CPC B63C 9/105 (2013.01) [B63C 9/15 (2013.01); B63C 9/18 (2013.01); B63C 2009/131 (2013.01); B63C 2009/133 (2013.01)] | 12 Claims |
1. A flotation device comprising:
a container adapted to hold a charge of a pressurized gaseous material having thermodynamic properties such that when compressed into the container at a pressure of not more than 10 bar, it remains in a liquid phase over a range of temperatures of up to 50° C.; and
a flexible flotation chamber communicating with the compressed gas container through a passage, the passage remaining normally closed until its opening is actuated, thereby
allowing the charge to expand into the flotation chamber, and to inflate the flotation chamber,
wherein the passage is closed by a stopper held in the passage by a backplate, the backplate being adapted to be separated from contact with the stopper when the device is activated, such that the pressure of the gas in the pressurized gas container is sufficient to eject the stopper.
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