Life buoy, especially for avalanches

Translation of description of equivalent WO 2007069100 A1

Buoy survival, including avalanche

Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to a buoy of survival including avalanche. Specifically, the present invention relates to a buoy for survival avalanche being a single inflatable envelope by a gas release system during the actuation by the user.

The present invention also relates to the mechanisms used for inflating and emptying of this buoy survival. These various mechanisms are there to optimize utilization and reduce the weight of the systems used for such inflatable envelope (airbag) inflated by a pyrotechnic air blower or compressed air cartridge.

State of the art

Various devices such as EP 0957994 Bl; US 6,270,386 Bl; EP 0123684 Bl; EP 0957995 Bl; EP 0723790 A2 have been described. The casing / the inflated envelopes / s of these devices has / have several functions. The main functions are flotation and protection, but the protection in these devices only partially covers the body or head. In addition to the device of US 6,270,386 Bl envelope is coupled to a cover or a mesh whose function is the protection of the top of the head and respiratory tract. These various devices use a harness / belt built for their attachment to the user.

The device US 6,270,386 Bl; using a cover to put the folded envelope, uses an opening mechanism which opens completely by the inflation and during it. This way of using energy from the pressure vessel to open the cover and reduces its effectiveness. In fact, the inflation time of this process is of about 9 seconds.

EP 0723790 A2 devices, US 6,270,386 Bl using a valve or a bite of mouth must be initiated by the user or are used in a fixed position (open or closed). Therefore, there is an obligation of a user intervention.

Aside from the two patents EP 0957994 and EP 957 995 Bl Bl with a description of their various inflation systems making credible use their swelling shell (airbag), other patents often poorly or not described the mechanisms used.

Thus, the devices EP 0957994 Bl and EP 957 995 Bl use a non-return valve placed in a suction chamber which surrounds the venturi nozzle or ejector. This suction chamber allows channeling suction to the non-return valve. The latter in the presence of suction descends and leaves the ambient air into the chamber and then into the diffuser or mixer that are connected to the casing. This way of making complicates the system because we need to create a room suction aspiration to channel and protection of the non-return valve on the outside avoids that it be opened inadvertently (eg by snow pressure that would support it). EP 957 994 Bl devices 0 per EP 957 995 Bl using a metal membrane for closing their gas cartridge. It struck and perforated by a needle or punch will the emptying of the gas cartridge. Use of this system requires the embedded potential energy to perforate the membrane. EP 0957994 Bl devices; US 6,270,386 Bl; EP 0123684 Bl; EP 0957995 Bl; EP 0723790 A2 use a gas cartridge for inflating their swelling shell (airbag) but do not have the possibility visual or tactile control of its filling state before use.

Disclosure of Invention

Because of the problems and disadvantages of prior different devices, the present invention allows the user to increase the chances of survival and reduce the weight of the assembly.

Accordingly, the present invention permits by its shape and simplified mechanisms to reduce components or to reduce the energy carried away or improve the function of the inflatable envelope (airbag).

The innovation of the buoy of survival for avalanche over other devices is the fact that none of the predecessors met the problem of asphyxia during the avalanche. Indeed, this envelope, made of a single compartment, fully covers the head and covers the chest. Once inflated, a cavity is created around the face of the user that allows breathing during use and avoids direct contact with the snow. In addition, it provides effective protection against the various shocks that could cause the avalanche. The envelope of a single compartment simplifies manufacturing and reduces the weight. Our predecessors did not offer full protection of the head and thorax. The idea of ​​a cap or mesh coupled to the envelope proposed by US 6,270,386 Bl to protect the top of the head does not offer as good protection as an air cushion used for the rest of the head. In addition, the buoy of survival for avalanche over other devices is characterized by the fact that the buoy is attached directly to the harness / belt standard user. Therefore, another harness or other devices having the function of maintaining the shell on the user become unnecessary. The decrease in weight is very important for this kind of device.

In addition, the buoy survival avalanche over other devices is characterized in that the envelope / cover opens completely when the release handle is pulled. Our system uses the principle of a release handle hinge already used in skydiving. To avoid a long race, it will be used three or four hinges cables for the release handle. Indeed, the liberation movement of the handle must be as short as possible to reduce the range of motion and be as fast as possible. This early opening system of the envelope / cover can save energy and save many seconds to inflate.

