Abstract:
A device aid in the retention and transportation of small oxygen bottles worn by a user during use is herein disclosed, comprising a somewhat larger and cylindrical holster to hold a type “B” oxygen canister which is approximately twelve (12) inches long and three (3) inches in diameter. The device uses a formed shoulder strap available in two different models for specific right or left hand use. The formed radius of the strap forces the strap up onto the shoulder and makes the device conform securely to the user. A retention strap that goes under the opposite arm also aids in this retention. The device can be worn while sitting, walking, standing or performing most normal activities.

Description:
RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     The present invention was first described in a notarized Official Record of Invention on Aug. 28, 2007, that is on file at the offices of Montgomery Patent and Design, LLC, the entire disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference. 
     FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
     The present invention relates generally to a device aid in the retention and transportation of small oxygen bottles worn by a user during use and, more particularly, to said device comprising a holster to hold a type “B” oxygen canister, which is approximately twelve (12) inches long and three (3) inches in diameter, and available in two (2) different models for specific right or left hand use. 
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     Many people due to their medical condition rely upon supplemental oxygen therapy to assist them in carrying out the normal activities of living. Medical oxygen is seeing increased usage in the home environment given the recent push to reduce hospital stays. In many instances, users carry a small canister of oxygen commonly called a ‘size B” tank. While such tanks provide an adequate supply of oxygen for most activities, they do suffer from the fact that they must be carried about. Many users carry them on their back or in a small handbag. This encumbers their user in their daily activities such as walking, standing or sitting. In fact, they may be so encumbering, that many users will go without the oxygen thus risking their health. Accordingly, there is a need for a means by which small oxygen tanks can be transported without the disadvantages as described above. The development of the device described herein fulfills this need. 
     Typically, backpack type or bag type carriers are used to house medical oxygen cylinders for portable use. These devices all suffer from being bulky and uncomfortable if worn. Further, it is difficult when outerwear is necessary to wear coats over these devices. The device described herein, due to its profile characteristics and conformation to the wearer, permits one to wear outer clothing over the device and eliminates the need to separately carry a portable oxygen tank for use in supplemental oxygen therapy situations. 
     There have been attempts in the past to provide carrying devices for portable oxygen tanks. U.S. Pat. No. D 528,657 issued to Adams et al discloses a backpack device for carrying a portable oxygen tank. Unfortunately, this design patent does not appear to be similar in appearance to the instant device, nor does it appear to disclose a holster for an oxygen body that lies underneath the armpit of a user and comprises a chest strap for added stability. 
     U.S. Pat. No. D 430,400 issued to Harper discloses a backpack type carrier for portable oxygen. Unfortunately, this design patent does not appear to be similar in appearance to the instant device, nor does it appear to disclose a holster for an oxygen body that lies underneath the armpit of a user and comprises a chest strap for added stability. 
     U.S. Pat. No. 5,586,704 issued to Alexander et al appears to disclose a shoulder holster for a portable telephone. Unfortunately, this patent does not appear to disclose a shoulder holster for an oxygen tank, nor does it appear to comprise a chest strap for added support of the holster on a user. 
     U.S. Pat. No. D 305,078 issued to Moore discloses a backpack-type carrier for a portable oxygen tank. Unfortunately, this design patent does not appear to be similar in appearance to the disclosed device, nor does it fit conveniently under the armpit of a user. 
     U.S. Pat. No. 4,739,913 issued to Moore comprises a backpack type carrier for portable oxygen dispensers. Unfortunately, this patent does not disclose a shoulder holster for oxygen tanks that utilizes a strapping system to secure a portable oxygen tank under the armpit of a user. 
     U.S. Pat. No. 4,560,193 issued to Beebe discloses a manual carrying device for transporting a cylindrical tank that appears to comprise a strap that is fitted around an oxygen tank to which a handle is attached. Unfortunately, this patent does not appear to disclose a shoulder holster for oxygen tanks that comprises a self-contained means of transporting a portable oxygen tank on a user&#39;s body. 
     U.S. Pat. No. 4,438,764 issued to Eppolito discloses an oxygen bottle caddy that appears to be secured to the back of a wearer. Unfortunately, this design patent does not appear to be similar in appearance to the disclosed device, nor does it fit conveniently under the armpit of a user. 
     U.S. Pat. No. 4,346,827 issued to Bianchi et al. discloses a vestlike weapon carrier that appears to comprise two shoulder straps connected by a chest and back strap. Unfortunately, this patent does not disclose a shoulder holster for oxygen tanks that comprises a single shoulder strap that is stabilized by a chest strap. 
