Means of detonation, device, fire fighting system and method

Abstract

DETONATION MEANS, DEVICE, SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR FIGHTING FIRE.The present invention relates to a fire-fighting device comprising: - an enclosure (2) defining an internal cavity (3) in which at least one dispersible fire extinguishing agent (4) is deposited, and - a pyrotechnic means (5) suitable for generating an explosion that causes said enclosure (2) to rupture and said fire extinguishing agent (4) to be dispersed, wherein said pyrotechnic means (5) comprises: - at least one explosive charge (6), which generates said explosion, and - a detonation means (7) for triggering the explosion of at least one explosive charge (6), and the detonation means (7) comprises: - an ignition device (8) designed so that, in an active state, it triggers the explosion of at least one explosive charge (6), and - an impact sensor (9) designed to detect a mechanical impact received by the device (1) and to put the ignition device (8) into the active state when the mechanical impact is Detected.

Description

1 / 26 DESCRIPTIVE REPORT “DETONATION MEANS, DEVICE, SYSTEM AND FIRE FIGHTING METHOD” FIELD OF THE INVENTION'S TECHNIQUE

[001] The present invention generally relates to the field of fire fighting.

[002] More specifically, it refers to fire fighting devices. STATE OF THE ART

[003] Whether in urban areas or in the jungle, fires can cause significant human and material damage.

[004] In general, the human resources and equipment mobilized for firefighting are adapted in scope and to the location in question.

[005] A wide range of firefighting equipment is known, from simple foam or powder extinguishers to fire tanks and water bombers.

[006] As described in document no. US 6,786,382, there is also a known fire-fighting item consisting of a destructible container in the form of a sphere made of low-density rigid plastic foam (e.g., expanded polystyrene foam), about ten centimeters to a few tens of centimeters in diameter, and enclosing an active fire-dispersible chemical and a pyrotechnic detonator associated with a fuse.

[007] In an active approach, it would be interesting to throw this firefighting item directly onto the fire, so that its fuse is ignited, ensuring that the detonator is activated, followed by the destruction of the container and the dispersion of the dispersible chemical product.

[008] But, over time, such firefighting items are unfortunately not entirely effective for this approach, in particular, depending on the location of the fire to be extinguished or the site configuration.

[009] In fact, it is advisable that these firefighting items remain on the fire for a sufficient amount of time (at least a few seconds) so that the wick of Petition 870220103934, dated 09 / 11 / 2022, page 31 / 69 2 / 26 even if ignited and the detonator activated, ensuring the release of the dispersible chemical product.

[010] Now, due to its inertia and trajectory, the firefighting item is likely to leave the fire before its fuse has had time to ignite.

[011] This is, for example, the case where the firefighting item jumps out of the fire, when the ground is sloping, or when the launch speed has not been adjusted.

[012] There is therefore a need to improve these combat items to allow such an active approach. DISCLOSURE OF THE INVENTION

[013] The present invention thus proposes a firefighting device that enhances / intensifies firefighting items in accordance, in particular, with document no. US 6,786,382, which is particularly adapted for such an active approach (projected / launched directly into the fire).

[014] More particularly, a fire-fighting device comprising: is proposed in accordance with the invention. - a casing (also called a shell or envelope), preferably frangible, which delimits an internal cavity in which at least one dispersible fire extinguishing agent is deposited, and - a pyrotechnic means suitable for generating an explosion that causes the said casing to rupture and the said extinguishing agent to be dispersed.

[015] The pyrotechnic means comprises: - at least one explosive charge, which generates said explosion, and - detonating device to trigger the explosion of said at least one explosive charge.

[016] According to the invention, said detonating means comprises: - an ignition device designed to trigger, when in an active state, the explosion of at least one explosive charge, and Petition 870220103934, dated 09 / 11 / 2022, page 32 / 69 3 / 26 - an impact sensor designed to detect a mechanical impact received by said device and to bring said ignition device into said active state upon detection of said mechanical impact.

[017] Therefore, in practice, the device according to the invention can be projected directly onto the fire and can release its fire extinguishing agent within that fire (or even in the immediate surroundings of or above it) due to its impact actuation system.

[018] In fact, as soon as the designed device hits a surface (advantageously, within that fire), its impact sensor detects a mechanical impact and takes (instantaneously, or even with a time delay or latency) the ignition device to its active state.

[019] The ignition device, in its active state, causes (instantaneously) said at least one explosive charge to explode and, as a corollary, said casing to rupture and said fire extinguishing agent to be dispersed.

[020] Such a device according to the invention, therefore, no longer needs exposure time to fire, as required with firefighting items known from the prior art.

[021] In general, said impact sensor according to the invention advantageously comprises a movable portion that has the capacity to move between two positions: - an initial position, in which the ignition device is in an inactive state, and - a final position, in which the ignition device is in an active state, and said moving portion cooperates with: - means for elastic return to said final position, and - a retention means, designed to retain said movable portion in said initial position and to release said movable portion by means of said mechanical impact. Petition 870220103934, dated 09 / 11 / 2022, page 33 / 69 4 / 26

[022] According to a preferred embodiment, the retention means comprises a metal part, for example, a sphere, compressed between the movable portion and a support portion.

[023] Through mechanical impact, the metal part is then intended to be extracted (ejected) from its initial location / state (advantageously, due to its inertia).

[024] The movement of this metal part then releases the movable portion, which is operated from its initial position to its final position, under the effect of the elastic return medium.

[025] In general, and according to a particular embodiment, the ignition device is an electric ignition device, also called a lighter. The impact sensor consists of an electrical module connected to said electric ignition device.

