Abstract
A water flotation device and floating audio devices are disclosed herein. In an example, a flotation apparatus for supporting a portable audio device on water includes an inflatable flotation device including at least one compartment configured to securely contain an audio device. The at least one compartment is configured to enable the audio device to be inserted and removed from the at least one compartment. The flotation apparatus also includes at least one air valve configured for inflating and deflating the inflatable flotation device and at least one connection point. The at least one connection point is configured to connect to at least one line that is configured to be connected to at least one anchor. The inflatable flotation device is configured to float on a surface of a body of water and securely contain the audio device in the at least one compartment.
Claims
1. A flotation apparatus for supporting a portable audio device on water, the apparatus comprising: an inflatable flotation device including: at least one compartment configured to securely contain at least one audio device, wherein the at least one compartment is configured to enable the at least one audio device to be inserted and removed from the at least one compartment, at least one cover configured to provide a closure for the at least one compartment, and at least one second compartment configured to securely contain at least one communication device that is wirelessly coupled to the at least one audio device, wherein the at least one second compartment is waterproof and configured to be at least partially submerged in water to provide heat sinking; at least one air valve configured for inflating and deflating the inflatable flotation device; and at least one connection point, wherein the at least one connection point is configured to connect to at least one line that is configured to be connected to at least one anchor, wherein the inflatable flotation device is configured to float on a surface of a body of water and securely contain the at least one audio device in the at least one compartment.
2. The flotation apparatus of claim 1, further comprising at least one beverage compartment configured to contain at least one beverage.
3. The flotation apparatus of claim 1, further comprising at least one audio tunnel extending from an inside of the at least one compartment to an exterior of the inflatable flotation device.
4. The flotation apparatus of claim 1, wherein the at least one cover is configured to allow audio to be heard through the at least one cover.
5. A flotation apparatus for supporting a portable audio device on water, the apparatus comprising: an inflatable flotation device including: at least one compartment configured to securely contain at least one audio device, wherein the at least one compartment is configured to enable the at least one audio device to be inserted and removed from the at least one compartment, at least one cover configured to provide a closure for the at least one compartment, and at least one second compartment configured to securely contain at least one communication device that is wirelessly coupled to the at least one audio device, wherein the at least one second compartment is waterproof and configured to be at least partially submerged in water to provide heat sinking; at least one air valve configured for inflating and deflating the inflatable flotation device; and at least one connection point, wherein the at least one connection point is configured to connect to at least one line that is configured to be connected to at least one anchor, wherein the inflatable flotation device is configured to float on a surface of a body of water and securely contain the at least one audio device in the at least one compartment, and wherein the inflatable flotation device is configured to be connected to the at least one anchor.
6. The flotation apparatus of claim 5, further comprising at least one beverage compartment configured to contain at least one beverage.
7. The flotation apparatus of claim 5, further comprising at least one audio tunnel extending from an inside of the at least one compartment to an exterior of the inflatable flotation device.
8. The flotation apparatus of claim 5, wherein the at least one cover is configured to allow audio to be heard through the at least one cover.
9. The flotation apparatus of claim 5, wherein the inflatable flotation device is configured to support at least one person when the inflatable flotation device is floating on the surface of the body of water while holding the at least one audio device within the at least one compartment.
10. The flotation apparatus of claim 5, further comprising at least one second connection point configured to secure a portable waterproof enclosure for another communication device.
11. The flotation apparatus of claim 5, wherein the at least one compartment includes a floor or a base having a drain configured to remove water from the at least one compartment.
12. The flotation apparatus of claim 5, further comprising the at least one anchor, wherein the at least one anchor is configured to be filled with a material that increases a weight of the at least one anchor.
13. The flotation apparatus of claim 5, further comprising the at least one audio device.
14. A flotation apparatus for supporting a portable audio device on water, the apparatus comprising: an inflatable flotation device including: at least one compartment configured to securely contain at least one audio device, wherein the at least one compartment is configured to enable the at least one audio device to be inserted and removed from the at least one compartment, at least one cover configured to provide a closure for the at least one compartment, and at least one second compartment configured to securely contain at least one communication device that is wirelessly coupled to the at least one audio device, wherein the at least one second compartment is waterproof and configured to be at least partially submerged in water to provide heat sinking; at least one air valve configured for inflating and deflating the inflatable flotation device; at least one anchor configured to be connected to at least one line; and at least one connection point, wherein the at least one connection point is configured to connect to the at least one line that is configured to be connected to the at least one anchor, wherein the inflatable flotation device and the at least one anchor are configured to be connected together via the at least one line, and wherein the inflatable flotation device is configured to float on a surface of a body of water and securely contain the at least one audio device in the at least one compartment.
15. The flotation apparatus of claim 14, further comprising at least one water resistant or waterproof compartment.
16. The flotation apparatus of claim 14, further comprising at least one beverage compartment configured to contain at least one beverage.
17. The flotation apparatus of claim 14, further comprising at least one audio tunnel extending from an inside of the at least one compartment to an exterior of the inflatable flotation device.
18. The flotation apparatus of claim 14, wherein the at least one compartment is configured to drain water.
19. The flotation apparatus of claim 14, wherein the inflatable flotation device is configured to support at least one person when the inflatable flotation device is floating on the surface of the body of water while holding the at least one audio device within the at least one compartment.
20. The flotation apparatus of claim 14, further comprising at least one second connection point configured to secure a portable waterproof enclosure for another communication device.
21. The flotation apparatus of claim 14, further comprising the at least one audio device.
22. The flotation apparatus of claim 14, wherein the at least one anchor is configured to be filled with a material that increases a weight of the at least one anchor.
23. The flotation apparatus of claim 14, wherein the at least one cover is configured to allow audio to be heard through the at least one cover.
