EP1036733B1 - Automatic inflating arrangement for floatable life-saving device - Google Patents

Automatic inflating arrangement for floatable life-saving device Download PDF

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Publication number
EP1036733B1
EP1036733B1 EP00105244A EP00105244A EP1036733B1 EP 1036733 B1 EP1036733 B1 EP 1036733B1 EP 00105244 A EP00105244 A EP 00105244A EP 00105244 A EP00105244 A EP 00105244A EP 1036733 B1 EP1036733 B1 EP 1036733B1
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
inflation device
sealing membrane
tip
compressed gas
gas cartridge
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Expired - Lifetime
Application number
EP00105244A
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German (de)
French (fr)
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EP1036733A2 (en
EP1036733A3 (en
Inventor
Wolfgang Niemann
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Individual
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Individual
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Publication date
Priority claimed from DE29914503U external-priority patent/DE29914503U1/en
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Publication of EP1036733A2 publication Critical patent/EP1036733A2/en
Publication of EP1036733A3 publication Critical patent/EP1036733A3/en
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Publication of EP1036733B1 publication Critical patent/EP1036733B1/en
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Classifications

    • BPERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B63SHIPS OR OTHER WATERBORNE VESSELS; RELATED EQUIPMENT
    • B63CLAUNCHING, HAULING-OUT, OR DRY-DOCKING OF VESSELS; LIFE-SAVING IN WATER; EQUIPMENT FOR DWELLING OR WORKING UNDER WATER; MEANS FOR SALVAGING OR SEARCHING FOR UNDERWATER OBJECTS
    • B63C9/00Life-saving in water
    • B63C9/08Life-buoys, e.g. rings; Life-belts, jackets, suits, or the like
    • B63C9/18Inflatable equipment characterised by the gas-generating or inflation device
    • B63C9/19Arrangements for puncturing gas-generating cartridges
    • BPERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B63SHIPS OR OTHER WATERBORNE VESSELS; RELATED EQUIPMENT
    • B63CLAUNCHING, HAULING-OUT, OR DRY-DOCKING OF VESSELS; LIFE-SAVING IN WATER; EQUIPMENT FOR DWELLING OR WORKING UNDER WATER; MEANS FOR SALVAGING OR SEARCHING FOR UNDERWATER OBJECTS
    • B63C9/00Life-saving in water
    • B63C9/08Life-buoys, e.g. rings; Life-belts, jackets, suits, or the like
    • B63C9/18Inflatable equipment characterised by the gas-generating or inflation device
    • BPERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B63SHIPS OR OTHER WATERBORNE VESSELS; RELATED EQUIPMENT
    • B63CLAUNCHING, HAULING-OUT, OR DRY-DOCKING OF VESSELS; LIFE-SAVING IN WATER; EQUIPMENT FOR DWELLING OR WORKING UNDER WATER; MEANS FOR SALVAGING OR SEARCHING FOR UNDERWATER OBJECTS
    • B63C9/00Life-saving in water
    • B63C2009/0023Particular features common to inflatable life-saving equipment
    • B63C2009/0029Inflation devices comprising automatic activation means, e.g. for puncturing gas-generating cartridges
    • B63C2009/0064Inflation devices using pyrotechnic means and comprising automatic activation

