U.S. patent application number 14/624923 was filed with the patent office on 2015-08-20 for snorkel system and flotation device.
This patent application is currently assigned to ERICKA NICOLE MALONE ENTERPRISES, LLC. The applicant listed for this patent is ERICKA NICOLE MALONE ENTERPRISES, LLC. Invention is credited to Phillip Robinson.
Application Number | 20150232160 14/624923 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 53797419 |
Filed Date | 2015-08-20 |
United States Patent
Application |
20150232160 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Robinson; Phillip |
August 20, 2015 |
SNORKEL SYSTEM AND FLOTATION DEVICE
Abstract
The present application discloses a snorkel system and a
flotation device for snorkeling. In certain embodiments, the
snorkel system and flotation device comprise a buoyant flotation
member for supporting a person in a body of water. The flotation
member comprises a top, a bottom, and at least one opening
extending through the flotation member from the top to the bottom.
The opening is sized and configured to permit submersion of at
least a portion of the face of a person positioned on the top of
the flotation member in the water below the bottom of the flotation
member.
Inventors: |
Robinson; Phillip;
(Knoxville, TN) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
ERICKA NICOLE MALONE ENTERPRISES, LLC |
Union |
KY |
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
ERICKA NICOLE MALONE ENTERPRISES,
LLC
Union
KY
|
Family ID: |
53797419 |
Appl. No.: |
14/624923 |
Filed: |
February 18, 2015 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
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61941041 |
Feb 18, 2014 |
|
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|
Current U.S.
Class: |
128/201.11 ;
441/135 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B63B 7/02 20130101; B63C
11/205 20130101; B63C 11/49 20130101; B63B 7/08 20130101; B63B
2007/006 20130101 |
International
Class: |
B63C 11/49 20060101
B63C011/49; B63B 35/79 20060101 B63B035/79; B63C 11/20 20060101
B63C011/20 |
Claims
1. A snorkel system, comprising: a buoyant flotation member for
supporting a person in a body of water, the flotation member
comprising a top, a bottom, and at least one opening extending
through the flotation member from the top to the bottom, wherein
the opening is sized and configured to permit submersion of at
least a portion of the face of a person positioned on the top of
the flotation member in the water below the bottom of the flotation
member.
2. The snorkel system of claim 1, wherein the flotation member
comprises at least one of a foam mat, polyurethane foam,
polystyrene foam, fiberglass, and polyvinyl chloride.
3. The snorkel system of claim 1, wherein the flotation member is
configured to support at least about 250 lbs. without sinking.
4. The snorkel system of claim 3, wherein the flotation member is
inflatable and comprises a drop stitch polyvinyl chloride
fabric.
5. The snorkel system of claim 3, wherein the flotation member
comprises a first portion and a second portion that are connected
together to form the flotation member.
6. The snorkel system of claim 5, wherein the first portion
comprises the opening and an attachment portion and the second
portion comprises a slot for receiving the attachment portion of
the first portion to connect the first and second portions
together.
7. The snorkel system of claim 6, wherein the first and second
portions are connected together with one or more fasteners.
8. The snorkel system of claim 1, wherein the opening is sized and
configured such that the person can use a snorkel mask and tube
when positioned on the top of the flotation member.
9. The snorkel system of claim 1, wherein the opening comprises at
least one of a circular, rectangular, square, and oval cross
sectional shape.
10. The snorkel system of claim 1, wherein the flotation member has
a thickness between about 5 and 7 inches, a width between about 18
and 32 inches, and a length between about 53 and 57 inches.
11. The snorkel system of claim 1 further comprising at least one
handle formed in the flotation member.
12. The snorkel system of claim 11, wherein the handle is located
proximate the opening such that it is reachable by the person
positioned on the top of the floatation member with at least a
portion of his or her face in the water below the bottom of the
flotation member.
13. The snorkel system of claim 1, wherein the flotation member is
flexible such that it may be collapsed and folded or rolled up.
14. The snorkel system of claim 1 further comprising a breathing
tube having a substantially rigid first portion in fluid
communication with a flexible second portion, wherein the first
portion extends upward from the top of the flotation member and the
second portion is fluidly connected to a mouthpiece, and wherein
the second portion is configured such that the mouthpiece is
accessible to a person positioned on the top of the flotation
member and may be inserted into the person's mouth when his or her
face is disposed in the opening.
15. The snorkel system of claim 14, wherein the first portion of
the breathing tube extends into the flotation member and the second
portion is directly connected to the first portion.
16. The snorkel system of claim 14, wherein the first and second
portions of the breathing tube are fluidly connected to a second
opening in the flotation member.
17. The snorkel system of claim 14, wherein the second portion
extends from the bottom and into the opening of the flotation
member.
18. The snorkel system of claim 14, wherein at least one of the
first and second portions of the breathing tube comprises a first
lumen and a second lumen.
19. The snorkel system of claim 18, wherein the first lumen
comprises one or more valves arranged such that the first lumen is
a dedicated inhalation lumen, and wherein the second lumen
comprises one or more valves arranged such that the second lumen is
a dedicated exhalation lumen.