24. A flotation apparatus for supporting a portable audio device on water, the apparatus comprising: an inflatable flotation device including: at least one compartment configured to securely contain at least one audio device, wherein the at least one compartment is configured to enable the at least one audio device to be inserted and removed from the at least one compartment, at least one cover configured to provide a closure for the at least one compartment, and at least one second compartment configured to securely contain at least one communication device that is wirelessly coupled to the at least one audio device, wherein the at least one second compartment is waterproof and configured to be at least partially submerged in water to provide heat sinking; at least one air valve configured for inflating and deflating the inflatable flotation device; at least one anchor configured to be connected to at least one line; and at least one connection point, wherein the at least one connection point is configured to connect to the at least one line that is configured to be connected to the at least one anchor, wherein the inflatable flotation device and the at least one anchor are configured to be connected together via the at least one line, wherein the inflatable flotation device is configured to float on a surface of a body of water and securely contain the at least one audio device in the at least one compartment, and wherein the at least one anchor is configured to be filled with a material that increases a weight of the at least one anchor.
25. The flotation apparatus of claim 24, further comprising at least one beverage compartment configured to contain at least one beverage.
26. The flotation apparatus of claim 24, wherein the at least one compartment is configured to be waterproof.
27. The flotation apparatus of claim 24, wherein the at least one cover is configured to enable audio signals to pass through at an audible level.
28. The flotation apparatus of claim 24, wherein the inflatable flotation device is configured to support at least one person when the inflatable flotation device is floating on the surface of the body of water.
29. The flotation apparatus of claim 24, further comprising at least one second connection point configured to secure the at least one second compartment.
30. The flotation apparatus of claim 24, further comprising the at least one audio device.
31. The flotation apparatus of claim 24, wherein the at least one compartment includes a base or a floor that is configured to drain water.
32. A flotation apparatus for supporting a portable audio device on water, the apparatus comprising: an inflatable flotation device including: at least one compartment configured to securely contain at least one audio device, wherein the at least one compartment is configured to enable the at least one audio device to be inserted and removed from the at least one compartment, at least one cover configured to provide a closure for the at least one compartment, and at least one second compartment configured to securely contain at least one communication device that is wirelessly coupled to the at least one audio device, wherein the at least one second compartment is waterproof and configured to be at least partially submerged in water to provide heat sinking; at least one beverage compartment configured to contain at least one beverage; at least one air valve configured for inflating and deflating the inflatable flotation device; and at least one connection point, wherein the at least one connection point is configured to connect to at least one line that is configured to be connected to at least one anchor, wherein the inflatable flotation device and the at least one anchor are configured to be connected together via the at least one line, and wherein the inflatable flotation device is configured to float on a surface of a body of water and securely contain the at least one audio device in the at least one compartment.
33. The flotation apparatus of claim 32, further comprising at least one second cover for the at least one second compartment, wherein the at least one second cover is configured to enable audio signals to pass through at an audible level.
34. The flotation apparatus of claim 32, further comprising at least one second connection point configured for securing the at least one second compartment.
35. The flotation apparatus of claim 32, wherein the inflatable flotation device is configured to support at least one person when the inflatable flotation device is floating on the surface of the body of water while holding the at least one audio device within the at least one compartment.
36. The flotation apparatus of claim 32, wherein the at least one compartment includes a base or a floor that is configured to drain water.
37. The flotation apparatus of claim 32, further comprising the at least one anchor, wherein the at least one anchor is configured to be filled with a material that increases a weight of the at least one anchor.
38. The flotation apparatus of claim 32, further comprising the at least one audio device.
39. A flotation apparatus for supporting a portable audio device on water, the apparatus comprising: an inflatable flotation device including: at least one compartment configured to securely contain at least one audio device, wherein the at least one compartment is configured to enable the at least one audio device to be inserted and removed from the at least one compartment, at least one cover configured to provide a closure for the at least one compartment, and at least one waterproof compartment configured to securely contain at least one communication device, wherein the at least one waterproof compartment is configured to enable the at least one communication device to be inserted and removed from the at least one waterproof compartment, and wherein the at least one waterproof compartment is configured to be at least partially submerged in water to provide heat sinking; at least one beverage compartment configured to contain at least one beverage; at least one air valve configured for inflating and deflating the inflatable flotation device; at least one anchor configured to be connected to at least one line; and at least one connection point, wherein the at least one connection point is configured to connect to the at least one line that is configured to be connected to the at least one anchor, wherein the inflatable flotation device and the at least one anchor are configured to be connected together via the at least one line, wherein the at least one anchor is configured to be filled with a material that increases a weight of the at least one anchor, and wherein the inflatable flotation device is configured to float on a surface of a body of water and securely contain the at least one audio device in the at least one compartment.
40. The flotation apparatus of claim 39, wherein the at least one compartment and/or the at least one waterproof compartment includes a base or a floor that is configured to drain water.
41. The flotation apparatus of claim 39, wherein the inflatable flotation device is configured to support at least one person when the inflatable flotation device is floating on the surface of the body of water while holding the at least one audio device within the at least one compartment and the at least one communication device within the at least one waterproof compartment.
42. A flotation system comprising: at least one portable audio device that includes at least one of a radio or a wireless speaker; and an inflatable flotation device including: at least one compartment configured to securely contain the at least one portable audio device, wherein the at least one compartment is configured to enable the at least one portable audio device to be inserted and removed from the at least one compartment, at least one cover configured to provide a closure for the at least one compartment, and at least one second compartment configured to securely contain at least one communication device that is wirelessly coupled to the at least one portable audio device, wherein the at least one second compartment is waterproof and configured to be at least partially submerged in water to provide heat sinking, and at least one air valve configured for allowing air to be inserted into and removed from the inflatable flotation device for inflating and deflating the inflatable flotation device, wherein the inflatable flotation device is configured to float on a surface of a body of water and securely contain the at least one portable audio device in the at least one compartment.
43. The flotation system of claim 42, further comprising a storage compartment configured to securely contain the inflatable flotation device within the storage compartment when the inflatable flotation device is deflated.
44. The flotation system of claim 42, wherein the inflatable flotation device further includes at least one audio tunnel extending from an inside of the at least one compartment to an exterior of the inflatable flotation device.
45. The flotation system of claim 42, wherein the inflatable flotation device further includes: at least one line; and at least one anchor configured to be connected to the at least one line, wherein the anchor is configured to be filled with at least one of: a material that increases a weight of the at least one anchor, or the inflatable flotation device when the inflatable flotation device is deflated, wherein the inflatable flotation device and the at least one anchor are configured to be connected to each other via the at least one line, wherein the at least one line is configured to be adjustable in length and secured at a fixed length position after adjustment, and wherein the at least one anchor is configured to sit at a bottom of the body of water and the inflatable flotation device is configured to float on the surface of the body of water and securely support the at least one portable audio device on the surface of the body of water.