Definitions

  • the invention relates to an automatic under Exposure to inflatable inflatable device for buoyant rescue devices that have a firing pin with a tip for piercing the sealing membrane a compressed gas cartridge and in which a pyrotechnic charge by ignition a stamp to move the firing pin against the force of a spring in the direction of the sealing membrane drives.
  • Such inflators are used in inflatable Lifeboat devices, especially life jackets and collars used to these devices automatically in case of emergency when immersed in water inflate. This is particularly necessary if the person wearing a life jacket unable to inflate manually to activate.
  • An inflator of the beginning described type is for example from DE 41 06 435 A1 known.
  • the functionality or the operating state of the inflator can only be determined by the compressed gas cartridge and / or the pyrotechnic charge from the device removed and inspected. Such a review is time consuming and therefore when using the rescue device in emergencies no longer to be carried out. There is therefore the Danger of not working due to ignorance Rescue equipment is used, which is devastating Can have consequences.
  • the invention is based, measures to provide a functional check the inflator with no effort at any time enable.
  • This object is based on the invention by an inflator of the type described Genus, solved in that in the standby position the tip of the firing pin the sealing membrane rests, the tip the firing pin as well as the locking membrane electrically conductive materials exist and the sealing membrane of the compressed gas cartridge on the one hand and the tip of the firing pin, on the other hand, is electrical in connection with a display device stand for the presence of a pressurized gas cartridge with an intact sealing membrane or the absence to display such a cartridge. In standby there is therefore an electrical one Contact between the tip of the firing pin and the intact sealing membrane, if present is. It becomes a closed circuit formed, which lead to a corresponding display can.
  • the display device can be configured that either continuously or after actuation corresponding switching means the presence or Absence of a compressed gas cartridge with an intact sealing membrane is shown.
  • At the first measure is the inspection of the compressed gas cartridge by mere Inspection as you walk past Rescue device possible. However, this is one increased energy consumption.
  • the second Measure can significantly reduce energy consumption become. Nevertheless, the review of the Functionality quickly and therefore also briefly before the rescue device is actually used possible.
  • the firing pin tip is flattened, causing a large electrical contact area between the Closing membrane and the tip of the firing pin is obtained.
  • the reliability of the ad is thus increased. It also avoids that they are always in the standby position on the sealing membrane in the tip Integrated membrane and destroyed it early.
  • This tip can be wider than a truncated cone or pyramid with an angle preferably of about 45 ° be trained, thereby ensuring that after piercing the membrane into the Starting position returned tip the edges the opening in the membrane does not touch.
  • the tip of the firing pin can be directed towards spring biased on the closure membrane his. That on the firing pin or its Pointed spring element ensures a constant electrical contact between the tip the firing pin and the undamaged membrane the compressed gas cartridge, which increases reliability the display is further increased.
  • the display device into an electrical trigger and ignition device for the pyrotechnic charge be integrated.
  • the trigger and ignition device can be activated with an electrical water-activated Switch be provided.
  • the electrical switch is two spaced Has contacts between them by water an electrical connection is made and a shielding wall to avoid leakage currents is arranged.
  • This has the advantage that, for example Splashing water, condensing moisture or condensate the inflator do not trigger at the wrong time.
  • the triggering and ignition device with one Test circuit and a display device equipped be, causing the pyrotechnic charge can be loaded with a test current or a test voltage that does not lead to ignition, to that Presence or absence of an intact pyrotechnic Display charge.
  • This can reduce the functionality the pyrotechnic charge with simple Funds are checked.
  • test circuit and the circuit to check the sealing membrane with the same Display device interact what a reduction in the space requirement of the test circuits leads.
  • the display device can take the form a simple light, for example an LED, have that in the case of a flawless device lights.
  • the test circuit and the circuit to check the sealing membrane can be in series be switched because the rescue system is unusable if there is no intact sealing membrane is or cannot be triggered automatically, if the pyrotechnic charge is defective or is missing. For the individual exams, too separate displays are provided.
  • the inflator shown in the drawing has a lower housing part 11 with a threaded receptacle 13 for a compressed gas cartridge 12.
  • the compressed gas cartridge 12 is through a sealing membrane 14 locked.
  • In the lower housing part 11 is still a firing pin 15 slidably mounted.
  • the Firing pin 15 acts on a firing pin tip 16 a when the firing pin moves 15 towards the closure membrane 14 this pierces, whereby the compressed gas cartridge 12 is opened is, so that the gas from the compressed gas cartridge 12th through a channel 17 in the not shown inflatable rescue device flows.
  • the firing pin 15 can on the one hand by a mechanical lever mechanism 18 moved manually become. This mechanism 18 is well known and requires no further explanation. on the other hand can the firing pin 15 by a pyrotechnic Charge 19 towards the sealing membrane 14 are moved.
  • This pyrotechnic charge 19 is arranged in a cartridge 20, which is in the upper housing part 21 of the inflator through a threaded cap 26 is held.
  • the prefabricated cartridge 20 has a stamp 22 which is connected to the firing pin 15 cooperates.
  • the firing pin 15 is in the standby position shown by a Return spring 23 held.
  • the one in direct contact area 34 with the sealing membrane 14 the tip 16 is flattened and as a cone or Truncated pyramid.
  • the standby touches the top 16 of the firing pin 15, the closure membrane 14.
  • the tip 16 against the action of Return spring 23 formed by a compression spring and spring element supported on the firing pin 15 24 pressed against the closure membrane 14.
  • Both the tip 16 of the firing pin 15 as well the closure membrane 14 are electrically connected with a display device.
  • This will a test circuit is formed with which the presence an intact closure membrane 14 and thus an intact compressed gas cartridge 12- can.
  • the thread intake 13 and all other housing parts are also electrical conductive or mutually electrically insulated trained to maintain the test circuit.
  • the pyrotechnic charge 19 is triggered by a and igniter 25 activated, the under Exposure to water is triggered.
  • the trigger and igniter 25 is electrical with the terminal 33 of the cartridge 20 connected.
  • the trigger and ignition device 25 can also directly with a connection 37 to the cartridge 20 and the upper housing part 21 can be attached.
  • the triggering and ignition device 25 is in one Housing with two chambers 27, 28 arranged, wherein in one chamber 27 a water-activated one electrical switch 29 and in the other Chamber 28 the electronics not shown and the batteries or accumulators for the test current and the ignition current of the pyrotechnic charge 19 are arranged.
  • This chamber 28 is preferably waterproof.
  • the switch 29 can be activated by water electrical contacts 30 between which the flowing into the chamber 27 through openings 36 Water creates an electrical connection. Between the contacts 30 a partition 35 is arranged, which does not extend to the chamber wall on all sides. This can trigger the inflator can be prevented by leakage currents.
  • the electronics of the trigger and ignition device 25 further includes a test circuit by the pyrotechnic charge 19 with a test voltage or a test current can be applied, by the or the no ignition of the pyrotechnic charge 19 takes place. So that the presence of a ignitable pyrotechnic charge 19 are checked.
  • the test circuit can do this with electronics, which in connection with that through water triggerable switch 29 stands, cooperate such that only under the influence of water the required Ignition voltage or the required ignition current is switched.
  • triggering and ignition device 25 is also the test circuit for the sealing membrane 14 integrated.
  • display means here, which the respective operating state of the inflator Show. These display means are as conventional LEDs 31 formed.
  • Switching means for example a button 32, are provided, with which the individual exams come together or can be carried out one after the other.
  • the spring element, with the firing pin tip towards the Prestressed sealing membrane of the compressed gas cartridge is when between the firing pin tip and the Firing pin arranged disc or ring be made of an elastic material.

