Throwable emergency response automatic inflatable personal flotation device
US7004807B1 · kind B1 · utility
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Aug 26, 2004 |
| Grant date | Feb 28, 2006 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Aug 26, 2024 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB63C9/22
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
An automatic inflatable personal flotation device configured to be thrown to a person in a body of water to assist that person with staying afloat while waiting to be rescued. The flotation device is configured with a body member having a handle configured to be easily and effectively thrown. The body member supports an automatic inflator assembly and a source of pressurized gas, such as a cylinder of carbon dioxide. The inflator assembly is configured to automatically activate upon immersion in water and release the pressurized gas to rapidly fill a flotation bladder, pneumatically connected to the inflator assembly, with the gas to support the person in the water. A pull handle and cord member mechanism provides for manual activation of the inflator assembly. A sheath covers the flotation bladder during storage and while thrown. The handle can have a chamber for storing various signal generating devices or emergency materials.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.