46. A flotation system comprising: at least one portable audio device that includes at least one of a radio or a wireless speaker; and at least one inflatable flotation device including: at least one compartment configured to securely contain the at least one portable audio device, wherein the at least one compartment is configured to enable the at least one portable audio device to be inserted and removed from the at least one compartment, at least one cover configured to provide a closure for the at least one compartment, and at least one second compartment configured to securely contain at least one communication device that is wirelessly coupled to the at least one portable audio device, wherein the at least one second compartment is waterproof and configured to be at least partially submerged in water to provide heat sinking, at least one air valve configured for allowing air to be inserted into and removed from the at least one inflatable flotation device for inflating and deflating the at least one inflatable flotation device, wherein the at least one inflatable flotation device is configured to float on a surface of a body of water and securely contain the at least one portable audio device in the at least one compartment, and wherein the at least one portable audio device is configured to include a device compartment configured to securely contain the at least one inflatable flotation device when the at least one inflatable flotation device is deflated.
47. The flotation system of claim 46, wherein the at least one inflatable flotation device further includes at least one audio tunnel extending from an inside of the at least one compartment to an exterior of the at least one inflatable flotation device.
48. A portable audio apparatus comprising: a portable audio device configured to float in water, wherein the portable audio device includes at least one compartment configured to securely contain at least one communication device and configured to be at least partially submerged in water to provide heat sinking and wherein the portable audio device and the at least one communication device are configured to be in communication with each other via a wired or wireless connection; at least one buoyant material configured to be integrated with the portable audio device; at least one line; and at least one anchor configured to be connected to the at least one line, wherein the at least one anchor is configured to be filled with at least one of: a material that increases a weight of the at least one anchor, or at least a portion of the portable audio device when the at least one anchor is not filled with a material that increases the weight of the at least one anchor, wherein the portable audio device and the at least one anchor are configured to be connected together with the at least one line, and wherein the at least one line is configured to be adjustable in length and secured at a fixed length position after adjustment, and wherein the at least one anchor is configured to sit at a bottom of a water body and the portable audio device is configured to float at a stationary position at a surface of the water body and securely support the at least one communication device near the surface of the water body when the at least one anchor and the portable audio device are connected together with the at least one line.
Description
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
(1) FIG. 1 shows a schematic view of a flotation device, according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure.
(2) FIG. 2 shows a schematic view of an anchor of the flotation device of FIG. 1, according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure.
(3) FIG. 3 shows a schematic view of the flotation device of FIG. 1 with a compartment cover, according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure.
(4) FIGS. 4A to 4C show schematic views of the flotation device of FIG. 1 with a cavity compartment, according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure.
(5) FIG. 5 shows a schematic view of the flotation device of FIG. 1 with an audio device cover, according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure.
(6) FIG. 6 shows a schematic view of a flotation device with a beverage compartment, according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure.
(7) FIG. 7 shows a schematic view of a flotation device with a communication device storage compartment, according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure.
(8) FIG. 8 shows an example cross-section diagram of the communication device compartment of FIG. 7, according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure.
(9) FIG. 9 shows a schematic view of a flotation device with a communication device compartment, according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure.
(10) FIG. 10 shows a schematic view of a flotation device with an audio tunnel, according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure.
(11) FIG. 11 shows a schematic view of an audio device that is configured to contain a partially or completely removable inflatable flotation device within its housing, according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure.
(12) FIG. 12 shows a schematic view of the audio device of FIG. 11 with the flotation device inflated, according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure.
(13) FIG. 13 shows a schematic view of another flotation device, according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure.
(14) FIG. 14 shows a schematic view of a flotation device connected to an anchor including a spike, according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure.
(15) FIGS. 15 to 17 show schematic views of a flotation device that can support a person, according to example embodiments of the present disclosure.
(16) FIG. 18 shows a schematic view of a flotation device configured to include a compartment bottom with drain holes and a securing device, according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure.
(17) FIG. 19 shows a schematic view of a flotation device configured to include at least one connection point configured to secure at least one audio device, at least one portable waterproof communication device compartment, and/or an enclosure, according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
(18) FIG. 1 shows an example embodiment of a flotation system that includes a flotation device 100 (e.g., a flotation apparatus), according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure. The flotation device 100 includes at least one audio device compartment 102 configured to secure and/or contain at least one audio device 104 that may be inserted and/removed from the compartment 102. In some embodiments, the audio device 104 may also include a video screen, such as a television. The compartment 102 may be configured to include a drain for water or a compartment bottom and/or floor that is configured to drain water. The compartment bottom and/or floor may be made of a mesh material for allowing water to drain. The compartment bottom and/or floor may further be configured to sit above water. The compartment bottom and/or floor may further be configured to sit above water which preferably is one inch or more above water when the at least one audio device 104 is placed in the compartment and adds weight to the floor. The flotation device 100 may be configured to include at least one securing device 103 and/or connection point (e.g., a securing device) for the audio device such as at least one of a clip, a hook, a grommet and/or ring, a strap, or a stretchable material such as elastic or rubber that may be an integrated part of and/or connected to the flotation device 100 and/or a part of the flotation device 100 and positioned near or over at least a portion of the compartment 102 and/or the compartment floor such that at least one of the at least one audio device 104 and/or at least one communication device may be connected to the securing device 103 or held by the securing device 103 when the audio device 104 and/or communication device is connected to, held by, or placed under the securing device 103 such as a strap and/or stretchable material and/or between the securing device 103 stretchable material and the floor to secure in place the at least one audio device 104 and/or at least one communication device within the compartment 102. The securing device (such as an elastic band) by be configured to allow a reasonable amount of audio to pass through the material when placed over the audio device 104.
(19) The at least one audio device compartment 102 may further be configured to comprise at least one material that improves and/or enhances reflection of audio waves. In an example, at least a portion of the side walls 102a of the audio device compartment 102 may be configured to be firmer than the other portions of the flotation device 100 such that audio waves better reflect off the side walls 102a and out of the audio device compartment 102. It is contemplated that the side walls 102a of the audio device compartment 102 may be made of the same material as the flotation device 100 but either thicker or added to the flotation device as one or more additional layers to produce the side walls 102a.
