Signal device

Abstract

The invention relates to a signal device.

Description

[0001] The invention disclosed herein relates to a signaling device according to the preamble of claim 1.

[0002] The invention disclosed herein relates to a signaling device that includes a balloon, which includes an opening, and the balloon can be inflated and expanded by introducing a fluid through the opening and through a valve disposed within the opening. According to current teachings, the valve is disposed within the opening such that, on the one hand, the fluid can be introduced into the interior of the balloon and, on the other hand, the fluid cannot escape from the balloon, and the balloon thus maintains its shape defined by the fluid introduced into the interior of the balloon.

[0003] The basic purpose of the signaling device of the invention is to indicate a location.

[0004] Devices for indicating a location by means of an inflated balloon hovering above the location are known in the prior art.

[0005] The features of the independently executable embodiments described below cannot be derived from DE20002657U1.

[0006] The device disclosed in CH705685B1 is fundamentally different from the device described below.

[0007] DE3237060A1 describes a device that is fundamentally different from the device disclosed below.

[0008] DE1531694 does not describe that the connecting nozzle 6 is released when a specific force state is reached.

[0009] Likewise, US5582127 does not show the features of the embodiments of the device of the invention described below.

[0010] DE3237060 discloses a device for rescuing people in an avalanche. The device includes a balloon that includes an opening for filling that reaches a hoop of a rigid housing. The device does not include any housing surface from which the inflated balloon can be pushed away.

[0011] Likewise, the device disclosed in DE202018107314 does not include any housing portion for pushing away the inflated balloon.

[0012] DE1531694 discloses another balloon inflation device.

[0013] CH705685 discloses a device for locating an individual buried in an avalanche. It is proposed to attach the inflated balloon to a person by a holding device such that the balloon cannot remove itself from the person.

[0014] GB2525394 discloses a balloon attached to a housing for inflation, wherein the housing does not include any housing part for pushing away the balloon.

[0015] US5582127 and US6082287 disclose a balloon attached to a housing for inflation, wherein the housing does not include any housing part for pushing away the balloon.

[0016] The present invention disclosed herein seeks to overcome the deficiencies of the prior art.

[0017] This object is achieved by the first claim.

[0018] According to the present invention, this object is achieved by:

[0019] The balloon further includes a light emitter, which includes a control device,

[0020] wherein a change in length or displacement of a switching element of the control device causes the light emitter to be switched, specifically causes the light emitter to be turned on,

[0021] wherein at least a first end of the switching element is fixed to a first balloon sub-region of the balloon,

[0022] and wherein a second end of the switching element is fixed to a second balloon sub-region of the balloon,

[0023] These balloon sub-regions move apart by filling the balloon with fluid and by expanding the balloon,

[0024] thereby achieving a change in length and / or displacement of the switching element and thereby turning on the light emitter.

[0025] Thus, the light emitter can be switched (specifically turned on) by the balloon expanding to a specific size and the balloon having this specific size, at which size the length of the switching element expands to a specific length. Those skilled in the art can define the specific length of the switching element by their choice of the switching element, and thus also define the specific size, at which size of the balloon and thus at which length of the switching element, the lamp is switched (e.g., turned on).

[0026] In a similar manner, the light emitter can be switched by the balloon expanding to a specific size and thus the switching element shifting to a specific position. This embodiment can be achieved by arranging the control element inside the balloon as described above.

[0027] The operator can provide an LED as the light emitter. Preferably, the LED as the light emitter includes a power source.

[0028] The LED can be switched via a brightness sensor.

[0029] Generally, the light-emitting body can be arranged inside or on the outer or inner surface of the balloon.

[0030] When the light-emitting body is arranged inside the balloon, the switching element can be arranged as a chord extending inside, which experiences the length change or displacement described above when the balloon expands to a specific size. According to the current teachings, the chord (also called a secant line) extends from one balloon sub-region to the opposite balloon sub-region, where the chord does not necessarily extend through the central region of the balloon. However, the chord can extend through this central region.

[0031] When the light-emitting body is arranged inside the balloon, the switching element can be arranged as an element extending on the inner surface of the balloon, such that when the balloon expands to a specific size, the switching element experiences the length change or displacement described above.

[0032] When the light-emitting body is arranged on the outer or inner surface of the balloon, the switching element can be arranged as an element extending on the outer surface of the balloon, such that when the balloon expands to a specific size, the switching element experiences the length change or displacement described above.

