Inventors: Phil Peluso (U.S.); Glad Thibodo (U.S.)

Applicant/Assignee: CONVERT EQUIP LLC

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to wetsuits for water sports such as surfing, diving, swimming, and spearfishing, Standup Paddle (SUP), and triathletes, among other water sports.

[0002] More particularly, the invention relates to a reconfigurable wetsuit having a body portion, and a plurality of extensions configured to be coupled with the body portion for reconfiguring the wetsuit in one of a plurality of possible configurations.

Background Art

[0003] Wetsuits have become ubiquitous throughout various regions of the world with respect to human participation of water sports, such as, for example, surfing, diving, swimming, spearfishing, Standup Paddle (SUP), and triathletes, among other water sports. Wetsuits generally assist the wearer thereof to remain warm when exposed to an environment of cold water.

[0004] Conventional wetsuits are presented in various styles, including: a wetsuit jacket (short or long sleeves with upper body portion); short john wetsuit (no sleeves, upper and lower body portion and short legs); long john wetsuit (no sleeves, upper and lower body portion and long legs), springsuit (short sleeves, upper and lower body portion and short legs), short arm steamer (short sleeves, upper and lower body portion and long legs), and fullsuit (long sleeves, upper and lower body portion and long legs). This list is not exhaustive and other variations do exist in the art.

[0005] Of these styles, we consider primarily the wetsuit jacket, springsuit, short arm steamer, and fullsuit for purposes of the instant disclosure.

[0006] Each of the above wetsuit styles has a dedicated purpose and is desired by users, one over another, depending on certain circumstances, such as water temperature, air temperature, wind characteristics, and more. Accordingly, those who frequently participate in an aquatic environment, where the environment is subject to rapid change and dynamic variability with respect to these and other circumstances, may own and select from his or her quiver one of these and other wetsuit styles for a particular day or session. For instance, a springsuit may be desired for a sunny and warm session with no wind, whereas a fullsuit may be desired for a cold and cloudy day with windy conditions.

[0007] Maintenance and storage of multiple wetsuits requires significant floor space and routine conditioning. However, if it were possible to own fewer wetsuits capable of addressing the same multitude of conditions, less room and less maintenance could be required. In addition, with less wetsuits required in one's quiver, these multitude of conditions can be addressed with fewer wetsuits, and thereby less investment as fewer wetsuits undoubtedly cost less than more wetsuits.

[0008] There is a need for solutions which address these and other problems in the art.

SUMMARY OF INVENTION

Technical Problem

[0009] Conventional wetsuits are adapted for a particular style and environmental condition. Certain wetsuits may be useful in one environmental condition, but not another.

Solution to Problem

[0010] A reconfigurable wetsuit includes a torso portion configured to cover an upper body or a combination of the upper body portion and a lower body of a user. The torso portion is configured to receive and removeably couple with extended limb coverings or a chest panel, such that the reconfigurable wetsuit may be configured in one of a plurality of possible styles.

[0011 ] Various embodiments are described which disclose how to properly seal the torso portion and the extended limb coverings or a chest panel at a coupling region thereof, such that cold water doesn't invade the interior of the suit through the coupling regions.

Advantageous Effects of Invention

[0012] With a reconfigurable wetsuit, one no longer needs to store and maintain a plurality of wetsuits, since, the reconfigurable wetsuit can address the needs according to any conditions or circumstances of the environment.

[0013] In addition, the cost to purchase and maintain a reconfigurable wetsuit is much less, and maintenance is less cumbersome, than the conventional way of owning a plurality of wetsuits. [0014] In various embodiments, a reconfigurable wetsuit is disclosed, the wetsuit includes a torso portion configured for wearing about the torso of a user, and one or more extended limb coverings, wherein the torso comprises, at each of one or more extremities, a flange, and each of the one or more limb coverings comprises a corresponding sleeve, such that the sleeve and flange are configured to mate and form a water tight seal therebetween. The seal may be implemented in one of several embodiments.

[0015] In one embodiment, the seal is implemented with a circumferential bead of rubber, silicone, polymer, or other similar band extending about a circumference of each of the flanges and corresponding sleeves, wherein the circumferential bead of the flange is configured to abut and seal with an adjacent circumferential bead of the corresponding sleeve.

[0016] In another embodiment, at least one of the flanges and the sleeves comprises two or more circumferential beads configured to form a seal between the flanges and corresponding sleeves.

[0017] In certain embodiments, the circumferential bead comprises a circular cross- section. In other embodiments, the circumferential bead may form a "tooth" or other shape configured for secure fitment.

[0018] In certain other embodiments, the wetsuit can comprise at least one first loop formed at a terminal end of the torso portion adjacent to a flange, and at least one second loop formed at a terminal end of an extended limb covering adjacent to the sleeve, wherein as the sleeve is configured to nest with the flange so is a hook or other securing element configured to connect each of the first and second loops.