20. The snorkel system of claim 14, wherein both the first and
second portions of the breathing tube comprise first and second
lumens, and wherein the first lumens are in fluid communication and
are dedicated inhalation lumens and the second lumens are in fluid
communication and are dedicated exhalation lumens.
21. The snorkel system of claim 14, wherein at least part of the
second portion of the breathing tube is submerged in the water
during use of the snorkel system.
22. The snorkel system of claim 14, wherein substantially the
entire second portion of the breathing tube is submerged in the
water during use of the snorkel system.
23. A flotation device, comprising: a buoyant flotation member for
supporting a person in a body of water, the flotation member
comprising a top, a bottom, and at least one opening extending
through the flotation member from the top to the bottom, wherein
the opening is sized and configured to permit submersion of at
least a portion of the face of a person positioned on the top of
the flotation member in the water below the bottom of the flotation
member; and at least one handle formed in the flotation member,
wherein the handle is located proximate the opening such that it is
reachable by the person positioned on the top of the floatation
member with at least a portion of his or her face in the water
below the bottom of the flotation member; and wherein the flotation
member has a thickness between about 5 and 7 inches, a first width
between about 28 and 32 inches, a second width between about 18 and
25 inches, and an overall length between about 53 and 57 inches and
is configured to support at least about 250 lbs. without sinking,
and wherein the opening is sized and configured such that the
person can use a snorkel mask and tube when positioned on the top
of the flotation member.
24. The flotation device of claim 23, wherein the floatation member
is inflatable and comprises a drop stitch polyvinyl chloride
fabric.
25. The flotation device of claim 23, wherein the flotation member
comprises a first portion and a second portion that are connected
together to form the flotation member, wherein the first portion
comprises the opening and an attachment portion and the second
portion comprises a slot for receiving the attachment portion of
the first portion to connect the first and second portions
together.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
[0001] This application is a U.S. Non-Provisional Application which
claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No.
61/941,041, filed on Feb. 18, 2014 and titled "Snorkel System,"
which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.
BACKGROUND
[0002] Snorkeling is a popular recreational activity wherein a
person swims on or through a body of water while equipped with a
diving mask and a shaped tube called a snorkel. Snorkeling permits
the person to observe underwater life in a natural setting without
complicated equipment and training required for scuba diving.
Snorkeling appeals to all ages and all types of swimmers.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
[0003] FIG. 1A is a top view of a snorkel system according to an
embodiment of the present application.
[0004] FIG. 1B is a cross sectional view of the snorkel system of
FIG. 1A taken along line 1B-1B in FIG. 1A, wherein a person is
positioned on top of a flotation member of the snorkel system.
[0005] FIG. 2A is a top view of a snorkel system according to an
embodiment of the present application.
[0006] FIG. 2B is a cross sectional view of the snorkel system of
FIG. 2A taken along line 2B-2B in FIG. 2A, wherein a person is
positioned on top of a flotation member of the snorkel system.
[0007] FIG. 3A is a top view of a snorkel system according to an
embodiment of the present application.
[0008] FIG. 3B is a cross sectional view of the snorkel system of
FIG. 3A taken along line 3B-3B in FIG. 3A, wherein a person is
positioned on top of a flotation member of the snorkel system.
[0009] FIG. 4 is a top view of a snorkel system according to an
embodiment of the present application.
[0010] FIG. 5 is a side cross sectional view of a breathing tube of
a snorkel system according to an embodiment of the present
application.
[0011] FIG. 6A is a partial cross sectional view of a breathing
tube attached to a flotation member according to an embodiment of
the present application.
[0012] FIG. 6B is a partial cross sectional view of a breathing
tube attached to a flotation member according to an embodiment of
the present application.
[0013] FIGS. 7A-7F are perspective, top, left side, right side,
rear and front views, respectively, of a flotation device according
to an embodiment of the present application.
[0014] FIG. 8A is an exploded perspective view of a flotation
device according to an embodiment of the present application.
[0015] FIG. 8B is a partial cross sectional perspective view of the
flotation device of FIG. 8A, wherein the flotation device is shown
assembled.
[0016] FIG. 9 is a top view of a flotation device according to an
embodiment of the present application.
[0017] FIGS. 10A and 10B are top views of the flotation device of
FIG. 9 folded and rolled, respectively, for storage or
transport.
SUMMARY
[0018] The present application discloses a snorkel system and a
flotation device for snorkeling. In certain embodiments, the
snorkel system comprises a buoyant flotation member for supporting
a person in a body of water. The flotation member comprises a top,
a bottom, and at least one opening extending through the flotation
member from the top to the bottom. The opening is sized and
configured to permit submersion of at least a portion of the face
of a person positioned on the top of the flotation member in the
water below the bottom of the flotation member. The snorkel system
may further comprise a breathing tube having a substantially rigid
first portion in fluid communication with a flexible second
portion. The first portion extends upward from the top of the
flotation member and the second portion is fluidly connected to a
mouthpiece. The second portion is configured such that the
mouthpiece is accessible to a person positioned on the top of the
flotation member and may be inserted into the person's mouth when
his or her face is disposed in the opening.