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Ocean & Marine Engineering (AREA)
  • Air Bags (AREA)
  • Emergency Lowering Means (AREA)
  • Measuring Fluid Pressure (AREA)

Description

Die Erfindung betrifft eine selbsttätige unter Einwirken von Wasser auslösbare Aufblasvorrichtung für schwimmfähige Rettungsgeräte, die einen Schlagbolzen mit einer Spitze zum Durchstoßen der Verschlußmembran einer Druckgaspatrone aufweist und bei der eine pyrotechnische Ladung durch Zünden einen Stempel zur Bewegung des Schlagbolzens gegen die Kraft einer Feder in Richtung auf die Verschlußmembran treibt. The invention relates to an automatic under Exposure to inflatable inflatable device for buoyant rescue devices that have a firing pin with a tip for piercing the sealing membrane a compressed gas cartridge and in which a pyrotechnic charge by ignition a stamp to move the firing pin against the force of a spring in the direction of the sealing membrane drives.

Derartige Aufblasvorrichtungen werden bei aufblasbaren Seenotrettungsgeräten, insbesondere Rettungswesten und -kragen eingesetzt, um diese Geräte im Notfall beim Eintauchen in das Wasser selbsttätig aufzublasen. Dies ist insbesondere dann erforderlich, wenn die eine Rettungsweste tragende Person nicht in der Lage ist, den Aufblasvorgang manuell zu aktivieren. Eine Aufblasvorrichtung der eingangs geschilderten Art ist beispielsweise aus der DE 41 06 435 A1 bekannt. Hier kann die Funktionsfähigkeit bzw. der Betriebszustand der Aufblasvorrichtung nur festgestellt werden, indem die Druckgaspatrone und/oder die pyrotechnische Ladung aus der Vorrichtung entfernt und in Augenschein genommen werden. Eine derartige Überprüfung ist zeitaufwendig und daher beim Einsatz des Rettungsgerätes in Notfällen nicht mehr durchzuführen. Es besteht daher die Gefahr, daß aus Unkenntnis ein nicht funktionsbereites Rettungsgerät verwendet wird, was verheerende Folgen haben kann.Such inflators are used in inflatable Lifeboat devices, especially life jackets and collars used to these devices automatically in case of emergency when immersed in water inflate. This is particularly necessary if the person wearing a life jacket unable to inflate manually to activate. An inflator of the beginning described type is for example from DE 41 06 435 A1 known. Here the functionality or the operating state of the inflator can only be determined by the compressed gas cartridge and / or the pyrotechnic charge from the device removed and inspected. Such a review is time consuming and therefore when using the rescue device in emergencies no longer to be carried out. There is therefore the Danger of not working due to ignorance Rescue equipment is used, which is devastating Can have consequences.

Der Erfindung liegt die Aufgabe zugrunde, Maßnahmen vorzusehen, die ein Überprüfen der Funktionsfähigkeit der Aufblasvorrichtung ohne Mühe jederzeit ermöglichen.The invention is based, measures to provide a functional check the inflator with no effort at any time enable.