In addition, the buoy of survival for avalanche compared to other devices that use a valve or -morsure mouth is characterized by the fact that an automatic drain valve trigger based on the opening system (delay timer or pressure sensor to determine the difference in altitude). Both systems are triggered by the extraction of the release handle. This principle automate the emptying of the envelope from the fact that the user may not be able to do itself for various reasons:

be unconscious

Is carrying a helmet with chin

Either have the mouth closed by glasses, snow or other In the first phase, about 90 seconds, the user breathes in the cavity that has been created inside the envelope. This chamber is created during inflation of the envelope formed by the form of ribs of two patch welded to the casing and a resilient connecting. The second phase which is the automatic emptying of the envelope provide breathable air to the user and creates a living space enabling it may be to move. The inflation of the envelope and the sudden stop of the avalanche can generate an internal pressure that may exceed the allowable pressure from the envelope. This excess pressure is discharged through the same automatic drain valve. Innovation also relates to a check valve for inflatable envelope (airbag). Compared to other devices is characterized by the fact that none of the predecessors used a check valve placed in the mixer or diffuser and therefore in the same axis of the air flow leaving the venturi or ejector spout. The latter allows to greatly simplify the geometry while reducing the weight, because this construction avoids the manufacturing of a suction chamber and a gate protection against its unintentional opening. Indeed, its original location is possible by using a check valve offering virtually no resistance in the direction of inflation and still allow its closure at the end of inflation. This check valve can be used both for pyrotechnic inflator systems or for those using a compressed gas cartridge.

In addition, innovation provides a mechanism for opening and closing the cartridge for inflatable envelope (airbag). Compared to other devices is characterized by the fact that none of the predecessors used a needle as closing and opening of the gas cartridge. Such a needle allows multiple use without having to change component. In addition, the opening mechanism uses no embedded potential energy for opening, such a compressed gas as in EP 0957994 Bl and EP 957 995 Bl. The cartridge opening is locked by a needle which is pressed against the latter using a spring balance. The instantaneous opening of the orifice, knowing that in the pin there is air under pressure is carried out by a small force which unbalances the mechanical system maintaining the balance between the spring and the needle.

Moreover, innovation is about the mechanism of a visual or tactile indicator connected to the cartridge for inflatable envelope (airbag). Compared to other devices is characterized by the fact that none of the known devices using a visual indicator system or touch attached to the cartridge which informed us about the gas capacity before use.

Finally, an automatic drain valve for inflatable envelope (bag) compared to other devices that use a valve / mouth bite placed in front of the user who triggered by sucking on it. The proposed new mechanism is characterized by its realization with an electromagnet or a shape memory spring that allows the automatic opening of the drain valve after a predetermined delay by the manufacturer or by the immobilization of the user. The asset may occur after a fall or an avalanche, it will be determined by acceleration sensors or atmospheric pressure.

Description of an embodiment

Brief description of the figures:

Fig. 1 shows a perspective front view of the buoy of survival avalanche of the present invention;

Fig. 2 shows a user wearing the buoy of survival for avalanche fig. 1;

Fig. 3 and 3a show the points in front of fasteners and behind the buoy of survival for avalanche fîg.l on the harness / belt of the user;

Fig. 4 shows the buoy of survival for avalanche fig. 1 with the release handle output from its original location;

Fig. 5 and 5a show the buoy of survival for avalanche fig. 1 When inflated in perspective and once inflated face; Fig. 6 shows a side sectional view of the buoy of survival avalanche of Fig. 1 When inflated and covered by snow, this section allows us to see the small cavity around the head of the user and a shape of rib which maintains the shape of the envelope, and the position of the automatic valve discharge; Fig. 7 shows a side sectional view of the buoy of survival avalanche of Fig. January 1 once deflated and covered by snow, this section allows us to see the space (80) around the head and thorax of the user; Fig. 8 shows a view of the hinge arrangement with a cable of the release handle used for the buoy survival avalanche of Fig. 1;

Fig. 9 shows the buoy of survival for avalanche fig. 1 integrated in a backpack;

Fig. 10 shows the buoy of survival for avalanche fig. 1 integrated with a standard jacket;

Fig. 11 shows a sectional view of a method of manufacture of the cartridge and of the suction system of the present invention;

Fig. 12 shows a sectional view of a method of manufacture of the open non-return valve of the present invention;

Fig. 13 shows a sectional view of a method of manufacturing the non-return valve closed to the present invention;

Fig. 14 shows a section of a method of manufacturing the non-return valve in one piece, closed position (screwed or glued); Fig. 15 shows a section of a method of manufacturing the non-return valve in one piece, open position (screwed or glued);

Fig. 16 shows a section of a method of manufacturing the non-return valve in one piece, closed position (screwed or glued);

Fig. 17 shows a section of a method of manufacturing the non-return valve in one piece, open position (screwed or glued);

