chin rest alignment
line 170 is seen to intersects the forward portion of the user's
chin and rearward portion 162 of chin rest 138 to show a common
example when a portion of the user's chin is relatively below the
front teeth. In this example, upper opening portion 178 is
contacting the forward surface of the upper teeth, lower opening
portion 182 is contacting the forward surface of the lower teeth
and chin rest member 138 is contacting the user's chin to show that
the position of rearward portion 162 of chin rest 138 is well
positioned for comfortable and stable use. Variation can be
accommodated as the soft tissues of the chin depress slightly when
force 86 is applied to the chin and, or as mouthpiece 30 adjusts
position during use within reasonably comfortable and usable angles
and, or the use of a flexible material for chin rest member 138 is
able to flex under supporting force 142. Alternate embodiments can
also arrange chin rest member 138 to be adjustable, moveable,
replaceable and, or removable to accommodate variations of chin
sizes and overbite alignments. Fixed versions can use a median
position that accommodates a majority of users or and still provide
benefits to other users who do not receive an ideal fit, but still
at least somewhat useable results.
[0077] In alternate embodiments, lower portion 94 can extend
further rearward than upper portion 90 to accommodate a typical or
common overbite angle for the front teeth. This would cause
horizontal alignment 174 to be angled horizontally and
approximately level instead of being inclined downward and this
would also cause rearward portion 162 to move forward as breathing
member 124 is rotated upward. In such a situation, rearward portion
162 could be extended further back toward the chin so that it would
once again contact the chin, which in this example, would be
approximately vertically below the forward surface of the front
teeth.
[0078] Alignment 166 is at an angle 186 to alignment 170. Because
in this simple example, rearward opening alignment 166 is
substantially aligned with the angle of the user's overbite shown,
and because chin rest alignment 170 contacts the user's chin in a
vertical plum-line direction from upper opening portion 178, this
example causes angle 186 to be approximately equal to the overbite
angle of the user.
[0079] FIG. 7b shows a side view of breathing device member 124
shown in FIG. 7a, except that in FIG. 7a, breathing device member
124 and mouthpiece 30 are shown outside the mouth and are pivoted
vertically relative to the orientation shown in FIG. 7a so that in
FIG. 7b, rear opening alignment 166 is vertical. This view in FIG.
7b offers the ability to see the position of rearward portion 162
relative to alignment 166 of mouthpiece when breathing member 124
is held vertically and outside the mouth of a user. In this
example, this view in Fib 7b causes rearward opening alignment 166
to be vertical and chin rest alignment 170 extends at angle 186
forward of the vertical plane of rearward opening alignment.
Preferably, at least one portion of rearward portion 162 of chin
rest member 138 touches, contacts or crosses rearward of a plane
that is at an angle of between 0 to 30 degrees forward of rearward
opening alignment 166. In embodiments where lower portion 94 of
mouthpiece 30 extends further rearward than upper portion 92 to
accommodate for a user's overbite, it is preferred that rearward
opening alignment 166 extend vertically from upper opening portion
178 as a vertical reference line or plum-line in order to use a
reference plane for adjusting angle 186 for positioning rearward
portion 162. However, any method may be used to adjust, arrange or
select the position of rearward portion 162 relative to the chin of
the user during use.
[0080] Preferably, angle 186 can be within a wide number of ranges
of angle 186, such as between 20 and 30 degrees, 15 and 30 degrees,
10 and 30 degrees, 15 and 20 degrees, 10 and 20 degrees, 5 degrees
and 25 degrees, 5 and 20 degrees, 5 and 15 degrees, 5 and 10
degrees, 0 and 25 degrees, 0 and 20 degrees, 0 and 15 degrees, 0
and 10 degrees, 0 and 5 degrees, -5 and 20 degrees, -5 and 15
degrees, -5 and 10 degrees, -5 and 5 degrees, -10 and 10 degrees,
and/or between -10 and 25 degrees. Some preferred ranges can be
between 10 and 20 degrees, between 5 and 15 degrees and between 0
and 15 degrees; however, any angle or angles may be used to create
desired results.
[0081] Preferably, angle 186 is within a suitable range that
permits chin rest member 138 to contact the user's chin under the
exertion of force 82 while mouthpiece 30 is sufficiently aligned
with the user's mouth to be relatively comfortable and retainable
with a water tight seal within the user's mouth. Preferably,
mouthpiece 30 is able to maintain alignments that avoid excessive
deformation and, or pressure to the lips, gums and soft tissues of
the mouth.
[0082] FIG. 8a shows a close up side view of an alternate
embodiment breathing member 124, which is similar to that shown in
FIG. 7b, except that in FIG. 8a, rearward portion 162 of chin rest
member 138 is closer to rearward opening alignment 166 than shown
in FIG. 7b. In FIG. 8a, a dotted line shows a chin rest alignment
170', which is at an angle 186' to alignment 166. Chin rest
alignment 170 shows the relative position of chin rest alignment
170 shown in FIG. 7b for comparison to chin rest alignment 170' in
FIG. 8a. In FIG. 8a, rearward portion 162 is seen to extend
rearward across the plane created by chin rest alignment 170 and
angle 186' is less than angle 186. The reduced angle of angle 186'
that brings rearward portion 162 closer to alignment 166 can permit
this embodiment to best fit a user that has a reduced overbite and,
or a shorter chin. A further reduction in angle 186' can be used
for users having further reduced overbites and, or much smaller or
even recessed chins or chin areas.
