U.S. patent application number 12/315397 was filed with the patent office on 2010-06-03 for vest personal flotation device saver.
Invention is credited to George D. Vick.
Application Number | 20100136862 12/315397 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 42223237 |
Filed Date | 2010-06-03 |
United States Patent
Application |
20100136862 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Vick; George D. |
June 3, 2010 |
Vest personal flotation device saver
Abstract
A vest-type personal flotation device saver includes: (a) a main
body comprising: (1) a saver pillow portion, (2) two substantially
mirror image saver tail portions extending from the pillow portion,
and (3) a central open neck, (4) a gap extending down from the open
neck between two closed sides of the tail portions, (5) a closed
tail end pocket at the end of each saver tail portion, and (6)
three closable, adjacent sides of the main body; (b) a releasable
closure mechanism on the main body; (c) a releasable saver waist
strap device attached to the saver tail portion; and (d) a locking
mechanism on the main body adjacent the closure mechanism; and
preferably (e) a conversion grab strap, (f) a storage pocket, and
(g) a conversion flotation liner; wherein the main body has open
and closed positions. This simplified abstract is not intended to
limit, and should not be interpreted as limiting, the scope of the
claims.
Inventors: |
Vick; George D.;
(Charleston, SC) |
Correspondence
Address: |
George D. Vick
1074 Sea Eagle Watch
Charleston
SC
29412
US
|
Family ID: |
42223237 |
Appl. No.: |
12/315397 |
Filed: |
December 3, 2008 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
441/118 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B63C 9/11 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
441/118 |
International
Class: |
B63C 9/11 20060101
B63C009/11 |
Claims
1. A combination personal flotation device and vest personal
flotation device saver, the personal flotation device saver
comprising: (a) a main body comprising: (1) a saver pillow portion,
(2) two substantially mirror image saver tail portions extending
from the saver pillow portion, and (3) a central open neck, (4) a
gap extending down from the open neck between two closed sides of
the tail portions, and (5) three closable, adjacent sides of the
main body; (b) a releasable closure mechanism on each of the three
closable, adjacent sides of the main body; (c) a releasable saver
waist strap device, a portion of which is attached to the saver
tail portion; (d) a conversion system comprising (1) a releasable
conversion connector device attached to a closed end of each of the
saver tail portions, (2) at least two conversion grab straps
attached to the main body, and (3) a conversion flotation liner
that comprises a plurality of floatable conversion flotation liner
sections; and (e) a locking mechanism on the main body, the locking
mechanism being adjacent the closure mechanism; wherein the main
body has an open position in which the closure mechanism is open,
and a closed position in which the closure mechanism is closed.
2. The combination according to claim 1, wherein the closure
mechanism comprises a plurality of hook and loop strips, a first
portion of the hook and loop strips being attached along an edge of
a top section of the main body, a second, corresponding portion of
the hook and loop strips being attached along an edge of a bottom
section of the main body; corresponding portions of the hook and
loop strips being removably attached to one another when the
personal flotation device saver is in the closed position.
3. The combination according to claim 2, wherein at least one top
flap of the personal flotation device saver is closed over a
corresponding bottom flap of the personal flotation device saver
when the personal flotation device saver is in the closed
position.
4. The combination according to claim 2, wherein the saver pillow
portion comprises at least two hook and loop tabs at each corner of
the saver pillow portion, each set of two of the at least two hook
and loop tabs forming a boxed corner on the saver pillow
portion.
5. The combination according to claim 2, wherein the locking
mechanism comprises a set of locking holes on at least two sides of
the personal flotation device saver, and a locking strip extending
through each set of locking holes.
6. The combination according to claim 1, wherein the closure
mechanism is at least one zipper, the main body further comprising
an accessible locking mechanism storage pocket.
7. The combination according to claim 6, wherein the locking
mechanism comprises a locking strip; the at least one zipper being
closed and locked by the locking strip, the locking strip extending
through a hole in a zipper pull of the at least one zipper and at
least one locking hole in the main body.
8. The combination according to claim 1, further comprising: a
closed tail end pocket at an end of each of the saver tail
portions, a weight strip attached in each tail end pocket of each
saver tail portion, and at least two drain holes in each tail end
pocket.
9. The combination according to claim 1, wherein the personal
flotation device is a Type II personal flotation device, the
conversion connector device comprises at least one conversion
connector strap and a corresponding conversion connector strap
buckle in a normally closed position, and the combination is a Type
IV personal flotation device ready for immediate use.
10. The combination according to claim 1, wherein the personal
flotation device is a Type II personal flotation device, the
conversion connector device comprises at least one conversion
connector strap and a corresponding conversion connector strap
buckle in an unsnapped position, and the combination is a Type II
personal flotation device readily available for use.
11. The combination according to claim 1, wherein the personal
flotation device is a Type I personal flotation device, the
conversion connector device is in a normally closed position, and
the combination is a Type IV personal flotation device ready for
immediate use.
12. The combination according to claim 1, wherein the personal
flotation device is a Type I personal flotation device, the
conversion connector device comprises at least one conversion
connector strap and a corresponding conversion connector strap
buckle in an unsnapped position, and the combination is a Type I
personal flotation device readily available for use.
