Fire Fighting Equipment

Abstract

The invention relates to a fire-fighting device, comprising: a casing (2) delimiting an internal cavity (3) to which at least one diffusible extinguishing agent (4) is added; a pyrotechnic device (5) suitable for causing an explosion resulting in the rupture of the casing (2) and the diffusion of the extinguishing agent (4). The pyrotechnic device (5) comprises at least one explosive charge (6) for producing the explosion and an ignition mechanism (7) intended to trigger the explosion of the at least one explosive charge (6). The ignition mechanism (7) comprises: an ignition device (8) designed to trigger the explosion of the at least one explosive charge (6) in an activated state; an impact sensor (9) designed to detect a mechanical impact received by the device (1) and to cause the ignition device (8) to enter the activated state when the mechanical impact is detected.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention generally relates to the field of fire fighting technology.

[0002] More particularly, the present invention relates to fire fighting equipment. Background Art

[0003] Whether in urban or rural areas, fires have the potential to cause significant loss of life and material damage.

[0004] Normally, the human resources and equipment mobilized to fight a fire are adjusted to its size and location in question.

[0005] A wide variety of firefighting equipment is known, ranging from simple foam extinguishers or dry powder extinguishers to water tank fire trucks and firefighting aircraft.

[0006] As described in document US6796382, there is also known a fire-fighting device consisting of a destructible container, wherein the container is in the form of a sphere and is made of low-density rigid plastic foam (such as expanded polystyrene foam), with a diameter ranging from a dozen centimeters to several dozen centimeters, and the container contains a diffusible chemical with fire-extinguishing activity and a fuse-type detonator combined with a fuse.

[0007] In an "active" firefighting method, such firefighting equipment can be thrown directly into the fire so that its fuse is ignited by the fire, ensuring that the initiator is activated, destroying the container and causing the diffusible chemical therein to disperse.

[0008] However, in use, such fire fighting equipment is unfortunately not completely effective against this method of fire fighting, particularly depending on the location or topography of the fire to be extinguished.

[0009] In practice, such fire fighting equipment needs to stay in the fire long enough (at least several seconds) so that its fuse is ignited by the fire, thereby activating the initiator to ensure that the diffusible chemical is released.

[0010] However, due to its inertia and its trajectory, the fire fighting apparatus may leave the fire to be extinguished before the fuse of the fire fighting apparatus burns.

[0011] This can occur, for example, when firefighting equipment bounces off a fire, the ground is sloping, or the velocity of the launch is inappropriate.

[0012] Therefore, improvements need to be made to firefighting equipment to achieve this "active" firefighting method. Summary of the invention

[0013] Therefore, the present invention proposes a fire fighting (fire extinguishing) device, which improves / perfects the fire fighting device described in document US6796382, and is particularly suitable for active fire extinguishing methods (directly projecting / throwing into the fire).

[0014] More specifically, according to the present invention, a fire fighting device is provided, which comprises:

[0015] - a casing, which is preferably disintegrable, delimiting an internal cavity to which at least one diffusible extinguishing agent is added;

[0016] - pyrotechnic means suitable for producing an explosion causing the rupture of said enclosure and the diffusion of said extinguishing agent.

[0017] The pyrotechnic device comprises:

[0018] - at least one explosive charge for producing said explosion;

[0019] - a detonation mechanism intended to trigger said explosion of said at least one explosive charge.

[0020] According to the present invention, the detonation mechanism comprises:

[0021] - an ignition device, which is designed to trigger the explosion of the at least one explosive charge in an activated state;

[0022] - an impact sensor designed to detect a mechanical impact received by said device and, upon detection of said mechanical impact, to bring said ignition device into said activated state.

[0023] Thus, in practice, the device according to the invention can be projected directly into a fire and, by virtue of its impact triggering system, can release its extinguishing agent in the fire (or even in the immediate vicinity of or above the fire).

[0024] In fact, as soon as the projected device hits any surface (advantageously, in fire), its impact sensor detects the mechanical impact and brings the ignition means (instantaneously or even with a lag or requiring some reaction time) into an activated state.

[0025] In its activated state, the ignition device (instantaneously) triggers the explosion of the at least one explosive charge and, as a necessary consequence, leads to the rupture of the enclosure and the diffusion of the extinguishing agent.

[0026] The device according to the invention therefore does not require a certain amount of exposure to fire as is required by fire fighting devices known from the prior art.

[0027] In general, the impact sensor according to the invention advantageously comprises a movable part which can be moved between the following two positions:

[0028] - an initial position, in which the ignition device is inactive;

[0029] - Final position, in which the ignition is activated.

[0030] The movable part cooperates with the following device:

[0031] - elastic return means for returning the movable part towards said final position;

[0032] - holding means for holding said movable part in said initial position and for releasing said movable part when subjected to said mechanical shock.

[0033] According to a preferred embodiment, the retaining means comprises a metal part, such as a marble, which is sandwiched between the movable part and the support part.

[0034] When subjected to a mechanical shock, the metal part is intended to be extracted (ejected) from its position / initial state (advantageously under the effect of inertia).

[0035] The movement of the metal part then releases the movable part which moves from its initial position towards its final position under the action of the elastic return means.

[0036] Still in the general case, and according to a particular embodiment, the ignition means consist of an electrical ignition means, also called an igniter. The impact sensor comprises an electrical module connected to said electrical ignition means.

[0037] Preferably, the electrical module comprises:

[0038] -power supply;

[0039] - a circuit breaker (switch) in which said movable part is integrated,

[0040] Wherein, the movable component can move between the following two positions:

[0041] - initial position, in which the circuit breaker is disconnected (open);

[0042] - Final position, in which the circuit breaker is in the closed state.

