Flotation apparatus
US7261606B2 · kind B2 · utility
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Dec 14, 2005 |
| Grant date | Aug 28, 2007 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Dec 14, 2025 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA62B33/00
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A method and apparatus is provided to support a plurality of objects such as keys with an inflatable apparatus when the inflatable apparatus is exposed to a body of water. In one embodiment, an inflatable apparatus provides an attachment member such as a key ring to attach objects such as keys to the inflatable apparatus. The inflatable apparatus is capable of inflating from a compact shape to an expanded shape upon contact with water. In the expanded shape, the inflatable apparatus provides sufficient buoyancy to support the objects coupled therewith and float the objects to the surface of the water for retrieval by a user. In situations where the weight of the object exceeds a buoyancy limit, the inflatable apparatus can extend a marker buoy to assist in the retrieval of the objects. In other embodiments, the inflatable apparatus includes a wireless transmit a wireless location signal.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.