[0033] The control device of the balloon can be actuated such that when the balloon contracts and thus the balloon sub-regions merge, the light-emitting body remains on or off.

[0034] The signal device of the present invention can be characterized in that the light-emitting body is arranged inside the balloon, or

[0035] the light-emitting body is incorporated into the outer shell of the balloon, or

[0036] the light-emitting body is arranged on the outer shell of the balloon.

[0037] The light-emitting body arranged inside the balloon illuminates the inflated balloon from the inside, making the illumination visible from all sides.

[0038] The light-emitting body can be arranged on the inner or outer surface of the outer shell of the balloon. Advantageously, after inflation, the balloon can be put back into the signal device or replaced with another balloon.

[0039] The fixed arrangement of the light-emitting body inside the balloon allows the balloon to be more easily folded together with the light-emitting body and placed in an enclosed area.

[0040] The operator can inflate the balloon of the signal device of the present invention described above by blowing oxygen into the opening. When doing so, only the operator's breath is introduced, thus preventing the signal device from rising, since the user's breath and the surrounding air generally have the same density.

[0041] To circumvent this technical defect, the embodiment claimed in claim 2 is proposed. The embodiment of claim 2 is an embodiment that can be carried out independently of the embodiment of claim 1.

[0042] The embodiment of the balloon with a light-emitting body can be carried out independently of the inflation device and / or any other implementation of the balloon described below.

[0043] Similarly, the signal device described below, which includes a balloon and a gas container located inside the balloon, can be carried out independently of the inflation device described below.

[0044] The present invention also relates to a signal device, characterized in that:

[0045] The balloon further includes a gas container with a discharge device located inside the balloon,

[0046] wherein a change in length or displacement of the trigger of the discharge device causes the opening of the gas container and the diffusion of gas from the gas container,

[0047] wherein at least a first end of the trigger is fixed to a first balloon sub-region of the balloon,

[0048] and wherein a second end of the trigger is fixed to a second balloon sub-region of the balloon,

[0049] These balloon sub-regions move apart by filling the balloon with fluid and by expanding the balloon,

[0050] thereby achieving a change in length and / or displacement of the trigger and thereby opening the gas container.

[0051] Preferably, the gas is a gas lighter than oxygen. The operator can, for example, blow oxygen into the balloon and thereby expand the balloon to a specific size at which the gas container is opened by the applied change in length and / or displacement of the trigger. For example, by opening the gas container placed inside the balloon, in addition to oxygen, the inside of the balloon is filled with a gas lighter than oxygen, such as helium. For example, when the signal device of the present invention is at least partially filled with this gas lighter than oxygen (such as helium), the signal device rises.

[0052] A person skilled in the art can determine the amount of gas held in the gas container such that when the gas container is opened and the gas flows from the gas container into the inside of the balloon, the inside of the balloon contains a sufficient amount of gas for the balloon to rise.

[0053] Preferably, the mentioned gas container is filled with a gas lighter than oxygen under overpressure.

[0054] The gas held within the gas container may be helium. A person skilled in the art preferably determines the dimensions of the gas container such that the gas container can hold 63.0 ml of helium or 2.2 g of helium at a pressure of 220 bar. The gas container of the test device has a cylindrical shape with a diameter of 30.0 mm and a height of 120 mm. The test device includes three gas containers.

[0055] The signal device of the present invention may be characterized in that:

[0056] A first balloon sub-region is arranged in the region of the opening.

[0057] Accordingly, one end of the control element and / or the trigger is arranged in the region of the opening. The control element and / or the trigger is placed into the balloon as a rigidly formed element and fixed to the other end on the inner surface of the balloon.

[0058] The signal device of the present invention may be characterized in that:

[0059] A second balloon sub-region is arranged opposite to the first balloon sub-region.

[0060] The balloon sub-regions may be connected by a chord extending through the balloon.

[0061] The balloon sub-regions may be arranged by a straight line extending along or parallel to the diameter.

[0062] The signal device of the present invention may be characterized in that:

[0063] The transmitter is arranged inside the balloon.

[0064] The signal device of the present invention may also be used for water sports. By arranging the transmitter inside the balloon, it is ensured that the transmitter is arranged in a dry space. The inflated balloon also positions the transmitter above the water surface. The transmitter may emit a signal to locate the balloon.

[0065] The inflation device described below may operate independently of the embodiments of the balloon described herein.