[0043] Advantageously, the electrical ignition device comprises an ignition head which cooperates with the at least one explosive charge in the following manner:

[0044] - indirectly by means of a pyrotechnic fuse connecting said firing head to said at least one explosive charge; or

[0045] - directly incorporated into said at least one explosive charge.

[0046] Preferably, the detonation mechanism comprises a status indication device, which is particularly suitable for indicating the active state of the impact sensor (for example selected from an audible indication device or a visual indication device, etc.).

[0047] According to another specific embodiment, the ignition device consists of a mechanical ignition device.

[0048] In this case, advantageously, the mechanical ignition device comprises:

[0049] - a striker forming said movable part; and

[0050] - a primer (explosive agent) intended to be struck by the firing pin during its movement from the initial position to the final position;

[0051] - at least one fuse, intended to be ignited by said primer and extending to said at least one explosive charge.

[0052] If necessary, preferably, a retaining device is inserted between the firing pin and the primer.

[0053] Other non-limiting and advantageous technical features of the product according to the invention, which can be applied individually or combined in any technically possible manner, are as follows:

[0054] - the impact sensor is outside the internal cavity and is located at the surface of the cladding or at a distance from the cladding, or the impact sensor is integrated inside the internal cavity; advantageously, the impact sensor is attached to the surface of the cladding by removable fixing means, such as adhesive tape or a structure extending into the cladding; preferably, an attachment disc forming a "target mark" is used and attached to facilitate the positioning of the firing head relative to the pyrotechnic fuse;

[0055] - the impact sensor is protected by a housing, said housing advantageously having a shape selected from a spherical cap and a sphere;

[0056] - the envelope consists of a spherical envelope, which is made, for example, of at least one plastic material;

[0057] - the detonation mechanism comprises an initiating device controlled to allow the ignition device to enter the activated state when the mechanical impact is detected.

[0058] The present invention also relates to a fire fighting system (fire extinguishing system), the system comprising:

[0059] - at least one device according to the invention;

[0060] - at least one aerial vehicle, advantageously a drone, comprising at least one airdrop module and adapted to receive said at least one device and to airdrop said at least one device onto the fire.

[0061] The present invention also relates to a firefighting method (fire extinguishing method), which includes the step of airdropping at least one device according to the present invention, which is advantageously carried out from an aircraft and preferably a drone, so that after the airdrop of the device, when the device hits any surface, the at least one explosive charge is triggered.

[0062] The invention also relates to a detonation mechanism for use in a device according to the invention and comprising:

[0063] - ignition means, which are designed to trigger said at least one explosive charge in an activated state to cause said explosion;

[0064] - an impact sensor designed to detect a mechanical impact received by said ignition device and to bring said ignition device into said activated state when said mechanical impact is detected.

[0065] Of course, the different features, variants and embodiments of the invention can be associated with each other in various combinations, as long as they are not incompatible or mutually exclusive. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0066] Furthermore, other characteristics of the invention will emerge from the following description with reference to the accompanying drawings, given by way of non-limiting example, in which:

[0067] Figure 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a fire fighting device according to the present invention, which includes an electrical detonation mechanism, which is externally equipped with an impact sensor formed by an electrical module and fixed to a housing, and which is also internally equipped with an electrical ignition device;

[0068] Figure 2 is based on Figure 1 A perspective schematic diagram of an embodiment of the present invention, wherein the impact sensor is separated from the enclosure;

[0069] Figure 3 is and according to Figure 1 A schematic diagram of components of a shock sensor;

[0070] Figure 4 is based on Figure 3 An exploded schematic diagram of a shock sensor;

[0071] Figure 5 is based on Figure 1 A cross-sectional schematic diagram of a variant embodiment of an electrical detonation mechanism;

[0072] Figure 6 is based on Figure 5 An independent schematic diagram of the electrical detonation mechanism;

[0073] Figure 7 is based on Figures 1 to 6 Electrical diagram of the electrical detonation mechanism;

[0074] Figure 8 is a partially exploded schematic diagram of another variant of the fire fighting apparatus, in which the electrical detonation mechanism is externally equipped with an ignition device;

[0075] Fig. 9 is based on Figure 8 A partial enlarged schematic diagram of the fire-fighting equipment, showing the assembly method between the fuze and the electrical ignition device;

[0076] Fig.10 It is also a schematic diagram of a variant of fire fighting equipment, in which the electrical detonation mechanism is integrated inside the enclosure;

[0077] Fig.11 is a schematic diagram of the components of a mechanical detonation mechanism;

[0078] Fig.12 is based on Fig.11 A schematic cross-sectional view of the detonation mechanism attached to the cladding (partially shown);

[0079] Fig.13 is based on Fig.11 A perspective schematic diagram of a mechanical detonation mechanism;

[0080] Fig.14 is based on Fig.11 A schematic cross-sectional view of the detonation mechanism after the detonator is pulled out;

[0081] Fig.15 A variation of the embodiment of assembling the detonation mechanism to the cladding is shown in a partial cross-sectional view;

[0082] Fig.16 is based on Fig.15 A perspective schematic diagram of a detonation mechanism;

[0083] Fig.17 is a schematic cross-sectional view and two detailed views of the device, in which the impact sensor located on the outside is at a certain distance from the cladding;

[0084] Fig.18 is a schematic perspective view of a fire fighting system comprising at least one device according to the invention (in a detail view) and an aerial vehicle of the drone type;

[0085] Fig.19 is based on Figure 8or 9, an exploded schematic diagram of a variation of the impact sensor, wherein the impact sensor is flush mounted and includes an "indirect" arrangement of the ignition head;

[0086] Fig. 20 is based on Fig.19 A partial cross-sectional schematic diagram of an impact sensor;

[0087] Fig.21 is a partial schematic diagram of a variant of the fire fighting apparatus, in which the electrical detonation mechanism is partially integrated inside the enclosure;

[0088] Fig. 22 is based on Fig.18 A schematic partial view of an unmanned aerial vehicle of the type shown in FIG. 1 , showing activation means provided for guiding the equipment to the detonation means of the device according to the invention;

[0089] Fig.23 is based on Fig.18 A partial schematic diagram of a drone-type aircraft showing an embodiment of its airdrop module. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0090] It should be noted that in these drawings, the same structural elements and / or functional elements of different variations are denoted by the same reference numerals.

