Patent ID: 6830004
Filing Date: 2004-12-14
Classification: B63B,F17C,H01H

Abstract:
A flotation device for maintaining a watercraft in a floating condition, the flotation device comprising:a mounting plate mounted to the watercraft, the mounting plate having a first cover channel, a second cover channel, a first bladder-retaining slot, and a second bladder-retaining slot; a first collapsible tubing receivable within the first cover channel; an elongated cover having a first edge and a second edge, the first edge receivable in the first cover channel and the second edge receivable in the second cover channel, the first collapsible tubing positioned between the mounting plate and the first edge; a space defined between the mounting plate and the cover; a directional bladder receivable within the space, at least a portion of the directional bladder receivable within the first bladder retaining slot; a flotation bladder receivable within the space, at least a portion of the flotation bladder receivable within the second bladder retaining slot; and inflation means connected to the first collapsible tubing, the directional bladder and the flotation bladder for inflating the first collapsible tubing, the directional bladder, and the flotation bladder; wherein upon inflation of the first collapsible tubing and the directional bladder, the first edge of the cover is released from the first cover channel of the mounting plate and is moved in a direction generally away from the watercraft allowing the directional bladder and the flotation bladder to substantially inflate.