[026] Preferably, the electrical module comprises: - an electrical power source, - a switch that integrates said movable portion, wherein said movable portion has the capacity to move between the two positions: - the initial position, in which the switch is in an open state, and - the final position, in which the switch is in a closed state.

[027] The electric ignition device advantageously comprises an initiator head that cooperates with said at least one explosive charge: - indirectly, through a pyrotechnic fuse that connects said initiator head and said at least one explosive charge, or - directly, inside said explosive charge, at least one explosive charge.

[028] Preferably, the detonating means comprises a status indicator means, in particular, adapted to indicate an activated state of the impact sensor (chosen, for example, from sound, visual means, etc.).

[029] According to another particular embodiment, the ignition device Petition 870220103934, dated 09 / 11 / 2022, page 34 / 69 5 / 26 consists of a mechanical ignition device.

[030] In this case, the mechanical ignition device advantageously comprises: - a firing pin, which forms the aforementioned moving portion, - an initiator, intended to be pressed by said firing pin when the former changes from said initial position to said final position, and - at least one fuse, intended to be ignited by said initiator and extending to said at least one explosive charge.

[031] And, as may be the case, the retention means is preferably implanted between the firing pin and the initiator.

[032] Other advantageous and non-limiting features of the product, according to the invention, considered individually or according to all technically possible combinations, are as follows: - the impact sensor is external to said internal cavity, on the surface of the casing or remote from the casing, or integrated into the internal cavity; the impact sensor is advantageously placed on the surface of said casing, using a removable gripping means, for example, adhesive tapes or structures directed to said casing; preferably, an added block, which forms a target marking, is used and added to facilitate the positioning of the initiator head facing the pyrotechnic fuse; - The impact sensor is designed within a shell that advantageously has a shape chosen from either a spherical cap or a sphere; - the casing consists of a spherical enclosure, for example, made of at least one plastic material; - said detonating means comprises an initiating means intended to be controlled in such a way as to allow the change of said ignition device to said active state by means of detection of said mechanical impact.

[033] The present invention also relates to a fire suppression system, said system comprising: Petition 870220103934, dated 09 / 11 / 2022, page 35 / 69 6 / 26 - at least one device according to the invention, and - at least one flying machine, advantageously a drone, comprising at least one release module, adapted to receive said at least one device and release said at least one device above a fire.

[034] The present invention also relates to a firefighting method, wherein said method comprises a step of releasing at least one device according to the invention, advantageously from a flying machine, preferably a drone, such that said at least one explosive charge is triggered when said device strikes a surface after its release.

[035] The present invention also relates to the detonating means for a device according to the invention, which comprises: - an ignition device designed to trigger, when in an active state, the explosion of at least one explosive charge, and - an impact sensor designed to detect a mechanical impact received by said device and to bring said ignition device into said active state upon detection of said mechanical impact.

[036] Obviously, the different resources, alternatives and modalities of the invention can be associated with each other according to various combinations, as long as they are not mutually incompatible or exclusive. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[037] Furthermore, several other features of the invention will be apparent from the accompanying description made with reference to the drawings illustrating non-limiting embodiments of the invention, and where: [Figure 1] is a schematic cross-sectional view of a fire-fighting device according to the invention comprising an electric detonator means that are equipped with an impact sensor formed by an external electrical module, attached to the housing, and an internal electrical ignition device; [Figure 2] is a schematic perspective view of the embodiment according to Figure 1, in which the impact sensor is separated from the housing; Petition 870220103934, dated 09 / 11 / 2022, pp. 36 / 69 7 / 26 [Figure 3] is a schematic view illustrating the components of an impact sensor according to Figure 1; [Figure 4] is a schematic exploded view of the impact sensor according to Figure 3; [Figure 5] is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating an alternative embodiment for the electric detonator means according to Figure 1; [Figure 6] is a schematic isolated view of the electric detonator means according to Figure 5; [Figure 7] is the electrical diagram of the electric detonator medium according to Figures 1 to 6; [Figure 8] is a schematic and partially exploded view of another alternative fire-fighting device, in which the electric detonator means is equipped with an external electric ignition device; [Figure 9] is a schematic, partial, and enlarged view of the fire-fighting device according to Figure 8, which shows the assembly between the wick and the electric ignition device; [Figure 10] is also a schematic view of an alternative fire-fighting device in which the electrical detonating means is housed within the casing; [Figure 11] is a schematic view that illustrates the components of the mechanical detonator; [Figure 12] is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the detonating means according to Figure 11, placed in a casing (partially shown); [Figure 13] is a schematic perspective view of the mechanical detonator as per Figure 11; [Figure 14] is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the detonating medium according to Figure 11, after the initiating medium has been removed; [Figure 15] is a partial cross-sectional view of a modality. Petition 870220103934, dated 09 / 11 / 2022, page 37 / 69 8 / 26 alternative for mounting the detonating medium in a casing; [Figure 16] is a schematic perspective view of the detonating medium according to Figure 15; [Figure 17] is a schematic cross-sectional view, with two detailed views, showing a device whose external impact sensor is located remotely from the enclosure; [Figure 18] is a schematic perspective view of a firefighting system comprising at least one device according to the invention (in a detailed view) and a drone-type flying machine; [Figure 19] is a schematic exploded view illustrating a variant of the impact sensor according to Figures 8 or 9, surface mounted, which has an initiator head in an indirect arrangement; [Figure 20] is a schematic view, with a partial cross-section, of the impact sensor as per Figure 19; [Figure 21] is a schematic and partial view illustrating an alternative fire-fighting device in which the electrical detonating means is partially housed within the casing; [Figure 22] is a schematic and partial view of the drone-type flying machine according to Figure 18, which shows the activation means designed to control the initiator means equipping the device according to the invention; [Figure 23] is a schematic and partial view of the drone-type flying machine according to Figure 18, which shows one embodiment of its release module.