[0091] Figures 1 to 17 and Figures 19 to 21 A fire fighting device according to the invention is shown.

[0092] Typically, the device 1 includes:

[0093] - a casing 2 delimiting an internal cavity 3 in which at least one diffusible extinguishing agent 4 is added;

[0094] - pyrotechnic means 5 suitable for producing an explosion causing the rupture of said enclosure 2 and the diffusion of said extinguishing agent 4 .

[0095] Thus, advantageously, the envelope 2 consists of a fragmentary envelope, also called “destructible” envelope, suitable for being destroyed by the explosion generated by the pyrotechnic device 5 and at the same time capable of withstanding the mechanical shocks that will be explained below.

[0096] Advantageously, the jacket 2 is in the form of a sphere (spherical).

[0097] Advantageously, the enclosure 2 is made of a plastic material, preferably a low-density rigid plastic, such as a low-density rigid plastic foam, such as expanded polystyrene foam.

[0098] Advantageously, the casing 2 is wrapped in a protective plastic film.

[0099] Advantageously, the cladding 2 has an outer diameter of approximately a dozen centimeters or several tens of centimeters.

[0100] Preferably, the at least one extinguishing agent 4 consists of a diffusible chemical having fire-extinguishing (fire-protecting) activity, advantageously a powder.

[0101] Advantageously, the at least one fire extinguishing agent 4 is selected from fire extinguishing powders mainly composed of non-toxic inorganic salts mixed with water repellents, anti-caking agents and various additives (stearate, silicone resin, starch, inert minerals, etc.) to promote fluidity.

[0102] This powder may be based on sodium or potassium bicarbonate, or even on ammonium phosphate and / or ammonium sulphate (preferably on ammonium phosphate).

[0103] The pyrotechnic device 5 comprises:

[0104] at least one explosive charge 6 (also called “pyrotechnic charge”) producing an explosion capable of causing the rupture of the envelope 2 and the diffusion of the extinguishing agent 4;

[0105] - a detonation mechanism 7 intended to trigger the explosion of said at least one explosive charge 6 .

[0106] Advantageously, the at least one explosive charge 6 is added in the middle (depth) of the internal cavity 3 , preferably in the center of the internal cavity 3 .

[0107] Advantageously, the at least one explosive charge 6 is embedded in the at least one fire extinguishing agent 4. That is, advantageously, the at least one explosive charge 6 is surrounded (or wrapped) by the at least one fire extinguishing agent 4.

[0108] The at least one explosive charge 6 is chosen, for example, from black powders used in pyrotechnics (advantageously, a slow-burning mixture of sulphur, potassium nitrate (saltpeter) and charcoal), in particular from dynamite.

[0109] Advantageously, said at least one explosive charge 6 is contained in a wrapping which may be made of different materials (paper, cloth, plastic, etc.).

[0110] Here, the detonation mechanism 7 forms an impact trigger system, which includes:

[0111] - ignition means 8 designed to trigger said at least one explosive charge 6 in an activated state to cause said explosion;

[0112] - an impact sensor 9, which is designed to put the ignition device 8 into the activation state when a mechanical impact is detected;

[0113] - Preferably, the status indicating device 10 (in Figure 7 , 8, 19 to 21 ), which are particularly suitable for indicating / reporting the activation state of the impact sensor 9;

[0114] Preferably, an initiating device 11 which is controlled to prevent / allow the ignition device 8 to switch to the active state depending on the detection of a mechanical shock by the shock sensor 9 .

[0115] Advantageously, the ignition means 8 consist of means suitable for causing the combustion of said at least one explosive charge 6 .

[0116] Advantageously, this ignition device 8 is selected from pyrotechnic detonators (detonators). Advantageously, as will be described below in conjunction with the different figures, it consists of an electrical ignition device or a mechanical ignition device.

[0117] Therefore, this ignition device 8 has two states:

[0118] an initial and inert inactive state, in which the explosion of the at least one explosive charge 6 is not triggered;

[0119] A final activated state, in which the explosion of the at least one explosive charge 6 can be triggered.

[0120] Advantageously, the ignition device 8 has two main arrangements relative to the at least one explosive charge 6:

[0121] - "Direct" arrangement (especially Figure 1 As shown), in this arrangement, the ignition device 8 is positioned directly in the at least one explosive charge 6;

[0122] - "Indirect" arrangements (especially Figure 8 , 9 , 19 or 20), in this arrangement, the ignition device 8 is connected to the at least one explosive charge 6 via a pyrotechnic fuse 89.

[0123] Advantageously, the above-mentioned pyrotechnic fuse 89 extends from the at least one explosive charge 6 and emerges at the outer surface of the casing 2 .

[0124] The pyrotechnic fuse 89 may include an annular segment 891 ( Figure 8 ), which extends over the circumference of the outer surface of the cladding 2 and in a transverse plane of the cladding 2.

