Reversible life raft and method therefor
US6375529B1 · kind B1 · utility
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jul 3, 2001 |
| Grant date | Apr 23, 2002 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jul 3, 2021 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB63C2009/046
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
The present invention is an inflatable, reversible life raft with a raft body including upper and lower inflatable, peripherally disposed bladders defining a closed geometric shape. The raft body also includes upper and lower inflatable masts in pneumatic communication with the upper and lower bladders, respectively. A floor closes the geometric shape between the upper and lower bladders. The upper and lower masts support upper and lower canopies, respectively. The upper canopy forms an upright, above-water enclosure to protect survivors from the elements. The lower canopy forms an underwater ballast beneath the floor of the raft, stabilizing the life raft. The reversible life raft is equipped with a reversible, collapsible ladder attached to an exterior portion of the two stacked bladders, and is equipped with two reversible ballast pouches mounted to an exterior portion of the two stacked bladders opposite the ladder. A method for establishing a reversible life raft for survivors in a body of water is also included.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.