(20) The flotation device 100 may further comprise at least one compartment 102 configured to safely secure at least one battery and/or portable battery charger and/or battery charging device. The flotation device 100 may be an inflatable flotation device 100 similar to existing inner tubes, rafts, and other flotation devices used for water activities in a pool, a lake, an ocean, a river, or other body of water. The flotation device 100 may be made of the same type of materials (such as PVC) and thickness (such as between the range of 0.1 millimeters (mm) to 0.8 mm but more preferably between the range of 0.15 mm to 0.4 mm) commonly used to manufacture inflatable flotation devices. The flotation device 100 may include an air valve 106 configured for allowing air to be inserted into and removed from the flotation device 100 for inflating and deflating the flotation device 100. The flotation device 100 is configured to float in water 108 similar to other flotation devices known in the art.
(21) The flotation device 100 may be configured to include and/or be connected to at least one anchor 110 that is securely connected to the flotation device 100 via at least one line 112. The at least one line 112 is configured to be securely connected to both the flotation device 100 and the anchor 110. The example anchor 110 comprises at least one anchor connection point 114 for connecting the line 112 to the anchor 110. Additionally, the flotation device 100 comprises at least one flotation device connection point 116 for connecting the line 112 to the flotation device 100. The length of the line 112 is configured to be a length that may be adjustable in length and secured to a fixed length position and enables the anchor 110 to sit on a bottom and/or floor 118 of a water body while allowing the flotation device 100 to float on the surface of the water body 108 in a reasonably stationary location, thereby allowing one or more people to congregate near and around the flotation device 100 and not need to hold it in place while listening to music and/or other audio entertainment projecting from the audio device 104.
(22) The anchor may further be configured to include at least one spike and/or tent steak that could be pressed into the sand and/or bottom floor of a water body to secure the anchor in place. The line 112 may be configured to be removable from at least one of the flotation device 100 and/or the anchor 110. Alternatively, the line may be configured to be fixed and not removable from at least one of the flotation device 100 and/or the anchor 110. The anchor 110 may be configured to be made of a solid material to provide sufficient weight needed to secure the flotation device 100 in place. It is more preferable that the anchor 110 is a light weight material and configured to be in the form of a container comprising a hollow portion and at least one removable lid 120 and/or opening to access the container and/or hollow portion of the anchor. The lid 120 is configured to be removable to allow the anchor 110 to be filled with sand, rock, or other weighting material 122 that is sufficiently heavy enough to secure the anchor 110 in place.
(23) When the flotation device is deflated to be stored away, the container configuration of the anchor 110 may be used to house the deflated flotation device 100, the at least one line 112, and/or other items including but not limited to the audio device. For the container configuration of the anchor 110, the anchor 110 may be configured to comprise a female threaded section inside on at least one end opening of the anchor 110 and at least some portion of the outer diameter of the lid 120 may be configured to comprise a male thread that can be screwed into the end of the anchor 110 to seal the anchor 110. Alternately, at least one end of the anchor 110 may be configured as a male threaded end and the lid 120 may be configured to have female threads on opposing sides, where one side may comprise the at least one anchor connection point 114. When the flotation device is in use, one side of the lid 120 can be secured to the anchor 110. Then when the flotation device 100 is deflated, the flotation device 100 is stored inside the anchor 110 and the other threaded side of the lid 120 may be secured to the anchor 110. At least one of the at least one anchor connection point 114 and/or the at least one flotation device connection point 116 may be configured to be a mechanical connection point to allow for the length of the line 112 to be adjusted and secured back into place. The flotation device 100 may be configured to include an advertisement and/or company branding on a visible exterior of the flotation device 100.
(24) In alternative embodiments, the flotation device 100 may further just include a line 112 that is configured to be connected to the flotation device 100 and a net or container that is configured to hold a weighted item as an anchor, such as a rock such that the line 112 can be secured to and allow the flotation device 100 to float on the surface of the water 108 in a reasonably stationary location. The flotation device 100 may also be used without the anchor and still provide the utility of securing and/or containing at least one audio device and optionally at least one communication device. The anchor 110 may be configured to be made of a solid material, comprise a hollow section, and/or may be a soft flexible material and configured to be similar to a pouch or bag that can be sealed. It is contemplated that the anchor 110 may be configure as a bag and/or pouch (anchoring device) with an opening on at least one end and be used in place of a container with a lid. The bag and/or pouch may be made of a durable material such as PVC, silicone rubber or other rubber, and/or a material strong enough to contain the weighted material inserted into the anchor.
(25) FIG. 2 discloses another example embodiment of an anchor 124. The anchor 124 is configured to be a container similar to the anchor 110 described in conjunction with FIG. 1. In this example, the flotation device 100 is shown as being deflated and packed inside the anchor 124 along with the line 112. This type of container configuration of the anchor 110 and/or 124 serves multiple purposes including but not limited to an anchor 110 and/or 124, a storage unit for the flotation device 100, and/or as a package for the flotation device product at point of purchase. The anchor 124 may have marketing, advertising, instructions for product use, and/or other informative material 126 on its exterior as well as instructions inserted into the interior. The line 112 may be configured to be able to stay connected to the lid 120, the anchor 110, and/or the flotation device 100 during storage. The lid 120 is secured to the anchor 110 and seals the flotation device 100 inside the anchor. The flotation device 100 may include an advertisement and/or branding 126 on a visible exterior of the flotation device 100. The anchor 110 may be configured to be made of a solid material, comprise a hollow section, and/or may be a soft flexible material and configured to be similar to a pouch or bag that can be sealed.
