Donald G Blackman

US Patent:

20140220838, Aug 7, 2014

Filed:

Feb 6, 2013

Appl. No.:

13/760713

Inventors:

- Orchard Park NY, US
Matt Scholes - Germantown TN, US
M. Elizabeth Bolint - Tampa FL, US
Donald Blackman - Bradenton FL, US

Assignee:

Carleton Technologies, Inc. - Orchard Park NY

International Classification:

B63C 9/18

US Classification:

441 97

Abstract:

Disclosed is a personal flotation and rescue device. The device includes a life vest with an interconnected backpack. The backpack includes an interior area that is enclosed by a peripheral zipper. A boom is initially stored within the backpack in an uninflated and accordion-like state. A water activated inflator is secured to the boom and is adapted to fully inflate the boom upon contact with water. Inflation of the boom causes the zipper to open and thereby permit the boom to be fully extended from the back of the wearer. Joints are included along the length of the boom such that it takes on a bounded configuration after inflation. The bounded area and then be used by rescue personnel in retrieving the wearer of the device.