[0083] FIG. 8b shows a side view of the same breathing member 124
shown in FIG. 8a, but within the mouth of a user. In this example,
rearward portion 162 extends further rearward (compared to FIGS. 7a
and 7b) so that the embodiment in FIG. 8b would further accommodate
shorter chins and/or reduced overbites. In this example, the same
chin and overbite conditions of the user shown in FIGS. 7a and 7b
is shown in FIG. 8b. This is done to show that even though the
embodiment shown in FIGS. 7a and 7b are better suited for this same
user, this user can still obtain benefits, usability and comfort
even from a less than perfect fit. In FIG. 8b, supporting force 142
opposes force 82 and the further rearward position of rearward
portion 162 causes alignment 174 in FIG. 8b to be less inclined
that shown in FIG. 7a. In FIG. 8b, the reduced inclination of
alignment 174 causes lower portion 94 of mouthpiece 30 to be spaced
from the lower teeth while upper portion 90 contacts the upper
teeth. Because the user's lips are still well positioned around
upper portion 90 and lower portion 94, a water tight seal is
maintained and deflection of the user's lips under force 82 is
relatively small and significantly reduced to that shown in FIGS. 1
and 2. As stated previously, the beneficial support and stability
provided by chin rest member 138 greatly reduces the need for
biting tension on bite tab 66 or lip tension on mouthpiece 30. This
permits mouthpiece 30 to not have to be perfectly aligned with the
user's teeth as pressure is reduced. Because much of the loading
forces created by force 82 is supported by the user's chin, forces
being applied to the mouth are greatly reduced, and in preferred
embodiments, such forces to the mouth are negligible or even
unnoticeable in comparison to the prior art. This also means that
angle 186' can be further reduced or significantly increased and
still be significantly useful and comfortable for the user.
[0084] The relative positioning relative to the teeth and chin of
the user in FIG. 8b would be similar in situations where the
shorter rearward extension of rearward portion 162 in FIGS. 7a and
7b is used by a person having a longer chin and, or larger over
bite. In other words, the usable conditions shown in FIG. 8b would
permit the embodiment in FIGS. 7a and 7b to be useable for a person
having a longer chin and, or larger overbite. This helps to show
that one particular design can be used to provide useful benefits
to a wide range of chin types and, or overbites. Preferably, in
non-adjustable embodiments, the arrangement of chin rest member 138
relative to mouthpiece 30 is selected to fit the most common users
and many user's outside of this range will experience useful
benefits.
[0085] FIG. 9a shows a close up side view of breathing member 128
which is similar to the embodiment in FIGS. 7a and 7b, except that
in FIG. 9a, rearward portion 162 is further forward than shown in
FIGS. 7a and 7b. In FIG. 9a, a chin rest alignment 170'' is seen to
be forward of alignments 170 and 170' shown in FIGS. 7b and 8a,
respectively. In addition, an angle 186'' is seen to be greater
than angle 186 and 186' shown in FIGS. 7b and 8a, respectively.
This further forward position of rearward portion 162 can be used
to accommodate users with longer chins and, or increased overbite
on their front teeth.
[0086] FIG. 9b shows a side view of breathing member 132 shown in
FIG. 9a, but within the mouth of a user. In this example, it can be
seen that if the same user (same chin and overbite configurations)
shown in FIG. 7a through 8b are used with this further forward
position of rearward portion 162, such a user can still enjoy
improved benefits from this version. In FIG. 9b, broken lines show
a neutral position 190 and breathing member 124 has pivoted
downward and inward from neutral position 190 and has come to a
rest at a deflected position 194 after rearward portion 162
contacts the chin of the user. Such pivoting causes lower portion
94 of mouthpiece 30 to contact the lower front teeth and causes
upper portion 90 to move outward and be spaced from the upper front
teeth. Although this can cause the upper lip to be pushed out
slightly, a significant portion of force 86 is preferably applied
to the chin as supporting force 142 stops further pivoting of
breathing member 124. Consequently, the remaining pressure on the
upper lip is significantly low and upper portion 90 is still
creating a good water tight seal with the upper lip. In comparison
to FIGS. 1 and 2, FIG. 9b shows major improvements over the prior
art. It is preferred that chin rest member 162 is positioned so
that a significant portion of force 86 is applied to the chin and
that mouthpiece 30 have a relatively comfortable orientation within
the user's mouth that avoids excessive deformation of the soft
tissues of the mouth and lips, avoids discomfort, avoids noticeable
or irritating levels of misalignment of the contours of mouthpiece
30 with the contours of the user's mouth, and/or is within a range
that provides significant comfort and relaxation.
[0087] The relative positioning relative to the teeth and chin of
the user in FIG. 9b would be similar in situations where the
positioning of rearward portion 162 in FIGS. 7a and 7b is used by a
person having a shorter chin and, or reduced over bite. In other
words, the usable conditions shown in FIG. 9b would permit the
embodiment in FIGS. 7a and 7b to be useable for a person having a
shorter chin and, or reduced over bite. This helps to show that one
particular design can be used to provide useful benefits to a wide
range of chin types and, or overbites. Preferably, in
non-adjustable embodiments, the arrangement of chin rest member 138
relative to mouthpiece 30 is selected to fit the most common users
and many user's outside of this range will experience useful
benefits.