[0019] In certain embodiments, the flotation device comprises a
buoyant flotation member for supporting a person in a body of
water. The flotation member comprises a top, a bottom, and at least
one opening extending through the flotation member from the top to
the bottom. The opening is sized and configured to permit
submersion of at least a portion of the face of a person positioned
on the top of the flotation member in the water below the bottom of
the flotation member. The flotation may comprise at least one
handle formed in the flotation member. The handle is located
proximate the opening such that it is reachable by the person
positioned on the top of the floatation member with at least a
portion of his or her face in the water below the bottom of the
flotation member. Further, in certain embodiments, the flotation
member has a thickness between about 5 and 7 inches, a first width
between about 28 and 32 inches, a second width between about 18 and
25 inches, and an overall length between about 53 and 57 inches and
is configured to support at least about 250 lbs. without sinking.
The opening may also be sized and configured such that the person
can use a snorkel mask and tube when positioned on the top of the
flotation member.
DESCRIPTION
[0020] The present application discloses a snorkel system and a
flotation device for snorkeling. The snorkel system and flotation
device are designed such that it may be used by people of all ages
and swimming abilities. The system and device may also be
configured for use by multiple people at the same time.
Furthermore, the system and device of the present application
provides the ability for the user(s) to snorkel while only being
partially submerged in the water (e.g., greater than 50% of the
their body remains out of the water, greater than 60% of their body
remains out of the water, greater than 75% of their body remains
out of the water, or greater than 85% of their body remains out of
the water). This is desirable for users who do not wish to be
engulfed by the water or when the water is cold.
[0021] The snorkel system of the present application generally
comprises a flotation portion (e.g., a foam mat, board or
inflatable) for supporting a person in a body of water and having
an opening for the user's head. The opening extends through the
flotation portion and is sized and configured to permit the user to
put his or her face through the opening and into the water. The
snorkel system also generally comprises a breathing tube having a
substantially rigid first portion extending upward from the top of
the flotation portion and a second flexible portion fluidly
connected to a mouthpiece. The second portion is configured such
that the mouthpiece is accessible to the user positioned on the top
of the flotation portion and may be inserted into the person's
mouth when his or her face is disposed in the opening.
[0022] FIGS. 1A and 1B illustrate a snorkel system 100 according to
an embodiment of the present application. As shown, the snorkel
system 100 comprises a buoyant flotation member 102 for supporting
a person in a body of water and a breathing tube 104 having a
substantially rigid first portion 106 in fluid communication with a
flexible second portion 108.
[0023] As illustrated in Figures lA and 1B, the flotation member
102 of the snorkel system 100 comprises a top 110, a bottom 112,
and at least one opening 114 extending through the flotation member
from the top to the bottom. As illustrated in FIG. 1B, the opening
114 is sized and configured to permit submersion of at least a
portion of the face of a person positioned on the top 110 of the
flotation member 102 in the water below the bottom 112 of the
flotation member. The first portion 106 of the breathing tube 104
extends upward from the top 110 of the flotation member 102 and the
second portion 108 is fluidly connected to a mouthpiece 116. The
second portion 108 is configured such that the mouthpiece 116 is
accessible to a person positioned on the top 110 of the flotation
member 102 and may be inserted into the person's mouth when his or
her face is disposed in the opening 114.
[0024] The flotation member of the present application may comprise
about any buoyant material capable of supporting a person in a body
of water including, but not limited to, a foam mat, polyurethane
foam, polystyrene foam, fiberglass, or the like. In certain
embodiments, the flotation member may be inflatable. Further, the
flotation member may be flexible or substantially rigid depending
on the material and application (e.g., how flotation member will be
used, the type of water (rough or flat), storage, whether a
propulsion system will be used, whether the flotation member will
carry equipment, etc.). In certain embodiments, the flotation
member is a flexible foam mat that may be collapsed, folded, and/or
rolled for storage and transport. The flotation member may also
have a friction or non slip surface. The flotation member may also
be shaped such that the snorkel system remains stable in the water
(e.g., hull shaped). Further, the flotation member may comprise
stabilizing components, such as enlarged outer portions, for
stabilizing the flotation member in the water.
[0025] The flotation member of the present application may be a
variety of shapes and sizes. For example, in certain embodiments,
the flotation member is configured to support at least about 250
lbs. without sinking. However, the flotation member may be
configured to support more or less weight depending on a variety of
factors including, but not limited to, the number and size of the
people supported by the flotation member (e.g., adults or children)
and how the flotation member will be used (e.g., as a full body
length member or kick board type member). In certain embodiments,
the flotation member has a thickness between about 1 and 3 inches,
a width between about 24 and 32 inches, and a length between about
32 and 64 inches. However, the thickness, width, and the length of
the flotation member may be more or less depending on a variety of
factors including, but not limited to, the size and number of
people using the flotation member, the material of the flotation
member, and how the flotation member will be used.