[038] It should be noted that, in the said Figures, the structural and / or functional elements common to the different alternatives may have the same references.

[039] Figures 1 to 17 and 19 to 21 illustrate fire-fighting devices according to the invention.

[040] In general, device 1 comprises: - an enclosure 2 that delimits an internal cavity 3 in which at least Petition 870220103934, dated 09 / 11 / 2022, pp. 38 / 69 9 / 26 a dispersible fire extinguishing agent 4 is deposited, and - pyrotechnic means 5 suitable for generating an explosion that causes said casing 2 to rupture and said fire extinguishing agent 4 to be dispersed.

[041] The casing 2, therefore, advantageously consists of a frangible casing, also said to be destructible, adapted to be degraded by the explosion generated by the pyrotechnic medium 5 while having the capacity to withstand a mechanical impact described hereinafter.

[042] This casing 2 here advantageously has the shape of a sphere (spherical shape).

[043] This casing 2 is advantageously composed of a plastic material, preferably rigid and of low density, for example, of the foam type, for example, expanded polystyrene foam.

[044] This casing 2 is advantageously wrapped in a protective plastic film.

[045] This casing 2 advantageously has an outer diameter of about ten centimeters, or a few tens of centimeters.

[046] The said at least one fire extinguishing agent 4 preferably consists of a dispersible chemical product, advantageously a powder, active against fire.

[047] The said at least one fire extinguishing agent 4 is advantageously chosen from fire extinguishing powders which are essentially composed of non-toxic inorganic salts, mixed with water-repellent and anti-caking agents, as well as various additives (stearates, silicones, starch, inert minerals, etc.) to facilitate its flow.

[048] Such powders may be based on sodium or potassium bicarbonate, or ammonium phosphate and / or sulfate (preferably ammonium phosphate).

[049] Pyrotechnic means 5 comprises: - at least one explosive charge 6 (also called a pyrotechnic charge), which generates the explosion adapted to cause said casing 2 to... Petition 870220103934, dated 09 / 11 / 2022, pp. 39 / 69 10 / 26 break and said fire extinguishing agent 4 is dispersed, and - detonation method 7 to trigger the explosion of said at least one explosive charge 6.

[050] The said at least one explosive charge 6 is advantageously implanted within the internal cavity 3, preferably in the center of the latter.

[051] The said at least one explosive charge 6 is advantageously embedded in at least one fire extinguishing agent 4. In other words, the said at least one explosive charge 6 is advantageously surrounded (or enveloped) by the said at least one fire extinguishing agent 4.

[052] The said at least one explosive charge 6 is, for example, chosen from among the gunpowders for fireworks (advantageously, deflagration mixtures of sulfur, potassium nitrate (saltpeter) and charcoal), in particular, from among the explosive charges.

[053] The said at least one explosive charge 6 is advantageously contained in an enclosure which may be made of various materials (paper, cloth, plastic, etc.)

[054] The detonation means 7, which here forms an impact triggering system, comprises: - an ignition device 8 designed to trigger, when in an active state, the said explosion of at least one explosive charge 6, - an impact sensor 9 designed to bring said ignition device 8 into said active state upon detection of a mechanical impact, - preferably, the status indicator means 10 (illustrated in Figures 7, 8, 19 to 21) which are, in particular, adapted to indicate / signal an activated state of the impact sensor 9, - preferably, the initiating means 11 intended to be controlled in order to prevent / allow the ignition device 8 from changing to the active state by detecting the mechanical impact by the impact sensor 9.

[055] The ignition device 8 advantageously consists of a means adapted to give rise to the combustion of said at least one explosive charge 6. Petition 870220103934, dated 09 / 11 / 2022, pp. 40 / 69 11 / 26

[056] Such ignition device 8 is advantageously chosen from among pyrotechnic detonators. Advantageously, it consists, as described hereafter in this document in relation to the various figures, of an electric ignition device or a mechanical ignition device.

[057] This ignition device 8 thus has two states: - an initial inactive and inert state that does not trigger the said explosion of said at least one explosive charge 6, and - an active final state, adapted to trigger the explosion of said at least one explosive charge 6.

[058] This ignition device 8 may advantageously have two main arrangements in relation to said at least one explosive charge 6: - a direct arrangement (in particular, Figure 1), in which the ignition device 8 is positioned directly within said at least one explosive charge 6, or - an indirect arrangement (in particular, Figures 8, 9, 19 or 20), in which the ignition device 8 is connected to said at least one explosive charge 6 by means of a pyrotechnic fuse 89.

[059] The pyrotechnic fuse 89 mentioned above then extends advantageously from said at least one explosive charge 6 and reaches the outer surface of the casing 2.

[060] This pyrotechnic fuse 89 may comprise an annular section 891 (visible in Figure 8), which extends through the circumference of the outer surface of the casing 2 and in a transverse plane of the casing 2.

[061] Such pyrotechnic fuse 89 may be interesting to consider, in addition to active use (projected onto a target surface), a passive use of device 1, which would come into contact with a fire.

[062] Furthermore, the impact sensor 9 is designed in such a way as to, on the one hand, detect a mechanical impact received by said device 1 and, on the other hand, bring the aforementioned ignition device 8 into said active state by means Petition 870220103934, dated 09 / 11 / 2022, p. 41 / 69 12 / 26 detection of said mechanical impact.