[0088] FIGS. 7a to 9b show that while adjustments can be made to
the positioning of chin rest member 162 to accommodate different
length chins and, or overbites for a more fine tuned fit, a
significant ranges of less than perfect fits can still provide
substantial comfort and benefits. This means that although
adjustable or different size versions can be made available, a
fixed version set for median or most common chin sizes and, or
overbite angles can provide substantial benefits to a majority of
users. The preferred angles and methods for positioning chin rest
member 162 can be used to select a fixed arrangement that can be
used by practically all users and give major benefits to most, and
provide a maximum benefits to the majority having little variation
from the median chin and overbite types.
[0089] FIG. 10 shows a side perspective view of an alternate
embodiment. In this example, breathing member 124 is in the form of
an alternate embodiment of snorkel 38. In this example, mouthpiece
30 is connected to snorkel 38 with a bent tube 198 which is
arranged to permit mouthpiece 30 to be oriented at a predetermined
angle to lower portion 42 of snorkel 38. In this example,
mouthpiece 30 is oriented at a substantially horizontal alignment
relative to the substantially vertical alignment of lower portion
42. This permits chin rest member 38 to be positioned relative to
mouthpiece 30 so as to permit chin rest member 38 to contact the
chin of the user when mouthpiece 30 is retained within the user's
mouth.
[0090] FIG. 10 permits U-shaped member 70 to be seen from a
perspective view. U-shaped member 70 is seen to have a sealing
flange 200 that preferably rests between the user's lips and the
teeth and gums to create a water tight seal. Preferably, sealing
flange is made with a relatively flexible material that can contour
to the soft tissues of the mouth and reduce or avoid abrasion;
however, in alternate embodiments, relatively stiffer materials may
be used as well. In other embodiments, U-shaped member 70 and
sealing flange can be avoided entirely and only bite tabs 66 (in
any shape or form) can be used as the user's lips create a seal
around bent tube 198 (which can be a straight tube in alternate
embodiments) and, or tube 34. In such an embodiment, it is
preferred that gap 154 is provided in some suitable shape or manner
sufficient to avoid excessive compression to the tissue of the
lower tip as any suitable form of chin rest member 138 contacts the
chin of the user during use.
[0091] FIG. 11a shows a cross section view taken along the line
11-11 in FIG. 10. In FIG. 11a, mouthpiece 30 has a mouthpiece
alignment 202 that is at an angle 206 to a lower portion vertical
alignment 210. In this embodiment, angle 206 is seen to be
substantially perpendicular to the lower portion vertical alignment
210; however, in alternate embodiments, angle 206 can be any
desired angle. In this embodiment, angle 206 is created by bent
tube 198; however, in alternate embodiments, angle 206 may be
created by any method, part or component and the use of bent tube
198 can be reduced or even eliminated completely if desired. When
used, bent tube 198 may have a bend that is oriented at any desired
angle to fully form or partially form angle 206. In some preferred
embodiments, angle 206 can be between the ranges of 60 to 90
degrees, or 70 and 90 degrees. Other embodiments can have angle 206
be between the ranges of 45 and 60 degrees or 60 and 80 degrees. In
other alternate embodiments, angle 206 can be between 70 and 100
degrees, 70 and 110 degrees or 70 and 120 degrees.
[0092] While lower portion 42 in this embodiment is seen to have a
relatively vertical alignment, in alternate embodiments, such
vertical alignment can exist from a side view while the vertical
alignment from a front or rear view can be inclined at an angle in
a side-to-side direction if desired.
[0093] In FIG. 11a, bent tube 198 is seen to fit over breathing
tube 34 to form a mechanical connection; however, mouthpiece 30 may
be connected to breathing member 124 in any suitable manner.
Passageway 98 seen below breathing tube 34 is formed as upper
portion 54 of snorkel 38 connects to lower portion 42. In alternate
embodiments, upper portion 54 can join bent tube 198 if desired.
Chin rest member 138 is seen to be a convexly curved portion of
lower portion 42 of snorkel 38.
[0094] FIG. 11b shows an alternate embodiment of the cross section
view shown in FIG. 11a. In FIG. 11b, mouthpiece 30 is angled
slightly upward and angle 206 is seen to be less than shown in FIG.
11a. In the embodiment in FIG. 11b, chin rest member is seen to be
made with a relatively softer material 214 that is connected to a
relatively harder material 218 that is used to make lower portion
42. Preferably, softer material 214 is a relatively soft
thermoplastic material and harder material 218 is a relatively
harder thermoplastic material. Preferably, material 214 is
connected to material 218 with a thermo chemical bond created
during a phase of an injection molding process; however, any
mechanical and, or chemical bond may be used. This embodiment can
permit softer portion 214 to be soft on the skin of the chin and
can also be used to create increased cushioning within chin rest
member 138 if desired.
[0095] FIG. 11c shows an alternate embodiment of the cross section
view shown in FIG. 11b. In FIG. 11c, chin rest member 138 is seen
to be made with softer material 214, which is connected to a region
of lower portion 42 near mouthpiece 30 that is made with harder
material 218. In this embodiment, chin rest member 138 can be made
sufficiently flexible to permit member 138 to flex during use
within a predetermined range to shape to the chin of the user and,
or provide cushioning and increased comfort during use.
[0096] FIG. 12 shows a perspective view of an alternate embodiment
that is similar to the embodiments shown in FIGS. 10 to 11c.
Mouthpiece 30 is seen to have a relatively straight tube connector
222 that extends approximately perpendicular to the vertical
alignment of lower portion 42 of snorkel 38; however, mouthpiece 30
can be aligned at any suitable angle relative to a given alignment
of lower portion 42. Mouthpiece 30 is connected to breathing device
member 124 with breathing tube 34; however, any method of
connecting mouthpiece 30 to member 124 may be used. In this
example, chin rest member 138 is seen to extend rearward from lower
portion 42. Member 138 is preferably made with a relatively soft
material to provide cushioning and, or contouring to the chin;
however, relatively stiff materials may be used as well.