[0026] For example, the flotation member 102 shown in FIGS. 1A and
1B is a kick board type member. As illustrated in FIG. 1B, the
flotation member 102 is sized and configured such that a proximal
end 130 of the member is positioned approximately at the waist of
the person when the snorkel system 100 is in use. As such, the
person's legs are free to kick and guide the person through the
water.
[0027] As another example, FIGS. 2A and 2B illustrate a snorkel
system 200 according to an embodiment of the present application.
Similar to the snorkel system 100, the snorkel system 200 comprises
a buoyant flotation member 202 for supporting a person in a body of
water and a breathing tube 204 having a substantially rigid first
portion 206 in fluid communication with a flexible second portion
208. However, the flotation member 202 is a full body length type
member. As illustrated in FIG. 2B, the flotation member 202 is
sized and configured such that the proximal end 230 of the member
is positioned at or near the feet of the person when the snorkel
system 200 is in use such that substantially all of the person's
body is on the member.
[0028] Similarly, FIGS. 3A and 3B illustrate a snorkel system 300
according to an embodiment of the present application. Similar to
the snorkel system 200, the snorkel system 300 comprises a buoyant
flotation member 302 for supporting a person in a body of water and
a breathing tube 304 having a substantially rigid first portion 306
in fluid communication with a flexible second portion 308. The
flotation member 302 is a full body length type member. As
illustrated in FIG. 3B, the flotation member 302 is sized and
configured such that the proximal end 330 of the member is
positioned at or near the feet of the person when the snorkel
system 300 is in use such that substantially all of the person's
body is on the member.
[0029] As another example, FIG. 4 illustrates a snorkel system 400
according to an embodiment of the present application. As shown,
the snorkel system 400 is configured for use by multiple people.
The snorkel system 400 comprises a buoyant flotation member 402 for
supporting at least two people in a body of water and two breathing
tubes 404 having substantially rigid first portions in fluid
communication with flexible second portions. The flotation member
402 is wider than the flotation members 102, 202, 302 such that it
may be used by multiple people. Further, the snorkel system 400
comprises a first opening 414 and a second opening 434 extending
through the flotation member 402 from the top to the bottom. The
openings 414, 434 are sized and configured to permit submersion of
at least a portion of the face of a person positioned on the top of
the flotation member 402 in the water below the bottom of the
flotation member. It should be understood that the snorkel system
of the present application may be configured for use with any
number of people, including 3 people, 4 people, 5 people, 6 people,
or more.
[0030] The openings in the flotation member extend through the
flotation member and are sized and configured to permit submersion
of at least a portion of the face of a person positioned on the top
of the flotation member in the water below the bottom of the
flotation member. The openings may be any size and cross sectional
shape capable of accomplishing this including, but not limited to,
circular (e.g., opening 114 in FIG. 1A), rectangular (e.g., opening
214 in FIG. 2A and opening 314 in FIG. 3A), square, and oval (e.g.,
openings 414, 434 in FIG. 4) shape. The sidewalls of the openings
may also be tapered, e.g., tapering inward or outward from the top
to the bottom of the flotation member. The opening is generally
located between the middle and a distal end of the flotation
member. In certain embodiments, the edge of the opening is located
approximately 8 inches from a distal end of the flotation
member.
[0031] The flotation member may comprise one or more handles for
the user. The handle may take a wide variety of different forms
including, but not limited to, one or more members extending from
the top of the flotation member (e.g., a bar or tube), one or more
members laminated to the top of the flotation member, openings
formed in the flotation member, formed recessed portions on the
edge of the flotation member, or the like. For example, the snorkel
system 100 illustrated in FIGS. 1A and 1B has a handle 180
extending from the top surface 110 of the flotation member 102 and
extending transverse to the longitudinal axis of the flotation
member. As shown, the handle 180 is substantially perpendicular to
the longitudinal axis of the flotation member 102. However, in
certain embodiments, the handle may be at other angles relative to
the longitudinal axis or even substantially parallel with the
longitudinal axis of the flotation member. Similar to handle 180,
the snorkel system 400 illustrated in FIG. 4 has handles 480
extending from the top surface of the flotation member 402. As
shown, the handles 180, 480 are located proximate the openings 114,
414, 434 such that it is reachable by the person positioned on the
top of the floatation member with at least a portion of his or her
face in the water below the bottom of the flotation member.
[0032] In certain embodiments, the snorkel system may comprise one
or more propulsion systems for propelling the flotation member
through water such as, for example, a motor/propeller or jet pump.
The snorkel system may also comprise a rudder or fin extending
below the flotation member that is operatively connected to a
handle such that movement of the handle moves the rudder or fin to
steer the flotation member. The rudder or fin may be used with or
without the propulsion system, and may be separate from the
propulsion system or integral with the propulsion system.
Furthermore, the propulsion system may be operatively connected to
a handle such that movement of the handle moves the propulsion
system to steer the flotation member.