[063] The term mechanical impact advantageously includes very high amplitude accelerations resulting from the impact / collision of device 1 on a receiving surface or target surface. Such mechanical impact also corresponds to a velocity discontinuity of the moving device 1.

[064] By way of non-limiting example, such mechanical impact corresponds to the impact, on a rigid receiving surface, of device 1 that is dropped from a height of at least 0.5 m (or even at least 1 m, or even at least 1.5 m).

[065] The impact sensor 9 advantageously has two states: - an initial resting state, in which the ignition device 8 also remains in its inactive state, and - an activated final state, in which this impact sensor 9 controls the ignition device 8 to its active state adapted to trigger the explosion of said at least one explosive charge 6.

[066] For this purpose, as illustrated, for example, in Figures 7 and 11, these states of the impact sensor 9 are advantageously obtained by the movements of a moving portion 91.

[067] The impact sensor 9 thus advantageously comprises a movable portion 91 which has the ability to move between two positions: - an initial position (solid lines in Figures 7, 11, 20 and 21), corresponding to the resting state of the impact sensor 9, in which the ignition device 8 is in its inactive state, and - a final position (dashed lines in Figures 7 and 11), corresponding to the activated state of the impact sensor 9, in which the ignition device 8 is directed to its active state.

[068] For this purpose, its movable portion 91 has at least one part with one degree of freedom, advantageously, one degree of freedom in rotation about a geometric axis of rotation 91' (Figures 3, 7, 11) or one degree of freedom in Petition 870220103934, dated 09 / 11 / 2022, p. 42 / 69 13 / 26 translation.

[069] For its implementation, mobile portion 91 cooperates advantageously with: - elastic return mechanism 92 for elastic return to the final position, and - retention means 93, designed to retain the movable portion 91 in that initial position and to release the movable portion 91 by means of said mechanical impact.

[070] The elastic return means 92 advantageously consists of a mechanical means, for example, a spring means, designed to tend to move the movable portion 91 from its initial position to its final position.

[071] The retention means 93 are advantageously designed to be degraded or deformed by mechanical impact.

[072] The retention means 93 comprises herein at least one metal part 931, for example, a metal sphere 931, which is intended to be extracted (ejected) from its initial location / state due to its inertia, when the impact sensor 9 is subjected to an impact / collision with a receiving surface.

[073] As mentioned hereafter, the metal part 931 is intended to be extracted (ejected) from its initial location / state by means of an impact, on a rigid receiving surface, of the device 1 which is launched from a drop height of at least 0.5 m (or even at least 1 m, or even at least 1.5 m).

[074] In the present document, the metal part 931 is advantageously compressed (directly or indirectly) between the movable portion 91, in the initial position, and a support portion 94.

[075] By means of mechanical impact, the movement of said at least one metal part 931 then releases the movable portion 91, which is operated from its initial position to its final position, under the effect of the elastic return means 92.

[076] In general, the impact sensor 9 (or even all or part of the ignition device 8) can advantageously have different locations in this device 1: - the impact sensor 9 can be external to said internal cavity 3, by Petition 870220103934, dated 09 / 11 / 2022, page 43 / 69 14 / 26 example, both on the surface of the enclosure 2, also the said mounted surface (for example, according to Figure 1), or remote from the enclosure 2 (Figure 17), or - the impact sensor 9 can be integrated, either fully or partially, into the internal cavity 3 (see, for example, Figures 10 and 21).

[077] The impact sensor 9 can therefore be added to the surface of said housing 2 (mounted surface), by means of a removable gripping means 12, for example: - adhesive tapes 121 (Figure 13), or - structures 122 directed to said enclosure 2 (Figures 15 and 16).

[078] The 122 guidance structures consist, for example, of rods that are terminated by fins with hooks.

[079] The impact sensor 9, remote from the enclosure 2 (Figure 17), is of interest to the same as it may possibly touch the target surface before the enclosure 2 (launching device 1 with the impact sensor 9 suspended below it). In this case, the explosion will be generated high above the ground, still providing the dispersion of said at least one fire extinguishing agent 4.

[080] Still in general, the impact sensor 9 (or even all or part of the ignition device 8) is advantageously designed within a housing 13.

[081] Shell 13, for example, is made of a rigid plastic material, advantageously resistant to the mechanical impact mentioned above.

[082] Shell 13 has an advantageous shape chosen from among: - a spherical cap 131 (in particular, in Figures 1 and 2), especially for surface mounting on the housing 2 (with, advantageously, a concave lower face 132 to conform to the housing 2), and - a sphere (in particular, Figure 17), especially for remote mounting of enclosure 2.

[083] The status indicator medium 10 is therefore adapted to indicate / signal an activated state of the impact sensor 9.

[084] This state indicator medium 10 is, for example, chosen from Petition 870220103934, dated 09 / 11 / 2022, page 44 / 69 15 / 26 sound components (e.g., horn or beeper) and / or lighting components (e.g., a light-emitting diode or LED).

[085] Such a state indicator means 10 is particularly useful for avoiding connecting an impact sensor 9, in the activated state, with an ignition device 8 at risk of unintentionally changing the same to its active state.

[086] Alternatively or as a complement, such a state indicator means 10 aims to emit a signal immediately after an impact causing the impact sensor 9 to change to an activated state, with a delay means (e.g., electronic delay means) for triggering by the ignition device 8, in order to alert surrounding persons about an imminent explosion causing the dispersion of said fire extinguishing agent 4.

[087] As another alternative or complement, the state indicator means 10 is intended to allow the location of the ignition device 8 after an explosion, so as, for example, to recover the electrical power supply 95 (for example, an electric bacterium or an electric cell).