     U.S. Pat. No. 4,260,089 issued to Daleo discloses a shoulder holster that secures to a wearer&#39;s garment. Unfortunately, this patent does not appear to disclose a shoulder holster that accepts an oxygen tank, nor does the patent appear to disclose a chest strap to the shoulder holster. 
     U.S. Pat. No. 4,212,418 issued to Bianchi discloses a shoulder holster with improved shoulder strap arrangement comprising a broadened support area and a narrow holster engaging portion. Unfortunately, this patent does not appear to disclose a shoulder holster that is capable of accepting a portable oxygen tank, nor does the patent appear to utilize the same strapping members and arrangement as the disclosed device. 
     None of the prior art particularly describes a device aid in the retention and transportation of small oxygen bottles worn by a user during use comprising a holster to hold a type “B” oxygen canister and available in two (2) different models for specific right or left hand use that the instant device possesses. Accordingly, there exists a need for a means by which small oxygen tanks can be transported without the disadvantages as described above. 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     In light of the disadvantages present in the prior art, it is apparent that there is a need for a portable oxygen shoulder holster which provides a means for aiding in the transportation and retention of small sized type “B” oxygen canisters worn by a user. 
     An object of the shoulder holster for oxygen tanks comprises a light-weight durable material, such as leather or nylon. 
     Another object of the shoulder holster for oxygen tanks comprises a chest strap that prevents movement of the oxygen tank. 
     A further object of the shoulder holster for oxygen tanks is that it may be worn under most outerwear. 
     Still another object of the shoulder holster for oxygen tanks is that the convenient nature of the holster eliminates many of the problems that cause patients requiring oxygen therapy to not carry their personal oxygen tank with them. 
     Still a further object of the shoulder holster for oxygen tanks is that it provides rapid access to the oxygen bottle for ease of replacement. 
     Yet another object of the shoulder holster for oxygen tanks is provided in two (2) different design models for a specific right-hand or a left-hand use. 
     An aspect of the shoulder holster for oxygen tanks comprises a canister holder, a shoulder strap, and a plurality of adjustment means allowing said device to conform securely to the body of the user when worn while not in interfering with sitting, walking, standing, or other normal activities. 
     Another aspect of the shoulder holster for oxygen comprises a canister holder envisioned to accommodate a type “B” portable oxygen canister which is downwardly inserted into said canister holder. 
     A further aspect of the shoulder holster for oxygen tanks comprises an apron that is permanently attached to the canister holder and which acts as a support yoke for the canister holder, thereby protecting the underarm area of the user from the oxygen canister. 
     Still another aspect of the shoulder holster for oxygen tanks comprises a cover flap that folds over and covers the stem and valve assembly of the oxygen canister after insertion into the canister holder. The cover flap is removably attached to the canister holder by means of a cover fastener. 
     Still a further aspect of the shoulder holster for oxygen tanks comprises a shoulder strap that allows the holster to rest securely upon the shoulder of the user while pulling the apron into the body of the user. 
     Yet another aspect of the shoulder holster for oxygen tanks comprises a first adjustment point to allow the user the ability to adjust the shoulder strap to an appropriate size. 
     Yet a further aspect of the shoulder holster for oxygen tanks comprises a second adjustment point comprising a plurality of adjustment slots to allow for adjustment of a rear chest strap. The rear chest strap connects the shoulder strap to a front chest strap. The rear chest strap removably attaches to the front chest strap at a third adjustment point comprising a tongue buckle located on said rear chest strap and a plurality of buckle apertures located on said front chest strap. 
     Still a further aspect of the shoulder holster for oxygen tanks comprises a loop to hold an excess portion of the front chest strap after attachment to the rear chest strap at the third adjustment point. 
     Still another aspect of the shoulder holster for oxygen tanks comprises a “D”-ring which is permanently attached to the shoulder strap by a hook. A canister ring is removably attached to the “D”-ring. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       The advantages and features of the present invention will become better understood with reference to the following more detailed description and claims taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which like elements are identified with like symbols, and in which: 
         FIG. 1  is an environmental view of a portable oxygen shoulder holster  10 , according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention; and, 
         FIG. 2  is a front perspective view of a portable oxygen shoulder holster  10 , according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. 
     