[0066] Specifically, a person skilled in the art may operate the inflation device described below independently of the light-emitting body described above, which includes one or more LEDs and switching means. For example, a signal device including the inflation device described below may include a manually triggered switch. The switch may be arranged on the LED. Such a switch may allow the LED to be switched at multiple brightness levels.

[0067] The LED may also be switched only via a brightness sensor.

[0068] The signal device of the present invention may be characterized in that:

[0069] The opening of the signal device is coupled to an inflating device arranged outside the balloon.

[0070] The inflating device includes a housing and a duct, the duct including a duct end region in fluid communication with the opening.

[0071] The opening of the balloon surrounds the duct end region by forming an enclosing surface.

[0072] The housing includes a housing surface shaped as a rounded or angled funnel at a distance from the duct along the duct axis of the duct, the housing surface being curved or flat.

[0073] Wherein, when fluid is introduced into the balloon, a first frictional force acting between the enclosing surface and the balloon and a second frictional force acting between the housing surface and the inflated balloon are balanced with

[0074] on the other hand, the inflating force generated by the introduction into the balloon and the repulsive force component between the inflated balloon and the housing surface.

[0075] The coupling element can be incorporated into the opening of the balloon. Advantageously, the balloon neck including the opening of the balloon and preferably including the valve of the balloon acts as the coupling element.

[0076] The tangent or secant of the curved portion can be determined to indicate the inclination of the curved portion towards the axis via the inclination of the tangent or secant towards the curved portion. The tangent can be determined at least at one of the end points of the curved portion or at the center of the curved portion.

[0077] For example, the fluid introduced into the interior of the balloon can be a gas lighter than oxygen, such as helium. The gas can also be a fluorescent gas, which acts as a light emitter when introduced into the interior of the balloon.

[0078] The balloon can include a balloon neck that is placed on the duct end region, as in the case of known devices for inflating air balloons.

[0079] The housing surface can be formed as a flat surface or a curved surface. For a curved surface, the inclination can be indicated by the tangent at a point of the curved portion. The frictional force FR2 mentioned above is oriented parallel to the tangent at that point; the repulsive force FL2 is oriented perpendicular to the tangent.

[0080] To calculate the frictional force FR2 or the repulsive force FL2 exerted on the balloon by the curved housing surface, it may be necessary to determine the overall acting frictional force FR2 or repulsive force FL2 by integration.

[0081] A person skilled in the art can determine the equilibrium state described above iteratively or by estimation calculation. Generally, the equilibrium is easier to determine when the housing surface is flat and inclined.

[0082] In summary, the frictional force acts as the force to hold the balloon. The expansion force and the repulsive component act as the force to release the balloon from the end of the pipe. The basic idea is to produce the shape of the shell that defines the state of the balloon until which the balloon neck remains on the end of the pipe, and once this state is exceeded, the balloon neck is removed from the end of the pipe.

[0083] The device of the present invention may only include the shell surface mentioned as the surface of the shell, and the inflated balloon may contact the shell surface to open the cover applied to the shell and engulf the balloon together with the shell surface through the inflated balloon, or pull the balloon off the pipe.

[0084] Generally speaking, the features of the device of the present invention may lie in that:

[0085] The opening of the balloon is coupled to an inflation device,

[0086] The inflation device includes a shell and a pipe, and the pipe includes a coupling element facing the opening,

[0087] The coupling element allows fluid to flow from the pipe into the interior of the balloon in a fluid-tight manner,

[0088] wherein the opening can be released from the coupling element by overcoming the resistance,

[0089] The shell includes a shell surface that is curved or straight in a rotationally symmetric and inclined manner at a distance from the pipe along the pipe axis of the pipe,

[0090] wherein when fluid is introduced into the balloon,

[0091] On the one hand, the resistance between the coupling force and the opening and the second frictional force (FR2) acting between the shell surface and the inflated balloon are balanced with

[0092] On the other hand, the expansion force (FL1) generated by the introduction into the balloon and the repulsive force component (FL2) of the inflated balloon and the shell surface.

[0093] The opening of the balloon can be released from the coupling element by overcoming the resistance. For example, the coupling element is connected via a friction surface that opens when a specific resistance is reached or via a locking mechanism that opens when a specific resistance is reached. Those skilled in the art are familiar with other suitable connection forms for connecting two elements, and when the force acting on this connection form increases and the maximum resistance is achieved through this force, this connection form opens.

[0094] The resistance can also be defined by a predetermined breaking point of the connecting element that connects the opening and the coupling element until the connecting element breaks at the predetermined breaking point.