(26) FIG. 3 discloses another example embodiment of a flotation device 130. The flotation device 130 includes at least one audio device compartment cover 132 configured to cover the at least one audio device 104, which is secured and/or contained inside the at least one audio device compartment 102. The audio device compartment cover 132 may be attached to the flotation device 130 and/or may be an inflatable portion of the flotation device 130. The audio device compartment cover 132 may be made of a material that reflects heat and/or sun, or may be made of a transparent material that allows for visibility and/or control of the audio device 104 through the material. The audio device compartment cover 132 may be configured to completely seal the at least one audio device 104 (and any other optional items that may fit) inside the audio device compartment 102. The seal may be a water resistant and/or water tight seal. The audio device compartment cover 132 may additionally be made of a material that still allows for quality audio to project outward from the flotation device 130 even when the audio device 104 is sealed within the audio device compartment 102 or positioned over the audio device compartment 102. The flotation device 130 may include an advertisement and/or branding on a visible exterior of the flotation device 130.
(27) FIG. 4A shows another example embodiment of the flotation device 130. In FIG. 4A the audio device cover 132 is closed, thereby sealing the audio device 104 within the at least one audio device compartment 102. As shown in the expanded image of FIG. 4B, the outer perimeter of the audio device cover 132 comprises a female cavity compartment 134 and the outer perimeter of the audio device compartment 102 comprises a male section 136 on the outer rim of the flotation device 130 for providing an improved way of sealing and mating the audio device cover 132 to the flotation device 130 to prevent water, sand, or other elements from entering the audio device compartment 102. FIG. 4C shows how the male and female sections of the audio device cover 132 and the flotation device 130 meet to provide a secure seal. The flotation device 130 may include an advertisement and/or branding on a visible exterior of the flotation device 130.
(28) FIG. 5 discloses another example embodiment of the flotation device 140 having an audio device cover 142 configured to be similar to a tent or an umbrella positioned over the audio device 104 and the audio device compartment 102. The audio device cover includes at least one support structure 144 that is connected to the flotation device 140 and extents upward from so that the audio device cover is in a raised position from the audio device 104 and the audio device compartment 102. The audio device cover 142 and its support structure 144 may be configured to be an inflatable portion of the flotation device 140 such that all the elements are part of a single inflatable flotation device 140 that takes the form of an embodiment similar to the flotation devices 100, 130, 140 and others described herein. The space between the bottom of the audio device cover and the speaker allows for audio to project out from the sides of the flotation device 140 while still covering the audio device 104 from rain or splashing water. The audio device cover may be configured to extent outward to the center or beyond the center of the flotation device 140 to allow water 108 that may be splashed or falling to run off the ends of the surface of the audio device cover 142 and back into the water 108. The flotation device 140 may include an advertisement and/or branding on a visible exterior of the flotation device 140.
(29) FIG. 6 discloses another example embodiment of the flotation device 100 according to the invention similar to the flotation device 100 as described in FIG. 1 and may include but not show any one or more of the other features as disclosed in other flotation devices described herein such as an audio device compartment cover. The flotation device 100 includes at least one beverage compartment 150 configured to hold a beverage 152. The at least one beverage compartment 150 may be configured support a beverage 152 that is contained within a beverage cooler or the beverage compartment 150 may comprise a material that can keep a beverage cool for a period of time greater than the beverage 152 not being contained in a beverage cooler. The flotation device 100 may include at least one marking 154 which may be a different color and/or number next to each individual beverage compartment 150 to enable the users of the flotation device 100 to know which beverage 152 is theirs if they leave their beverage 152 to go for a swim or leave the water for a while and then come back to their beverage 152. The flotation device 100 may include an advertisement and/or branding on a visible exterior of the flotation device 100.
(30) FIG. 7 discloses another example embodiment of the flotation device 100, according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure. In this example embodiment, the flotation device 100 includes at least one communication device storage compartment 160 configured to securely support and/or enclose at least one communication device 162, such as a smartphone. The communication device compartment 160 may include a first cover 164 configured to include a material and/or capability of capacitive touch or other touch enabled technology and/or material that enables a user of the communication device 162 to operate the communication device 162. The communication device compartment 160 may also be water resistant and/or waterproof to protect the communication device 162 from getting wet. The communication device compartment 160 may also be configured to be an integral part of the flotation device 100 including being inflatable along with the flotation device 100 and other inflatable sections and/or components of the flotation device 100. The communication device compartment 160 may also comprise a second cover 166 configured to shield the communication device 162 from heat and/or direct sun exposure when the communication device 162 is not in use and/or being operated by a user. The second cover 166 may be configured to reflect light and/or heat, and/or absorb light and/or heat to reduce the level of heat that reaches the communication device 162 from the sun or ambient temperature. The second cover 166 may be attached to at least one portion of the flotation device 100 and/or the communication device compartment 160 and be configured to be repeatedly removed from and/or positioned over the first cover 164 and/or the communication device 162. The second cover 166 may be connected to and/or integrally formed with the flotation device 100 and may be made of the same or differ type of material. It should be appreciated that any one or more of the audio device covers and/or communication device covers may be inflatable and that the air within the covers may aid in reducing heat from reaching the audio devices and/or communication devices. The flotation device 100 may include an advertisement and/or branding on a visible exterior of the flotation device 100.
(31) FIG. 8 shows an example cross-section diagram of the communication device compartment 160 as described in FIG. 7. As shown, the communication device 162 is securely supported and/or enclosed in the communication device compartment 160. The communication device compartment 160 may include a first cover 164 configured to include a material and/or capability of capacitive touch or other touch enabled technology and/or material that enables a user of the communication device 162 to operate the communication device 162. The communication device compartment 160 may also be water resistant and/or waterproof to protect the communication device 162 from getting wet. The communication device compartment 160 may also be configured to be an integral part of the flotation device including being inflatable along with the flotation device 100 and other inflatable sections and/or components of the flotation device 100. The communication device compartment 160 may also comprise a second cover 166 configured to shield the communication device 162 from heat and/or direct sun exposure when the communication device 162 is not in use and/or being operated by a user. The second cover 166 may be configured to reflect light and/or heat, and/or absorb light and/or heat to reduce the level of heat that reaches the communication device 162 from the sun or ambient temperature. The second cover 166 may be attached to at least one portion of the flotation device 100 or the communication device compartment and configured to be repeatedly removed from and/or positioned over the first cover 164 and/or the communication device 162. The second cover 166 may be connected to and/or integrally formed with the flotation device 100 and/or the communication device compartment 160, all of which may be made of the same or differ types of materials known to those skilled in the art for achieving the objectives of the design requirements. The flotation device 100 may include an advertisement and/or branding on a visible exterior of the flotation device 100.