[0033] For example, as illustrated in FIGS. 2A and 23, the snorkel
system 200 comprises a propulsion system 240 connected to and
extending below the flotation member 202 at a location rearward
from the opening 214 such that the churned water from the
propulsion system does not affect the user's view. A rudder or fin
280 is operatively connected to a handle 242 such that movement of
the handle back and forth in a direction M moves the rudder or fin
to steer the flotation member 202. The propulsion system may be
connected to and extend below the flotation member at about any
location. For example, the propulsion system may be connected to
and extend below the flotation member at approximately waist level
of user.
[0034] However, in certain embodiments, the propulsion system (or
rudder or fin) is operatively connected to a controller (e.g., a
handle, joystick, buttons, etc.) such that manipulation of the
controller moves the propulsion system (or rudder or fin) to steer
the flotation member. For example, the controller may be
mechanically connected to the propulsion system, such as with a
flexible member (e.g., wire) or rigid member, such that movement of
the controller moves the propulsion system. Further, the controller
may be electrically connected to the propulsion system (e.g., with
a wire or wirelessly) such that manipulation of the controller will
control a motor configured to turn the propulsion system.
[0035] For example, as illustrated in FIGS. 3A and 3B, the snorkel
system 300 comprises a propulsion system 340 connected to and
extending below a forward extension 390 of the flotation member 302
such that the churned water from the propulsion system does not
affect the user's view. As shown, the propulsion system 340 is
operatively connected to a handle 342 via connection 380 (e.g.,
mechanical connection and/or electrical connection) such that
movement of the handle back and forth in a direction M moves the
propulsion system to steer the flotation member 302.
[0036] In certain embodiments, the snorkel system may comprise a
camera and/or video recorder for capturing images in the water
beneath the flotation member. For example, as illustrated in FIG.
2B, the snorkel system 200 comprises a camera/video recorder 250
attached to the bottom of the flotation member 202 to capture
images in the water beneath the flotation member. The camera/video
recorder 250 may be activated remotely by the person on top of the
flotation member 202. Further, the snorkel system may comprise
other types of equipment, such as lights, attached to the flotation
member.
[0037] The breathing tube of the snorkel system generally has a
substantially rigid first portion in fluid communication with a
flexible second portion. The first portion of the breathing tube
extends upward from the top of the flotation member and the second
portion is fluidly connected to a mouthpiece. The second portion is
sized and configured such that the mouthpiece is accessible to a
person positioned on the top of the flotation member and may be
inserted into the person's mouth when his or her face is disposed
in the opening.
[0038] FIGS. 1A-4 illustrate the breathing tubes 104, 204, 304, 404
of snorkel systems 100, 200, 300, 400, respectively, according to
embodiments of the present application. The first and second
portions of the breathing tubes may be fluidly connected in a
variety of different ways. For example, as illustrated in Figure
GA, the first portion 606 of the breathing tube may extend into or
through an opening in the flotation member 602 and the second
portion 608 may be directly connected to the end of the first
portion. As illustrated in FIG. 6B, the first and second portions
606 and 608 of the breathing tube are fluidly connected to the
opening in the flotation member 602. As such, the opening in the
flotation member 602 is part of the breathing system for the
person. Connectors 620, such as clamps, nuts, or other fasteners,
may be used to secure the portions 606 and 608 of the breathing
tube to the flotation member 602. Further, the first and second
portions 606 and 608 of the breathing tube may be threadably
attached to the opening in the flotation member 602 or form a
friction fit with the opening.
[0039] As illustrated in FIGS. 1B, 2B, and 3B, the second portion
108, 208, 308 of the breathing tube 104, 204, 304 generally extends
from the bottom of the flotation member 102, 202, 302, either from
an end of the first portion 106, 206, 306 or an opening in the
flotation member, and terminates at the mouthpiece 116, 216, 316 in
the face opening 114, 214, 314 of the flotation member such that it
is accessible to the user. At least part of the second portion of
the breathing tube is submerged in the water during use of the
snorkel system. As shown, substantially the entire second portion
108, 208, 308 of the breathing tube 104, 204, 304 is submerged in
the water during use of the snorkel system 100, 200, 300. In
certain embodiments, the first portion of the breathing tube
extends between about 10 and 14 inches above the top of the
flotation member (e.g., about 12 inches) and the second portion of
the breathing tube is between about 10 and 20 inches long (e.g.,
about 15 inches).
[0040] In certain embodiments, the breathing tube has at least two
separate lumens valved for inhalation and exhalation. Air enters
the inhalation lumen and exhaled CO.sub.2 exits the exhalation
lumen. As such, the user does not continuously breathe in his or
her exhaled CO.sub.2. Furthermore, because of the double lumen and
the ability of the exhaled CO.sub.2 to escape, the first portion of
the breathing tube extending from the flotation member can be
longer and permit snorkeling in rougher waters.
[0041] For example, FIG. 5 illustrates a breathing tube 500
according to an embodiment of the present application. The
breathing tube 500 may be used with any of the snorkel systems
described herein. The breathing tube 500 comprises a substantially
rigid first portion 506 fluidly connected to a flexible second
portion 508, which is fluidly connected to a mouthpiece 516. As
shown, both the first and second portions 506, 508 of the breathing
tube 500 comprise a first lumen 520, 530 and a second lumen 522,
532. The first lumens 520, 530 are in fluid communication and are
dedicated inhalation lumens. The second lumens 522, 532 are in
fluid communication and are dedicated exhalation lumens.