13. A vest personal flotation device saver, comprising: (a) a main
body comprising: (1) a saver pillow portion, (2) two substantially
mirror image saver tail portions extending from the pillow portion,
and (3) a central open neck, (4) a gap extending down from the open
neck between two closed sides of the tail portions, (5) a closed
tail end pocket at the end of each saver tail portion, and (6)
three closable, adjacent sides of the main body; (b) a releasable
closure mechanism on each of the three closable, adjacent sides of
the main body; (c) a releasable saver waist strap device, a portion
of which is attached to the tail portion; and (d) a locking
mechanism on the main body adjacent the closure mechanism; wherein
the main body has an open position in which the closure mechanism
is open, and a closed position in which the closure mechanism is
closed.
14. The personal flotation device saver according to claim 13,
further comprising: (e) a releasable conversion connector device
attached to a closed end of each of the saver tail portions; (f) at
least two conversion grab straps, each having opposite ends
attached to the main body; and (g) a conversion flotation liner
that comprises a plurality of floatable conversion flotation liner
sections within the personal flotation device saver.
15. The personal flotation device saver according to claim 13,
wherein the closure mechanism comprises a plurality of hook and
loop strips, a first portion of the hook and loop strips being
attached along a first edge of the main body, a second,
corresponding portion of the hook and loop strips being attached
along a second edge of the main body; the corresponding first and
second portions of the hook and loop strips being removably
attachable to one another.
16. The personal flotation device saver according to claim 13,
wherein the closure mechanism is a zipper, the locking mechanism
comprising a locking strip; the zipper being closed and locked by
the locking strip, the locking strip extending through a hole in a
zipper pull of the zipper and at least one locking hole in the main
body.
17. The personal flotation device saver according to claim 13,
further comprising a Type II personal flotation device within the
personal flotation device saver, where the personal flotation
device saver/personal flotation device combination is itself a Type
II personal flotation device.
18. The personal flotation device saver according to claim 13,
further comprising a Type I personal flotation device within the
personal flotation device saver, where the personal flotation
device saver/personal flotation device combination is itself a Type
I personal flotation device.
19. The personal flotation device saver according to claim 15,
further comprising least two top flaps on opposite sides of the
personal flotation device saver, and at least two bottom flaps on
opposite sides of the personal flotation device saver; wherein one
of the at least two top flaps is closed over a corresponding one of
the at least two bottom flaps when the main body is in the closed
position, and the saver pillow portion comprises at least two hook
and loop tabs that form boxed corners on the saver pillow
portion.
20. The personal flotation device saver according to claim 13,
wherein the saver pillow portion comprises at least one seam that
forms at least two boxed corners on the pillow portion.
Description
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0001] 1. Technical Field
[0002] The present invention relates to a vest-type personal
flotation device saver that can be used in combination with a
serviceable or non-serviceable Type I or II personal flotation
device by a swimmer in the water in a potential emergency situation
for use as a personal flotation device.
[0003] 2. Background Information
[0004] An estimated 17 million old personal flotation devices
(called "PFDs" herein) are discarded every year in the United
States. The US Coast Guard and most states require that old,
non-serviceable PFDs be taken out of service. "Non-serviceable"
means that the PFD must not be used for service as a life saving
device, since it may fail. Often, the outer fabric of the PFD has
deteriorated and therefore may fail to hold intact the life saving
fill material inside it. PFDs are designed to keep a person afloat
during an emergency. Torn, worn, rotten, and deteriorated PFD
fabrics can put the user's life in peril in an emergency
situation.
[0005] Secondly, old PFDs cause disposal problems. In a landfill,
they are generally not biodegradable and can last for hundreds of
years. Old PFDs that are channeled into garbage disposal systems
are often burned along with other garbage, which can release
hazardous fumes into the environment. If they are not properly
disposed of, old PFDs are a hazard to wildlife. A device that
protects any PFD, old or new, preserves it against the elements,
such as wind and rain, and sun, and thus helps to protect the
environment from the adverse effects of old discarded units.
[0006] The combination of the personal flotation device saver
(hereinafter "PFD saver") of the present invention and a universal
life preserver (PFD) inserted in it is itself a life preserver that
is capable of meeting US Coast Guard requirements. Normally, if a
life preserver is placed within a hand-sewn cover, for example, it
is considered non-accessible and therefore would not qualify for
use as a life preserver. In a home sewn cover, the PFD would be
discounted as ineffective by the US Coast Guard and other state law
enforcement agencies. The PFD saver combination of the present
invention actually becomes a comparable or better product in
comparison with the PFD that has been inserted in it. For instance,
a vest-type PFD saver of the present invention with a Type II PFD
inserted in it becomes a dual purpose Type II and Type IV PFD.
Meanwhile, the enclosed PFD is protected, giving it an extended
life span. It is believed that PFD savers according to the present
invention extend the life of enclosed PFDs indefinitely, and help
to stop damage being done to the environment caused by discarding
old, non-usable products.
[0007] The present PFD saver is intended to help protect the
environment against discarded "non-serviceable" PFDs and to keep
new PFDs in new condition for a longer period. The PFD savers will
be replaced over time instead of replacing the PFDs themselves. Old
PFDs can be utilized in a new way by inserting them in PFD
savers.