    
    
     DESCRIPTIVE KEY 
     
       
         
               
               
             
           
               
                   
               
             
             
               
                 10 
                 portable oxygen shoulder holster 
               
               
                 20 
                 canister holder 
               
               
                 22 
                 apron 
               
               
                 30 
                 cover flap 
               
               
                 32 
                 cover fastener 
               
               
                 40 
                 shoulder strap 
               
               
                 41 
                 first adjustment point 
               
               
                 42 
                 laces 
               
               
                 44 
                 second adjustment point 
               
               
                 45 
                 adjustment slot 
               
               
                 46 
                 “D”-ring 
               
               
                 50 
                 rear chest strap 
               
               
                 52 
                 rear fastener 
               
               
                 54 
                 third adjustment point 
               
               
                 56 
                 buckle 
               
               
                 58 
                 loop 
               
               
                 60 
                 front chest strap 
               
               
                 62 
                 buckle aperture 
               
               
                 64 
                 hook 
               
               
                 70 
                 canister ring 
               
               
                 80 
                 oxygen canister 
               
               
                 82 
                 oxygen tubing 
               
               
                 100 
                 user 
               
               
                   
               
             
          
         
       
     
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT 
     The best mode for carrying out the invention is presented in terms of its preferred embodiment, herein depicted within  FIGS. 1 and 2 . However, the invention is not limited to the described embodiment and a person skilled in the art will appreciate that many other embodiments of the invention are possible without deviating from the basic concept of the invention, and that any such work around will also fall under scope of this invention. It is envisioned that other styles and configurations of the present invention can be easily incorporated into the teachings of the present invention, and only one particular configuration shall be shown and described for purposes of clarity and disclosure and not by way of limitation of scope. 
     The terms “a” and “an” herein do not denote a limitation of quantity, but rather denote the presence of at least one of the referenced items. 
     The present invention describes a device and method for a portable oxygen shoulder holster (herein described as the “device”)  10 , which provides a means for aiding in the transportation and retention of small sized type “B” oxygen canisters  80  worn by a user  100 . The device  10  comprises generally a canister holder  20 , a shoulder strap  40 , and a plurality of adjustment means allowing said device  10  to conform securely to the body of the user  100  when worn while not in interfering with sitting, walking, standing, or other normal activities. 
     Referring now to  FIG. 1 , an environmental view the device  10 , according to the preferred embodiment of the present invention, is disclosed. The device  10  is preferably made of a light-weight durable material, such as leather or nylon, and fabricated through common textile cutting and assembly methods. The device  10  comprises a canister holder  20  envisioned to accommodate a type “B” portable oxygen canister  80  approximately twelve (12) inches long and three (3) inches in diameter which is downwardly inserted into said canister holder  20 . The device  10  also comprises an apron  22  envisioned to be permanently attached to an upper rear outside surface of the canister holder  20  and extending above the opening of said holder  20  which acts as a support yoke for said canister holder  20  and protects the underarm area of the user  100  from the oxygen canister  80  when worn. The device  10  also comprises a cover flap  30  envisioned to fold over and cover the stem and valve assembly of the oxygen canister  80  after insertion into the canister holder  20  and allowing the oxygen tube  82  to extend outward. The cover flap  30  is envisioned as removably attaching to the canister holder  20  by means of a cover fastener  32  illustrated as a snap, although said fastener  32  may be introduced in a variety of fastening means such as, a button, a common hook-and-loop fastener, a magnet, or the like and as such should not be viewed as a limiting factor of the invention  10 . The device  10  further comprises a shoulder strap  40  envisioned to be approximately one and one-half (1½) inches wide which extends outward from the apron  22  around the shoulder of the user  100 . The shoulder strap  40  is envisioned as cut in a predetermined radius allowing the device  10  to rest securely thereupon the shoulder of the user  100  while pulling the apron  22  into the body of the user  100 . 