[0042] The lumens of the first and/or second portions of the
breathing tube may comprise valves (e.g., one-way, pressure or
demand valves) arranged such that the lumen is a dedicated
inhalation and/or exhalation lumen. For example, as illustrated in
FIG. 5, the first lumen 530 of the second portion 508 of the
breathing tube 500 comprises one or more valves 540 arranged such
that the first lumens 520, 530 are dedicated inhalation lumens.
Further, the second lumen 532 of the second portion 508 of the
breathing tube 500 comprises one or more valves 542 arranged such
that the second lumens 522, 532 are dedicated exhalation lumens. It
should be understood, however, that one or more valves may be
located at various locations in the first and second lumens, e.g.,
in the lumens of the first portion of the breathing tube. Further,
it should be understood that, in certain embodiments, only the
second portion of the breathing tube comprises a double lumen.
[0043] The flotation member of the snorkel system described herein
may be used with or without the breathing tube. For example, the
flotation member may be configured such that a user may use
flotation member with conventional snorkeling equipment (e.g., a
mask and snorkel tube attached to the head of the user) to act as
an aid during snorkeling.
[0044] FIGS. 7A-7F illustrate a flotation device 700 for snorkeling
according to an embodiment of the present application. As shown,
the flotation device 700 comprises a flotation member 702 having a
top surface 710, a bottom surface 712, and at least one opening 714
extending through the flotation member from the top surface to the
bottom surface. The opening 714 is sized and configured to permit
submersion of at least a portion of the face of a person positioned
on the top surface 710 of the flotation member 702 in the water
below the bottom surface 712 of the flotation member. Furthermore,
the opening 714 is shaped and configured such that the person may
use conventional snorkeling gear, such as a mask and snorkel
attached to the head of the user, when positioned on the top 710 of
the flotation member 702.
[0045] The shape of the flotation member 702 facilitates stability
and navigation of the flotation device 700 in the water and waves.
For example, As shown in FIGS. 7C-7D, the flotation member 702 is
thicker towards the middle where the majority of the weight of the
user is placed to facilitate stability in the water. Further, as
shown in FIGS. 7C-7F, the bottom surface 712 of the flotation
member 702 comprises a curvature and one or more rockers (e.g.,
front or rear rockers) that help to stabilize the flotation member
and facilitate navigation in the water and waves.
[0046] The shape of the flotation member 702 also facilitates
maneuverability of the flotation device 700. For example, the arrow
shaped upper portion of the flotation member 702 creates an area
for the user's arms (e.g., to grip) while snorkeling. The indents
after the curved upper portion on the left and right sides of the
flotation member 702 allow the arms of the user to be free to take
pictures, paddle, etc. Further, the lower portion of the flotation
member 702 narrows to facilitate use of the user's legs to propel
and maneuver the flotation member through the water.
[0047] The flotation member 702 may be shaped in a variety of
different ways and comprise a variety of other components that
facilitate stabilization, navigation and maneuverability of the
flotation device 700 in the water and waves. For example, the lower
portion of the flotation member may comprise left and right
extensions that facilitate stability of the flotation device.
Further, the upper portion of the flotation member may comprise
left and right extensions that facilitate stability of the
flotation device. As shown in FIGS. 7A and 7B, the flotation member
702 is symmetric about the longitudinal axis 718.
[0048] The flotation device 700 may comprise one or more handles
for the user. The handles may take a wide variety of different
forms including, but not limited to, one or more members extending
from the top of the flotation member (e.g., a bar or tube), one or
more members laminated to the top surface of the flotation member,
openings or the like formed in the flotation member, formed
recessed portions on the edge of the flotation member, or the like.
As shown in FIGS. 7A-7F, the handles 716 are formed as openings or
slots through the flotation member 702 and extend transverse to the
longitudinal axis 718 of the flotation member. The handles 716 are
located proximate the opening 714 such that it is reachable by the
person positioned on the top of the floatation member 702 with at
least a portion of his or her face in the water below the bottom of
the flotation member. In certain embodiments, the handles may be at
other angles (e.g., perpendicular) relative to the longitudinal
axis or even substantially parallel with the longitudinal axis of
the flotation member. Further, the size of the handles (e.g.,
length and width) may vary. For example, the width H.sub.W of the
opening forming the handles 716 may be between about 1 and 3
inches. In one embodiment, the width Hw is about 11/2 inches.
[0049] The flotation device 700 is generally configured to support
at least about 250 lbs. without sinking. However, the flotation
device 700 may be configured to support more or less weight
depending on a variety of factors including, but not limited to,
the size of the person supported by the flotation member (e.g.,
adults or children) and how the flotation member will be used
(e.g., as a full body length member or kick board type member).