[0019] In other embodiments, a Velcro strap is implemented about at least a portion of a circumference at the joint between the flanges and corresponding sleeves. The Velcro strap can be used to cinch the jointed flange and sleeve for creating a seal therebetween.

[0020] Some embodiments implement or otherwise incorporate a removeable chest panel. The chest panel can be removeably attached to a chest area associated with the torso portion via an attachment member such as a zipper, Velcro or similar attachment member.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0021] FIG. l shows a torso portion of a reconfigurable wetsuit, the torso portion forming a springsuit style. [0022] FIG.2 shows an exploded view of a reconfigurable wetsuit having the torso portion of FIG.1 and a plurality of possible extended limb coverings (two arm and two leg coverings).

[0023] FIGs.3A shows a front view of the reconfigurable wetsuit being configured as a short arm steamer having short arms and long legs, with extended leg coverings attached to the torso portion.

[0024] FIG.3B shows a rear view of the reconfigurable wetsuit being configured as a short arm steamer in furtherance of that shown in FIG.3A.

[0025] FIGs.4A shows a front view of the reconfigurable wetsuit being configured as a fullsuit having long arms and long legs, with extended arm and leg coverings attached to the torso portion.

[0026] FIG.4B shows a rear view of the reconfigurable wetsuit being configured as a fullsuit in furtherance of that shown in FIG.4A.

[0027] FIG.5 shows that the reconfigurable wetsuit may include a rear vertical zipper for opening and closing access to the torso portion.

[0028] FIG.6 shows the reconfigurable wetsuit being configured to receive a removeable chest panel.

[0029] FIG.7A shows an annular bead for making a seal between the torso portion and one of the extended limb coverings.

[0030] FIGs.7 (B-C) show a plurality of annular beads in accordance with that shown in FIG.7A, wherein two beads are coupled to a flange and two beads coupled to a sleeve, respectively, forming a water-tight seal therebetween.

[0031] FIG.8 shows a flange and sleeve forming a seal between the torso portion and an extended limb covering, wherein snaps are used to attach the flange and sleeve to enhance the seal and engagement therebetween.

[0032] FIG.9A shows a flange portion configured to couple with a sleeve portion, the flange having a textured surface for grip and seal, and the sleeve configured to concentrically overlap with the flange, wherein a flap is further provided and configured to overlap with the sleeve, the flap and sleeve being configured to mate with snap features as shown.

[0033] FIG.9B shows a cord and adjustable clamp configured to extend within the flap of FIG.9A, wherein the cord is configured to be cinched and the clamp configured to retain position of the cord for securing the engagement of the flange and sleeve. [0034] FIG.1 OA shows a mating of a flange and sleeve of the reconfigurable wetsuit, wherein an interlaced strap is weaved between slots of an outer flap, the interlaced strap configured to securely tighten about the seal by way of Velcro or other attachment means.

[0035] FIG.10B shows a mating of a flange and sleeve of the reconfigurable wetsuit as illustrated in FIG.1 OA, with the flange and sleeve in an open configuration.

DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

[0036] For purpose of explanation and not limitation, details and descriptions of several preferred embodiments are disclosed, with reference to features of the drawings. It should be recognized that while certain examples are illustrated, that those with skill in the art will be capable of various rearrangements, alterations, or substitutions of features without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.

[0037] In one aspect of the invention, a reconfigurable wetsuit is provided, the reconfigurable wetsuit may include one or more removeably attached limb coverings. Thus, a torso portion, which may include an upper body portion, or a combination of an upper body portion and a lower body portion in the configuration of a commonly recognized "springsuit", will include one of a flange or a sleeve at each terminal end (at each arm and leg terminus thereof). In addition, a pair of removeable arm-covering portions, or a pair of removeable leg- covering portions, or a combination thereof, (herein collectively referred to as "limb coverings"), are each configured with the other of the flange and sleeve. Thus, the reconfigurable wetsuit can be configured as a spring suit (no limb coverings attached), a long sleeve spring suit (only arm coverings attached), a full legged spring suit or steamer (only leg coverings attached), or a full suit (arm and leg coverings attached). Thus, the wetsuit is reconfigurable based on the water and ambient environmental weather conditions, based on a user's preference.