[088] The initiating means 11 is advantageously designed to cooperate with the moving portion 91, potentially by means of the retaining means 93, in such a way as to lock / retain that moving portion 91 in that initial position in the event of mechanical impact (before use, for example, during transport).

[089] The initiating means 11, for example, of the pin type, is advantageously intended to be removed / degraded to allow the firing device 8 to be changed to the active state upon detection of mechanical impact.

[090] Preferably, this initiating medium 11 (having an external gripping portion) is accessible through the shell 13 (advantageously, in the spherical cap 131), for removal / degradation thereof.

[091] In practice, and in general, the initiating medium 11 is removed if necessary.

[092] Device 1 can be moved (launched, projected, released, sent, etc.) into the fire to be extinguished, in such a way as to land on a surface Petition 870220103934, dated 09 / 11 / 2022, pp. 45 / 69 16 / 26 target.

[093] Upon impact with the target surface, the impact sensor 9 is moved from its initial resting state to its final activated state.

[094] For this purpose, in the present document, the movable portion 91 is moved from its initial position (solid line in Figures 7 and 11) to its final position (dashed lines in Figures 7 and 11).

[095] This displacement is guaranteed here by the elastic return medium 92, after the degradation of the retention medium 93.

[096] The impact sensor 9, in the activated state, then controls the ignition device 8 (immediately or with a time delay) to its active state, which triggers the explosion of said at least one explosive charge 6 and the dispersion of said at least one fire extinguishing agent 4.

[097] This dispersion advantageously forms a cloud of fire extinguishing agent 4 that allows for a sudden three-dimensional fire extinguishing effect.

[098] Also according to the invention, device 1 can take different forms.

[099] A first embodiment of embodiments according to the invention is illustrated in Figures 1 to 10 and 19 to 21.

[0100] In these first embodiments, the devices 1 each comprise an ignition device 8 which consists of an electric ignition device 8, also called a lighter or electric lighter.

[0101] Conventionally, such an igniter 8 allows instant firing via a power line.

[0102] The igniter 8 generally consists of a short-circuited resistor, which is placed in contact with a sphere of pyrotechnic mixture.

[0103] As shown in Figure 7, the igniter 8 consists of an initiator head 81 (e.g., composed of mercury fulminate) soldered to a double conduit 82. When a short circuit is created in the double conduit 82, the initiator head 81 is heated by the Joule effect and reaches its temperature of Petition 870220103934, dated 09 / 11 / 2022, pp. 46 / 69 17 / 26 auto-ignition.

[0104] The initiator head 81 may have various arrangements, so as to cooperate with said at least one explosive charge 6: - a direct arrangement, in which the initiator head 81 is directly housed within said at least one explosive charge 6 (Figures 1, 5, 10 or 21), or - an indirect arrangement, in which the initiator head 81 cooperates with the pyrotechnic fuse 89 that connects said initiator head 81 and said at least one explosive charge 6 (Figures 8, 9, 19 and 20).

[0105] For direct mounting, according to a first embodiment illustrated in Figure 2, the double conduit 82 extends radially within the housing 2 and the cavity 3 in such a way as to be terminated by an external electrical connector 83 for its connection to the impact sensor 9 equipped with a complementary electrical connector 99.

[0106] Also for direct mounting, according to a second embodiment illustrated in Figures 5 and 6, the double conduit 82 extends radially within the housing 2 and cavity 3, for the length of a tube 84 originating from the impact sensor 9.

[0107] This tube 84 includes a terminal end 84a, advantageously pointed to facilitate its introduction, which is provided with a window 85 in which the initiator head 81 is located.

[0108] This terminal end 84a is intended to be housed, advantageously by being directed thereto, within said at least one explosive charge 6. The flames generated by the initiator head 81 are intended to exit through the window 85.

[0109] For indirect mounting, the initiator head 81 is advantageously attached to the annular section 891 of the pyrotechnic fuse 89.

[0110] Retention is, for example, achieved by means of an adhesive element 811 (for example, an adhesive block), as illustrated in Figure 8, for example.

[0111] Alternatively, the concave lower face 132 comprises an opening Petition 870220103934, dated 09 / 11 / 2022, pp. 47 / 69 18 / 26 1321 within which the initiator head 81 is positioned (Figures 19 and 20). The initiator head 81 is then advantageously attached to the annular section 891 of the pyrotechnic fuse 89. The retention of the initiator head 81 in the pyrotechnic fuse 89 is advantageously achieved by mounting the firing device 8 in the casing 2.

[0112] In this case, an added block 15, which forms a target marking, is used advantageously and added to facilitate the positioning of the initiator head 81 facing the pyrotechnic fuse 89.

[0113] This added block 15 is advantageously intended to be placed between the housing 2 and the ignition device 8.

[0114] The added block 15 is advantageously produced in an adhesive plastic film.

[0115] The added block 15, which has a crown shape, has advantageously: - an inner edge 151, which delimits a through hole, adapted to face the initiator head 81 and the pyrotechnic fuse 89, - a lower face 152, advantageously adhesive, intended to conform to the enclosure 2, - an upper face 153, intended to receive the concave lower face 132 of the shell 13, and - an outer edge 154.

[0116] For positioning the ignition device 8, the upper face 153 advantageously comprises a marking corresponding to the contour of the concave lower face 132 of the shell 13. Alternatively, the contour of the outer edge 154 corresponds to the contour of the concave lower face 132 of the shell 13.