[0008] A vest-type PFD saver of the present invention with a Type I
or II PFD inserted in it is available for immediate use as a Type
IV PFD by a person in distress in the water. A second option is to
open the conversion connector device of the invention and use the
PFD saver/PFD combination as a Type II PFD. A third option is to
open the PFD saver of the present invention, remove the PFD, and
use the PFD on its own in a conventional manner. Meanwhile, the
enclosed PFD is protected, giving it an extended lifespan. The PFD
saver of the present invention is beneficial to boaters as it will
save them from having to purchase a separate Type IV PFD, and helps
to stop damage to the environment caused by discarding old,
non-usable products.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0009] The present invention is a vest-type PFD saver, which
comprises: (a) a main body comprising: (1) a saver pillow portion,
(2) two substantially mirror image saver tail portions extending
from the pillow portion, and (3) a central open neck, (4) a gap
extending down from the open neck between two closed sides of the
tail portions, (5) a closed tail end pocket at the end of each
saver tail portion, and (6) three closable, adjacent sides of the
main body; (b) a releasable closure mechanism on each of the three
closable, adjacent sides of the main body; (c) a releasable saver
waist strap device, a portion of which is attached to the saver
tail portion; and (d) a locking mechanism on the main body adjacent
the closure mechanism. The main body has an open position, and a
closed position in which the closure mechanism is closed. The PFD
saver is preferably in combination with a PFD. The present PFD
saver may further include a conversion system including: (1) a
releasable conversion connector device attached to a closed end of
each of the saver tail portions; (2) at least two conversion grab
straps having opposite ends attached to the main body; and (3) a
conversion flotation liner that comprises buoyant conversion
flotation liner sections.
[0010] Advantages of the vest-type PFD savers of the present
invention include the following: [0011] 1) They protect new or used
but serviceable PFDs from the effects of weather and the
ultraviolet rays of the sun, and from wear and tear. [0012] 2) They
allow old, weathered, or worn (non-serviceable) PFDs to be utilized
in lieu of being burned in incinerators or discarded in landfills
or inappropriate locations, where they can be a hazard to wildlife.
This helps to protect the environment. As the PFD saver of the
present invention fails over time, it can be replaced and the
like-new PFD inside it gets a second life, then a third, and so
forth. [0013] 3) The PFD saver/PFD combination can be thrown to a
person in the water in a potential emergency situation for use as a
Type IV personal flotation device. Secondly, the conversion
connector device can be opened for use as a Type II PFD. Thirdly,
the interior Type I or II PFD can be removed from the PFD saver and
the interior PFD is then used as a universal PFD to help a person
in distress stay afloat in the water. [0014] 4) The conversion
flotation liner in the PFD saver, if any, can be fabricated from
used foam fill material from old PFDs, so long as the recycled fill
material is still sufficiently buoyant to meet requirements. This
helps to conserve resources and protect the environment.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS
[0015] A more complete understanding of the invention and its
advantages will be apparent from the following detailed description
taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein
examples of the invention are shown, and wherein:
[0016] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a vest-type PFD saver
according to the present invention, shown in an open position;
[0017] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the vest-type PFD saver
according to FIG. 1, shown ready for use;
[0018] FIG. 3 is a top plan view of a vest-type PFD saver according
to the present invention, shown in an open position with a PFD
inside;
[0019] FIG. 4 is a bottom plan view of a vest-type PFD saver
according to the present invention, shown in an open position;
[0020] FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of the vest-type PFD saver
according to FIG. 3, taken across line 5-5;
[0021] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a vest-type PFD saver
according to the present invention, shown with a closed zipper;
[0022] FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of the vest-type PFD saver
according to FIG. 6, taken across line 7-7;
[0023] FIG. 8 is an expanded view of a zipper pull area of a
vest-type PFD saver according to the present invention, shown in a
closed, locked position; and
[0024] FIG. 9 is a schematic view of a locked locking mechanism of
a vest-type PFD saver according to the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0025] In the following description, like reference characters
designate like or corresponding parts throughout the several views.
Also, in the following description, it is to be understood that
such terms as "front," "back," "within," and the like are words of
convenience and are not to be construed as limiting terms.
Referring in more detail to the drawings, a PFD saver embodying the
principles and concepts of the present invention and generally
designated by the reference numeral 20 will now be described.
[0026] Turning first to FIGS. 1 and 2, a vest-type personal
flotation device saver 20 for holding a PFD comprises: (a) a main
body 61 comprising: (1) a saver pillow portion 62, (2) two
substantially mirror image saver tail portions 63 extending from
the pillow portion, and (3) a central open neck 64, (4) a gap 72
extending down from the open neck between two closed sides of the
tail portions 63, (5) a closed tail end pocket 65 at the end of
each saver tail portion 63, and (6) three closable, adjacent sides
of the main body 61; (b) a releasable closure mechanism 17 on each
of the three closable, adjacent sides of the main body 61, as seen
in FIGS. 4, 7, and 8; (c) a releasable saver waist strap device 68,
a portion of which is attached to the saver tail portion 63; and
(d) a locking mechanism 40, preferably comprising locking strips 45
and a set of locking holes 44 on each of the three sides 66, 67 of
the PFD saver, as illustrated in FIG. 2. The main body 61 has an
open position for loading a Type II PFD 21 (or Type I PFD) in which
the closure mechanism 17 is open, as seen in FIGS. 1 and 3, and a
closed position for use in which the closure mechanism 17 is
closed, as seen in FIG. 2.
