Floatation Device

Have you noticed that inflatable swimming toys always have warning labels on them about only being used under adult supervision? Well, those warnings also apply to this project which sets out to create some floatation devices using empty beverage cans.

Three types were constructed, two tested and one found to be the best.

By having a beverage can floatation devise you will be able to face the fear of being out of your depth. Both physically and metaphorically.

Empty aluminum beverage cans

Packing tape

The basis of this beverage can floatation device is the waterproof 'cell'.

A cell is constructed by:

1. Cutting the top off a can using a pair of scissors.
2. Trimming the edge to be straight and smooth.
3. Inserting the top of an uncut can into the cut can to join them.
4. Wrapping packing tape around the join two times.

Test each cell to ensure they are waterproof. This is achieved by placing a cell under water and gently squeezing. Check for any small bubbles raising. If you see any bubbles don't use the cell in constructing a floatation device.

Assemble the cells by cutting a band from a can and the inserting two cells into either ends of the band. Secure the 2 cells with packing tape to form a longer tube. Two bands can be cut from a can.

Once multiple of cells have been assembled into two cell tubes. the tubes can be assembled into different configurations.

1. The configuration which has proved most successful is attaching 3 tubes around each other to form a triangular tube.
2. Another configuration was three tubes secured next to each other to form a flatter board.
3. The final configuration made was attaching three tubes together to form a triangle, then by attaching another triangle on top and off set, a pseudo star-donut shape is formed. This configuration has not yet to be tested in a swimming pond.

The triangular tube and flatter board styles have been tried out in a swimming pond and worked successfully as floatation devices. The flatter board was used to steady the arms out in front while kicking. The triangular tube was found to be more versatile. It can be used to practice kicking by holding it out in front of you or you can hold it close to your chest for buoyancy. It will also assist in backstroke when held by your legs.