[0050] The thickness, width, and the length of the flotation member
702 may vary depending on a variety of factors including, but not
limited to, the size of the people using the flotation member
(e.g., adult or children), the material of the flotation member,
and how the flotation member will be used. For example, as shown in
FIG. 713, an adult sized flotation member 702 generally has a
length FM.sub.L between about 53 and 57 inches, an upper portion
width FM.sub.UW between about 28 and 32 inches, and a lower portion
width FM.sub.LW between about 18 and 25 inches. Further, as shown
in FIGS. 7C and 7D, the thickness of the central portion of an
adult sized flotation member FM.sub.CT is generally between about 5
and 7 inches and the height of the upper portion or nose of the
flotation member FM.sub.UH is between about 5.5 and 7.5 inches. In
one embodiment, the length FM.sub.L is about 55 inches, the upper
portion width FM.sub.UW is about 30 inches, the lower portion width
FM.sub.LW is about 221/2 inches, the thickness of the central
portion of the flotation member FM.sub.CT is about 61/4 inches, and
the height of the upper portion or nose of the flotation member
FM.sub.UH is about 61/2 inches.
[0051] As shown in FIGS. 7A and 7B, the opening 714 in the
flotation member 702 extends through the flotation member and is
sized and configured to permit submersion of at least a portion of
the face of a person positioned on the top 710 of the flotation
member in the water below the bottom 712 of the flotation member.
Further, the opening 714 permits the user to use conventional
snorkeling equipment such as a mask and snorkel tube attached to
the head of the user. As shown in FIGS. 7A and 7B, the opening 714
is oval shaped. For an adult sized flotation member, the opening
714 generally has a width O.sub.W between about 9 and 12 inches and
a length O.sub.L between about 10 and 14 inches. In one embodiment,
the width O.sub.W is about 101/2 inches and the length O.sub.L is
about 12 inches. However, the opening may be any size and cross
sectional shape capable of accomplishing this including, but not
limited to, circular, rectangular, square, and oval shape. The
sidewalls of the openings may also be tapered, e.g., tapering
inward or outward from the top towards the bottom of the flotation
member. Further, in certain embodiments, the opening may not be
fully enclosed and may be U-shaped or horseshoe shaped.
[0052] The opening is generally located between the middle and a
upper end of the flotation member and is generally centered on the
longitudinal axis of the flotation member. As shown in FIGS. 7A and
7B, the opening 714 is located in the upper portion of the
flotation member 702 along the longitudinal axis 718. For an adult
sized flotation member, the edge of the opening 714 is generally
located a distance D of about 2 to 5 inches from the upper end of
the flotation member 702. In one embodiment, the distance D is
about 21/2 inches. However, one of ordinary skill in the art would
understand that the size, location, and shape of the snorkel
opening may vary depending on a variety of factors such as, for
example, the size of the person using the flotation device and the
type of material used for the flotation member.
[0053] The flotation member 702 may comprise about any buoyant
material capable of supporting a person in a body of water
including, but not limited to, a foam mat, polyurethane foam,
polystyrene foam, fiberglass, poly vinyl chloride (PVC), hard
plastic, or the like. In certain embodiments, the flotation member
may be inflatable. Further, the flotation member may be flexible or
substantially rigid depending on the material and application
(e.g., how the flotation member will be used, the type of water
(rough or flat), storage, whether a propulsion system will be used,
whether the flotation member will carry equipment, etc.). The
flotation member may also wrapped in one or more materials for wear
resistance or strength. For example, the flotation member may be
wrapped in a Kevlar to increase rigidity or nylon sheets to
increase abrasion resistance.
[0054] The flotation member may also have a friction or non slip
surface. For example, as shown in FIGS. 7A and 7B, the flotation
member 702 comprises slip resistant pads applied to the top surface
710 of the flotation member. The pads may be made of a variety of
materials such as, for example, ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) foam.
The top surface 710 may also comprise other friction materials or
surfaces. Further, the flotation member may also comprise one or
more tethers, rings, or fins. For example, as shown in FIG. 7C, the
flotation member 702 comprises an attachment 722 for attachment of
leash.
[0055] In certain embodiments, the flotation device 700 may be
disassembled, collapsed, folded, and/or rolled for storage and
transport. For example. FIGS. 8A and 8B illustrate a flotation
device 800 having a flotation member 802 that may be disassembled
into two pieces. As shown, the flotation member 802 comprises a
first portion 840 and a second portion 850. The first portion 840
comprises the upper portion of the flotation member 802 and
includes an opening 814 and handles 816 similar to those described
above with reference to FIGS. 7A-7F. The second portion 850
comprises the lower portion of the flotation member 802. The first
portion 840 and the second portion 850 are attached together to
form the flotation member 802 of the flotation device 800.
[0056] FIGS. 8A and 8B illustrate the connection of the first and
second portions 840, 850. As shown, the first portion 840 comprises
an attachment portion 860 that includes at least one opening 862
extending through the attachment portion. The second portion 850
comprises a slot or pocket 870 configured to receive the attachment
portion 860 of the first portion 840 and at least one opening 872
through the second portion that substantially aligns with the
opening 862 of the attachment portion 860 when the first and second
portions are connected together. As shown in FIGS. 8A and 8B, the
attachment portion 860 of the first portion 840 and the second
portion 850 each comprise two openings 862, 872 that are
substantially aligned when the first and second portions are
connected together. Further, the openings 862, 872 are threaded
such that threaded fasteners 880 may be used to connect to the
first and second portions 840, 850 together.