[0027] The PFD saver 20 preferably further includes: (e) a
releasable conversion connector device 70 attached to a closed end
71 of each of the saver tail portions 63; (f) at least two
conversion grab straps 34 attached to the main body 61; and/or (g)
a conversion flotation liner 75 comprising top and bottom pillow
and tail conversion flotation liner sections 75A, 75B, as seen in
FIG. 5. Also, the PFD saver 20 preferably further includes: at
least two hook and loop tabs 24 at the top corners of the PFD
saver, or at least one short seam 28 stitched at each of the two
side corners as seen in FIG. 2, to form two neat boxed corners on
the PFD saver.
[0028] When the conversion connector device 70 is attached, the two
saver tail portions 63 are connected to one another. When the
conversion connector device 70 is open, the through gap 72 can be
widened by the user so that the yoke-like PFD saver 20/PFD 21
combination can be draped around the user's neck for possible or
actual use. The releasable saver waist strap encircles the user's
waist and the saver tail portions 63 when the PFD saver 20 is in
the closed position and in use. By "releasable" herein is meant
that the waist strap device 68 and conversion connector device 70
can each be repeatedly opened and closed (reattached) as
desired.
[0029] The vest-type PFD saver 20 is ready for use once a Type II
personal flotation device ("PFD") 21 has been inserted into it, as
seen in outline in FIG. 3. The vest-type PFD saver 20 protects the
Type II PFD 21 within it. The vest-type PFD saver/Type II PFD
combination is available for immediate use by a person in distress
as a Type IV PFD when the conversion connector device 70 is in the
normally closed position. The combination is sufficiently buoyant
to support the weight of the person in the water. It is also
readily available for use as a Type II PFD by opening conversion
buckles 83.
[0030] The three closable, adjacent sides of the main body 61 are
the two closable, opposite longitudinal sides 66 of the main body
61, and a closable open pillow end 67 at the top of the saver
pillow portion 62 opposite the closed tail end pockets 65. By
"adjacent sides" herein is meant that the end of each longitudinal
side 66 contacts an opposite end of the closable pillow end 67,
preferably forming right angles. The opposite ends of each
longitudinal side 66 connect to a closed end 71 of a different one
of the tail portions 63, preferably also forming approximate right
angles, as seen in FIG. 2. The four outer corners of the PFD saver
20, which is somewhat flexible, may be rounded.
[0031] The main body 61 of a preferred PFD saver 20 as seen in
FIGS. I and 2 is made from two generally equal and rectangular
pieces of a long lasting, UV (ultraviolet rays) resistant, outdoor,
substantially flexible and breathable, sturdy material that has
been approved by the US Coast Guard. Such materials may include
nylon, polyester, canvas, denim, cotton, etc. The main body 61 is
preferably fluorescent orange or red, as desired by the end user.
The two, single layer pieces form the bottom and top sections 22,
23 of the main body 61. They are preferably substantially the same
size as one another. The main body may instead be fabricated from a
single piece of material with no seam on the bottom 71.
[0032] The main body 61 has an open position for loading the PFD 21
in the PFD saver 20, and a closed position for use. The main body
61 is in the closed position once the closure mechanism 17 has been
closed, which is done after the PFD is inserted in the PFD
saver.
[0033] Continuing with FIGS. 1 and 2, the saver pillow portion 62
is at one end of the assembled main body 61 of the PFD saver 20,
and the two mirror image saver tail portions 63 extend down from
either side of the pillow portion 62. When the Type I or II PFD 21
is in the PFD saver 20, the combination resembles the PFD. When the
PFD 21 is in the PFD saver 20, flexible creases 57 demarcate the
saver pillow portion 62 from the two saver tail portions 63 on each
side of the central open neck 64. The saver gap 72 extends down
from the open neck 64 between the saver tail portions 63. The gap
72, or split, divides the two saver tail portions 63 from one
another. The tail ends 71 of the two saver tail portions 63 are
permanently closed. The inside sides, which are on either side of
the gap 72 between the saver tail portions 63, are also closed, as
by a sewn seam. The outside, longitudinal edges of the main body
form the two closable, opposite longitudinal sides 66. The PFD
saver/PFD combination is ready for use once the PFD has been
inserted in the chamber 39 formed by the bottom and top sections
22, 23, the bottom, closed tail ends 71, the closed inside tail
sides alongside the tail portion gap 72, and the longitudinal sides
66 and the pillow end 67 once they have been sealed.
[0034] A Type I PFD can be used in place of a Type II PFD 21, if
desired. A Type I PFD has the same general appearance as the Type
II PFD 21 shown in FIG. 3. A Type I PFD is ordinarily intended for
use in the ocean, so it has more fill than a thinner Type II PFD.
The Type II PFD is frequently used in coastal areas, lakes, and the
like. The thicker Type I PFDs are often the life jackets worn by
passengers during ocean-going cruise safety drills. It is
understood that some adjustments in size and shape may be
necessary.
[0035] The tail end pocket 65 at the outer end of each saver tail
portion 63 supports the PFD tail sections 54 when the PFD 21 is in
the PFD saver 20, as seen in FIGS. 2 and 3. It is believed that the
tail end pockets 65 speed and ease insertion of the PFD into the
PFD saver 20. The closed tail end pockets 65 also hold the PFD in
place while the closure mechanism 17, such as the hook and loops
strips 19 or zipper portions 46, are closed.