Diese Aufgabe wird gemäß der Erfindung, ausgehend von einer Aufblasvorrichtung der eingangs beschriebenen Gattung, dadurch gelöst, daß in der Bereitschaftsstellung die Spitze des Schlagbolzens an der Verschlußmembran anliegt, wobei die Spitze des Schlagbolzens sowie die Verschlußmembran aus elektrisch leitfähigen Werkstoffen bestehen und die Verschlußmembran der Druckgaspatrone einerseits und die Spitze des Schlagbolzens andererseits elektrisch mit einer Anzeigevorrichtung in Verbindung stehen, um das Vorhandensein einer Druckgaspatrone mit einer intakten Verschlußmembran oder das Fehlen einer derartigen Patrone anzuzeigen. In der Bereitschaftsstellung besteht somit ein elektrischer Kontakt zwischen der Spitze des Schlagbolzens und der intakten Verschlußmembran, sofern diese vorhanden ist. Es wird somit ein geschlossener Stromkreis gebildet, der zu einer entsprechenden Anzeige führen kann. Sofern keine intakte Membran vorhanden ist, beispielsweise bei fehlender Druckgaspatrone oder bei zerstörter Membran einer leeren Druckgaspatrone, ist dieser Stromkreis unterbrochen, da der Schlagbolzen nach dem Durchstoßen der Verschlußmembran durch die einwirkende Federkraft in seine Ausgangsstellung zurückgestellt wird. Die Spitze des Schlagbolzens berührt dann die Verschlußmembran nicht mehr. Die erforderliche Anzeige kann nicht mehr erfolgen, und der Fehler kann ohne weiteres erkannt werden.This object is based on the invention by an inflator of the type described Genus, solved in that in the standby position the tip of the firing pin the sealing membrane rests, the tip the firing pin as well as the locking membrane electrically conductive materials exist and the sealing membrane of the compressed gas cartridge on the one hand and the tip of the firing pin, on the other hand, is electrical in connection with a display device stand for the presence of a pressurized gas cartridge with an intact sealing membrane or the absence to display such a cartridge. In standby there is therefore an electrical one Contact between the tip of the firing pin and the intact sealing membrane, if present is. It becomes a closed circuit formed, which lead to a corresponding display can. If there is no intact membrane, for example if there is no compressed gas cartridge or if the membrane of an empty compressed gas cartridge is destroyed, this circuit is broken because of the firing pin after piercing the sealing membrane by the spring force acting in its starting position is deferred. The tip of the firing pin then does not touch the sealing membrane more. The required ad can no longer and the error can be easily recognized become.

Die Anzeigevorrichtung kann so ausgestaltet sein, daß entweder kontinuierlich oder nach Betätigung entsprechender Schaltmittel das Vorhandensein oder Fehlen einer Druckgaspatrone mit intakter Verschlußmembran angezeigt wird. Bei der ersten Maßnahme ist die Überpüfung der Druckgaspatrone durch bloße Inaugenscheinnahme bereits beim Vorbeigehen am Rettungsgerät möglich. Allerdings ist hiermit ein erhöhter Energieverbrauch verbunden. Bei der zweiten Maßnahme kann der Energieverbrauch wesentlich reduziert werden. Dennoch ist die Überprüfung der Funktionsfähigkeit schnell und somit auch kurz vor dem tatsächlichen Einsatz des Rettungsgerätes möglich.The display device can be configured that either continuously or after actuation corresponding switching means the presence or Absence of a compressed gas cartridge with an intact sealing membrane is shown. At the first measure is the inspection of the compressed gas cartridge by mere Inspection as you walk past Rescue device possible. However, this is one increased energy consumption. The second Measure can significantly reduce energy consumption become. Nevertheless, the review of the Functionality quickly and therefore also briefly before the rescue device is actually used possible.

Bei einer zweckmäßigen Ausgestaltung der Erfindung ist die Spitze des Schlagbolzens abgeflacht, wodurch eine große elektrische Kontaktfläche zwischen der Verschlußmembran und der Spitze des Schlagbolzens erhalten wird. Die Zuverlässigkeit der Anzeige wird somit erhöht. Es wird außerdem vermieden, daß sich die in der Bereitschaftsstellung stets an der Verschlußmembran anliegende Spitze in die Membran einarbeitet und diese frühzeitig zerstört. Diese Spitze kann weiter als Kegel- oder Pyramidenstumpf mit einem Winkel vorzugsweise von etwa 45° ausgebildet sein, wodurch sichergestellt wird, daß die nach dem Durchstoßen der Membran in die Ausgangsstellung zurückgekehrte Spitze die Ränder der Öffnung in der Membran nicht berührt.In an expedient embodiment of the invention the firing pin tip is flattened, causing a large electrical contact area between the Closing membrane and the tip of the firing pin is obtained. The reliability of the ad is thus increased. It also avoids that they are always in the standby position on the sealing membrane in the tip Integrated membrane and destroyed it early. This tip can be wider than a truncated cone or pyramid with an angle preferably of about 45 ° be trained, thereby ensuring that after piercing the membrane into the Starting position returned tip the edges the opening in the membrane does not touch.

Weiterhin kann die Spitze des Schlagbolzen in Richtung auf die Verschlußmembran federnd vorgespannt sein. Das dabei auf den Schlagbolzen bzw. dessen Spitze einwirkende Federelement gewährleistet einen stetigen elektrischen Kontakt zwischen der Spitze des Schlagbolzens und der unzerstörten Membran der Druckgaspatrone, wodurch die Zuverlässigkeit der Anzeige weiter erhöht wird.Furthermore, the tip of the firing pin can be directed towards spring biased on the closure membrane his. That on the firing pin or its Pointed spring element ensures a constant electrical contact between the tip the firing pin and the undamaged membrane the compressed gas cartridge, which increases reliability the display is further increased.