(32) FIG. 9 discloses another example embodiment of the flotation device 100 according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure. The flotation device 100 includes a communication device compartment 180 configured to secure and/or contain the communication device 162 on an angle that would be facing a user standing in the water next to the flotation device 100. The communication device compartment 180 may be inflated to form the angle when the flotation device 100 is inflated. The communication device compartment 180 may include one or more of the features as described in FIGS. 7 and 8. The flotation device 100 may include an advertisement and/or branding on a visible exterior of the flotation device 100.
(33) FIG. 10 discloses another example embodiment of a flotation device 200. FIG. 10 shows a side view of the flotation device 200 including an inside view of a portion of the flotation device 200. The flotation device 200, or more generally, the flotation system comprises the audio device 104 securely contained and sealed inside the audio device compartment 102 and covered with the audio device cover 132. In this example embodiment, the flotation device 200 comprises at least one audio tunnel 210 extending from the inside of the audio device compartment 102 to the outside of the flotation device 200. The at least one audio tunnel 210 is substantially hollow and may be configured into somewhat of an S shape or U shape to prevent water from flowing into the audio device compartment 102. The at least one audio tunnel 210 includes one receiving end 212 configured to receive an audio input from the at least one audio device 104 and at least one output end 214 configured to emit audio waves 216 outward from the flotation device 200 and towards a user standing near the flotation device 200. It is contemplated that the at least one output end 214 of the at least one audio device tunnel 210 may be located near a beverage compartment and/or communication device compartment of the flotation device. It is further contemplated that as many as each individual beverage compartment and/or communication device compartment may have an audio output end 214 in close proximity so each user of a beverage compartment and/or communication device would have better quality audio directed to them while. The flotation device 200 may include an advertisement and/or branding on a visible exterior of the flotation device 200.
(34) FIG. 11 discloses an example embodiment of a floating audio device 300, which may be a portable radio and/or a portable wireless speaker (audio device) that is configured to contain a partially or completely removable inflatable flotation device within its housing to enable the audio device to be supported by the flotation device and float in water. The floating audio device 300 comprises an audio device speaker portion 302 configured to provide audio output from the audio device and a removable anchoring portion 304 that is configured to be removable and connected and/or connectable to at least one section of the floating audio device 300 via a line 314, as shown in FIG. 12. The floating audio device 300 also comprises a flotation device compartment 306 configured to contain an inflatable flotation device, as shown in FIG. 12. The flotation device compartment 306 may comprise a buoyant material such as a foam and/or Styrofoam in place of the inflatable flotation device and the buoyant material be completely and/or partially integrated within the audio device. The floating audio device 300 may include an advertisement and/or branding on a visible exterior of the floating audio device 300.
(35) FIG. 12 discloses another example embodiment of the floating audio device 300 as shown in FIG. 11. In this embodiment, the flotation device 310 is inflated and surrounding and supporting the audio device speaker portion 302 on the surface of water 312. As described in FIG. 11, the audio device comprises a flotation device compartment 306 (not shown) configured to contain the inflatable flotation device 310. The compartment 306 is configured to open so that the inflatable flotation device 310 can be partially and or completely removed from the compartment 306 when a user wishes to use the audio device as a floating audio device and then stored when the user wishes to use the audio device on land. A portion of the flotation device 310 may be permanently connected to the compartment 306. The floating audio device 300 comprises a speaker portion 302 configured to provide audio output from the floating audio device 300 and a removable anchoring portion 304 that is configured to be removable and connected and/or connectable to at least one section of the floating audio device 300 and/or the flotation device 310 via at least one line 314. The flotation device 310 may include an air valve 316 configured for allowing air to be inserted and removed into the flotation device 310 for inflating and deflating the flotation device 310. The flotation device 310 is configured to float in water similar to other flotation devices known in the art. The at least one line 314 is configured to be securely connected to both the anchor 304 and at least one floating portion of the floating audio device 300. The anchor 304 comprises at least one anchor connection point 318 for connecting the line 314 to the anchor 304 and at least one floating portion of the floating audio device 300. The length of the line 314 is configured to be a length that may be adjustable in length and secured to a fixed length position and allows the anchor 304 to sit on the bottom and/or floor 320 of a water body while allowing the audio device speaker portion 302 and the floating audio device 300 to float on the surface of the water 312 in a reasonably stationary location, thereby allowing one or more people to congregate near and around the floating audio device 300 and not need to hold it in place while listening to music and/or other audio entertainment projecting from the audio device speaker portion 302. The line 314 may be configured to be removable from at least one of the floating audio device 300 and/or the anchor 304, or the line 314 may be configured to be fixed and not removable from at least one of the one section of the floating audio device 300, the flotation device 310, and/or the anchor 304. The anchor 304 may be configured to be made of a solid material to provide sufficient weight needed to secure the floating audio device 300 in place. It is more preferable that the anchor 304 is a light weight material and configured to be in the form of a container comprising at least one removable lid (not shown) to allow the anchor 304 to be filled with sand, rock or other weighting material 322 within that is sufficiently heavy enough to secure the anchor 304 in place at the bottom of a water body 320. It is contemplated that the anchor 304 may also be configured to store a flotation device and/or the line 314 and that the flotation device 310 may comprise at least one compartment configured to securely contain at least one communication device and/or at least one beverage similar to the compartments described herein for other flotation devices. The main difference in this embodiment is that the floating audio device 300 has a built in inflatable flotation device 310 to enable a user to take it into the water. It is further contemplated that such a floating audio device 300 may comprise a section of its structure and/or housing that can be submerged and be waterproof while another section of the floating audio device 300 such as the section that emits audio would be above water when floating. The floating audio device and/or flotation device 310 may further comprise any one or more of the types of covers for the floating audio device 300 and/or communication device (not shown) as described herein for other flotation devices. The floating audio device 300 may include an advertisement and/or branding on a visible exterior of the floating audio device 300
