"In the sport of underwater hockey (and snorkeling in general), the
problem of stagnant air developing within a snorkel can become very
problematic to the performance of the athlete. In addition, it is
somewhat difficult to breathe optimally without the use of one’s nose,
as traditional masks seal the nose off from the mouth.
I would like to change all of this. By utilizing check valves
strategically placed on the snorkel, I would like you to develop a
snorkel-mask system which:
- permits ONLY fresh air to flow through snorkel into the user’s mouth and nose
- permits stale air to leave the snorkel immediately (most likely by
way of bubbles) - permits the user to inhale through the nose without fogging mask
- permits the user to purge water out of a compromised snorkel
- permits the user to pinch his/her nose freely in order to equalize pressure
- Uses only already existing parts for the assembly, or only
minimally requires the creation of new parts.
Snorkel:
The snorkel should utilize check valves in order to prevent stale air
from re-entering the user’s body. The snorkel must have a purge
button which permits the user to expel unwanted water from within the
snorkel. The snorkel should have a small tube going from it to the
mask which permits the user to inhale, but not exhale, through the
nose.
Mask:
The mask should be a traditional mask with one modification: it will
have a small tube leading up to it such that fresh air is permitted to
enter but not exit the mask. The mask will still be capable of
allowing the user to equalize by squeezing his/her nose. In order for
this to occur, the tube leading up to the mask must be positioned away
from the nose and far enough away from the eyes that it will not cause
irritation. The tube leading up to the mask will have a fitting which
permits it to hook up to either the snorkel which I have invented or
the respirator on a scuba system.
I need your advice on how I can develop this and bring it to market.
I’m inclined to post a bid request on vworker.com so that somebody can
draw this for me, but am afraid to do so without a patent. I will use
the money and concepts generated from this invention to fund other
projects, namely my space blimp idea which I have already discussed
with you at length. Thank you for your feedback."