[0095] The coupling element and the duct can be integrally formed. The coupling element can be connected to the duct.

[0096] For example, the coupling element and the balloon applied to the coupling element can have predefined frictional properties at their contact surfaces, via which a first frictional force FR1 is defined. To this end, the surface of the coupling element that forms the contact surface can be formed as a rough surface or a surface exhibiting adhesiveness.

[0097] The ascending balloon can pull the coupling element off the duct, where the required pulling-off force is defined by the embodiments described above. Additionally or alternatively, the device of the present invention can include release means for pulling the coupling element off the duct or expanding the coupling element.

[0098] The force state acting between the inflated balloon and the housing surface can be defined via the position of the coupling element with respect to the housing surface. Preferably, when the duct has a vertical orientation, the coupling element is arranged below the housing surface such that the inflated balloon in contact with the housing surface pulls against the housing surface. This can be achieved by the sub-region of the balloon including the opening of the balloon undergoing expansion.

[0099] The signal device of the present invention can be characterized in that:

[0100] The housing is formed as a hollow tank,

[0101] wherein the duct axis and the tank axis are arranged to coincide.

[0102] The housing can include a tool hook for attaching the device to clothing or a backpack. The tool hook can be coupled to the device with an elastic band or an elastic cord.

[0103] The signal device of the present invention can also be characterized in that:

[0104] The housing surface of the housing is in the shape of a funnel. The housing surface can have the shape of a funnel.

[0105] The signal device of the present invention can be characterized in that:

[0106] When the duct axis or the tank axis is vertically arranged, the funnel end region of the funnel having a smaller diameter and the duct end region are essentially arranged at the same height.

[0107] The signal device of the present invention can be characterized in that:

[0108] The housing includes two housing halves having mating surfaces.

[0109] A plane extending through the joint surface can extend through the axis of the tank. Thus, the hollow tank can be divided into two sub-regions, and the sub-regions of the tank have a layout in a semi-circular shape or a similar shape. The sub-regions of the tank can preferably be connected to each other by rod-shaped members.

[0110] The signal device according to the invention can be characterized in that the signal device includes a pull-off element for manually releasing the coupling element from the pipe.

[0111] The pull-off element can be a control rod, a pressure element, etc., by means of which the force for releasing the coupling element from the pipe is applied to the coupling element.

[0112] The signal device according to the invention can be characterized in that:

[0113] The pipe is coupled to at least one pressurized gas capsule filled with helium.

[0114] Helium gas is usually used when inflating an air balloon because helium has a lower density than the oxygen around the air balloon, thus enabling the air balloon to rise. A person skilled in the art can use different gases to replace helium, and the different gases also have a lower density than oxygen.

[0115] The pressurized gas capsule can also be filled with a gas fluorescent agent when introduced into the interior of the balloon.

[0116] As mentioned above, the amount of fluid introduced into the balloon per unit of time after the pressurized capsule is opened depends on the filling pressure of the pressurized capsule. The balloon can include a pressure reducing valve to limit the amount of fluid flowing into the balloon via the pipe per unit of time.

[0117] The signal device according to the invention can be characterized in that:

[0118] The balloon is connected to the inflation device via a rope.

[0119] The rope can have a pre-defined length. The rope can also include markings indicating the length of the rope that has been released.

[0120] The rope can have electrical conductivity. Thus, the following implementation is feasible: on the one hand, an LED is arranged inside the balloon, and on the other hand, an energy storage device and at least part of the circuit are arranged in the housing.

[0121] The rope can be fixed to one point or multiple (preferably four) points.

[0122] In addition, the rope can be coupled to a switching element such that the LED can be switched on by applying a force to the rope.

[0123] The signal device according to the invention can be characterized in that:

[0124] The rope is stored on a rope reel in a pay-outable manner,

[0125] and the rope reel is rotatably supported about a rope reel axis arranged coaxially with the pipe axis to pay out the rope.

[0126] The rope can be paid out from the rope reel only by the ascending balloon. For example, the ascending balloon can pay out the rope from the rope reel against a resistance (such as a spring resistance). A person skilled in the art selects a resistance high enough so that the rope remains taut when the balloon ascends.