[0117] In practice, the added block 15 is fixed to the casing 2 in such a way that its inner edge 151 surrounds a part of the pyrotechnic fuse 89. Then, the ignition device 8 is properly positioned in the casing 2, due to the added block 15 being present; for this purpose, as may be the case, the adhesive element 811 that equips the concave lower face 132 of the shell 13 adheres to Petition 870220103934, dated 09 / 11 / 2022, pp. 48 / 69 19 / 26 top face 153 of the added block 15.

[0118] In these early embodiments, the impact sensor 9 advantageously consists of an electrical module connected to the electric ignition device 8.

[0119] An electrical module is defined as equipment comprising an electrical circuit composed of an assembly of electrical and / or electronic components.

[0120] In this document, as schematically shown in Figures 7, 19 and 20, electrical module 9 advantageously comprises: - an electrical power source 95, for example, an electric bacterium or an electric cell, advantageously associated with an insulating sheet 951 intended to be removed to initiate the electrical supply, and - a switch 96 that integrates the moving portion 91.

[0121] This electrical module 9 is intended to be electrically connected to the electrical ignition device 8.

[0122] The movable portion 91, therefore, has the ability to move between the two positions: - the initial position (continuous line), restricted, in which the switch 96 is in an open state and the ignition device 8 is not electrically powered by the electrical power supply 95, and - the final position (dashed line), at rest, in which the switch 96 is in a closed state and the ignition device 8 is electrically powered by the power supply 95.

[0123] In an initial position or initial state, a metal part 931 (here a sphere 931) is compressed between, on the one hand, the movable portion 91 of the commutator 96, in the initial position and in this open state and, on the other hand, the facing support portion 94.

[0124] Alternatively (not shown), instead of a moving portion 91, the electrical module 9 may comprise an accelerometer-type sensor, preferably a non-servo accelerometer, and more precisely chosen advantageously from: Petition 870220103934, dated 09 / 11 / 2022, pp. 49 / 69 20 / 26 - a piezoelectric sensing accelerometer, - a piezoresistive sensing accelerometer, - a capacitive sensing accelerometer.

[0125] In this case, the electrical module 9 also advantageously comprises: - the electrical power source 95, for example, an electric bacterium or an electric cell, and - a control medium (e.g., a microcontroller) that cooperates with the accelerometer-type sensor.

[0126] The status indicator medium 10 is advantageously adapted to emit an audible signal, visual signal, etc.) when the impact sensor 9 is in an activated state.

[0127] This electrical module 9 integrates, for this purpose, for example, sound means (horn), visual means (LED), etc.

[0128] The state indicator medium 10 is, as the case may be, adapted to emit a signal when the moving portion 91 is in that final position (switch 96 in a closed state).

[0129] This state indicator means 10 thus aims to prevent the mounting of an impact sensor 9 in an activated state with the ignition device 8, at the risk of causing an immediate change to its active state.

[0130] Alternatively or as a complement, in the presence of a time delay, such a status indicator 10 may emit a signal after impact, in order to alert surrounding operators about the imminent explosion that causes the dispersion of said fire extinguishing agent 4.

[0131] Alternatively or as a complement, the status indicator medium 10 may also be useful for locating and recovering the ignition device 8 after the explosion.

[0132] The initiating means 11 here consists of a pin 111 that passes, as may be the case, through the metal part 931, or even the support portion 94, for example, in such a way as to extend between the support portion 94 and the movable portion 91. Petition 870220103934, dated 09 / 11 / 2022, pp. 50 / 69 21 / 26

[0133] In this first family, different (non-limiting) combinations are therefore possible, as illustrated: Figures 1 and 2, on the one hand, and Figures 5 and 6, on the other hand, foresee an impact sensor 9 external to said internal cavity 3, on the surface of the casing 2, with an initiator head 81 (internal) housed directly inside said at least one explosive charge 6, Figures 8, 9, 19 and 20 show an impact sensor 9 external to said internal cavity 3, on the surface of the casing 2, with an external initiator head 81 that cooperates with the pyrotechnic fuse 89, Figures 10 and 21 show an impact sensor 9 internal to said internal cavity 3, with an initiator head 81 (internal) housed directly inside said at least one explosive charge 6, Figure 17 shows an impact sensor 9 external to said internal cavity 3, remote from the enclosure 2, with an initiator head 81 (internal) housed directly inside said at least one explosive charge 6; the impact sensor 9 is attached to the enclosure 2, here by means of a flexible joint, for example, formed by the double conduit 82.

[0134] In particular, Figure 10 envisions an impact sensor 9 which is entirely internal to said internal cavity 3, with an initiator head 81 (internal) housed directly within said at least one explosive charge 6.

[0135] Figure 21 shows an impact sensor 9 that is partially internal to said internal cavity 3 (a part of this shell 13 is accessible through the casing 2), with an initiator head 81 (internal) housed directly inside said at least one explosive charge 6.

[0136] According to Figure 21, the shell 13 advantageously includes a spherical cap 131 that forms a continuous part of the enclosure 2 of the device 1 (the radius of the spherical cap 131 is identical to the radius of the enclosure 2).

[0137] In this embodiment, the housing 2 advantageously comprises a through hole adapted for the insertion (advantageously, with a clearance) of the sensor. Petition 870220103934, dated 09 / 11 / 2022, pp. 51 / 69 22 / 26 impact 9. This through hole is thus advantageously closed by the added impact sensor 9.

[0138] Enclosure 2 advantageously comprises a second through hole, so as to facilitate filling enclosure 2 with fire extinguishing agent 4. This second through hole is intended to be closed after it has been filled, for example, by means of a polystyrene plug.