[0036] As seen in FIGS. 1 and 2, each closed tail end pocket 65 is
formed by closing the lower corner of each longitudinal side 66
like a hospital corner of a bed sheet and sewing or gluing it in
place. A top flap 74 is formed by folding down the edge of the
material of the top section 23. The top flap 74 overlies a bottom
flap 76 formed by folding up an edge of the bottom section 22 along
the two longitudinal sides 66 of the PFD saver 20.
[0037] A light weight strip 29 as seen in FIGS. 3, 4, and 5 is
optionally included in each tail end pocket 65 for adding weight to
that end of the PFD saver/PFD combination. In addition to bringing
the weight of the combination up to a required government standard,
if any, it is believed that the small amount of additional weight
added by the weight strips 29 makes the PFD saver/PFD combination
easier to throw accurately to someone in distress in the water. An
accurate toss can mean the difference between life and death in
some circumstances. The weight strip 29 is preferably straight and
made of recycled plastic. Each weight strip 29 preferably weighs
between about two and about four ounces. It is preferably attached
to the bottom in each tail end pocket 65 of each saver tail portion
63 within the chamber 39, as seen in FIGS. 4 and 5.
[0038] As seen in FIGS. 1, 2, 5, and 6, the main body 61 includes a
number of drain holes 35, preferably two at the outer corner of the
closed tail end 71 of each saver tail portion 63, so that water, if
any, can drain out from inside the main body 61. Each drain hole 35
is preferably surrounded by a rust-resistant grommet 51.
[0039] The releasable closure mechanism 17 is preferably a number
of hook and loop strips 19, as illustrated in FIG. 4. Preferably,
the backs of first hook and loop strips 19A, or first parts of
another closure mechanism, are attached to the inside surface 32 of
the top section 23 along the particular side edge. The backs of
corresponding hook and loop strips 19B, or second, mating parts of
another closure mechanism, are attached to an outside surface 31 of
the bottom section 22 along the particular side edge, as seen in
FIG. 5. The hook and loop strips 19 of the closure mechanism 17 are
removably attached to one another when the PFD saver 20 is in the
closed position, and are not mated when the PFD saver 20 is in the
open position shown in FIG. 4. Preferably, about a 11/2 inch gap is
included in the hook and loop strips 19 along the side closures at
the neckline to allow flexibility and comfort while wearing a
vest-type PFD saver 20/Type II PFD 21 combination.
[0040] The edges of the longitudinal and top side edges 66, 67 of
the bottom section 22 are folded up (along the sides of the PFD in
the saver) to form three bottom flaps 76, and the edges of the
longitudinal and top side 66, 67 of the top section 23 fold down to
form three top flaps 74 (see FIGS. 1 and 2). At least two, most
preferably three, top flaps 74 of the PFD saver are closed over the
corresponding bottom flaps 76 of the PFD saver once the PFD is
inside using the hook and loop strips. The pillow side 67 of the
PFD saver 20 is preferably dressed with at least two hook and loop
tabs 24 at the top corners of the saver. When they are attached,
the hook and loop tabs 24 form neat boxed corners on the PFD saver
20. An alternative to the hook and loop tab is a short seam 28 that
is stitched at each of the two side corners to form two neat boxed
corners on the PFD saver, as seen in FIG. 2.
[0041] To close the PFD saver 20 once the PFD 21 has been inserted
in it, the user closes the top flap 74 as seen in FIG. 2 over the
bottom flap 76 of the bottom section 22, or vice versa, so that the
hook and loop strips 19 on the flaps 74, 76 align on each of the
three sides 66, 67. In the saver closed position, all three sides
66, 67 are closed. To open the PFD saver 20, the user simply pulls
up on the top flap 74, or down on the bottom flap 76 if it overlaps
the top flap, on each of the three sides 66, 67. Once the PFD saver
20 is open, the PFD 21 can be removed from the PFD saver 20.
[0042] The PFD saver 20 includes a locking mechanism 40 for locking
the PFD saver once a non-serviceable PFD has been installed in it.
The preferred locking mechanism 40 comprises a set of locking holes
44 on each of the three sides 66, 67 of the PFD saver, as
illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2, and a locking strip 45 through each
set of the locking holes 44. The locking strip 45 is passed through
one locking hole 44 in the set and then the other locking hole 44
in the set and is then sealed (see FIGS. 2 and 9). Thus, three
locking strips 45 lock the three saver sides 66, 67.
[0043] If they have been cut, one or more of the locking strips 45
of the locking mechanism 40 can easily be replaced by removing a
replacement locking strip from a storage pocket 30 on the PFD saver
20, and inserting it through the two sets of locking holes 44, as
illustrated in FIG. 9, while the PFD saver 20 is in the closed
position. The replacement locking strip 45 is then sealed. Where
the locking strip 45 is a preferred tie wrap, it is sealed by
inserting the end 58 of the tie wrap through the locking loop 59 on
the tie wrap and pulling it (see FIG. 9).