(36) FIG. 13 discloses another example embodiment of the flotation device 400. It should be appreciated that although the anchor provides a valuable benefit to a person using the flotation device, a flotation device could be provided without the anchor while still including one or more of the other features of such a flotation device and other potential features, as those shown in flotation device 400 which does not show an anchor but may be configured to include and/or connect to an anchor. In this example embodiment, the flotation device 400 includes at least one handle 410 configured for a user to grab and/or hold on to. The user may use the handle 410 for a variety of things including but not limited to pulling and/or pushing and/or repositioning the flotation device 400 into a desired location in the water. The handle may be made of one of more materials known to those skilled in the art of flotation devices and similar to those used to make handles on existing flotation devices. In this example embodiment, flotation device 400 includes at least one communication device storage compartment 460 configured to securely support and/or enclose at least one communication device 462 as described herein such as a smartphone. The communication device compartment 460 may include a first cover 464 configured to include a material and/or capability of capacitive touch or other touch enabled technology and/or material that allows a user of the communication device 462 to operate the communication device 462. The communication device compartment 460 may also be water resistant and/or waterproof to protect the communication device 462 from getting wet. The communication device compartment 460 may also be configured to be an integral part of the flotation device including being inflatable along with the flotation device 400 and other inflatable sections and/or components of the flotation device 400. The communication device compartment 460 may also comprise a second cover 466 configured to shield the communication device from heat and/or direct sun exposure when the communication device 462 is not in use and/or being operated by a user. The second cover 466 may be configured to reflect light and/or heat, and/or absorb light and/or heat to reduce the level of heat that reaches the communication device 462 from the sun or ambient temperature. The second cover 466 may be attached to at least one portion of the flotation device 400 and/or the communication device compartment 460 and configured to be repeatedly removed from and/or positioned over the first cover 464 and/or the communication device 462. The second cover 466 may be connected to and/or an integral part of the flotation device 400 and may be made of the same or differ type of material. The flotation device 400 further may include at least one cover 470 configured to cover and/or enclose the audio device 472 into the audio device compartment 474. The flotation device 400 also includes at least one beverage compartment 475 similar to those described herein. It should be appreciated that the cover 470 could be configured to allow for sufficient volume and quality of audio to be heard from the audio device 472 through the cover 470 when the audio device 472 is enclosed inside the audio device compartment 474 and the cover 470 is closed. It should be appreciated that the audio device compartment 474 may be configured to also contain the at least one communication device 462 and eliminate the need for a separate communication device compartment 460. It should also be appreciated that at least one portion of the at least one cover 470 for the audio device compartment 474 may be configured to function similar to a speaker diaphragm to improve the quality of the audio output from the audio device 472 when the cover is closed. In some instances, any one or more of the audio device covers and/or communication device covers may be inflatable and that the air within the covers may aid in reducing heat from reaching the audio devices and/or communication devices. The flotation device 400 may include an advertisement and/or branding on a visible exterior of the flotation device 400. It should be appreciated that the materials used to manufacture the floating audio device and/or the flotation device may be materials known to those skilled in the to achieve the quality and objective of each component of the flotation device 400 including but not limited to a cover, a compartment, a container, an anchor, a line, the lid and/or any other component and/or materials needed to provide a durable and good quality product. Any portable audio device and/or portable communication device may comprise a rechargeable battery, an antenna, a transceiver, at least one LED which may be an OLED or a laser, an audio speaker and in some cases a video display.
(37) FIG. 14 discloses another example embodiment of the flotation device 400. In this example embodiment, the anchor 410 includes a spike 412 at the bottom of the anchor 410. The spike 412 is configured to be pushed into the floor 414 of the water body 416 to aid the anchor 410 in being able to stay secured in position. It should be appreciated that the spike 412 alone may be provided and sufficient enough to hold the flotation device 400 in a reasonably stationary location on the surface of the water body 416 and no anchor 410 would be needed. Therefor the spike 412 may be connected direct to the line 418 that is connected to the flotation device 400.
(38) FIG. 15 discloses another example embodiment of a flotation device 500. In this embodiment, the flotation device 500 is configured to be a raft that can support at least one person and may be configured to include one or more of the same features as described in the previous figures and embodiments of flotation devices herein. The flotation device 500 includes at least one audio device compartment 502 (as shown in FIG. 16) positioned within, beneath, and/or near a headrest 506 and configured to secure and/or contain at least one audio device 504 that may be inserted and/removed from the compartment 502. The flotation device 500 may be configured to be an inflatable flotation device 500 similar to existing inner tubes, rafts, and other flotation devices used for water activities in a pool, a lake, an ocean, a river, or other body of water where people can swim. The flotation device 500 may include an air valve 508 configured for allowing air to be inserted and removed into the flotation device 500 for inflating and deflating the flotation device 500. The flotation device 500 may include at least one beverage compartment 510 configured to securely support and/or contain at least one beverage. The at least one beverage compartment 510 may be configured to include a cover and sufficient thermal insulation to function as a cooler and keep the at least one beverage cool and optionally may contain ice. The at least one flotation device 500 may be configured to include at least one communication device compartment 512 configured to securely support and/or contain at least one communication device 514.
(39) FIG. 16 discloses a side view example embodiment of the flotation device 500. The flotation device 500 includes at least one audio device compartment 502 positioned within, beneath and/or near a headrest 506 for a person and configured to secure and/or contain at least one audio device 504 that may be inserted and/removed from the compartment 502. The headrest 506 may be configured to be a pillow. The headrest 506 may be configured to be a cover for the audio device compartment 502. The flotation device 500 may be configured to be an inflatable flotation device 500 similar to existing inner tubes, rafts and other flotation devices used for water activities in a pool, a lake, an ocean, a river or other body of water where people can swim. The flotation device 500 may include an air valve 508 configured for allowing air to be inserted and removed into the flotation device 500 for inflating and deflating the flotation device 500. The flotation device 500 may include at least one beverage compartment 510 as shown in FIG. 15 configured to securely support and/or contain at least one beverage. The at least one beverage compartment 510 may be configured to include a cover and sufficient thermal insulation to function as a cooler and keep the at least one beverage cool and optionally may contain ice.