[0038] One problem is removeable limb coverings is that when attaching the limb coverings there must be produced a seal sufficient to prevent seepage of water at the seam, such that cold water is not continuously introduced into the wetsuit. With this in mind, it is presented an embodiment wherein a flange located at a terminal end of the arm/shoulder point of the torso portion of the wetsuit is modified with a circumferential bead extending about a circumference of the flange or the flange is provided with a textured and grip-tacky surface. In addition, a sleeve associated with a corresponding arm covering is modified with a corresponding circumferential bead or grip textured surface. The circumferential beads of the flange and sleeve are mated together as the sleeve is rolled over the flange. Alternatively, coupled surfaces of the sleeve and flange are mated with grip texture providing adequate grip and seal. It should be noted that the torso portion, or limb coverings, can each include one of a sleeve or flange, and the other will be fitted with the opposite, such that one sleeve is rolled over one flange. In addition, one or a plurality of circumferential beads can be similarly implemented to form a proper seal at the area of fitment, or the beads can be combined with the grip texture.

[0039] An example grip texture includes a heat-ironed surface of neoprene or rubber of the wetsuit material, for example, in a diamond pattern or other grip pattern. Alternatively, a material may be applied to the wetsuit at the terminal ends for texturing the sleeve or flange portion thereof.

[0040] Now turning to the drawings, FIG. l shows a torso portion 100 of a reconfigurable wetsuit, the torso portion forming a springsuit style. The torso portion may be configured to cover an upper body of a user, such as a chest, stomach and back area or the area above the waistline 107. Alternatively, the torso portion may be configured to cover a combination of an upper body and a lower body, that is, an equivalent of a shirt and shorts built into a monolithic piece. Here, the torso portion 100 is illustrated as covering an upper body portion and a lower body portion of the user; i.e. a "springsuit". The torso portion includes short arm portions 101a; 101b with a flange 102a; 102b at a terminal end of each arm portion. In this regard, the respective arm flanges are each configured to receive and removeably couple with a sleeve (See FIG.2) of a corresponding arm covering. In addition, the torso portion includes short leg portions 103a; 103b with a flange 104a; 104b at a terminal end of each leg portion. In this regard, the respective leg flanges are configured to receive and removeably couple with a sleeve of a corresponding leg covering.

[0041] The torso portion is shown having a chest opening 105 and zipper 106, however other openings may be provided as shown, for example, in FIG.5.

[0042] FIG.2 shows an exploded view of a reconfigurable wetsuit having the torso portion 100, as shown in FIG. l, and a plurality of possible extended limb coverings (two arm coverings 111a; 111b and two leg coverings 113a; 113b). The limb coverings are configured to overlap with flanges of the torso portion, and to attach to the torso portion by way of an attachment mechanism, such as snap buttons, Velcro, a strap, cinch (pull cord and cord lock), or magnets.

[0043] FIGs.3A shows a front view of the reconfigurable wetsuit being configured as a short arm steamer having short arms and long legs, with extended leg coverings 113 attached to the respective leg portions 103 of the torso portion. Here, a sleeve of each leg covering 113a; 113b is mated with a flange of a corresponding leg portion 103a; 103b to form a fluid-tight seal 123a; 123b therebetween. In this configuration, the reconfigurable wetsuit has been configured with short sleeves and long legs; i.e. as a short arm steamer wetsuit (otherwise known as a "long-legged springsuit").

[0044] FIG.3B shows a rear view of the reconfigurable wetsuit being configured in the style of a short arm steamer in furtherance of that shown in FIG.3A.

[0045] FIGs.4A shows a front view of the reconfigurable wetsuit being configured as a fullsuit having long arms and long legs, with extended arm and leg coverings attached to the torso portion. Here, the reconfigurable wetsuit of FIGs.3(A-B) is altered by the addition of the addition of arm coverings 111a; 111b being attached to the torso portion at arm portions 101a; 101b, as shown. Here, a sleeve of each arm covering 111 is mated with a flange of a corresponding arm portion 101 to form a fluid-tight seal 121a; 121b therebetween. Thus, the reconfigurable wetsuit has been reconfigured from a short arm steamer to a fullsuit.

[0046] FIG.4B shows a rear view of the reconfigurable wetsuit being configured as a fullsuit in furtherance of that shown in FIG.4A.

[0047] FIG.5 shows that the reconfigurable wetsuit may include a rear vertical zipper

132 for opening and closing access to the torso portion at opening 105. The vertical zipper may further include a strap for extending the reach of the zipper. In addition to the vertical zipper accessed at the rear side of the torso portion, a neck flap is provided and configured to attach to the neck line of the wetsuit by way of Velcro or other securing element.

Chest Panel

[0048] FIG. 6 shows an aspect of the invention wherein a chest panel 130 is removeably attached to a wetsuit torso portion 100 for providing additional thickness about the chest area only. In this regard, the chest of the torso is the largest surface area of the body, and is the most susceptible to changes and effects in the environment (wind, temperature). Especially for surfers, who require flexibility in arm and shoulder areas of the wetsuit for swimming, it is preferred to increase thickness in the chest area for providing protection from wind and cold influences, while not unduly burdening the swimmers stroke with extra material about the arms and shoulders. Thus, in the instant embodiment, a chest panel is configured for removeable attachment with a wetsuit.