[0127] The gas flowing out of the pressurized gas capsule can be guided into the balloon via a fluid passage so that the pay-out of the rope is accelerated or decelerated. Decelerating the pay-out of the rope from the rope reel can be achieved by guiding the flowing fluid onto a guiding surface, thereby generating a force that decelerates the pay-out of the rope from the rope reel. Conversely, the pay-out of the rope can be accelerated by guiding the flowing fluid onto the guiding surface, thereby generating a force that accelerates the pay-out of the rope. For example, the rope can be regarded as a wheel and the mentioned guiding surface can be regarded as the driving surface of a propeller, wherein the inflow direction of the driving surface is the same as or opposite to the rotation direction of the rope reel.

[0128] The signal device according to the invention can be characterized in that:

[0129] The inflation device includes a plurality of pressurized gas capsules,

[0130] wherein the inflation device includes a plurality of spikes, each spike being adapted to be inserted into a corresponding pressurized gas capsule,

[0131] and these spikes have different extension lengths in the direction of the corresponding capsules to be opened.

[0132] In the prior art, opening the pressurized gas capsule by inserting a spike into a predetermined opening is a process performed by applying a force. In an emergency, it is almost impossible for an operator to apply the force required to open a plurality of pressurized gas capsules simultaneously. The signal device according to the invention can be configured such that the pressurized gas capsules are opened sequentially one after another.

[0133] The device disclosed herein can include a spike for the pressurized gas capsule, which is inserted by breaking the pressurized capsule (specifically, a predetermined breaking point of the pressurized capsule for opening the pressurized capsule). To fill the balloon, a certain amount of fluid is required, and this amount of fluid is preferably held in a plurality of pressurized capsules such that a plurality of pressurized capsules must be opened to fill the balloon.

[0134] The device can include one spike for each pressurized capsule to be opened. Thus, the device preferably includes a plurality of pressurized capsules and a plurality of spikes. Preferably, the spikes are inserted into the pressurized capsules manually in sequence.

[0135] When inserted at a similar rate, the spikes can be arranged at various distances from the original position of the pressurized capsule. Equivalently, the spikes can be accelerated at different times to be inserted into the pressurized capsule.

[0136] Additionally or alternatively, when accelerated at a similar time, the spikes can be inserted into the pressurized capsule at different rates.

[0137] The spikes can be accelerated by means of a spring and inserted into the pressurized capsule. The acceleration can be released by the user in an emergency. Additionally or alternatively, the user can bias the spring in an emergency.

[0138] The spikes can also be inserted into the pressurized capsule via a triggering device. The movement of the triggering device and the movement of the spikes can be transmitted via a gear, through which the continuous insertion of the spikes into the pressurized capsule can be achieved.

[0139] For example, the gear can be formed as a threaded member. In this case, the triggering device moves rotationally around the threaded member axis like a nut. The threaded member can include an external thread, and the triggering device can include an internal thread, and the external thread and the internal thread engage. Through the threaded member, the rotational movement of the triggering device is converted into a linear movement, through which the spikes can be inserted into the pressurized capsule.

[0140] As mentioned above, the amount of fluid introduced into the balloon per unit time after opening the pressurized capsule depends on the filling pressure of the pressurized capsule. The signaling device can include a pressure reducing valve to limit the amount of fluid flowing into the balloon via the pipe per unit time.

[0141] The triggering device or triggering element mentioned above can act as a switching element for the LED. The LED can be switched on or off additionally or alternatively via a brightness sensor.

[0142] The characteristics of the signaling device of the present invention can lie in that:

[0143] The inflation device includes a control rod or a rotary element or a pushing element, each as a corresponding triggering device to release the fluid flow from the pressurized capsule to the balloon.

[0144] The device of the present invention can include a housing. The housing can have a conical shape, which has its minimum width in the upper region where the balloon is released, and has its maximum width in the region of the control rod or the rotary element. The maximum width can be located in the lower region of the housing.

[0145] For example, the layout of the housing can have a circular shape or an oval shape or an angular shape, such as a pentagonal shape or a hexagonal shape.

[0146] The housing can be connected to the triggering element via a fixing element and, due to triggering of the triggering element, to a movable (specifically driven) element. For example, the fixing element can extend from the housing to the triggering element and other elements, such as the lid mentioned below. The fixing element can include a predetermined breaking point located at the transition between the housing and the triggering element and / or other elements, such that when the triggering element is triggered and the other element moves, the fixing element is broken.

[0147] Due to the rotational movement applied to the pressurized capsule, the rotating element opens the pressurized capsule.

[0148] The pushing element can be an element displaceable with respect to the pressurized capsule, which can be introduced into the pressurized capsule by pushing. The pushing required for this can be applied by pushing with the operator's hand or by the device hitting an immovable object. The required pushing can also be applied via a biasing spring.