[0125] In addition to the active use of the device 1 (projection onto a target surface), such a pyrotechnic fuse 89 also facilitates the passive use of the device 1 when in contact with a fire.

[0126] Furthermore, the impact sensor 9 is designed to detect, on the one hand, a mechanical impact received by the device 1 and, on the other hand, to bring the above-mentioned ignition device 8 into the activation state when the mechanical impact is detected.

[0127] Advantageously, a "mechanical shock" comprises an acceleration of very high magnitude caused by a knock / impact of the device 1 on a receiving or target surface. Such a mechanical shock also corresponds to a discontinuity in the velocity of the device 1 during its movement.

[0128] For example, but not limited to this example, such a mechanical shock corresponds to an impact of the device 1 on a rigid receiving surface after being dropped from a drop height of at least 0.5 m (or even at least 1 m, or even at least 1.5 m).

[0129] Advantageously, the shock sensor 9 has two states:

[0130] - an initial rest state, in which the ignition device 8 also remains in its inactive state;

[0131] a final active state, in which the impact sensor 9 directs the ignition device 8 into its activated state in which it can trigger the explosion of the at least one explosive charge 6 .

[0132] For this purpose, e.g. Figure 7 and 11 As shown, these states of the impact sensor 9 are advantageously obtained by the movement of the movable part 91 .

[0133] Advantageously, therefore, the impact sensor 9 comprises a movable part 91 which is movable between two positions:

[0134] - Initial position ( Figure 7 , 11 , 20 and 21 in the solid line), corresponding to the rest state of the impact sensor 9, in this position, the ignition device 8 is in an inactive state;

[0135] - Final Position( Figure 7 and 11 ), corresponds to the active state of the impact sensor 9, in which the ignition device 8 is in an activated state.

[0136] To this end, the movable part 91 has at least one part with a degree of freedom, which is advantageously about the axis of rotation 91' (see Figure 3 , 7 , 11) rotational degrees of freedom or translational degrees of freedom.

[0137] In order to make it work, the movable part 91 cooperates with the following devices:

[0138] - elastic return means 92, which return it towards its final position;

[0139] - Retention means 93 designed to retain the movable part 91 in its initial position and to release the movable part 91 when subjected to said mechanical shock.

[0140] Advantageously, the elastic return means 92 comprise mechanical means, for example spring means, arranged to move the movable part 91 from its initial position to its final position.

[0141] Advantageously, the retaining means 93 are intended to break or deform when subjected to a mechanical shock.

[0142] Here, the retaining device 93 comprises at least one metal component 931, such as a metal marble 931, which is intended to be extracted (ejected) from its position / initial state under the action of inertia when the impact sensor 9 is subjected to an impact / collision with a receiving surface.

[0143] As described above, the metal part 931 is intended to be extracted (ejected) from its position / initial state under the action of inertia when the device 1 hits a rigid receiving surface after being dropped from a drop height of at least 0.5m (even at least 1m, or even at least 1.5m).

[0144] In this case, the metal part 931 is advantageously sandwiched (directly or indirectly) between the movable part 91 in the initial position and a support portion 94 .

[0145] When subjected to a mechanical shock, the at least one metal component 931 moves, thereby releasing the movable component 91 , which moves from its initial position to its final position under the action of the elastic return device 92 .

[0146] In general, the impact sensor 9 (and even the whole or part of the ignition device 8 ) can advantageously have different positioning in the device 1 :

[0147] - The impact sensor 9 may be outside the inner cavity 3, for example located at the surface of the enclosure 2 - also known as "embedded" in the surface of the enclosure (e.g. Figure 1 ), or at a certain distance from the cladding 2 (see Fig.17 );

[0148] - The impact sensor 9 can be fully or partially integrated in the inner cavity 3 (e.g. Fig.10 and 21 shown).

[0149] Therefore, the impact sensor 9 can be attached to (embedded in) the surface of the enclosure 2 by means of a detachable fixing device 12, for example:

[0150] - Tape 121 (see Fig.13 );or

[0151] - an insertion structure 122 (see Fig.15 and 16 ).

[0152] The protruding structure 122 is composed of, for example, a rod with a terminal end being a hook fin.

[0153] As for the impact sensor 9 at a certain distance from the cladding 2 (see Fig.17 ), which has the advantage that it may contact the target surface (device 1 with impact sensor 9 suspended below the airdrop) before the shell 2. In this case, an explosion will be caused at a certain height relative to the ground, further improving the diffusion of the at least one extinguishing agent 4.

[0154] Still in the usual case, the impact sensor 9 (and even the whole or part of the ignition device 8 ) is advantageously protected by a housing 13 .

[0155] The housing 13 is made of, for example, a rigid plastic material, advantageously a rigid plastic material capable of withstanding the above-mentioned mechanical impact.

[0156] Advantageously, the shape of the housing 13 is selected from:

[0157] - Ball cap 131 (especially as Figure 1 and 2 As shown), in particular for installation on the surface of the cladding 2 (advantageously, in order to fit the cladding 2, it has a concave lower surface 132);

[0158] - spheres (especially Fig.17 As shown), in particular for installation at a certain distance from the cladding 2.

[0159] Hence, the status indicating device 10 is adapted to indicate / report the active status of the shock sensor 9 .

[0160] The status indicating device 10 is, for example, selected from a sound-emitting component (such as a buzzer or a loudspeaker) and / or a light-emitting component (such as a light-emitting diode or LED).

[0161] Such a status indicator 10 is advantageous in preventing the impact sensor 9 in the active state from being connected to the ignition device 8 which could accidentally enter the activated state.