Preferably, at least one portion of chin rest member 138 is made
with a relatively soft material having a Shore A hardness that is
less than 80 durometer; however, embodiments may be used with a
shore A hardness that is greater than 80 durometer. In some
preferred embodiments, at least one portion of chin rest member 138
is made with a relatively soft material having a Shore A hardness
that is less than 60 durometer, less than 50 durometer, less than
40 durometer or less than 30 durometer. In other embodiments, a
Shore A hardness between 30 and 50, between 20 and 30, or between 2
and 20 may be used; however, any level of hardness may be used. In
this example, the rearward surface of member 138 is seen to have
convex curved shaped around a transverse axis and this is
preferably can be used to reduce point pressures that could be
created by corners and, or can be used to provide permit contouring
to the convex curved portion of the user's chin and, or can be used
to accommodate various chin types with comfort; however, any shape
or contour may be used.
[0097] In this embodiment, connector 222 of mouthpiece 30 includes
an adjustment member 236 which is a movable region that is arranged
to permit the position of mouthpiece 30 to be adjusted relative to
the position of chin rest member 138 in order to permit adjustments
for different users having different chin sizes and, or overbite
angles. In FIG. 12, mouthpiece 30 is seen to be in a retracted
position 226 and broken lines show an extended position 230 to
provide a predetermined range of movement 234. In this example,
predetermined range of movement 234 is arranged to provide a
telescoping movement for mouthpiece 30; however, in alternate
embodiments range of movement 234 may occur in any suitable manner,
direction, or orientation or arrangement. For example, range of
movement 234 can be arranged to provide pivotal motion around a
transverse axis. Any method or manner for providing relative
movement 234 in any direction and range that permits the position
of mouthpiece 30 to be adjusted relative to the position of chin
rest member 138 in order permit chin rest member 138 to contact the
chin of the user during use and, or to adjust the fit to a
particular user.
[0098] FIG. 13a shows a top view of mouthpiece 30 shown in FIG. 12
which is separated from breathing tube 34 in FIG. 13a. In FIG. 13a,
breathing tube 34 and connector 222 include are made movable with
adjustable member 236. In this embodiment, adjustable member 236 on
connector 222 includes internal recesses 238 disposed within the
inner surface of connector 222 along internal passageway 98.
Connector 222 has a forward end 242. Tube 34 is seen to have a
connection portion 246, and rearward end 250 and ridges 254. In
this example, adjustable member 236 on tube 34 include ridges 254
that are arranged to mate in different positions with recesses 238
in connector 222 of mouthpiece 30 to provide an adjustable
connection and a water tight seal when connection portion 246 is
inserted into passageway 98 of mouthpiece 30. In this embodiment, a
plurality of ridges 254 are used on connection portion 246;
however, in alternate embodiments, only one ridge 254 or no ridges
254 at all can be utilized if desired.
[0099] In other embodiments, adjustable member 236 can include at
least one ridge member 254 that is used to provide a stop member
that is arranged to prevent connector 222 from unintentionally
coming off connection portion 246 of breathing tube 34 and
connector 222 can be arranged to be able to slide back and forth on
connection portion 246 within range 234 prior to being stopped by
the stop member created by such at least one ridge member 254 in
order to permit the position of mouthpiece 30 to be continuously
adjustable within range 234. In such an example, connection portion
246 can be relatively smooth adjacent to such at least one ridge
member 254 in order to permit relatively easy sliding and some
degree of resistance can be provided by elastic tension provided by
connector 222 on connection portion 246. If desired, much smaller
intermediate ridges 254 can be used to provide a ratchet like
adjustability with reduced effort over a plurality of larger
ridges. In other alternate embodiments, adjustable member 236 can
provided by arranging tube 34 to be movably attached to breathing
device member 124 in any suitable manner so that connector 222 of
mouthpiece 30 remains in a fixed condition relative to connection
portion 246 of tube 34 while tube 34 is arranged to be movable
relative to member 124 any suitable direction, manner, orientation,
configuration or arrangement.
[0100] FIG. 13b shows mouthpiece 30 and connector of FIG. 13a in
extended position 230 while mouthpiece 30 is connected to breathing
tube 34. In this example, the first two ridges 254 of connection
portion 246 are seen to be within connector 222 and rearward end
250 of breathing tube 34 is inserted part way into connector 222
within passageway 98. Extended position 230 within range 234 can be
selected to accommodate users having longer chins and, or increased
overbite angles and, or to adjust for when a diver uses a neoprene
hood in cold water that extends forward from the chin of the
user.
[0101] FIG. 13c shows the mouthpiece and connector of FIGS. 13a and
13b in retracted position 226. In FIG. 13c, rearward end 250 of
breathing tube 34 is inserted all the way into connector 222.
Retracted position 226 within range 234 can be selected to
accommodate for users having shorter chins and, or smaller overbite
angles.
[0102] FIGS. 13a to 13c show one example of a method for arranging
mouthpiece 30 to be adjustable in a telescoping manner; however,
any suitable method and, or mechanism can be used.