[0149] The signal device according to the invention can be characterized in that:

[0150] The signal device is integrated into a life jacket.

[0151] The inflating device can inflate the balloon and the life jacket.

[0152] The signal device according to the invention allows marking a position over multiple days. This feature can be specifically manifested when indicating the position of a person in distress swimming in the water.

[0153] The signal device according to the invention can be characterized in that:

[0154] The balloon has the shape of a cylinder or a cone (such as a cone or a pyramid) or a sphere.

[0155] The cylinder can allow a greater height extension and thus a larger volume despite a smaller base. The mentioned cylindrical shape or the mentioned conical shape (such as a cone or a pyramid) can facilitate the ascent of the balloon from a crack or a canyon.

[0156] The balloon can include one or more chambers to be filled with a fluid. The chambers can be arranged in one plane or at different levels. A balloon in the shape of a cylinder or a sphere allows the arrangement of chambers.

[0157] The outer shell of the balloon can be made of one part or multiple assembled parts. Assembling the parts into a balloon allows the fixing of ropes in the joining areas. Specifically, the parts of the balloon can be welded.

[0158] A prototype balloon has a four-part outer shell, where the parts of the outer shell are welded. In each case, the rope is inserted into the weld and connected to the balloon outer shell by welding the weld.

[0159] The outer surface of the balloon can be orange and display the white letters "SOS".

[0160] The signal device according to the invention can be characterized in that:

[0161] The balloon is made of a composite material which includes polyethylene on its inner side, propylene in its intermediate layer, and polyamide on its outer side.

[0162] The material PPT is advantageous for use as a balloon due to its light weight and its density.

[0163] The signal device according to the invention can be characterized in that:

[0164] The balloon has a surface which has reflective properties.

[0165] The signal device according to the invention can be characterized in that:

[0166] The signal device has a balloon housing,

[0167] The balloon can be placed in the balloon housing.

[0168] The balloon housing can protect the balloon from damage. This is especially advantageous when the balloon rises in a crack or canyon. Like the balloon, the balloon housing can have reflective properties or be transparent.

[0169] The signal device according to the invention can be characterized in that:

[0170] The signal device is arranged in a housing.

[0171] The housing is opened by the inflation of the balloon.

[0172] The housing can be a soft housing such as a bag. The bag can be opened by inflation. The bag can have a predetermined breaking point which breaks at a pre-defined size of the balloon, thus opening the bag.

[0173] The housing can be a rigid housing such as a box or container made of, for example, plastic. The rigid housing can be opened at a pre-defined size of the balloon or broken at a predetermined breaking point in a manner similar to the embodiment of the soft housing mentioned.

[0174] The signal device according to the invention can be characterized in that:

[0175] The housing includes two elements movable relative to each other,

[0176] wherein one element acts as a trigger element to release the gas held in a pressurized capsule.

[0177] The invention will now be further illustrated based on the following embodiments shown in the drawings:

[0178] Figure 1 A cross-sectional view showing an embodiment of the signal device of the present invention;

[0179] Figure 2 A detailed cross-sectional view showing an embodiment of the signal device of the present invention;

[0180] Figure 3 A detailed cross-sectional view showing an embodiment of the signal device of the present invention;

[0181] Figure 4 A cross-sectional view showing an embodiment of the signal device of the present invention;

[0182] Figures 5 to 11 A cross-sectional view and a view showing another embodiment of the signal device of the present invention;

[0183] Figure 12 Showing possible shapes of the spikes;

[0184] Figure 13 and Figure 14 Showing additional means for pulling the balloon off the conduit.

[0185] The embodiments shown in the drawings merely illustrate possible embodiments. However, it should be noted that the present invention is not limited to these specifically shown different embodiments of the present invention, and combinations between the various different embodiments and combinations of one embodiment with the above general description are possible. Such other possible combinations do not need to be explicitly mentioned because these other possible combinations are within the knowledge of those skilled in the relevant art based on the technical teachings of the present invention.

[0186] The scope of protection is defined by the claims. However, the description and the drawings will be used to interpret the claims. Each feature or combination of features of the various embodiments shown and described may itself represent different technical solutions of the present invention. The objectives based on such different technical solutions of the present invention can be derived from the description.

[0187] In the drawings, the following elements are designated by the preceding reference numerals. For the sake of clarity of the drawings, the relevant reference numerals are also marked in the drawings.