(40) The at least one flotation device 500 may be configured to include at least one communication device compartment 512 that is configured to securely support and/or contain at least one communication device 514. The communication device compartment 512 may be angled towards the face and/or eyes of a person laying on the headrest 506 and/or flotation device 500. The communication device compartment 512 may include a first cover 516 configured to include a material and/or capability of capacitive touch or other touch enabled technology and/or material that allows a user of the communication device 514 to operate the communication device 514. The communication device compartment 512 may also be water resistant and/or waterproof to protect the communication device 514 from getting wet. The communication device compartment 512 may also be configured to be an integral part of the flotation device including being inflatable along with the flotation device 500 and other inflatable sections and/or components of the flotation device 500. The communication device compartment 512 may also comprise a second cover 518 configured to shield the communication device from heat and/or direct sun exposure when the communication device 514 is not in use and/or being operated by a user. The second cover 518 may be configured to reflect light and/or heat, and/or absorb light and/or heat to reduce the level of heat that reaches the communication device 514 from the sun or ambient temperature. The second cover 518 may be attached to at least one portion of the flotation device 500 and/or the communication device compartment 512 and configured to be repeatedly removed from and/or positioned over the first cover 516 and/or the communication device 514. The second cover 518 may be connected to and/or an integral part of the flotation device 500 and may be made of the same or differ type of material. It should be appreciated that any one or more of the audio device covers and/or communication device covers may be inflatable and that the air within the covers may aid in reducing heat from reaching the audio devices and/or communication devices. The flotation device 500 may include an advertisement and/or branding on a visible exterior of the flotation device 500. The flotation device 500 is configured to float in water 520 similar to other flotation devices known in the art and other embodiments as described herein. The flotation device 500 may be configured to include and/or be connected to at least one anchor 522 that is securely connected to the flotation device 500 via at least one line 524. The at least one line 524 is configured to be securely connected to both the flotation device 500 and the anchor 522. The anchor 522 comprises at least one anchor connection point 526 for connecting the line 524 to the anchor 522 and the flotation device 500 comprises at least one flotation device connection point 528 for connecting the line 524 to the flotation device 500. The length of the line 524 is configured to be a length that may be adjustable in length and secured to a fixed length position and allows the anchor 522 to sit on the bottom and/or floor 530 of a body of water while allowing the flotation device 500 to float on the surface of the body of water 520 in a reasonably stationary location thereby allowing the one or more persons on the flotation device 500 to not drift away. The anchor may be configured to be similar to the anchors and/or anchoring devices described herein for other flotation device embodiments.
(41) FIG. 17 discloses a side view of the same example embodiment of the flotation device 500 according to the disclosure as described in conjunction with FIGS. 15 and 16 and configured to be a raft that can support at least one person to sit on and/or lay down on.
(42) FIG. 18 discloses a top view looking down on another example embodiment of the flotation device 100 according to the invention similar to the flotation device 100 as described in FIG. 1 (without showing a view of the anchor beneath the flotation device 100) and may include, but not show, any one or more of the other features as disclosed in other flotation devices described herein. The flotation device 100 includes at least one audio device compartment 102 configured to secure and/or contain at least one audio device 104 that may be inserted and/removed from the compartment 102. In some embodiments, the audio device 104 may also include a video screen, such as a television. The compartment 102 may be configured to include a compartment bottom and/or floor 105, which may be configured to drain water. The compartment bottom and/or floor 105 may be made of a mesh material for allowing water to drain. The compartment bottom and/or floor 105 may further be configured to be a mesh material that can be stretched in at least one direction. The compartment bottom and/or floor 105 may further be configured to sit above water. The compartment bottom and/or floor 105 may further be configured to sit above water, which preferably is configured to sit one inch or more above water when the at least one audio device 104 is placed in the compartment and adds weight to the floor 105.
(43) The flotation device 100 may be configured to include at least one securing device 103 and/or connection point (e.g., a securing device) for at least the audio device 104 (but could be configured to secure other devices such as a communication device) such as at least one of a clip, a hook, a grommet and/or ring, a strap, or a stretchable material such as elastic or rubber that may be an integrated part of and/or connected to the flotation device 100 and/or a part of the flotation device 100 and positioned over at least a portion of the compartment 102 and/or the compartment floor 105 such that at least one of at least one audio device 104 and/or at least one communication device may be connected to the securing device 103 or held by the securing device 103 when the audio device 104 and/or communication device is placed under the securing device 103 such as a strap and/or stretchable material and/or between the securing device 103 stretchable material and the floor 105 to secure in place the at least one audio device 104 and/or at least one communication device within the compartment 102. The securing device 103 may be configured to be made of the same material as the floor 105. The securing device 103 may be configured to be connected to the floor 105 such that together they form a pocket or tight location for securing the audio device 104. The securing device 103 (such as an elastic band or mesh material) may be configured to allow a reasonable amount of audio to pass through the material when placed over the audio device 104. The securing device 103 may be configured to be connect to the floor 105 of the flotation device 100. Alternatively, the securing device 103 may be configured to connect to another part of the flotation device 100.
(44) FIG. 19 discloses another example of the flotation device 100, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The flotation device 100 is similar to the flotation device 100 as described in FIG. 1 and may include, but not show, any one or more of the other features as disclosed in other flotation devices described herein. In this example embodiment, the at least one securing device 103A is configured to provide a connection point for at least one of the audio device 104 and/or a portable waterproof communication device compartment 600, which is configured to contain at least one communication device 602. The portable waterproof communication device compartment 602 is configured to be connected to the securing device 103A via a connecting device 103B, which may be at least one of a clip, a hook, a grommet and/or ring, a strap, or a stretchable material such as elastic or rubber configured to be attached to or connect to the securing device 103A. The portable waterproof communication device compartment 602 may be configured to float in water by itself by including its own flotation device and/or material 604 (e.g., a flotation material). The audio device 104 may also be configured to be connected to the securing device 103A via the connecting device 103B, which may be at least one of a clip, a hook, a grommet and/or ring, a strap, or a stretchable material such as elastic or rubber configured to be attached to or connect to the securing device 103A. The audio device 104 may be configured to float in water by itself by including its own flotation device and/or material 606 (e.g., a flotation material).
(45) It should be appreciated that one or more features and/or embodiments described in FIGS. 1-17 may be combined with one or more other features and/or embodiments described in FIGS. 1-17. Additionally, while the figures show example embodiments, they do not limit the scope of the disclosure in any way to certain features, materials, sizes, shapes, dimensions, colors, and or thickness that are described herein.