[0103] FIG. 14 shows a perspective view of an alternate embodiment
in which breathing device member 124 is second stage scuba
regulator 146, in which pressurized breathable gas is supplied from
a gas hose In this example, straight tube 222 is used to connect
mouthpiece 30 to regulator 146; however, any method, shape or angle
of connection may be used. In this example, chin rest member 138 is
seen to include an exhaust vent member 258 that is used to vent
exhaled air, and a chin support member 262; however, in alternate
embodiments member 138 can have any configuration, arrangement,
combination of parts, positioning of parts and, or shape than can
be used to contact the chin of the user while mouthpiece 30 is
comfortably oriented within the user's mouth. In this example, chin
support 262 is connected to a rearward surface 266 of exhaust
member 258 so that chin support 262 extends sufficiently rearward
to contact the chin of the user; however, chin rest member 138 may
have any arrangement, configuration, shape, or manner of connection
to member 124.
[0104] In this embodiment, the position of mouthpiece 30 is seen to
be variably adjustable in a telescoping manner; however, any
direction, orientation, or method for providing mouthpiece 30 with
variable adjustability can be used. In FIG. 14, mouthpiece 30 is
arranged to move within range 234 from retracted position 226 to
extended position 230. Rather than using a plurality of
interlocking ribs and recesses as shown in FIGS. 13a to 13c to
provide a mechanical connection between connector 222 and breathing
tube 34, the embodiment in FIG. 14 uses a tension band 270 around
connector 222 to constrict connector 222 onto connection portion
246 (not shown) of breathing tube 34 that is inserted within
connector 222. Tension band 270 can be a zip tie or any suitable
tubing clamp. In this embodiment, adjustable member 236 includes
tension band 270 which can be removed to permit the user to slide
connector 222 in a telescoping manner forward or backward along
connection portion 246 (not shown) of breathing tube 34 in order to
permit chin rest member 138 to rest against the chin of the user
while mouthpiece 30 is in a substantially comfortable position
within the user's mouth, and then tension band 270 can applied and
tightened to secure mouthpiece 30 in such a desired position.
[0105] In alternate embodiments, any method may be used for
adjusting the position of mouthpiece 30 relative to chin rest
member 138 to permit chin rest member 138 to contact the chin of
the user and/or adjust such contact, and adjustable member 236 may
be any suitable connection that permits such adjustment in any
suitable direction, manner, degree, angle, arrangement,
configuration and or alignment. Similarly, range of movement 234
can occur in any suitable direction, angle, alignment, direction,
manner, amount or manner.
[0106] In alternate embodiments, rearward surface 266 of exhaust
member 258 can be arranged to be positioned relative to mouthpiece
30 so as to contact the chin of the user with or without support
member 262. In other alternate embodiments, the position of chin
support member 262 and, or rearward surface 266 and, or exhaust
member 258 and, or chin rest member 138 can be arranged to be
variably adjustable in any manner relative to the position of
breathing device member 124 and, or mouthpiece 30.
[0107] In FIG. 14, chin support member 262 is seen to have a
rearward surface 274 that has a concave curved contour around a
vertical axis. This can be used to contour to the curved contour of
the chin of a user around a vertical axis. This can also be used to
at least partially wrap around the sides of the user's chin to
provide for increased comfort and, or lateral stability. In this
example, chin support member 262 has a width that is narrower than
rearward surface 266 of exhaust member 258; however, in alternate
embodiments, chin support member 262 can extend over the entire
width of rearward surface 266 or be wider than rearward surface
266. Preferably, support member 262 is made with a relatively soft
material to provide cushioning and, or contouring and, or a soft
texture to the chin of the user; however, any material having any
level of stiffness or flexibility may be used. Chin support member
262 may be permanently secured, removably attached, replaceable
with different size chin support members 262 or may be made movable
relative to the chin of the user and, or breathing device member
124 and, or mouthpiece 30.
[0108] FIG. 15 shows an alternate embodiment cross section view
taken along the line 15-15 in FIG. 14, in which adjustable member
236 in FIG. 15 is arranged to permit tube 34 to be movable. In this
alternate embodiment, tube 34 is arranged to be retractable and, or
extendable along a substantially lengthwise axis. Connector 222 is
attached to connection portion 246 with tension band 270; however,
any suitable method of connection may be used. Tube 34 is seen to
extend inside of breathing device member 124, which in this example
is regulator 146. Member 124 is seen to have internal tracking
members 282 that are arrange to guide the movement of tube 34
through range 234. In side passageway 98 within tube 34 is seen to
be a tracking tube member 286 that is also arranged to guide the
movement of tube 34 within range 234. Tracking members 282 and tube
member 286 are seen to have sealing members 290, which in this
example are O-rings around the interior and exterior of tube 34
within breathing device member 124. Sealing members 290 provide a
water tight seal between tube 34 and breathing device member 124.
Preferably, sealing members 290 will be sufficiently compressed
during use to provide some friction and resistance to movement for
tube 34 so that the user can push or pull mouthpiece 30 to a
preferred position and then tube 34 will have sufficient resistance
to further movement to permit mouthpiece 30 to retain such an
adjusted position during use. In alternate embodiments, any
suitable locking device may be used to hold a particular adjusted
position stable during use. In other embodiments, a series of
notches and, or ridges may be used to create ratchet-like movement
that have increased resistance to movement between such notches and
ridges.
[0109] In FIG. 15, mouthpiece 30 is seen to be in retracted
position 226 and broken lines show the position of extended
position 230. Tube 34 is seen to have an extension stopping member
294 that is arranged to contact breathing device member 124 and
stop further extension when mouthpiece 30 has reached extended
position 230. Tube 34 is seen to have a retraction stopping member
298 that is arranged to contact breathing device member 124 and
stop further retraction when mouthpiece 30 has reached retracted
position 266. In FIG. 15, retraction stopping member 298 is in
contact with the end of tube 286 due to being in retracted position
266; however, in alternate embodiments, any method for stopping
and, or restraining movement of mouthpiece 30 may be used.