Bei einer anderen Ausgestaltung der Erfindung kann die Anzeigevorrichtung in eine elektrische Auslöse- und Zündeinrichtung für die pyrotechnische Ladung integriert sein. Dadurch kann ein kompakter Aufbau erreicht werden. Die Auslöse- und Zündeinrichtung kann mit einem durch Wasser aktivierbaren elektrischen Schalter versehen sein. Hierbei ist es günstig, wenn der elektrische Schalter zwei beabstandete Kontakte aufweist, zwischen denen durch Wasser eine elektrische Verbindung hergestellt wird und eine Abschirmwand zur Vermeidung von Kriechströmen angeordnet ist. Dies hat den Vorteil, daß beispielsweise Spritzwasser, sich niederschlagende Feuchtigkeit oder Kondenswasser die Aufblasvorrichtung nicht zur Unzeit auslösen.In another embodiment of the invention the display device into an electrical trigger and ignition device for the pyrotechnic charge be integrated. This allows a compact structure can be achieved. The trigger and ignition device can be activated with an electrical water-activated Switch be provided. Here it is convenient when the electrical switch is two spaced Has contacts between them by water an electrical connection is made and a shielding wall to avoid leakage currents is arranged. This has the advantage that, for example Splashing water, condensing moisture or condensate the inflator do not trigger at the wrong time.

Bei einer bevorzugten Weiterbildung der Erfindung kann die Auslöse- und Zündeinrichtung mit einem Testschaltkreis und einer Anzeigevorrichtung ausgestattet sein, wodurch die pyrotechnische Ladung mit einem Teststrom oder einer Testspannung beaufschlagbar ist, die nicht zum Zünden führt, um das Vorhandensein oder Fehlen einer intakten pyrotechnischen Ladung anzuzeigen. Hierdurch kann die Funktionsfähigkeit der pyrotechnischen Ladung mit einfachen Mitteln geprüft werden. Auch hier kann die Anzeige kontinuierlich oder erst nach dem Betätigen eines Schaltmittels erfolgen.In a preferred development of the invention can the triggering and ignition device with one Test circuit and a display device equipped be, causing the pyrotechnic charge can be loaded with a test current or a test voltage that does not lead to ignition, to that Presence or absence of an intact pyrotechnic Display charge. This can reduce the functionality the pyrotechnic charge with simple Funds are checked. Here, too Display continuously or only after actuation a switching means.

Weiterhin können der Testschaltkreis und der Stromkreis zum Überprüfen der Verschlußmembran mit derselben Anzeigevorrichtung zusammenwirken, was zu einer Verringerung des Platzbedarfs der Prüfschaltungen führt. Die Anzeigevorrichtung kann die Form einer einfachen Leuchte, beispielsweise einer LED, haben, die im Falle eines einwandfreien Gerätes aufleuchtet. Der Testschaltkreis und der Stromkreis zum Überprüfen der Verschlußmembran können in Reihe geschaltet sein, da das Rettungsgerät unbrauchbar ist, wenn keine intakte Verschlußmembran vorhanden ist oder nicht selbsttätig ausgelöst werden kann, wenn die pyrotechnische Ladung defekt ist oder fehlt. Für die einzelnen Prüfungen können auch getrennte Anzeigevorrichtungen vorhanden sein.Furthermore, the test circuit and the circuit to check the sealing membrane with the same Display device interact what a reduction in the space requirement of the test circuits leads. The display device can take the form a simple light, for example an LED, have that in the case of a flawless device lights. The test circuit and the circuit to check the sealing membrane can be in series be switched because the rescue system is unusable if there is no intact sealing membrane is or cannot be triggered automatically, if the pyrotechnic charge is defective or is missing. For the individual exams, too separate displays are provided.

Dies hat den Vorteil, daß beispielsweise ein Rettungsgerät mit einer Aufblasvorrichtung, bei der nur die pyrotechnische Ladung defekt ist, durchaus noch manuell betätigt oder eingesetzt werden kann.This has the advantage that, for example, a rescue device with an inflator where only the pyrotechnic charge is defective, definitely can still be operated or used manually.

Zweckmäßig ist es in jedem Fall, wenn das Testen der Druckgaspatrone und der pyrotechnischen Ladung durch Betätigen desselben Schaltmittels erfolgt. Dadurch kann die Handhabung bei der Überprüfung vereinfacht werden.In any case, it is useful if testing the compressed gas cartridge and the pyrotechnic charge by operating the same switching means. This allows handling when reviewing be simplified.

Ein Ausführungsbeispiel der Erfindung wird im folgenden noch an Hand der schematischen Zeichnungen näher erläutert. Es zeigen:

Fig. 1
einen Schnitt durch eine Aufblasvorrichtung gemäß der Erfindung in Bereitschaftsstellung, und
Fig. 2
die Auslöse- und Zündeinrichtung, teilweise im Schnitt.
An embodiment of the invention is explained in more detail below with reference to the schematic drawings. Show it:
Fig. 1
a section through an inflator according to the invention in the standby position, and
Fig. 2
the triggering and ignition device, partly in section.