[0162] Alternatively or additionally, when the impact sensor 9 enters an active state when subjected to an impact, and the ignition device 8 ignites under the action of a timing device (such as an electronic timing device), the status indicator 10 immediately sends a signal to warn surrounding personnel that an explosion is imminent and the fire extinguishing agent 4 will spread.

[0163] Still alternatively or additionally, the status indication device 10 is intended to be positioned relative to the ignition device 8 after the explosion, for example in order to recover the power source 95 (for example a battery pack or a battery).

[0164] Advantageously, the detonating means 11 are intended to cooperate with the movable part 91 - possibly via retaining means 93 - in order to lock / retain the movable part 91 in its initial position in case of mechanical shock (before use, for example during transport).

[0165] The detonation device 11 is, for example, in the form of a pin which is advantageously adapted to be pulled out / destroyed when a mechanical impact is detected, thereby bringing the ignition device 8 into an activated state.

[0166] Preferably, the detonating device 11 (equipped with an external gripping portion) is accessible through the housing 13 (advantageously at the spherical cap 131 ) in order to extract / destroy it.

[0167] In fact, under normal circumstances, the detonating device 11 can be pulled out when needed.

[0168] The device 1 can be moved (thrown, projected, airdropped, tossed) in the fire to be extinguished so as to land on a target surface.

[0169] Upon impacting the target surface, the impact sensor 9 passes from its initial rest state to its final active state.

[0170] To this end, in this case, the movable part 9 is moved from its initial position ( Figure 7 and 11 solid line in the figure) to its final position ( Figure 7 and 11 ).

[0171] Here, after the retaining device 93 is destroyed, the movement of the movable part 91 is ensured by the elastic return device 92 .

[0172] The impact sensor 9 in the active state then directs the ignition device 8 (instantaneously or with a delay) into the activated state, which triggers the explosion of the at least one explosive charge 6 and the diffusion of the at least one extinguishing agent 4 .

[0173] The diffusion advantageously forms a cloud of the extinguishing agent 4 , thereby producing a strong three-dimensional extinguishing effect.

[0174] Still according to the invention, the device 1 may adopt different embodiments.

[0175] The first embodiment according to the present invention is presented in Figures 1 to 10 and Figures 19 to 21 middle.

[0176] In these first embodiments, the devices 1 each comprise an ignition device 8 consisting of an electrical ignition device 8 , also called an igniter or an electrical igniter.

[0177] In conventional manner, such an igniter 8 can be ignited instantaneously by electrical wiring.

[0178] Typically, the igniter 8 consists of a resistor mounted in a short circuit, said resistor being in contact with a small ball formed by the pyrotechnic mixture.

[0179] like Figure 7 As shown, the igniter 8 consists of an ignition head 81 (composed of mercury fulminate, for example) brazed to a two-conductor cable 82. When a short circuit is created at the two-conductor cable 82, the ignition head 81 heats up due to the Joule effect and reaches its auto-ignition temperature.

[0180] The ignition head 81 may have different arrangements in order to cooperate with the at least one explosive charge 6:

[0181] - a "direct" arrangement, in which the ignition head 81 is located directly in the at least one explosive charge 6 (see Figure 1 , 5 , 10 or 21);

[0182] - an "indirect" arrangement, in which the ignition head 81 cooperates with a pyrotechnic fuse 89 connecting the ignition head 81 to the at least one explosive charge 6 (see Figure 8 , 9 , 19 and 20).

[0183] For "direct" installation, Figure 2 In the first embodiment shown, a two-conductor cable 82 extends radially in the enclosure 2 and the cavity 3 , terminating in an external electrical connector 83 connected to the impact sensor 9 equipped with a complementary electrical connector 99 .

[0184] Still for the case of "direct" installation, according to Figure 5 and 6 In the second embodiment shown, a two-conductor cable 82 extends radially in the enclosure 2 and the cavity 3 over the length of a tube 84 starting from the impact sensor 9 .

[0185] The tube 84 has a terminal end 84a which is advantageously sharp to facilitate its insertion. Said terminal end 84a is provided with a window 85 where the ignition head 81 is located.

[0186] Advantageously, the terminal end 84a is intended to be located by protruding into the at least one explosive charge 6. The flame generated by the ignition head 81 is intended to emerge through the window 85.

[0187] In the case of an “indirect” installation, the ignition head 81 is advantageously attached to the annular segment 891 of the pyrotechnic fuse 89 .

[0188] The adhesive member 811 (e.g., adhesive disc) is used to hold the Figure 8 shown.

[0189] Alternatively, the concave lower surface 132 includes an elongated hole 1321 in which the ignition head 81 is located (see Fig.19 and 20 ). The ignition head 81 is then advantageously attached to the annular section 891 of the pyrotechnic fuse 89. The ignition head 81 is advantageously held on the pyrotechnic fuse 89 by means of the mounting of the ignition device 8 on the cladding 2.

[0190] In this case, advantageously, an attachment disc 15 forming a “target mark” is used and attached to facilitate positioning of the firing head 81 relative to the pyrotechnic fuse 89 .

[0191] Advantageously, the attachment disc 15 is intended to be attached between the cladding 2 and the ignition device 8 .

[0192] Advantageously, the attachment disc 15 is made of an adhesive plastic film.

[0193] The attachment disc 15 is crown-shaped and advantageously comprises:

[0194] - an inner edge 151 defining a through hole adapted for the ignition head 81 and the pyrotechnic fuse 89 to be positioned opposite each other;

[0195] - a lower surface 152 which is advantageously adhesive and is intended to conform to the casing 2;

[0196] - an upper surface 153 intended to receive the concave lower surface 132 of the housing 13;

[0197] - External edge 154.