[0188] 1 balloon

[0189] 2 opening

[0190] 3 valve

[0191] 4 control device

[0192] 5 switching element

[0193] 6 light emitter

[0194] 7 First balloon sub-region

[0195] 8 Second balloon sub-region

[0196] 9 First end of a switching element or a trigger

[0197] 10 Second end of a switching element or a trigger

[0198] 11 Inside of the balloon

[0199] 12 Gas container

[0200] 13 Discharge device

[0201] 14 Trigger

[0202] 15 Inflation device

[0203] 16 Inflation device housing

[0204] 17 Pipe

[0205] 18 Pipe end region of pipe 17

[0206] 19 Enclosing surface

[0207] 20 Pipe axis

[0208] 21 Housing surface

[0209] 22 Tank axis

[0210] 23 Pressurized capsule

[0211] 24 Balloon neck

[0212] 25 Spine

[0213] 26 Cap

[0214] 27 Funnel end region

[0215] 28 Rotating element

[0216] 29 Bearing

[0217] 30 Rope

[0218] 31 First gear element

[0219] 32 Second gear element

[0220] 33 Protrusion

[0221] 34 Guide

[0222] 35 First guide element

[0223] 36 Second guiding element

[0224] 37 Surrounding edge

[0225] 38 Valve

[0226] 39 Pressure chamber

[0227] 40 Pull-off device

[0228] 41 Recess

[0229] 42 Handle

[0230] Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of a possible embodiment of the device of the present invention is shown. Figure 1 The device shown can be combined with Figure 2 and Figure 3 at least one of the devices shown. Figure 1 and / or Figure 2 and / or Figure 3 The device shown can also form different technical solutions.

[0231] Figure 1 The signal device shown includes a balloon 1, which includes an opening 2.

[0232] The balloon 1 can be expanded by introducing a fluid through the opening 2 and through a valve 3 arranged within the opening 2. The balloon 1 can be formed in a manner similar to a commercial air balloon.

[0233] Figure 1 The embodiment shown and discussed herein provides a technical solution for filling the balloon 1 with gas in an emergency. Preferably, the gas has a lower density than oxygen, allowing the balloon 1 to rise.

[0234] The signal device of the present invention is characterized in that the opening 2 of the balloon 1 is coupled to an expansion device 15. To this end, the expansion device 15 includes a pipe 17, which includes a pipe end region 18 facing the opening 2.

[0235] The balloon neck 24 surrounds the pipe end region 18 by forming an enclosing surface 19. The balloon neck 24 undergoes expansion when applied to the pipe end region 18, thereby creating a tight fit between the balloon 1 and the pipe 17.

[0236] Figure 1The features of the described technical solution further lie in that the inflated balloon 1 is pulled off from the pipe end region 18 and is thus released in a specific size. This object is achieved by providing a housing 16 which, at a distance from the pipe 17, includes a housing surface 21 along the pipe axis 20 of the pipe 17, and the housing surface is curved or flat. The housing surface 21 may have the shape of a rounded funnel or an angular funnel. The shape of the funnel extends around the pipe axis 20.

[0237] The housing 16 further includes a free space in a sub-region adjacent to the balloon neck 24, and the free space is formed to provide loading for the non-inflated balloon 1 ( Figure 1 not shown in the figure). The sub-region of the housing 16 forming the housing surface 21 is formed as a body rotationally symmetric about the balloon neck 24 and / or the pipe axis 20 of the pipe 17.

[0238] When fluid is introduced into the balloon 1, on the one hand, a first frictional force FR1 acting between the surrounding surface 19 and the balloon 1 and a second frictional force FR2 acting between the housing surface 21 and the inflated balloon 1 occur, and

[0239] on the other hand, an expansion force FL1 generated by the introduction into the balloon 1 and a repulsive force component FL2 between the inflated balloon 1 and the housing surface 21 occur. When the balloon 1 expands and is applied to the pipe end region 18, these forces are balanced.

[0240] The expansion force FL1 and the repulsive force FLS are the forces FL1, FL2 that release the balloon 1 from the pipe end region 18. The release forces FL1, FL2 continuously increase when the balloon 1 expands until the above-mentioned balance no longer exists and the balloon 1 is released from the pipe end region.

[0241] Since the inflation of the balloon 1 is always associated with a change in the size of the balloon 1, the shape of the balloon 1 can be defined by forming the housing surface 21, and in this shape of the balloon 1, the repulsive force component FL2, together with the expansion force FL1, exceeds the holding force (basically the first frictional force FR1).

