Flotation device

Abstract

A flotation device for use by an individual in a body of water, comprising two flexible, selectively inflatable sleeve elements having an elongated belt extending therebetween. The sleeve elements each include a coupling assembly for coupling the belt to the sleeve, and a clasp device for securing the ends of the belt around the girth of the user.

1 . A flotation device for use by an individual in a body of water, comprising:
 A. A first flexible sleeve element including at least one closed, selectively inflatable region,   B. A second flexible sleeve element including at least one closed, selectively inflatable region,   C. an elongated belt extending between a first end and a second end thereof,   D. a first coupling assembly adapted to couple the belt to the first sleeve element, and   E. a second coupling assembly adapted to couple the belt to the second sleeve element.   
     
     
         2 . A flotation device according to  claim 1  wherein the first end of the belt and the second end of the belt include a selectively operable clasp assembly. 
     
     
         3 . A flotation device according to  claim 1  wherein the first coupling assembly effects a permanent coupling between the belt and the first sleeve, and the second coupling assembly effects a selectively releasable coupling between the belt and the second sleeve. 
     
     
         4 . A flotation device according to  claim 3  wherein the first coupling assembly includes a first loop element extending from the first sleeve assembly, wherein the first loop is adapted to permit passage of the belt therethrough. 
     
     
         5 . A flotation device according to  claim 1  wherein the first coupling assembly effects a permanent coupling between the belt and the first sleeve, and the second coupling assembly effects a permanent coupling between the belt and the second sleeve. 
     
     
         6 . A flotation device according to  claim 1  wherein the first coupling assembly effects a selectively releasable coupling between the belt and the first sleeve, and the second coupling assembly effects a selectively releasable coupling between the belt and the second sleeve. 
     
     
         7 . A flotation device according to  claim 6  wherein the first coupling assembly includes a first loop element extending from the first sleeve assembly, wherein the first loop is adapted to permit passage of the belt therethrough, and wherein the second coupling assembly includes a second loop element extending from the second sleeve assembly, wherein the second loop is adapted to permit passage of the belt therethrough,. 
     
     
         8 . A flotation device according to  claim 1  wherein the at least one inflatable region includes a valve assembly selectively operable to allow inflation of the at least one inflatable region.