[0198] For positioning of the ignition device 8, the upper surface 153 advantageously comprises markings corresponding to the contour of the concave lower surface 132 of the housing 13. Alternatively, the contour of the outer edge 154 corresponds to the contour of the concave lower surface 132 of the housing 13.

[0199] In practice, the attachment disc 15 is intended to be attached to the cladding 2 so that its inner edge 151 surrounds a portion of the pyrotechnic fuse 89. The ignition device 8 is then properly positioned on the cladding 2 due to the presence of the attachment disc 15. To this end, if necessary, the adhesive member 811 provided on the concave lower surface 132 of the outer shell 13 is adhered to the upper surface 153 of the attachment disc 15.

[0200] In these first embodiments, the shock sensor 9 advantageously comprises an electrical module connected to the electrical ignition device 8 .

[0201] An "electrical module" refers to a device comprising an electrical circuit consisting of a combination of electrical and / or electronic components.

[0202] In this case, if Figure 7 , 19 As shown in FIG. 20 , advantageously, the electrical module 9 comprises:

[0203] - an electric power source 95 , for example a battery or a battery, advantageously connected to an insulating sheet 951 intended to be removed in order to open the electrical supply;

[0204] - A circuit breaker 96 in which said movable part 91 is integrated.

[0205] The electrical module 9 is intended to be electrically attached to the electrical ignition device 8 .

[0206] Therefore, the movable member 91 can move between the following two positions:

[0207] a constrained initial position (solid line), in which the circuit breaker 96 is in the open state and the power source 95 does not electrically supply the ignition device 8;

[0208] A rest end position (dashed line), in which the circuit breaker 96 is in the closed state and the power source 95 supplies the ignition device 8 electrically.

[0209] In the initial position or initial state, the metal member 931 (here, the marble 931) is sandwiched between the movable member 91 of the circuit breaker 96 which is in the initial position and in the open state and the opposing support portion 94.

[0210] Alternatively (not shown), instead of the movable part 91, the electrical module 9 may comprise a sensor of the accelerometer type, preferably a non-servo displacement accelerometer, more specifically advantageously chosen from:

[0211] - piezoelectric accelerometer;

[0212] -piezoresistive accelerometer;

[0213] - Capacitive accelerometer.

[0214] In this case, the electrical module 9 also advantageously comprises:

[0215] - a power source 95, such as a battery pack or a battery;

[0216] - Control means (for example a microcontroller) cooperating with a sensor of the accelerometer type.

[0217] The status indicator 10 is advantageously adapted to emit a signal (acoustic signal, visual signal, etc.) when the shock sensor 9 is in the active state.

[0218] For this purpose, the electrical module 9 is integrated with, for example, an acoustic device (buzzer), a visual device (LED) or the like.

[0219] The status indicating device 10 is suitable for - if necessary - signalling when the movable part 91 is in its final position (the circuit breaker 96 is in its closed state).

[0220] The state indicating device 10 is therefore intended to prevent the shock sensor 9 in its active state from being assembled with the ignition device 8 , thereby preventing the latter from immediately entering its activated state.

[0221] Alternatively or additionally, in the presence of a time delay, the status indicator device 10 may emit a signal after the impact to warn nearby operators that an explosion is imminent and the extinguishing agent 4 will spread.

[0222] Alternatively or additionally, the status display device 10 can also be used to locate and recover the ignition device 8 after the explosion.

[0223] Here, the detonating device 11 consists of a pin 111 which—if necessary—passes through the metal part 931 and even through the support part 94 , for example in order to extend between the support part 94 and the movable part 91 .

[0224] Therefore, in the first category of implementations, there may be different combinations (non-limiting), as described below:

[0225] - On the one hand, Figure 1 and 2 As shown, on the other hand, Figure 5 and 6 As shown, the impact sensor 9 is located outside the internal cavity 3 and at the surface of the shell 2, and the (internal) ignition head 81 is directly accommodated in the at least one explosive charge 6.

[0226] -like Figure 8 , 9 , 19 and 20, an impact sensor 9 outside the internal cavity 3 and located at the surface of the cladding 2, and an external ignition head 81 cooperating with a pyrotechnic fuse 89;

[0227] -like Fig.10 and 21 As shown, the impact sensor 9 inside the inner cavity 3, and the (internal) ignition head 81 directly accommodated in the at least one explosive charge 6;

[0228] -like Fig.17 As shown, an impact sensor 9 outside the inner cavity 3 and at a distance from the shell 2, and an (internal) ignition head 81 directly accommodated in the at least one explosive charge 6. Here, the impact sensor 9 is connected to the shell 2 via a flexible connection, such as a two-conductor cable 82.

[0229] In particular, Fig.10 An impact sensor 9 which is completely inside the inner cavity 3 is envisaged, as well as an (internal) ignition head 81 which is accommodated directly in the at least one explosive charge 6 .

[0230] Fig.21 An impact sensor 9 partially located inside the inner cavity 3 (a portion of its housing 13 being accessible through the casing 2 ) and an (internal) ignition head 81 housed directly in the at least one explosive charge 6 are envisaged.

[0231] according to Fig.21 Advantageously, the casing 13 comprises a spherical cap 131 forming a continuous part of the enclosure 2 of the device 1 (the radius of the spherical cap 131 being the same as the radius of the enclosure 2 ).

[0232] In this embodiment, the enclosure 2 advantageously comprises a through hole, into which the impact sensor 9 is adapted to be inserted (advantageously leaving a gap). Thus, the through hole is advantageously blocked by the attached impact sensor 9.