[0044] Turning now to FIGS. 6 through 8, a zipper closure mechanism
can be used instead of hook and loop strips to close the three
adjacent sides 66, 67 of the main body 61. As seen in FIGS. 7 and
8, a first portion 46A of a zipper 46, such as an upholstery
zipper, is attached to the edge of the top section 23 of the main
body 61. A corresponding, second portion 46B of the zipper 46 is
attached to the bottom section 22 of the main body 61. The PFD
saver 20 has an open position with the zipper 46 open, and a closed
position with the two portions of the zipper 46 zipped together.
One zipper 46 preferably extends around the three sides 66, 67,
although one zipper on each side (total of three zippers) could be
employed.
[0045] The top flap 74 preferably extends over and protects the
zipper as seen in FIGS. 6-8. The top flap 74 can be formed by
folding back a strip, preferably about one inch, of the material of
the top section 23 (see FIG. 7).
[0046] Alternatively, the top flap 74 can be formed by sewing the
zipper portion 46A to the inside surface of a top (or bottom) side
strip of the same material as the top section 23 along the midline
of the side strip on its inside surface 32. One longitudinal edge
of the top side strip is sewn to a side edge of the top section 23.
The opposite, longitudinal edge of the top side strip forms the top
flap 74. The top flap 74 overlaps the bottom flap 76. One
longitudinal edge of the bottom flap 76 is sewn to a side edge of
the bottom section 22. The rear edge of the other portion of the
zipper 46B is sewn to the opposite, longitudinal edge of the bottom
flap 76, as seen in FIG. 8. The two zipper portions 46A, 46B are
then in a position to be zipped open or closed, as desired. The
ends 77 of the top side strip and the bottom flap 76 adjacent the
zipper pull when it is closed overlap a top end of a tail end
pocket 65, as seen in FIG. 8. The zipper pull locking hole(s) 48
are in the end portion of the tail end pocket 65. Each locking hole
48 is preferably surrounded by a rust-resistant grommet 51.
[0047] If desired, the zipper 46 can be closed and locked by
inserting a locking strip 45 (preferably nylon) through a hole 49
in a zipper pull 47 of the zipper 46 and through at least one and
preferably two of the zipper pull locking holes 48, as seen in FIG.
8. The locking strip 45 is then sealed. This is advisable when the
PFD is non-serviceable.
[0048] If desired, the sealed plastic locking strip 45 can be cut
in order to open the PFD saver 20. Authorities, such as US Coast
Guard personnel, may find it necessary to do so in order to inspect
the PFD within the PFD saver 20. Hook and loop locking holes 44 can
be used when the PFD saver 20 includes the hook and loop strips.
Each locking hole 44, 48 in the main body 61 is preferably
surrounded by a grommet 51, as seen in FIG. 8.
[0049] A cut locking strip 45 is easily replaced by removing a
replacement locking strip from the storage pocket 30, inserting it
through the locking holes 44, 48, and sealing the replacement
locking strip 45. The storage pocket 30 is ordinarily inside and
adjacent the area of the zipper 46 or hook and loop strips 19,
where it is protected and can easily be accessed (see FIGS. 3 and
5). It can alternatively be located within the tail end pocket 65.
The storage pocket 30 accommodates spare locking strips when the
locking mechanism 40 of the PFD saver 20 includes a locking strip
45 (see FIG. 8). Where the closure mechanism is a zipper 46, the
locking strip 45 is inserted through the zipper pull locking holes
48 and the hole 49 in the zipper pull 47 of the zipped up zipper
46, and then sealed. The locking strip 45 is preferably a tie
wrap.
[0050] The PFD saver 20 preferably includes a conversion flotation
liner 75, which most preferably includes two substantially planar
pieces of conversion flotation liner 75A in each saver pillow
portion 62 and two substantially planar conversion flotation liner
pieces 75B in each saver tail portion 63, as seen in FIG. 5 (for a
total of six liner pieces in each combination). In the PFD saver of
FIG. 5, one conversion flotation liner piece 75A rests on top of
the PFD pillow section 53 in the PFD saver 20, and one similarly
sized pillow conversion flotation liner piece 75A lies under the
PFD pillow section 53. Similarly, one tail conversion flotation
liner piece 75B rests on top of each PFD tail section 54 in the PFD
saver 20, and one similarly sized tail conversion flotation liner
piece 75B lies under each PFD tail section 54 in the PFD saver 20.
The conversion flotation liner pieces 75 are preferably made of
closed cell foam material that has been recycled from
non-serviceable PFDs. The pillow conversion flotation liner piece
75A is approximately the length and width of the saver pillow
portion 62 and the tail conversion flotation liner piece 75B is
preferably the length and width of a saver tail portion 63. The
conversion flotation liner 75 provides buoyancy and cushioning for
comfort, and prevents the straps/buckles of the PFD from being felt
by the wearer of the PFD saver/PFD combination.
[0051] The closed cell foam conversion flotation liner 75 pieces
add a minimum of 4.5 pounds of inherent buoyancy to the vest-type
PFD saver/ PFD combination, so that the combination qualifies as a
Type IV PFD, or a Type I or II PFD where a Type II PFD has been
inserted. If the closed cell foam conversion flotation liner pieces
75 are not included in the vest-type PFD saver 20, it is believed
that the combination still qualifies as a Type II PFD, or a Type I
PFD where a Type I or Type II PFD is inserted.