[0139] For this purpose, the envelope 2 advantageously comprises two identical semi-envelopes (or semi-shells or hemispheres), each comprising a through hole (advantageously at its apex).

[0140] These two half-enclosures are intended to be assembled together to form enclosure 2 of device 1.

[0141] In practice, in these early forms, by means of percussion, the metal part 931 is, as may be the case, ejected from its initial location.

[0142] The movable portion 91 thus has the ability to move from its initial position (solid line), in which the commutator 96 is in an open state, to its final position (dashed line), at rest, in which the commutator 96 is in its closed state.

[0143] Alternatively, and as may be the case, mechanical impact is detected by the accelerometer.

[0144] The impact sensor 9, when activated, then controls the ignition device 8 to its active state: a short circuit is created in the double conduit 82, such that the initiator head 81 is heated by the Joule effect and reaches its auto-ignition temperature.

[0145] The initiator head 81 triggers the explosion of said at least one explosive charge 6 and the dispersion of said at least one fire extinguishing agent 4: - directly, when the initiator head 81 is directly housed within said at least one explosive charge 6 (Figures 1, 5, 10 or 21), or - indirectly, when the initiator head 81 cooperates with the pyrotechnic fuse 89 that connects said initiator head 81 and said at least one Petition 870220103934, dated 09 / 11 / 2022, pp. 52 / 69 23 / 26 explosive charge 6 (Figures 8, 9, 19 or 20).

[0146] A second family of embodiments according to the invention is illustrated in Figures 11 to 14.

[0147] In this second embodiment, the devices 1 comprise an ignition device 8 which consists of a mechanical ignition device 8.

[0148] For example, as described in relation to Figure 11, the mechanical ignition device 8 comprises: - a firing pin 91, which forms the movable portion 91, - an initiator 97, intended to be pressed by the firing pin 91 when the former changes from said initial position to said final position (under the effect of the elastic return means 92), and - at least one fuse 98, intended to be ignited by the initiator 97 and extending to said at least one explosive charge 6 (advantageously, by means of the pyrotechnic fuse 89 mentioned above).

[0149] The fuse 98 advantageously comes under the ignition device 8, with a spiral portion that is intended to cover the pyrotechnic fuse 89 mentioned above. This particular shape of the fuse 98 is intended for the pyrotechnic fuse 89.

[0150] Preferably, in the present document, the retention means 93 is implanted between the firing pin 91 and the initiator 97.

[0151] The retention method 93 comprises here: - the 931 metal part mentioned above, and - a movable stop 932 cooperating with elastic return means 933.

[0152] The stop 932 is adapted, on the one hand, to compress the metal part 931 with the support portion 94, and on the other hand, to retain the movable portion 91 in that initial position.

[0153] The stop 932 can be moved between two limit positions, here in translation together with a geometric axis of translation 932', i.e.: - an extended position (Figure 11), maintained by the metal part 931, in which said stop 932 is interposed in the path of the movable portion 91 so as to retain Petition 870220103934, dated 09 / 11 / 2022, pp. 53 / 69 24 / 26 the last one in that initial position, and - a retracted position, after the ejection of the metal part 931 and under the action of the elastic return means 933, in which said stop 932 is distant from the trajectory of the moving portion 91 (firing pin) to allow the change of the same to the final position.

[0154] In the extended position, the metal part 931 is thus compressed between the stop 932 (in the extended position) and the support portion 94.

[0155] The initiating medium 11 comprises here: - a pin 111 that passes through the metal part 931 in such a way as to extend between the support portion 94 and the movable stop 932, and - a plate 112, which forms a screen placed in front of the initiator 97 and positioned in the trajectory of the moving portion 91.

[0156] Again here, different (non-limiting) arrangements are possible.

[0157] Figures 11 to 16 show an impact sensor 9 external to said internal cavity 3, on the surface of the casing 2 which cooperates with the pyrotechnic fuse 89.

[0158] Alternatively, and not as a limitation, the impact sensor 9 could also be internal to said internal cavity 3.

[0159] In practice, in these second modes, by means of percussion, the metal part 931 is ejected from its initial location.

[0160] After the removal of the metal part 931 and under the action of the elastic return means 933, the stop 932 is operated to its retracted position, in such a way as to be away from the travel of the movable portion 91 to allow the change of the same to the final position.

[0161] The movable portion 91 thus has the capacity to move from its initial position (continuous line) to its final position (dashed line), at rest, in which it reaches the initiator 97, which fires the fuse 98 causing the explosion of the explosive charge 6 (here by means of the pyrotechnic fuse 89).

[0162] Device 1 according to the invention is advantageously Petition 870220103934, dated 09 / 11 / 2022, pp. 54 / 69 25 / 26 implemented within a fire fighting system 20 (Figures 18, 22 and 23).

[0163] Such system 20 comprises: - at least one device 1 according to the invention, and - at least one flying machine 21, advantageously, a drone.

[0164] Said at least one flying machine 21 comprises at least one release module 22 to be adapted to receive at least one device 1 according to the invention and to release said at least one device 1 above a fire.

[0165] The release module 22 advantageously has two positions for this purpose: - a closed transport position for storing at least one device 1, and - an open release position for releasing at least one device 1.

[0166] Such a release module 22 comprises, for example, a housing 221 associated with a movable closing means 222 (Figures 18 and 23).

[0167] The control between these two positions is, for example, carried out remotely by an operator.

[0168] According to an embodiment illustrated in Figure 23, the movable closing means 222 comprise, for example, a closing element 2221 (for example, a handle) that passes through the lower opening of the housing 211 in such a way as to retain the device 1 in the transport position.