[0110] FIG. 16 shows the same cross sectional view of the alternate
embodiment shown in FIG. 15, except that mouthpiece 30 is shown in
extended position 230. In this view, stopping member 294 is in
contact with breathing device member 124 due to mouthpiece 30 being
in extended position 230.
[0111] FIGS. 17 to 23 show side views of alternate embodiments for
breathing device member 124, which can be used for any type of
breathing device member 124, including snorkels, regulators or any
other suitable underwater air supply device.
[0112] FIG. 17 shows a side view of breathing device member 124 in
which adjustable member 236 is a pivoting member 302. In this
embodiment, pivoting member 302 is a pivotal joint member 306 that
is connected between tube 34 and breathing device member 134. In
this example, pivotal joint member 306, which can be similarly
constructed as a common ball joint (or can even be one) except that
preferably, pivotal joint member 306 is arranged to be more of a
cylindrical tube than a ball so that pivotal motion occurs around a
transverse axis having a transverse focal point 310 rather than
pivoting in all directions like a universal ball joint.
Furthermore, once pivotal joint member 306 is pivoted to a desired
position in which at least one portion of breathing device member
124 can rest against at least one portion of the chin area of the
user, it is preferred that pivotal joint member 306 be provided
with sufficient internal friction or bending resistance to stay in
such an adjusted position during normal use without pivoting out of
such position. Alternatively, a suitable locking device and, or
ratchet connection may be used to secure pivoting tube joint 306 in
a desired position. Preferably, pivotal joint member 306 is a
hollow joint that permits breathable air to pass through internally
from breathing device member 124 to mouthpiece 30 while being
sufficiently water tight to prevent surrounding water from entering
from the exterior of joint 306. Preferably, any flexible gasket
and, or O-ring configuration may be used to create a water tight
seal within pivotal joint member 306.
[0113] The view in FIG. 17 shows that pivotal joint member 306 is
arranged to permit breathing device member 124 to experience
pivotal motion relative to mouthpiece 30 and move from retracted
position 226 to extended position 230 within predetermined range of
motion 234. Because mouthpiece 30 is preferably held stable within
the mouth of the user during use, the user can hold breathing
device member 124 with one hand and pull member 124 to pivot it
away from the chin toward retracted position 226 so as to
accommodate for a longer chin dimension relative to the user's
mouth and, or to accommodate for a larger overbite, or the user can
push member 124 to pivot it toward extended position 230 so as to
move chin rest member 138 toward the chin to accommodate for a
shorter chin length and, or a smaller overbite. These adjustments
can also be made to fine tune the alignment of mouthpiece 30 within
the mouth of the user as chin rest member 138 rests against the
chin of the user. Because pivotal joint member 306 is preferred to
have sufficient bending resistance and, or a sufficient locking
device and, or sufficient ratchet-like adjustments, pivotal joint
member 306 would preferably remain in a predetermined adjusted
position selected by the user during use and not bend out of such
position under normal operating loads. This is important because
the position of chin rest member 138 should preferably remain
sufficiently stable during use so that a significant amount of the
loading forces applied to breathing device member 124 during use
are able to be applied to the chin of the user while mouthpiece 30
can remain in a relatively comfortable orientation in the mouth.
Arranging joint member to remain in a selected position under
ordinary loads created during use is important so that the relative
positions of mouthpiece 30 and chin rest member 138 remain
relatively stable as loading forces created during use are
transferred between mouthpiece 30 and chin rest member 138.
[0114] While the prior art has provided pivotal connections between
a mouthpiece and a breathing device, such pivotal connections have
not been used as a method to permit a portion of the breathing
device to contact the chin of the user so as to reduce jaw fatigue
or increase stability of the mouthpiece within the user's mouth.
While the embodiment in FIG. 17 shows pivotal joint member 30 being
located between tube 34 and the upper portion of breathing device
member 124, in alternate embodiments pivotal joint member 306 may
have any shape, arrangement, configuration, placement, positioning,
orientation, direction of movement or method of construction. In
alternate embodiments, any suitable water tight pivoting joint may
be used in location to provide a pivotal connection between the
relative positions of mouthpiece 30 and chin rest member 138. For
example, chin rest member 138 can be pivotally connected to any
portion of breathing device member 124 using any type of connection
that permits pivotal movement between member 138 and member
124.
[0115] FIG. 18 shows a side view of the same embodiment shown in
FIG. 17 except that pivotal joint member 306 is shown to permit
mouthpiece 30 to pivot through range 234 while breathing device
member 124 is held stable. This type of movement can occur as chin
rest member 138 is held stable against the chin of the user and the
user can pivot the orientation of mouthpiece 30 to achieved varied
alignment with the contours of the user's mouth for maximum
comfort. In alternate embodiments, any suitable method or device
may be used to provide pivotal motion and adjustability to the
position of mouthpiece 30 relative to chin rest member 138.
[0116] FIG. 19 shows a side view of an alternate embodiment in
which chin rest member 138 is retractable and extendable. In this
example, chin rest member 138 is connected to breathing device
member 124 with a retractable member 314 which extends into member
124 as shown by dotted lines. In this example, retractable member
314 has ridges 318 to provide ratcheted adjustment to the position
of chin rest member 138 as retractable member 3154 extends into and
out of a suitably mating pathway within breathing device member
124. Chin rest member is shown in extended position 230 and broken
lines show a flexed position 322 to show that in this example, chin
rest has a predetermined amount of flexibility during use as loads
are applied to chin rest member 138; however, chin rest member 138
can be arranged to have any degree of flexibility or stiffness.