[0233] Advantageously, the enclosure 2 comprises a second through hole in order to facilitate the filling of the enclosure 2 with the extinguishing agent 4. After the filling is complete, the second through hole is blocked, for example by a polystyrene plug.

[0234] To this end, the casing 2 advantageously comprises two half-casings (half-shells or hemispheres) identical to one another, each half-casing comprising a through hole (advantageously at its top).

[0235] The two half-shells are intended to be assembled with one another in order to form the shell 2 of the device 1 .

[0236] Indeed, in these first embodiments, when subjected to an impact, the metal part 931 is ejected from its initial position, if necessary.

[0237] Thus, the movable member 91 can move from its initial position (solid line), in which the circuit breaker 96 is in an open state, to its final position of rest (dashed line), in which the circuit breaker 96 is in a closed state.

[0238] Alternatively, if desired, the mechanical shock is detected by an accelerometer.

[0239] The active impact sensor 9 controls the ignition device 8 to enter its activated state: a short circuit is produced at the two-conductor cable 82, so that the ignition head 81 heats up due to the Joule effect and reaches its auto-ignition temperature.

[0240] The ignition head 81 triggers the explosion of the at least one explosive charge 6 and the diffusion of the at least one extinguishing agent 4 in the following manner:

[0241] - Direct triggering, when the ignition head 81 is directly accommodated in the at least one explosive charge 6 (see Figure 1 , 5 , 10 or 21) hours;

[0242] - Indirect triggering, when the ignition head 81 cooperates with the pyrotechnic fuse 89 (see Figure 8 , 9 , 19 or 20), the pyrotechnic fuse connects the ignition head 81 to the at least one explosive charge 6.

[0243] The second type of implementation according to the present invention occurs in Figures 11 to 14 middle.

[0244] In these second types of embodiments, the device 1 comprises ignition means 8 consisting of mechanical ignition means 8 .

[0245] For example, if combined Fig.11 The mechanical ignition device 8 comprises:

[0246] - a striker 91 forming said movable part 91;

[0247] - a primer 97 intended to be struck by the firing pin 91 during its transition from said initial position to said final position (under the action of the elastic return means 92);

[0248] - at least one fuse 98 intended to be ignited by said primer 97 and which extends to said at least one explosive charge 6 (advantageously via the above-mentioned pyrotechnic fuse 89).

[0249] The fuse 98 advantageously leads to the bottom of the ignition device 8 with a spiral portion, which is intended to cover the above-mentioned pyrotechnic fuse 89. This particular shape of the fuse 98 is intended to optimize the ignition of the pyrotechnic fuse 89.

[0250] Preferably, in this case, the retaining device 93 is interposed between the firing pin 91 and the primer 97 .

[0251] The holding device 93 comprises:

[0252] - the aforementioned metal part 931;

[0253] - a movable stop (stop) 932 which cooperates with an elastic return device 933 .

[0254] The stopper 932 is suitable for clamping the metal component 931 together with the support portion 94 on the one hand, and is suitable for keeping the movable component 91 at its initial position on the other hand.

[0255] The stopper 932 can be moved between two starting and stopping positions, here in translation along the translation axis 932 ′, namely:

[0256] - Extended position (see Fig.11 ), which is held by the metal part 931, in which position the stopper 932 is located on the moving path of the movable part 91 to hold it in the initial position;

[0257] A retracted position, after the metal part 931 has been ejected and under the action of the elastic return means 933, in which the stopper 932 leaves the moving path of the movable part 91 (striker) to allow it to be transformed into the final position.

[0258] Thus, in the extended position, the metal component 931 is sandwiched between the stopper 932 (in the extended position) and the support portion 94 .

[0259] The detonating device 11 comprises:

[0260] - a pin 111 which passes through the metal part 931 so as to extend between the support portion 94 and the movable stop 932;

[0261] A clamping plate 112 forming a barrier placed in front of the primer 97 and in the path of movement of the movable part 91 .

[0262] Here again, different arrangements are conceivable (non-limiting).

[0263] exist Figures 11 to 16 In the embodiment shown in FIG. 2 , an impact sensor 9 is envisaged outside the internal cavity 3 and at the surface of the cladding 2 , which cooperates with a pyrotechnic fuse 89 .

[0264] Alternatively and without limitation, the impact sensor 9 can also be inside the inner cavity 3 .

[0265] Indeed, in these second embodiments, the metal part 931 is ejected from its initial position when subjected to an impact.

[0266] After the metal part 931 is withdrawn, the stopper 932 reaches its retracted position under the action of the elastic return means 933, thereby leaving the moving path of the movable part 91 to allow the movable part to enter its final position.

[0267] Thus, the movable part 91 can move from its initial position (solid line) to its final position of rest (dashed line) in which it strikes the primer 97, ignites the fuse 98 and causes the explosion of the explosive charge 6 (here via the pyrotechnic fuse 89).

[0268] The device 1 according to the invention advantageously functions in a fire protection system 20 (see Fig.18 , 22 and 23).

[0269] Such a system 20 comprises:

[0270] - at least one device 1 according to the invention;

[0271] - At least one aerial vehicle 21 , advantageously a drone.

[0272] Said at least one aircraft 21 comprises at least one airdrop module 22 suitable for receiving at least one device 1 according to the invention and airdropping said at least one device 1 onto a fire.

[0273] To this end, the airdrop module 22 advantageously comprises two locations:

[0274] - a closed transport position for storing at least one device 1;

[0275] - An open airdrop location for airdropping at least one device 1.

[0276] The airdrop module 22 includes, for example, a chamber 221 associated with a movable blocking device 222 (see Fig.18 and 23 ).