[0169] This closing element 2221 cooperates with an actuator 2222 (e.g., a servomotor) to operate the closing element 2221 between the transport position (Figure 23) and the release position (not shown).

[0170] In this document, loop 2221 has: - one fixed end, attached to the frame of the flying machine 21, and - a movable end that cooperates with actuator 2222.

[0171] According to an advantageous arrangement, said at least one machine Petition 870220103934, dated 09 / 11 / 2022, pp. 55 / 69 26 / 26 flight 21 also includes activation means 23 provided to control the initiator means 11 equipping device 1 according to the invention before the latter is released (Figure 22).

[0172] The activation means 23 comprises, for example, an actuator 231 (e.g., a servomotor) that is connected to the initiating means 11 by means of a linkage element 232.

[0173] The activation means 23 is adapted to operate the initiator means 11 to a removed / degraded state, advantageously, just before the control of the release module 22, to allow the ignition device 8 to change to the active state upon detection of mechanical impact.

[0174] In practice, such a system 20 allows the implementation of the fire fighting method.

[0175] This method comprises a step of releasing at least one device 1 according to the invention, from the flying machine 21, which is advantageously positioned above the fire to be extinguished.

[0176] For this purpose, at least one release module 22 is controlled from its transport position to its release position.

[0177] As further developed, when device 1 strikes a surface after being released, said at least one explosive charge 6 is (immediately) triggered, which causes the (immediate) dispersion of said at least one fire extinguishing agent 4.

[0178] Obviously, various other modifications can be made to the invention within the framework of the appended claims. Petition 870220103934, dated 09 / 11 / 2022, pp. 56 / 69

Claims

1 / 3 CLAIMS 1. Firefighting device, wherein said device (1) comprises: - an enclosure (2) delimiting an internal cavity (3) in which at least one dispersible fire extinguishing agent (4) is deposited, wherein said enclosure (2) consists of a spherical enclosure, and - pyrotechnic means (5) suitable for generating an explosion that causes said enclosure (2) to rupture and said fire extinguishing agent (4) to be dispersed, wherein said pyrotechnic means (5) comprises: - at least one explosive charge (6), which generates said explosion, and - detonation means (7) for triggering said explosion of said at least one explosive charge (6), characterized in that the detonation means (7) comprises: - an ignition device (8) designed to trigger, when in an active state, said explosion of said at least one charge explosive (6),and - an impact sensor (9) designed to detect a mechanical impact received by said device (1) and to bring said ignition device (8) to said active state by detecting said mechanical impact, wherein the ignition device (8) consists of an electric ignition device (8), also called an igniter, and wherein the impact sensor (9) consists of an electrical module connected to said electric ignition device (8), wherein the electrical module (9) comprises: - an accelerometer-type sensor, - an electrical power supply (95), and - control means cooperating with the accelerometer-type sensor, wherein the electric ignition device (8) includes an initiator head (81) cooperating with said at least one explosive charge (6) indirectly, through a pyrotechnic fuse (89) connecting said initiator head (81) and Petition 870260073316, dated 23 / 07 / 2026, page. 40 / 42 2 / 3 said at least one explosive charge (6),wherein said pyrotechnic fuse (89) extends from said at least one explosive charge (6) and reaches the outer surface of the casing (2), and wherein said pyrotechnic fuse (89) comprises an annular section (891) that extends over the circumference of the outer surface of the casing (2) and in a transverse plane of the casing (2).

2. Firefighting device according to claim 1, characterized in that the detonation means (7) comprises a status indicator means (10) adapted to indicate an activated state of the impact sensor (9).

3. Firefighting device according to claim 1, characterized in that the impact sensor (9) is: - external to said internal cavity (3), on the surface of the housing (2) or away from the housing (2), or - integrated into the internal cavity (3).

4. Firefighting device, according to claim 1, characterized in that said detonation means (7) comprises an initiating means (11) intended to be controlled so as to allow the switching of said ignition device (8) to said active state by means of the detection of said mechanical impact.

5. Firefighting system, wherein said system is characterized by comprising: - at least one device (1), as defined in claim 1, and - at least one flying machine (21), advantageously a drone, which includes at least one release module (22), adapted to receive said at least one device (1) and to release said at least one device (1) above a fire.

6. Firefighting method, wherein said method is characterized by comprising a step of releasing at least one device (1), as defined in claim 1, such that said at least one explosive charge (6) is triggered when said device (1) strikes a surface after Petition 870260073316, dated 23 / 07 / 2026, page 41 / 42 3 / 3 having been released.

7. Firefighting method, wherein said method is characterized by comprising a step of releasing at least one device (1), as defined in claim 6, from a drone, such that said at least one explosive charge (6) is triggered when said device (1) strikes a surface after being released.

8. Detonation means (7) for a device (1), as defined in claim 1, comprising: - an ignition device (8) designed to trigger, when in an active state, said explosion of said at least one explosive charge (6), and - an impact sensor (9) designed to detect a mechanical impact received by said device (1) and to bring said ignition device (8) to said active state by detecting said mechanical impact, characterized in that the ignition device (8) consists of an electric ignition device (8), also called an igniter, and in that the impact sensor (9) consists of an electrical module connected to said electric ignition device (8), in which the electrical module (9) comprises: - an accelerometer-type sensor, - an electrical power supply (95), and - control means cooperating with the accelerometer-type sensor,wherein the electric ignition device (8) includes an initiator head (81) that cooperates with said at least one explosive charge (6) indirectly, through a pyrotechnic fuse (89) that connects said initiator head (81) and said at least one explosive charge (6). Petition 870260073316, dated 23 / 07 / 2026, p. 42 / 42,

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