[0052] A patch 33 bearing a logos or seal may be attached to or
printed on an outside surface 31 of the main body 61, as seen in
FIGS. 1-3 and 6. The patch 33 preferably bears a US Coast Guard
seal of approval and is sewn or adhered to, or printed directly on,
a lower corner, or the center, of the top section 23 of the PFD
saver 20. The PFD saver 20 can be stuffed with other suitable types
of PFD fill, or with another type of suitable, lightweight,
floatable, water-resistant fill material, as desired. Fill material
must meet US Coast Guard specifications.
[0053] The patch 33 preferably shows the approval number as well as
the type of device the PFD saver 20 becomes under which conditions,
the location of which may vary. The patch 33 preferably includes a
warning that advises the end user of the requirement to permanently
lock the PFD saver 20 when a non-serviceable PFD is contained in
it.
[0054] Referring to FIGS. 1-3 and 6, the vest-type PFD saver 20
further includes a releasable waist strap device 68, which includes
a waist strap 81. The waist strap device includes corresponding
waist strap buckle portions 78A, 78B affixed to opposite ends of
the saver waist strap 81. The waist strap device 68 is releasably
closed by sliding one waist strap buckle portion 78B into the other
waist strap buckle portion 78A. The waist strap 81 encircles the
saver tail portions 63. One end portion of the saver waist strap 81
is preferably affixed to the top section 23 on one tail portion 63
at 79. The opposite end portion of the saver waist strap 81 slides
under a waist strap loop 80 that is affixed to the top section 23
of the other tail portion 63. The waist strap loop 80 holds the
waist strap 81 in place and allows for adjustment. In use, the PFD
saver 20/ PFD 21 combination can be draped around the user's neck,
with the saver pillow portion 62 behind the user's head and neck
and the saver tail portions resting on the user's chest area. The
saver waist strap 81 can be tightened by pulling on the opposite
end portion with its waist strap buckle portion 78B. The saver
waist strap 81 is sized to meet US Coast Guard requirements. The
waist strap buckle 78 of the waist strap device 68 is preferably a
snap or clasp buckle in front of the PFD saver.
[0055] The Type IV-type conversion system of the PFD saver 20
preferably comprises: (1) the releasable conversion connector
device 70, which is attached to a closed end of each of the saver
tail portions, (2) at least two conversion grab straps 34 attached
to the main body; and (3) the conversion flotation liner 75, which
preferably comprises top and bottom pillow conversion flotation
liner sections and top and bottom tail conversion flotation liner
sections. As seen in FIGS. 1, 2, and 6, the conversion connector
device 70 includes two short conversion connector straps 82A, 82B,
and a corresponding conversion connector strap buckle portion 83A,
83B. The conversion connector strap buckle portions 83 are each
affixed to an end of the two saver conversion connector straps 82.
The conversion connector device 70 is releasably closed by sliding
one conversion connector strap buckle portion 83B into the other
conversion connector strap buckle portion 83A. The conversion
connector device 70 joins the saver tail portions 63 to one another
when it is in the closed position. An opposite end portion of each
short conversion connector strap 82 is preferably affixed to the
closed end 71 of one tail portion 63 at a conversion strap
attachment site 84, as seen in FIGS. 1, 2, and 6. The conversion
connector strap buckle 83 of the conversion connector device 70 is
preferably a snap or clasp buckle.
[0056] Where the PFD saver 20 houses a Type II PFD 21, the
combination PFD saver/Type II PFD is immediately available as a
Type IV PFD when the PFD saver is closed and the two conversion
connector strap buckle portions 83 of the saver conversion
connector device 70 are snapped together in a normally closed
position. To permit a change from a Type IV PFD to a Type II PFD,
so that it is readily available as a Type II PFD, the conversion
connector buckle 83 of the conversion connector device 70 is
unsnapped so that it is in an open position. The PFD saver 20
alternatively houses a Type II PFD 21 that is available only as a
Type II PFD, as long as the PFD saver 20 remains unlocked and the
Type II PFD inside is serviceable. Where the PFD is serviceable,
the conversion connector device 70, conversion flotation liner 75,
and conversion grab straps 34 of the Type IV-type PFD system can be
eliminated. A locking mechanism 40, such as the locking strip 45
shown in FIG. 8, is required when a non-serviceable PFD is
installed in the PFD saver 20. When a non-serviceable PFD is
installed inside the PFD saver 20, the locking mechanism 40, such
as the locking strip 45 shown in FIG. 8, is locked.
[0057] The PFD saver 20 preferably includes two equal length
conversion grab straps 34 affixed to the bottom section 22 on
opposite longitudinal sides 66 of the main body 61. The opposite
ends of each mirror image conversion grab strap 34 are affixed to
the opposite longitudinal sides of the bottom section 22 at grab
strap attachment sites 36. The conversion grab strap 34 is
preferably made of cotton, polyester, and/or nylon material and
conforms to all the requirements of the US Coast Guard. If the
combination PFD saver 20/PFD 21 will be used as a Type II PFD only,
conversion grab straps 34 are not needed and can be omitted.
[0058] To use the PFD saver 20/PFD 21 combination, the user opens
the conversion connector strap buckle 83 and the waist strap buckle
78 and places the combination around the user's shoulders with the
neck opening 64 around the user's neck. The user then fastens the
waist strap around the waist. This is usage as a Type II PFD.