     Referring now to  FIG. 2 , a front perspective view of the device  10 , according to the preferred embodiment of the present invention, is disclosed. The device  10  comprises a first adjustment point  41  envisioned to allow the user  100  the ability to adjust the shoulder strap  40  to an appropriate size; herein illustrated as comprising laces  42 . Said first adjustment point  41  may be introduced in a variety of different adjustment means such as, a hook-and-loop fastener, an adjustment buckle, a cam and spring buckle, a tongue buckle, a snap, or the like, and as such should not be viewed as a limiting factor of the invention. The device  10  also comprises a second adjustment point  44  located on the rear side of the shoulder strap  40  comprising a plurality of adjustment slots  45  envisioned to allow for adjustment of a rear chest strap  50 . The rear chest strap  50  is envisioned as engaging therethrough the adjustment slot  45  and folding back on and connecting to itself by means of a rear fastener  52 , preferably a snap. Although the second adjustment point  44  is illustrated comprising the adjustment slot  45  and rear fastener  45  snap it may be introduced in a variety of different attachment means such as, a hook-and-loop fastener, a strap adjuster, or the like and as such should not be viewed as a limiting factor of the invention  10 . The rear chest strap  50  is envisioned as one half (½) inch wide and connecting the shoulder strap  40  to a front chest strap  60 . The rear chest strap  50  removably attaches to the front chest strap  60  at a third adjustment point  54  comprising a tongue buckle  56  located on said rear chest strap  50  and a plurality of buckle apertures  62  located on said front chest strap  60 . Although illustrated using a tongue buckle  56  and buckle apertures  62  the third adjustment point  54  may be introduced in a variety of different attachment means such as, a side release buckle, a hook-and-loop fastener, a cam and spring buckle, or the like and as such should not be viewed as a limiting factor of the invention  10 . The device also comprises a loop  58  envisioned to hold an excess portion of the front chest strap  60  after attaching to the rear chest strap  40  at the third adjustment point  54 . The rear chest strap  50  and front chest strap  60  once connected and adjusted are envisioned to loop around the back, under an arm opposite the device  10 , and over the chest of the user  100  securing said device  10 . The device  10  also comprises a “D”-ring  46  which is permanently attached to the front surface of the shoulder strap  40 . The front chest strap  60  removably attaches to the “D”-ring  46 , by means of a hook  64  preferably an eye hook, a spring clip, a bolt snap, or the like. The device  10  also comprises a canister ring  70  envisioned as removably attached thereto the “D”-ring  46  by looping over the stem portion of the oxygen canister  80  thus providing additional stability. 
     It is envisioned the device  10  will be introduced in two (2) different design models for a specific right-hand or a left-hand use. 
     It is envisioned that other styles and configurations of the present invention can be easily incorporated into the teachings of the present invention, and only one particular configuration shall be shown and described for purposes of clarity and disclosure and not by way of limitation of scope. 
     The preferred embodiment of the present invention can be utilized by the common user in a simple and effortless manner with little or no training. After initial purchase or acquisition of the device  10 , it would be installed as indicated in  FIGS. 1 and 2 . 
     The method of utilizing the device  10  may be achieved by performing the following steps: taking the device  10  in hand; determining if the user  100  has a right-handed or a left-handed model of the device  10 ; inserting an arm therethrough the opening provided by the connected shoulder strap  40  and apron  22 ; resting the shoulder strap  40  on top of a shoulder; determining if the shoulder strap  40  is fitted properly; removing the device  10  from the shoulder if said device  10  needs adjustment; adjusting the size of the shoulder strap  40  at the first adjustment point  41 ; unlacing the lace  42 ; lengthening or shortening the shoulder strap  40  to the desired size; relacing the lace  42 ; replacing the shoulder strap  40  back on the shoulder; connecting the rear chest strap  50  to the front chest strap  60  via the buckle  56  at the second adjustment point  54 ; wrapping the connected chest straps  50 ,  60  around the back, under the arm opposite the device  10 , and across the chest of the user  100 ; attaching the front chest strap  60  to the apron  22  via hooking the hook  64  to the “D”-ring  46 ; adjusting the tightness of the chest straps  50 ,  60  by lengthening or shortening said front chest strap  60  at the second adjustment point  54 ; engaging the buckle  56  thereto the appropriate buckle aperture  62 ; securing the excess end of the front chest strap  60  by sliding the loop  58  over said excess strap  60 ; inserting a full type “B” oxygen canister  80  in a downward motion therein the canister holder  20 ; placing the canister ring  70  thereover the upper stem portion of the oxygen canister  80 ; folding the cover flap  30  over the stem and valve portion of the oxygen canister  80 ; fastening the cover flap  30  thereto the canister holder  20  via engaging the cover fastener  32 ; ensuring oxygen tubing  82  extends outward from under the cover flap  30 ; utilizing the oxygen tubing  82  and oxygen canister  80  as normal; conducting normal activities; and, benefiting from the improved comfort, unencumbered movement, ease of oxygen canister  80  replacement while using the present invention  10 . 
     The foregoing descriptions of specific embodiments of the present invention have been presented for purposes of illustration and description. They are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention and method of use to the precise forms disclosed. Obviously many modifications and variations are possible in light of the above teaching. The embodiment was chosen and described in order to best explain the principles of the invention and its practical application, and to thereby enable others skilled in the art to best utilize the invention and various embodiments with various modifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated. It is understood that various omissions or substitutions of equivalents are contemplated as circumstance may suggest or render expedient, but is intended to cover the application or implementation without departing from the spirit or scope of the claims of the present invention.