[0049] The embodiment illustrated in FIG.6 shows a first zipper portion 131a extending around a chest area 135 associated with the torso portion, and a second zipper portion 131b extending around a periphery of the chest panel 130, a zipper 106 and optional extension loop 132 are coupled to one of the first and second zipper portions, preferably the second zipper portion. The chest panel is configured for removeable attachment with the chest area of the torso portion.

[0050] An optional flap (not shown) can be implemented for folding over the chest panel to form at least a partially overlapping flap about the perimeter of the chest panel, thereby protecting the body from the zipper and any jagged features thereof.

[0051] In another embodiment, the reconfigurable wetsuit includes a chest panel that is attached about at least a portion of a perimeter of the chest area via a Velcro attachment (not shown). An optional flap can be implemented for folding over the chest panel to form at least a partially overlapping flap about the perimeter of the chest panel.

Sealing the Torso Portion and Limb Coverings

[0052] FIG.7A shows an annular bead for making a seal between the torso portion and one of the extended limb coverings. The annular bead comprises a bead extending about a circumference of a flange or sleeve, wherein a cross-section of the annular bead 301 includes a circular cross section shape 302. In an alternative embodiment (not shown), the bead may form a oval, square, "tooth" or non-circular cross section.

[0053] FIGs.7 (B-C) show a plurality of annular beads in accordance with that shown in FIG.7A, wherein two beads are coupled to a flange and two beads coupled to a sleeve, respectively, forming a water-tight seal therebetween. Here, a flange 315 (one of an arm or leg extremity of the torso portion) and a sleeve 305 are combined at an area of fitment where each is mated together to form a seal therebetween. FIG.7B shows the fitment area combined, whereas FIG.7C shows the fitment area being separated. The torso portion is shown with a sleeve 305, whereas the limb covering is shown with a flange 315, the sleeve is rolled over the flange. The opposite configuration may be similarly implemented wherein the limb covering comprises a sleeve and the torso portion comprises a flange. The sleeve is shown comprising two circumferential beads 301a; 301b, and the flange also comprises two circumferential beads 311a; 311b, respectively. When folded over the flange, the sleeve and circumferential beads thereof nest with the beads of the flange, forming a seal.

[0054] In an alternative embodiment (not shown) the torso portion may include a flange and the limb covering may comprise a sleeve. One of the sleeve or flange (here the sleeve) comprises a Velcro strap configured to extend about at least a portion of a circumference of the fitment area. In this embodiment, two attachment members (hooks) are shown being configured to couple the Velcro strap with one of the sleeve or flange, whichever does not include the Velcro strap. The attachment members are configured to attach with a corresponding loop in this embodiment.

[0055] In yet another alternative embodiment (not shown), the flange is coupled with the sleeve of the limb covering, wherein the Velcro strap is coupled to the sleeve and comprises a clip or carabiner (attachment member), wherein the clip or carabiner is configured to attach with a loop disposed about the flange. The flange can comprise a relatively thin tubular extension (thin compared to the remaining thickness of the torso portion).

[0056] FIG.8 shows a flange 315 and sleeve 305 forming a seal between the torso portion and an extended limb covering, wherein snap buttons 350a; 350b, or "snaps", are used to attach the flange and sleeve to enhance the seal and engagement therebetween. Here, a button or snap can be incorporated into the sleeve or body portions of the wetsuit, such that in the alternative, or in addition to the circumferential beads and other mating features, the sleeve portion and body portion can be further engaged with a physical snap or button. A single snap or button may be implemented, or alternatively, a plurality of snaps or buttons can be implemented in accordance with FIG.8. The snaps will be generally placed circumferentially about the seal between the flange and sleeve portions.

[0057] FIG.9A shows a first flange portion 401 configured to couple with a sleeve portion 402, the flange having a textured surface or "shark tooth grip" for added grip and seal, and the sleeve configured to concentrically overlap with the first flange 401, wherein a flap 403 is further provided and configured to overlap with the sleeve 402, the flap and sleeve being configured to mate with snap features, including male snap features 451 and female snap features 452, as shown.

[0058] FIG.9B shows a cord 410 (or "cinch") and adjustable clamp 411 configured to extend within the flap 403 of FIG.9A, wherein the cord is configured to be cinched and the clamp configured to retain position of the cord for securing the engagement of the flange 401, sleeve 402 and flap 403 at the mating thereof; i.e. the seal.

[0059] FIG.10A shows a mating of a flange and sleeve of the reconfigurable wetsuit, wherein an interlaced strap is weaved between slots of an outer flap, the interlaced strap configured to securely tighten about the seal by way of Velcro or other attachment means.

[0060] FIG.10B shows a mating of a flange and sleeve of the reconfigurable wetsuit as illustrated in FIG.1 OA, with the flange and sleeve in an open configuration.