[0059] Alternatively, when the conversion connector device 70 is
closed, the user can place one arm through each conversion grab
strap 34 of the PFD saver 20/PFD combination, and hug the central
main body 61 against the user's chest. Either the top section 23 or
the bottom section 22 of the main body 61 can be pressed against
the user's chest. If desired, the user can wrap each arm around the
main body 61 and lean on the PFD saver/PFD combination as the user
floats in the ocean or other body of water. This is Type IV
PFD-type usage.
[0060] When the PFD saver 20 is not in use, the conversion grab
straps 34 hang loosely on either side of the main body 61. Either
conversion grab strap 34 can be used to pick up the PFD saver/PFD
combination on a boat or on a dock, for example, and throw it in
the water. The conversion grab strap 34 is also useful for grabbing
the floating PFD saver/PFD combination and pulling it to the user
when the user is in the water.
[0061] In a preferred embodiment of the PFD saver 20, stitching
material at a 45 degree hem is heavy outdoor rated upholstery
thread, seams 28 remain simple with a single seam along bottom and
interior sections of the vest-type PFD saver 20, and all edges are
folded back and hemmed.
[0062] In a preferred PFD saver 20, a weight strip 29 made from
recycled plastic material is included to increase overall weight,
depending on the added weight provided by the closed cell foam
conversion flotation liner pieces 75. If a zipper 46 is used, there
will be at least two seams 28 around the vest-type PFD saver 20
(see FIG. 8). As seen in FIG. 8, the zipper pull 47 can be locked
closed through zipper pull locking holes 48 with grommets 51 in the
tail end pocket 65. The top flap 74 covers the zipper 46. The
preferred PFD saver 20 also includes drain holes 35 for drainage.
Certain main body materials may require grommets around the drain
holes 35 to prevent tearing. Finally, the preferred PFD saver 20
includes the snap conversion connector strap buckle 83, which is
kept in a normally closed position for use of the combination as a
Type IV device.
[0063] In summary, the combination PFD/vest-type PFD saver includes
the PFD saver, which comprises: (a) a main body 61 comprising: (1)
a saver pillow portion 62, (2) two substantially mirror image saver
tail portions 63 extending from the saver pillow portion 62, and
(3) a central open neck 64, (4) a gap 72 extending down from the
open neck 64 between two closed sides of the tail portions 63, and
(5) three closable, adjacent sides of the main body 61; (b) a
releasable closure mechanism 17 on each of the three closable,
adjacent sides of the main body 61; (c) a releasable saver waist
strap device 68, a portion of which is attached to a saver tail
portion 63; (d) a conversion system comprising (1) a releasable
conversion connector device 70 attached to a closed end 71 of each
of the saver tail portions 63, (2) at least two (preferably two)
conversion grab straps 34 attached to the main body 61, and (3) a
conversion flotation liner 75 that comprises floatable conversion
flotation liner sections 75A, 75B; and (e) a locking mechanism 40
on the main body 61 adjacent the closure mechanism 17. The main
body 61 has an open position in which the closure mechanism 17 is
open, and a closed position in which the closure mechanism 17 is
closed. The PFD is not folded within the PFD saver 20, and is easy
to insert in the PFD saver and remove from the PFD saver. The PFD
need not fold or include a hinge in order to fit in the PFD saver.
Neither the PFD saver 20 nor the PFD have arm holes. The PFD saver
20 is lightweight, durable, and easy to store when it is not in
use.
[0064] The PFD saver 20/PFD combination with the Type II PFD 21
becomes a Type IV PFD ready for immediate use when the conversion
connector device 70 is in the normally closed position. The PFD
saver 20 is not merely a carrying bag for a PFD. The PFD saver
20/PFD combination when a Type II PFD 21 is installed becomes a
Type II PFD readily available for use as a Type II PFD by
unsnapping the buckle of the conversion connector device 70. The
PFD saver/PFD combination when a Type I PFD is installed becomes a
Type IV PFD ready for immediate use when the conversion connector
device 70 is in the normally closed position. The PFD saver/PFD
combination when a Type I PFD is installed becomes a Type I PFD and
is readily available for use as a Type I PFD by unsnapping the
buckle of the conversion connector device 70. The PFD saver/PFD
combination with a Type II PFD is installed becomes a Type II PFD
ready for immediate use when there is no conversion system. The PFD
saver/PFD combination when a Type I PFD is installed becomes a Type
I PFD ready for immediate use when there is no conversion
system.
[0065] From the foregoing it can be realized that the present
invention may be easily and conveniently utilized as a personal
flotation device saver. It is to be understood that any dimensions
given herein are illustrative, and are not meant to be
limiting.
[0066] While preferred embodiments of the invention have been
described using specific terms, this description is for
illustrative purposes only. It will be apparent to those of
ordinary skill in the art that various modifications,
substitutions, omissions, and changes may be made without departing
from the spirit or scope of the invention, and that such are
intended to be within the scope of the present invention as defined
by the following claims. It is intended that the doctrine of
equivalents be relied upon to determine the fair scope of these
claims in connection with any other person's product which fall
outside the literal wording of these claims, but which in reality
do not materially depart from this invention. Without further
analysis, the foregoing will so fully reveal the gist of the
present invention that others can, by applying current knowledge,
readily adapt it for various applications without omitting features
that, from the standpoint of prior art, fairly constitute essential
characteristics of the generic or specific aspects of this
invention.
* * * * *