Chin rest member 138 is seen to have range of motion 234 between
extended position 230 and retracted position 266, which is shown by
broken lines. In alternate embodiments, retractable member 314 may
be curved rather than straight, or may have any shape, orientation,
configuration, alignment or arrangement. Chin rest member 138 is
seen to be curved; however any shape may be used.
[0117] FIG. 20 shows a side view of an alternate embodiment
breathing device having a chin rest member that is retractable and
extendable. In this example, chin rest member 138 is connected to
breathing device member 124 with retractable member 314 that
extends into breathing device member 124. In this embodiment,
retractable member 314 has helical threads 326 that permit chin
rest member 138 to move within range 234 between retracted position
226 and extended position 230 as chin rest member 138 and
retractable member 314 are turned around the lengthwise axis of
retractable member 314 like a screw due to threads 236. Preferably,
some degree of friction or resistance would be provided to prevent
retractable member from spinning and changing position
unintentionally during use. In alternate embodiments, chin rest
member 138 and, or retractable member 314 can be removable and, or
replaceable with alternate parts having varied sizes, dimensions,
shapes, flexibility, compressibility, softness, stiffness, contour
or any other characteristic.
[0118] FIG. 21 shows a side view of an alternate embodiment in
which chin rest member 138 can be rotated and, or removed. In this
embodiment, adjustable member 236 includes chin rest member 138
that has a larger chin rest portion 330 and a smaller chin rest
portion 334 that are spaced apart and connected by a band 338 that
extends laterally around breathing device member 124. In this
embodiment, it is preferred that portion 330, portion 334 and band
338 are molded integrally with a relatively soft and elastic
material so that portions 330 and 334 are relatively soft and band
338 is elastic to permit band 338 to expand when being placed
around member 124 and then contract to grip a selected position
along member 124; however, member 138 may have any shape, method of
connection, method of adjustment, combination of materials, type of
materials, range of movement, number of selected positions,
arrangement or configuration. This example permits chin rest member
138 to be movable over range of movement 234 which is seen to be
both rotational and vertical. The rotational movement over range
234 permits chin rest member 138 to rotate between a first position
342 that is shown by solid lines and a second position 346 shown by
broken lines. Second position 346 permits the positions of larger
portion 342 and smaller portion 346 to be changeable to further
accommodate users having different chin lengths and, or overbites.
Also, chin rest member 138 may be removed from member 124 if
desired by sliding member 138 vertically off of member 124 to a
removed position 350 so that member 138 is can be replaced or can
be not used at all if desired. The vertical direction of range of
motion 234 is seen to permit chin rest member 138 to be removed as
shown by removed position 250 and also permits chin rest member to
move vertically along member 124 such as to a higher position 354.
Chin rest member 138 can be arranged to have any number of chin
rest portions of varying sizes and can be movable in any direction
to permit further adjustment to individual users.
[0119] FIG. 22 shows a side view of an alternate embodiment in
which chin rest member 138 is deformable. In this embodiment,
member 138 is seen to be moveable from first position 342 shown by
solid lines to second position 346 shown by broken lines. In this
embodiment, second position 346 is created by deforming chin rest
member 138. Such deformation can either be arranged to adjustable
by using a material that has poor memory characteristics, such as a
low memory thermoplastic, that can be continuously bent and
reshaped and remain in a selected bent configuration, or
alternatively, a highly flexible and elastic material can be used
having a significantly memory so that such deformation occurs
automatically as the user's chin contacts chin rest member 138 to
provide automatic contouring, shaping and, or cushioning.
[0120] FIG. 23 shows a side view of an alternate embodiment
breathing device having a chin rest member that is removable. In
this example, chin rest member 138 is removable as shown by removed
position 350. Chin rest member 138 is seen to have a securing
portion 358, which in this example includes a rod member 362 and a
stop member 366 which are preferably made with a relatively
flexible material that can be inserted into a suitable hole or
cavity within breathing device member 124 and stop member 366 can
expand within member 124 to prevent chin rest member 138 from
separating from breathing device member 124 unless intentionally
removed. This embodiment can permit different size chin rest
members 138 to be interchanged and replaced or removed entirely if
desired. In addition, chin rest member 138 is seen to have a second
position 346 shown by broken lines to show that a given chin rest
member 138 can be made with a deformable material and, or a
relatively soft cushion that can adjust to the contours of the
user' chin to any amount or degree if desired.
[0121] FIG. 24 shows a side view of an alternate embodiment in
which chin rest member 138 is arranged to be movable in a
substantially vertical direction within a track member 370 within
member 124. In this embodiment, track member 370 is a recessed
groove within member 124 and chin rest member 138 can be secured
within track member 370 in any suitable manner; however, any
suitable tracking system may be used to permit member 138 to slide
along any portion or portions of the length of member 124 and
preferably be locked, ratcheted or secured in any adjusted
position. Chin rest member 138 is seen to be movable along range of
motion 234 from first position 342 shown by solid lines to second
position 346 shown by broken lines. In this embodiment, member 124
is angled so that range of motion 234 can occur both vertically and
horizontally; however, in alternate embodiments any direction,
angle, orientation, manner of movement or range of movement may be
used. In this example, the angled alignment of track member 370
along member 124 can be used to permit a user having a smaller
length chin and, or overbite to use a position near first position
342 while a user having a larger chin and, or overbite can move
member 138 closer to second position 346. This can also permit
member 138 to contact different portions of the user's chin such as
just below the user's lower lip or nearer to the lower portions of
the chin as desired.