[0277] The control between these two locations is performed remotely, for example by an operator.

[0278] according to Fig.23 In the embodiment shown, the movable blocking means 222 comprise, for example, a blocking member 2221 (eg a strip) which passes through the internal opening of the cavity 211 in order to keep the device 1 in the transport position.

[0279] The blocking member 2221 cooperates with an actuator 2222 (such as a servo motor) to move the blocking member 2221 in the transport position (see Fig.23 ) and an airdrop position (not shown) to operate the blocking member 2221.

[0280] In this case, strip 2221 includes:

[0281] - a fixed end connected to the chassis of the aircraft 21; and

[0282] - A movable end, which cooperates with the actuator 2222 .

[0283] According to an advantageous embodiment, the at least one aircraft 21 also comprises an activation device 23, which is arranged to control the detonation device 11 (see Fig. 22 ).

[0284] The activation device 23 comprises, for example, an actuator 231 (eg, a servomotor) which is attached to the detonation device 11 via a linkage member 232 .

[0285] The activation means 23 are suitable for operating the detonation means 11 in the extracted / destroyed state, advantageously just before directing the airdrop module 22, so as to bring the ignition means 8 into its activated state when a mechanical impact is detected.

[0286] In practice, such a system 20 may be used to implement a fire fighting method.

[0287] The method comprises a step of airdropping at least one device 1 according to the invention from an aircraft 21 , advantageously located above the fire to be extinguished.

[0288] For this purpose, at least one airdrop module 22 is guided from its transport position to its airdrop position.

[0289] As mentioned above, after the aerial dropping of the device 1, when it hits any surface, the at least one explosive charge 6 is (instantaneously) triggered, causing the at least one extinguishing agent 4 to (instantaneously) spread.

[0290] Of course, other different modifications can be made to the invention within the scope of the attached claims.

Claims

1. A fire-fighting device, the fire-fighting device (1) comprising: A shell (2), the shell defining an internal cavity (3), the internal cavity containing at least one diffusible fire extinguishing agent (4); a pyrotechnic device (5) adapted to produce an explosion resulting in rupture of the enclosure (2) and diffusion of the extinguishing agent (4), The pyrotechnic device (5) comprises: at least one explosive charge (6) for producing the explosion; a detonation mechanism (7) intended to trigger said explosion of said at least one explosive charge (6), Characterized in that the detonation mechanism (7) comprises: an ignition device (8) designed to trigger said explosion of said at least one explosive charge (6) in an activated state; and an impact sensor (9) designed to detect a mechanical impact received by the fire fighting device (1) and to cause the ignition device (8) to enter the activated state when the mechanical impact is detected, Wherein, the ignition device (8) comprises an electrical ignition device (8), also known as an igniter; Furthermore, the impact sensor (9) comprises an electrical module connected to the electrical ignition device (8), the electrical module comprising: Accelerometer type sensors; Power supply (95); and a control device, which cooperates with the accelerometer-type sensor, The electrical ignition device (8) comprises an ignition head (81) which cooperates indirectly with the at least one explosive charge (6) via a pyrotechnic fuse (89) connecting the ignition head (81) and the at least one explosive charge (6). wherein the pyrotechnic fuse (89) extends from the at least one explosive charge (6) and is exposed on the outer surface of the casing (2), The pyrotechnic fuse (89) comprises an annular segment (891) which extends on the circumference of the outer surface of the cladding (2) and in a transverse plane of the cladding (2). Wherein, the ignition head (81) is attached to the annular section (891) of the pyrotechnic fuse (89).

2. The fire fighting equipment according to claim 1, characterized in that: The detonation mechanism (7) comprises a status indication device (10) which is suitable for indicating the activation status of the impact sensor (9).

3. The fire fighting equipment according to claim 1, characterized in that: Shock Sensor (9): Outside the internal cavity (3), located on the surface of the cladding (2) or at a certain distance from the cladding (2); or Integrated in the inner cavity (3).

4. The fire fighting equipment according to claim 1, characterized in that: The detonation mechanism (7) comprises an initiating device (11) which can be controlled to allow the ignition device (8) to enter the activated state when the mechanical impact is detected.

5. A fire fighting system, comprising: at least one fire fighting device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 4; At least one aircraft (21) comprising at least one airdrop module (22), the airdrop module being adapted to receive the at least one firefighting device (1) and to airdrop the at least one firefighting device (1) onto a fire.

6. The fire fighting system according to claim 5, characterized in that: The aircraft is a drone.

7. A firefighting method, comprising the step of airdropping at least one firefighting device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 4 from an aircraft (21), so that when the firefighting device (1) hits a surface after being airdropped, the at least one explosive charge (6) is triggered.

8. The fire fighting method according to claim 7, characterized in that: The aircraft is a drone.

9. An ignition mechanism (7) for use in a fire fighting device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, comprising: an ignition device (8) designed to trigger an explosion of the at least one explosive charge (6) in an activated state; an impact sensor (9) designed to detect a mechanical impact received by the fire fighting device (1) and to cause the ignition device (8) to enter the activated state when the mechanical impact is detected, Characterized in that the ignition device (8) comprises an electrical ignition device (8), also known as an igniter; and The impact sensor (9) comprises an electrical module connected to the electrical ignition device (8), the electrical module comprising: Accelerometer type sensors; Power supply (95); and a control device, which cooperates with the accelerometer-type sensor, The electrical ignition device (8) comprises an ignition head (81) which cooperates indirectly with the at least one explosive charge (6) via a pyrotechnic fuse (89) connecting the ignition head (81) and the at least one explosive charge (6).

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