Dry snorkel
US5960791A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Dec 9, 1997 |
| Grant date | Oct 5, 1999 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Dec 9, 2017 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB63C11/205
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
An adaptor assembly which attaches at the upper end opening of the snorkel. The adaptor assembly comprising an upper housing, snaps into the end of the snorkel tube. The snorkel tube follows the contour of the snorkeler's head. The upper housing has a flange to seal against the snorkel tube. The upper housing has a gentle bend at the end that is approximately 90 degrees. A float pivots on pins at a lower area of the upper housing. The float has a suitable lightweight material (low specific gravity) such as closed cell foam held in the lower area and a sealing valve at the upper area. A cover surrounds the upper housing/float housing assembly. The cover that surrounds the upper housing/float housing assembly serves to both protect the moving components and to be a splash guard to keep water from splashing into the opening. When the upper portion of the snorkel is submerged, the float tilts and causes the sealing valve to shut off the opening of the upper housing. The valve will remain shut due to water pressure even if the snorkel is tilted upside down. At any time, the snorkeler can exhale air into the snorkel. If the air pressure exceed ambient, then air pressure will momentarily …
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.