Fig. 18 shows a section of a method of manufacturing the non-return valve having a mechanical portion and a flexible or rigid portion for obstructing the opening. open position (screwed or bonded);

Fig. 19 shows a section of a method of manufacturing the non-return valve having a mechanical portion and a flexible or rigid portion for obstructing the opening. closed position (screwed or bonded);

Fig. 20 shows a section of a method of manufacturing the system of opening and closure of the cartridge of the present invention; Fig. 21 shows a section of a method of manufacturing the system of opening and closure of the cartridge of the present invention in closed position;

Fig. 22 shows a section of a method of manufacturing the system of opening and closure of the cartridge of the present invention in open position;

Fig. 23 shows a section of a method of manufacturing an automatic drain valve system using an electromagnet coupled to an overpressure system, closed position; Fig. 24 shows a section of a method of manufacturing an automatic drain valve system using an electromagnet coupled to an overpressure system, open position by the electromagnet;

Fig. 25 shows a section of a method of manufacturing an automatic drain valve system using an electromagnet coupled to an overpressure system, open position by an overpressure in the casing; Fig. 26 shows a section of a method of manufacturing an automatic drain valve system using a shape memory spring coupled to an overpressure system, closed position.

This buoy of survival for avalanche 1 is composed of a single room. The fabric used for the casing may be a polyamide fabric Cordura or 6.6 with a coating of PU or PVC or other polymers. The PU coating or PVC provides a suitable seal gas and to weld the tissue. The characteristics of this fabric will be the tensile strength and the abrasion resistance. The assembly of the casing can be done in different ways: sewn, welded.

The shape of the buoy is held by a rib-shaped system 20 within the casing. The shape of ribs 20 are simplified to the extreme to minimize weight and the time of realization. The form of ribs 20 are patches 21 welded or sewn onto the casing 22 and a spring which connects them together.

There are two valves PU / PVC which are welded or screwed to the casing, the inflation valve 30 and the automatic drain valve 4. The first 30 is positioned on the outside of the envelope, it will be connected to the cartridge assembly 3 and the venturi nozzle 5. the second system 4 is welded or screwed to the respiratory tract of the user and allow the air supply thereof once the drain. This buoy of survival for avalanche 1 is attached directly to the harness / belt 10 of the user. There are two points of that quick release allow quick mounting and size adjustment. The first 101 is on the front of the harness and the second point 102 is connected to the harness / belt 10 on the back. Fixing the first point 101 may be a 103 fast snap aluminum or stainless steel which engages the belt buckle / harness 10 with a loop of the envelope 106 that could be provided for this purpose. The fixing of the second point 102 is an adjustable strap 104 with a closed loop 105 of aluminum. The adjustable strap 104 may be made of nylon, it connects the harness / belt 10 and the casing of the buoy of survival for one avalanche.

The trigger is manual. In normal position, the release handle 6 plays the role of hinge 63 between the two edges of the casing 2 or the cover which closes on itself and is maintained by the strands 62 through the passers 63. It is protected against accidental opening by a closed storage pocket with Velcro 60 is opened when the avalanche risk increases. By once against the release handle 6 drawn envelope opens itself. Once the casing inflated, it creates a small cavity 8 around the head of the user. This small cavity 8 allows the user to breathe during the duration of the avalanche. This period lasts approximately 90 to 120 seconds or until the immobilization of the victim who will give the order to the automatic drain valve 4 to open completely. In addition, the extraction of this handle 6 guarantees the release of the cartridge 3 pressurized air opening mechanism for inflating the buoy. This function is performed by a connection between the handle 6 and the pin 52.

The buoy inflated avalanche survival for 1 fully protects the airways of the user against asphyxiation. It protects, too, the head and thorax of the user against damage from drops, rocks, ice, snow, etc. Also, during an avalanche, the buoy of survival for avalanche 1 improves flotation in the avalanche or on our environment such as water. Thus, the buoy of survival for avalanche 1 increases the chances of the user to stay on the surface. To ensure the maintenance of the closed envelope different possibilities can be envisaged. Here are two examples, the first is to halyards 23 between the two parts of the casing which prevents opening thereof. The principle of closure is simple, the more you inflate more halyards will want to tender and thereby maintain the closed survival buoy. These halyards 23 could be of different widths or diameters. The second possibility may be used alone or strengthen the halyards 23 by a series of Velcro® type bands on both sides of the slot of the casing. This type of series Velcro® strips may not be would continue to give the opportunity to the user to breathe through the various orifices. There are two handles 110 on the exterior sides of the casing which could be used by the user to maintain his upper limbs near the envelope.