[0122] FIG. 25 shows a side view of an alternate embodiment in
which chin rest member 138 is arranged to be pivotally adjustable.
In this embodiment, adjustable member 236 includes pivotal member
302, which in this example is a ratcheted hinge 347 which is
connected to chin rest member 138 with a pivotal arm 372. Any
suitable ratcheted hinge device may be used. In this example,
ridges 318 are used between a first surface 378 and a second
surface 382 to create ratcheted incremental adjustments within
ratcheted hinge 347 as chin rest member 138 is rotated between
first position 342 shown by solid lines and second position 346
shown by broken lines to permit extension and retraction of chin
rest member 138 for further accommodating different chin and, or
overbite types for different users. In alternate embodiments,
ratcheted hinge member 374 can be replaced with any suitable
incrementally or continuously adjustable device having any desired
placement that is capable of adjusting the relative positions
between mouthpiece 30 and chin rest member 138.
[0123] The embodiments shown in FIGS. 17 to 25 are only a few of
the many variations possible using the methods of the present
invention, and any other variation or combinations of variations
may be used in any amount, degree or manner, including any of the
individual variations of any of the embodiments in this description
or any other suitable variations.
SUMMARY, RAMIFICATIONS, AND SCOPE
[0124] Accordingly, the reader will see that the methods of the
present invention provide many advantages in that they can: [0125]
(a) provide methods and design that create reduced jaw fatigue;
[0126] (b) provide reduced movement of a snorkels and diving
regulators during use; [0127] (c) provide reduced chaffing and
abrasion against soft tissues of the mouth; [0128] (d) provide
reduced deformation as loads are applied to the device that the
mouthpiece is coupled to; [0129] (e) provide improved water tight
seal during diving as loads are applied to the device that the
mouthpiece is coupled to; [0130] (f) provide improved alignment of
airflow through the passageway of the mouthpiece relative to the
alignment of the airway through the swimmer's mouth as loads are
applied to the device that the mouthpiece is coupled to; [0131] (g)
provide increased longevity and reduced structural failure under
biting tension; [0132] (h) provide increased security of the
mouthpiece during use; [0133] (i) provide reduced need for biting
tension to retain mouthpieces; [0134] (j) provide improved
structural stability; [0135] (k) provide improved alignment of
contoured surfaces with the contours of the mouth, teeth, lips and
gums; [0136] (l) provide increased comfort for increased dive
duration and increased repeat dives; [0137] (m) provide increased
diving enjoyment and relaxation; [0138] (n) provide methods for
opposing loads applied to snorkels and regulators during swimming
with reduced effort and increased comfort; [0139] (o) provide
methods for resting snorkels and regulators on the user's chin
below the lower lip without avoiding discomfort to such lower lip
while using U-shaped flexible mouthpieces within the mouth to
create water tight seals inside of the user's mouth relative to the
surrounding water; [0140] (p) provide methods for reducing
deformation to the swimmer's lower lip during use; [0141] (q)
provide methods reducing or even eliminating the need for the user
to bit down on the mouthpiece being held inside of the mouth during
use; [0142] (r) provide methods and designs for providing
adjustability of a chin rest for different size chins and, or
overbite types; and [0143] (s) provide methods for providing a chin
support member that can rest against the chin of the user during
use to reduce or even eliminate excessive torsional forces to a
mouthpiece being held inside the mouth of a user during use; [0144]
(t) provide methods for providing a relatively soft and
compressible material connected to a snorkel or regulator for
providing a chin support member that can rest against the chin of
the user during use as a mouthpiece is held inside the mouth of the
user; and [0145] (u) provide still further objects and objectives
as apparent from a consideration of the description and
drawings.
[0146] Although the description above contains many specificities,
these should not be construed as limiting the scope of the
invention but as merely providing illustrations of some of the
presently preferred embodiments of this invention. For example,
while the description gives examples for diving mouthpieces and
underwater breathing devices, in alternate embodiments, any of the
methods of the present invention can be used for any type of
mouthpiece. This can include ventilation tubes, tracheal tubes,
feeding tubes, or any other type of device connected to a
mouthpiece.
[0147] In alternate embodiments, the mouthpiece can have any form,
shape, contour, arrangement or configuration suitable for allowing
the user to retain the mouthpiece within the mouth. For example, in
alternate embodiments, the bite tabs may have any shape, size,
arrangement or configuration or may be not used at all. In
addition, the use of a U-shaped member can be substituted for any
suitable mouth engaging member that can provide a usable connection
with the user's mouth. In addition, a U-shaped member can be
provided by inserting a flexible planar or non-U-shaped member into
the mouth, which becomes U-shaped after inserted into the mouth due
to flexing and contouring to the user's mouth. In other embodiments
any type of sealing flange or portion can be used to create a water
tight seal with the user's lips or inside of the user's lips in any
suitable manner.
[0148] In addition, it is intended that any of the embodiments and
individual variations discussed in the above description may be
interchanged and combined with one another in any desirable order,
amount, arrangement, or configuration, and are included by
reference to each other individual variation and embodiment.
[0149] Accordingly, the scope of the invention should not be
determined not by the embodiments illustrated, but by the appended
claims and their legal equivalents.
* * * * *