Die in der Zeichnung dargestellte Aufblasvorrichtung weist ein Gehäuseunterteil 11 mit einer Gewindeaufnahme 13 für eine Druckgaspatrone 12 auf. Die Druckgaspatrone 12 ist durch eine Verschlußmembran 14 verschlossen. Im Gehäuseunterteil 11 ist weiterhin ein Schlagbolzen 15 verschiebbar gelagert. Der Schlagbolzen 15 wirkt auf eine Schlagbolzenspitze 16 ein, die bei einer Bewegung des Schlagbolzens 15 in Richtung auf die Verschlußmembran 14 diese durchstößt, wodurch die Druckgaspatrone 12 geöffnet wird, so daß das Gas aus der Druckgaspatrone 12 durch einen Kanal 17 in das nicht dargestellte aufzublasende Rettungsgerät strömt. The inflator shown in the drawing has a lower housing part 11 with a threaded receptacle 13 for a compressed gas cartridge 12. The compressed gas cartridge 12 is through a sealing membrane 14 locked. In the lower housing part 11 is still a firing pin 15 slidably mounted. The Firing pin 15 acts on a firing pin tip 16 a when the firing pin moves 15 towards the closure membrane 14 this pierces, whereby the compressed gas cartridge 12 is opened is, so that the gas from the compressed gas cartridge 12th through a channel 17 in the not shown inflatable rescue device flows.

Der Schlagbolzen 15 kann einerseits durch einen mechanischen Hebelmechanismus 18 manuell bewegt werden. Dieser Mechanismus 18 ist allgemein bekannt und bedarf keiner weiteren Erläuterung. Andererseits kann der Schlagbolzen 15 durch eine pyrotechnische Ladung 19 in Richtung auf die Verschlußmembran 14 bewegt werden. Diese pyrotechnische Ladung 19 ist in einer Patrone 20 angeordnet, die im Gehäuseoberteil 21 der Aufblasvorrichtung durch eine Gewindekappe 26 gehalten ist. Die vorgefertigte Patrone 20 weist einen Stempel 22 auf, der mit dem Schlagbolzen 15 zusammenwirkt. Der Schlagbolzen 15 wird in der gezeigten Bereitschaftsstellung durch eine Rückholfeder 23 gehalten. Der unmittelbar in Kontakt mit der Verschlußmembran 14 stehende Bereich 34 der Spitze 16 ist dabei abgeflacht und als Kegeloder Pyramidenstumpf ausgebildet.The firing pin 15 can on the one hand by a mechanical lever mechanism 18 moved manually become. This mechanism 18 is well known and requires no further explanation. on the other hand can the firing pin 15 by a pyrotechnic Charge 19 towards the sealing membrane 14 are moved. This pyrotechnic charge 19 is arranged in a cartridge 20, which is in the upper housing part 21 of the inflator through a threaded cap 26 is held. The prefabricated cartridge 20 has a stamp 22 which is connected to the firing pin 15 cooperates. The firing pin 15 is in the standby position shown by a Return spring 23 held. The one in direct contact area 34 with the sealing membrane 14 the tip 16 is flattened and as a cone or Truncated pyramid.

In der Bereitschaftsstellung berührt die Spitze 16 des Schlagbolzens 15 die Verschlußmembran 14. Dazu wird die Spitze 16 entgegen der Wirkung der Rückholfeder 23 von einem als Druckfeder ausgebildeten und sich am Schlagbolzen 15 abstützendes Federelement 24 gegen die Verschlußmembran 14 gedrückt. Sowohl die Spitze 16 des Schlagbolzens 15 als auch die Verschlußmembran 14 stehen elektrisch in Verbindung mit einer Anzeigevorrichtung. Dadurch wird ein Teststromkreis gebildet, mit dem das Vorhandensein einer intakten Verschlußmembran 14 und somit einer intakten Druckgaspatrone 12- geprüft werden kann. Dazu sind insbesondere die Gewindeaufnahme 13 und alle weiteren Gehäuseteile ebenfalls elektrisch leitend bzw. gegenseitig elektrisch isoliert ausgebildet, um den Teststromkreis zu erhalten.The standby touches the top 16 of the firing pin 15, the closure membrane 14. For this purpose, the tip 16 against the action of Return spring 23 formed by a compression spring and spring element supported on the firing pin 15 24 pressed against the closure membrane 14. Both the tip 16 of the firing pin 15 as well the closure membrane 14 are electrically connected with a display device. This will a test circuit is formed with which the presence an intact closure membrane 14 and thus an intact compressed gas cartridge 12- can. For this purpose, in particular, the thread intake 13 and all other housing parts are also electrical conductive or mutually electrically insulated trained to maintain the test circuit.