[0057] FIGS. 9-10B illustrate an inflatable flotation device 900
that may be collapsed and folded or rolled for transport or
storage. The flotation device 900 comprises a flotation member 902,
opening 914, and handles 916 similar to those described above with
reference to FIGS. 7A-7F. The handles may take a wide variety of
different forms including, but not limited to, one or more members
extending from the top of the flotation member 902 (e.g., a bar,
tube or other member), one or more members laminated to the surface
of the flotation member 902, openings formed in the flotation
member 902, formed recessed portions on the edge of the flotation
member 902, or the like. As shown in FIG. 9, the flotation member
902 of the flotation device 900 also comprises a leash attachment
960 and a valve opening 950 for inflating and deflating the
flotation member. When deflated, the flotation member 902 may be
folded (FIG. 10A) and/or rolled (FIG. 10B) for storage or
transport. After folding and/or rolling the deflated flotation
member 902, the footprint size of the flotation device 900 may be
reduced such that it can be easily stored and transported. In one
embodiment, the folded and/or rolled footprint of the flotation
member 902 is 8.times.16 inches or less.
[0058] In certain embodiments, the flotation member 902 may be made
of drop stitch PVC fabric. This material permits the flotation
member to be filled to a higher pressure (e.g., between 10-18 psi)
than more conventional inflatables made of PVC material. The drop
stitch fabric also makes the flotation member hard and rigid when
inflated. PVC drop stitch fabric generally comprises sheets of PVC
connected together with tens of thousands of polyester threads. The
PVC drop stitch fabric of the flotation member may be a variety of
thicknesses, e.g., 75, 100, 120, and 150 mm. As shown in FIGS.
9-10B, the flotation member 902 comprises a 75 mm thick drop stitch
PVC fabric. However, the flotation member of the present
application may also comprise other materials including non-drop
stitch PVC material. In certain embodiments, the PVC material of
the flotation member may be covered with Kevlar to increase the
rigidity of the flotation member.
[0059] As described herein, when one or more components are
described as being connected, joined, affixed, coupled, attached,
or otherwise interconnected, such interconnection may be direct as
between the components or may be in direct such as through the use
of one or more intermediary components. Also as described herein,
reference to a "member," "connector," "component," or "portion"
shall not be limited to a single structural member, component, or
element but can include an assembly of components, members or
elements.
[0060] While the present invention has been illustrated by the
description of embodiments thereof, and while the embodiments have
been described in considerable detail, it is not the intention of
the applicants to restrict or in any way limit the scope of the
invention to such details. Additional advantages and modifications
will readily appear to those skilled in the art. For example, where
components are releasably or removably connected or attached
together, any type of releasable connection may be suitable
including for example, locking connections, fastened connections,
tongue and groove connections, etc. Still further, component
geometries, shapes, and dimensions can be modified without changing
the overall role or function of the components. Therefore, the
inventive concept, in its broader aspects, is not limited to the
specific details, the representative apparatus, and illustrative
examples shown and described. Accordingly, departures may be made
from such details without departing from the spirit or scope of the
applicant's general inventive concept.
[0061] While various inventive aspects, concepts and features of
the inventions may be described and illustrated herein as embodied
in combination in the exemplary embodiments, these various aspects,
concepts and features may be used in many alternative embodiments,
either individually or in various combinations and sub-combinations
thereof. Unless expressly excluded herein all such combinations and
sub-combinations are intended to be within the scope of the present
inventions. Still further, while various alternative embodiments as
to the various aspects, concepts and features of the
inventions--such as alternative materials, structures,
configurations, methods, devices and components, alternatives as to
form, fit and function, and so on--may be described herein, such
descriptions are not intended to be a complete or exhaustive list
of available alternative embodiments, whether presently known or
later developed. Those skilled in the art may readily adopt one or
more of the inventive aspects, concepts or features into additional
embodiments and uses within the scope of the present inventions
even if such embodiments are not expressly disclosed herein.
Additionally, even though some features, concepts or aspects of the
inventions may be described herein as being a preferred arrangement
or method, such description is not intended to suggest that such
feature is required or necessary unless expressly so stated. Still
further, exemplary or representative values and ranges may be
included to assist in understanding the present disclosure;
however, such values and ranges are not to be construed in a
limiting sense and are intended to be critical values or ranges
only if so expressly stated. Moreover, while various aspects,
features and concepts may be expressly identified herein as being
inventive or forming part of an invention, such identification is
not intended to be exclusive, but rather there may be inventive
aspects, concepts and features that are fully described herein
without being expressly identified as such or as part of a specific
invention, the inventions instead being set forth in the appended
claims. Descriptions of exemplary methods or processes are not
limited to inclusion of all steps as being required in all cases,
nor is the order that the steps are presented to be construed as
required or necessary unless expressly so stated.
* * * * *