Inflatable barrier for substances floating on water

Abstract

A floating barrier for substances floating on water having: a series of inflatable chambers, with plural subchambers, disposed in end-to-end relation; a flexible skirt depending from the chambers; and tension members on each side of the barrier.

What is new and therefore desired to be protected by Letters Patent of the United States is: 
     
       1. A floating barrier for substances floating on water comprising: a floatation means including plurality of inflatable chambers hingedly connected in end to end relationship, .[.each of said chambers being divided into plural independent subchambers by flexible wall means disposed therein.]. .Iadd.a flexible diaphragm dividing each of the inflatable chambers into plural independent subchambers, separate inflation and deflation valve means communicating with the interiors of each of the independent subchambers, .Iaddend.and liquid impervious skirt means depending from said floation means to provide a liquid barrier below the water line thereof.   
     
     
       2. A barrier in accordance with claim 1 further comprising tension means disposed substantially coextensive with and on each side of said floatation means. 
     
     
       3. A barrier in accordance with claim 1 further comprising a continuous and upwardly extending member formed along the upper surface of said floatation means coextensive therewith. 
     
     
       4. A barrier in accordance with claim 1 further comprising plural handholds disposed at spaced intervals along the top and bottom edges of said barrier.