Die pyrotechnische Ladung 19 wird durch eine Auslöse- und Zündeinrichtung 25 aktiviert, die unter Einwirkung von Wasser ausgelöst wird. Die Auslöse- und Zündeinrichtung 25 ist elektrisch mit dem Anschluß 33 der Patrone 20 verbunden. Die Auslöse- und Zündeinrichtung 25 kann auch unmittelbar mit einem Anschluß 37 auf die Patrone 20 und das Gehäuseoberteil 21 aufgesteckt werden. The pyrotechnic charge 19 is triggered by a and igniter 25 activated, the under Exposure to water is triggered. The trigger and igniter 25 is electrical with the terminal 33 of the cartridge 20 connected. The trigger and ignition device 25 can also directly with a connection 37 to the cartridge 20 and the upper housing part 21 can be attached.

Die Auslöse- und Zündeinrichtung 25 ist in einem Gehäuse mit zwei Kammern 27, 28 angeordnet, wobei in der einen Kammer 27 ein durch Wasser aktivierbarer elektrischer Schalter 29 und in der anderen Kammer 28 die nicht näher dargestellte Elektronik und die Batterien oder Akkumulatoren für den Teststrom und den Zündstrom der pyrotechnischen Ladung 19 angeordnet sind. Diese Kammer 28 ist vorzugsweise wasserdicht ausgebildet.The triggering and ignition device 25 is in one Housing with two chambers 27, 28 arranged, wherein in one chamber 27 a water-activated one electrical switch 29 and in the other Chamber 28 the electronics not shown and the batteries or accumulators for the test current and the ignition current of the pyrotechnic charge 19 are arranged. This chamber 28 is preferably waterproof.

Der durch Wasser aktivierbare Schalter 29 weist elektrische Kontakte 30 auf, zwischen denen das in die Kammer 27 durch Öffnungen 36 einströmende Wasser eine elektrische Verbindung schafft. Zwischen den Kontakten 30 ist eine Trennwand 35 angeordnet, die sich nicht allseitig zu der Kammerwandung erstreckt. Dadurch kann ein Auslösen der Aufblasvorrichtung durch Kriechströme verhindert werden.The switch 29 can be activated by water electrical contacts 30 between which the flowing into the chamber 27 through openings 36 Water creates an electrical connection. Between the contacts 30 a partition 35 is arranged, which does not extend to the chamber wall on all sides. This can trigger the inflator can be prevented by leakage currents.

Die Elektronik der Auslöse- und Zündeinrichtung 25 umfaßt weiterhin einen Testschaltkreis, durch den die pyrotechnische Ladung 19 mit einer Testspannung oder einem Teststrom beaufschlagbar ist, durch die bzw. den kein Zünden der pyrotechnischen Ladung 19 erfolgt. Damit kann das Vorhandensein einer zündfähigen pyrotechnischen Ladung 19 geprüft werden. Der Testschaltkreis kann dazu mit einer Elektronik, die in Verbindung mit dem durch Wasser auslösbaren Schalter 29 steht, derart zusammenwirken, daß nur unter Einwirkung von Wasser die erforderliche Zündspannung bzw. der erforderliche Zündstrom geschaltet wird.The electronics of the trigger and ignition device 25 further includes a test circuit by the pyrotechnic charge 19 with a test voltage or a test current can be applied, by the or the no ignition of the pyrotechnic charge 19 takes place. So that the presence of a ignitable pyrotechnic charge 19 are checked. The test circuit can do this with electronics, which in connection with that through water triggerable switch 29 stands, cooperate such that only under the influence of water the required Ignition voltage or the required ignition current is switched.

In die Auslöse- und Zündeinrichtung 25 ist zudem der Teststromkreis für die Verschlußmembran 14 integriert. Es sind hierbei Anzeigemittel vorhanden, die den jeweiligen Betriebszustand der Aufblasvorrichtung anzeigen. Diese Anzeigemittel sind als herkömmliche LED's 31 ausgebildet. Weiterhin sind Schaltmittel, beispielsweise ein Taster 32, vorgesehen, mit dem die einzelnen Prüfungen gemeinsam oder nacheinander durchgeführt werden können.In the triggering and ignition device 25 is also the test circuit for the sealing membrane 14 integrated. There are display means here, which the respective operating state of the inflator Show. These display means are as conventional LEDs 31 formed. Furthermore are Switching means, for example a button 32, are provided, with which the individual exams come together or can be carried out one after the other.

Die Erfindung ist nicht auf die beschriebenen und dargestellten Ausführungsformen begrenzt. Sie schließt für den Fachmann geläufige Abwandlungen ein. So kann insbesondere das Federelement, mit dem die Schlagbolzenspitze in Richtung auf die Verschlußmembran der Druckgaspatrone vorgespannt wird, als zwischen der Schlagbolzenspitze und dem Schlagbolzen angeordnete(r) Scheibe oder Ring aus einem elastischen Werkstof ausgebildet sein.The invention is not described and described illustrated embodiments limited. she closes modifications which are familiar to a person skilled in the art on. In particular, the spring element, with the firing pin tip towards the Prestressed sealing membrane of the compressed gas cartridge is when between the firing pin tip and the Firing pin arranged disc or ring be made of an elastic material.