By the end of about 2 minutes or after immobilization of the user timer, automatic drain the drain envelope is done automatically by the valve 4 which ventilates the chamber 8. The drain is optimized by elastic under 22 tension which play the role shaped rib 20 in inflated phase. The envelope by emptying creates a space 80 around the user releases his pressure on the thorax and possibly allows it to move. The envelope air allows the user to reduce the risk of asphyxiation during this period.

The inflation means of the buoy are described below and with reference to Figures 11 to 26.

The check valve 111 may be performed in two different designs, either integrally or 112 or by a mechanical system, such as hinge 114, with a flexible or rigid part 115 which obstructs the orifice. In the first case, the material used provides the flexibility to replace the mechanical hinge and let the air flow on one side while being rigid enough to retain once the inflation of the envelope completed. The second case is an assembly of several components for the same functions. The materials used for the flexible portion may be rubber, PU, ​​PVC or other polymers or fabric coated PU, PVC or any other polymers or materials that her colleague flexibility. The rigid portion of the second case may be of metal or plastic or rigid polymer.

The diffuser or mixer 113 may have a recess on the front end from entering the casing, it could allow the fixing of the check valve 111 and the protection thereof against any malfunction. Fixing the non-return valve 111 or the hinge may be performed by clamping or gluing or screwing or crimping on the support of the diffuser or mixer recess 113 provided for this purpose.

The opening and closing mechanism of Fig cartridge. 11, 21, 22 is made of a metal alloy, or a high strength alloy (eg aluminum, brass, titanium) which allows a good compromise between weight and mechanical strength.

The 117-plated needle on the cartridge port ensures the seal. The force exerted by the pin 117 on the hole is either a spring or 121 is a mechanism that has the ability to instantly release. This spring 121 or mechanism can use to release a release pin 52 which can be mounted so as to take a very small part of the force on the needle 117. This mechanism fig. 11, 21, 22 has the advantage that the force exerted on the pin 52 out of its housing is low because there is a force reduction system using a pivoting lever 120 and a retaining pin 119.

The seal must also be ensured between the needle 117 and the needle support 122 during deflation. It may be by a sealing system on the needle 117 or the needle holder 122. This sealing system can be a gasket o-ring 118. This embodiment provides a non-limiting example of the many possibilities mechanisms that may result from the use of a needle.

A pressure gauge 129 fig. 11 is attached to the cartridge or connected to it. This gauge miniaturized 129 fig. 11 allows pressure reading. In this way, before each use, the user can check the pressure of the cartridge and if necessary to recharge. In addition, there is a filling valve 130 on the tip of the cartridge which will allow its filling once the locked locking mechanism.

The automatic drain valve opening mechanism 4 for inflatable envelope (airbag) is formed using an electromagnet 123 or a shape memory spring 124.

Both mechanisms will open with a microcontroller. Triggering the microcontroller is effected by the manual removal of the release handle 6 or by another system during the fall or avalanche. The microcontroller can be equipped with a timer for the predetermined time or acceleration sensors or pressure sensors for determining the immobilization of the user. It is powered by batteries that have an extended range. Once the order given by the microcontroller, automatic drain valve opening mechanism 4 will engage differently depending on the system used.

> During the few seconds after connecting the spring 124 with shape memory, it will play the role of a resistance. It will heat obtained by Joule effect by short-circuiting the system. Then, once the transition temperature obtained, it will stretch to open the valve 127 of the automatic drain valve 4. The means to achieve such operation are known per se in the prior art. > The electromagnet 123, once connected, will greatly reduce its attractive force against the plate 126. Accordingly, the spring 125 placed on the electromagnet will therefore be able to expel the plate 126 against the side valve 127 and thereby open it. The installation with a shape memory spring fig. 26 and the assembly with an electromagnet of Fig. 23 are coupled to another spring 128 for managing the pressures of the envelope. The spring 128 is fixed between the valve and the orifice of the automatic valve. It maintains the swivel valve closed. passages holes allow the pressure of the shell to press the flap 127 pivotally. If the internal pressure of the envelope applied to the inner surface of the valve generates too much force, the force of spring 128 will be insufficient to keep the valve closed, and it will open.

Although various embodiments of the invention have been described, such descriptions are intended to be merely non-limiting illustrations of the invention and variations are possible. For example, the buoy may be made of a transparent material.

In addition, the use of the buoy is not limited to avalanche, but other applications are possible, such as buoy to float in water.

Thus, it will be obvious to skilled in the art that changes may be made to the incorporation as described without departing from the scope of the claims defined below.