Es ist offensichtlich, daß durch diese Ausbildung einer Aufblasvorrichtung deren Funktionsfähigkeit leicht zu kontrollieren ist. Insbesondere ist keine Demontage der Aufblasvorrichtung erforderlich. Die Prüfung der Funktionsfähigkeit kann daher auch beim Einsatz in kürzester Zeit, beispielsweise durch Tastendruck, erfolgen, wodurch die Verwendung von offensichtlich defekten Rettungsgeräten vermieden wird.It is obvious that through this training an inflator whose functionality is easy to control. In particular, there is none Disassembly of the inflator required. The functionality check can therefore also when used in the shortest possible time, for example by pressing a button, which makes the use avoided by obviously defective rescue equipment becomes.

Claims (13)

  1. Automatic inflation device for buoyant life preservers which is triggered by the action of water, comprising a striking pin (15) with a tip (16) for puncturing the sealing membrane (14) of a compressed gas cartridge (12), and in which, owing to ignition, a pyrotechnic charge (19) drives a plunger (22) to move the striking pin (15) against the force of a spring (23) in the direction of the sealing membrane (14), characterised in that the tip (16) of the striking pin (15) and the sealing membrane (14) consist of electrically conductive materials and, in the ready position, the tip (16) of the striking pin (15) rests against the sealing membrane (14), and the sealing membrane (14) of the compressed gas cartridge (12), on the one hand, and the tip (16) of the striking pin (15), on the other hand, are electrically connected to an indicator (31) to indicate the absence or presence of a compressed gas cartridge (12) with an intact sealing membrane (14).
  2. Inflation device according to claim 1, characterised in that the indicator (31) indicates, continuously or after actuation of corresponding switching means (32), the presence or absence of a compressed gas cartridge (12) with an intact sealing membrane (14).
  3. Inflation device according to claim 1 or 2, characterised in that the tip (16) of the striking pin (15) is flattened in the region of contact (34).
  4. Inflation device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterised in that the tip (16) is configured in the shape of a truncated cone or a truncated pyramid.
  5. Inflation device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterised in that a spring element (24 acts on the tip (16) of the striking pin (15) in the direction of the sealing membrane (14).
  6. Inflation device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterised in that the indicator (31) is integrated into an electrical trigger and ignition mechanism (25) for the pyrotechnic charge (19).
  7. Inflation device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterised in that the trigger and ignition mechanism comprises an electrical switch (29) capable of being activated by water.
  8. Inflation device according to claim 7, characterised in that the electrical switch comprises two contacts (30) located at a distance from each other and between which a screen wall (35) is disposed to prevent leakage currents.
  9. Inflation device according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterised in that the trigger and ignition mechanism (25) comprises a test switching circuit and an indicator (31) for applying to the pyrotechnic charge (19) a test current or a test voltage which does not lead to ignition, for indicating the presence or absence of an intact pyrotechnic charge (19).
  10. Inflation device according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterised in that the test switching circuit and the electric circuit cooperate with the same indicator (31) for testing the sealing membrane (14).
  11. Inflation device according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterised in that separate indicators are provided for the test switching circuit and the electric circuit.
  12. Inflation device according to any one of claims 1 to 11, characterised in that the compressed gas cartridge (12) and the pyrotechnic charge (19) are tested by actuating the same switching means (32).
  13. Inflation device according to any one of claims 1 to 12, characterised in that the trigger and ignition mechanism (25) comprises a housing with two chambers (27, 28), the switch (29) capable of being activated by water being arranged in the one chamber (27) and the electronic device, the indicator (31) and the batteries or accumulators being arranged in the other chamber (28).
EP00105244A 1999-03-13 2000-03-13 Automatic inflating arrangement for floatable life-saving device Expired - Lifetime EP1036733B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (4)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
DE29904651U 1999-03-13
DE29904651 1999-03-13
DE29914503U 1999-08-18
DE29914503U DE29914503U1 (en) 1999-03-13 1999-08-18 Automatic inflator for buoyant rescue equipment

Publications (3)

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EP1036733A2 EP1036733A2 (en) 2000-09-20
EP1036733A3 EP1036733A3 (en) 2000-12-06
EP1036733B1 true EP1036733B1 (en) 2003-06-25

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EP00105244A Expired - Lifetime EP1036733B1 (en) 1999-03-13 2000-03-13 Automatic inflating arrangement for floatable life-saving device

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US (1) US6254447B1 (en)
EP (1) EP1036733B1 (en)

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Publication number Publication date
EP1036733A2 (en) 2000-09-20
US6254447B1 (en) 2001-07-03
EP1036733A3 (en) 2000-12-06

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