[0242] The rotational symmetry of the housing surface 21 about the pipe axis 20 has a favorable effect on the force state described above. This allows for the realization of a force state rotationally symmetric about the pipe axis 20.

[0243] The features of the signaling device of the present invention may lie in that:

[0244] The housing 16 is formed as a hollow tank,

[0245] wherein the pipe axis 20 and the tank axis 22 are arranged to coincide.

[0246] The signal device according to the invention may be characterized in that:

[0247] The housing surface 21 of the housing 16 has the shape of a funnel. Figure 1 A funnel with a curved funnel surface having an arcuate profile is shown. In a sectional view, the funnel surface may also have a straight profile.

[0248] Figure 1 The signal device shown has a special shape: when the pipe axis 19 or the tank axis 22 is arranged vertically, the funnel end region 27 of the funnel-shaped housing surface 21 with a smaller diameter is arranged higher than the pipe end region 18. Due to the height position of this funnel end region 27 relative to the pipe end region, the shape of the balloon 1 will be substantially defined until the balloon 1 is inflated, maintaining the mentioned equilibrium state and the balloon neck 24 is attached to the pipe end region 18.

[0249] Since the pipe end region 18 is arranged at a specific height position relative to the housing surface 21, Figure 1 the use of the device described in [reference] may be limited to a specific inflated balloon shape. Basically, the device can only use one balloon shape, specifically a balloon shape with a balloon neck 24.

[0250] The signal device according to the invention may be characterized in that: the housing 16 comprises two housing halves having mating surfaces. The housing 16 may be separable into two housing halves.

[0251] The device according to the invention may provide that the housing halves of the housing 16 are removed from the device to apply the balloon neck 24 to the pipe end region 18. The housing 16 is separable into housing halves.

[0252] The balloon neck 24 is then applied to the pipe end region 18. Thereafter, the housing 16 is restored by plugging the housing halves together.

[0253] The signal device according to the invention may be characterized in that: the pipe 17 is coupled to at least one pressurized capsule 23 filled with helium.

[0254] The helium stored in the pressurized capsule 23 is introduced into the balloon 1 by means of a gas release device.

[0255] The signal device may be characterized in that: the inflation device 15 comprises a plurality of spikes 25 for respective insertion into corresponding pressurized capsules 23, 23', and these spikes 25 have different extension lengths in the direction of the respective capsules to be opened.

[0256] Figure 1Only one spike 25 is shown, and this spike 25 is inserted into the pressurized capsule 23. After the spike 25 has been inserted into the pressurized capsule 23, another spike (not shown in Figure 1 ) is inserted into the pressurized capsule 23'.

[0257] The triggering device for introducing the gas stored in at least two pressurized capsules 23, 23' can be configured such that in a first step, the pressurized capsule 23 is opened, and in a second step, the fluid passage from the pressurized capsule 23 to the pipe end region 18 is released by triggering the gas release device.

[0258] The opening of the pressurized capsules 23, 23' is achieved by successively (continuously) inserting one spike 25 into each of the pressurized capsules 23, 23' as described above. By inserting one spike into each pressurized capsule, the pressurized capsules 23 are opened one after another.

[0259] The device further includes a valve control lever 26. Triggering the valve control lever 26 opens the fluid passage from the pressurized capsules 23, 23' to the balloon 1. Advantageously, the pressurized capsules 23, 23' are arranged symmetrically with respect to the pipe axis 20 such that the fluid from the pressurized capsules 23, 23' reaches the interior of the balloon 1 in a symmetrical manner.

[0260] The shape of the triggering device is not limited to the control lever 26. A ring can be provided instead of Figure 1 the control lever 26 shown in

[0261] Figure 2 A detailed cross-sectional view of the balloon 1, which is part of a possible embodiment of the signaling device of the present invention, is shown. Figure 2 It also includes components of the inflation device 15; however, only the setting of the balloon 1 is discussed in the Figure 2 description.

[0262] The signaling device of the present invention can also include only Figure 2 the balloon 1 shown. The balloon 1 can be coupled to Figure 2 a rope (not shown in

[0263] The balloon 1 includes an opening 2, and the valve 3 is also placed in this opening 2. The interior 11 of the balloon 1 can be filled with such a fluid etc. via the opening 2, thereby achieving the rotation of the balloon 1 and the change in the size of the balloon 1. Such a balloon 1 is known in the prior art.

[0264] Figure 1 The shown embodiment of the balloon 1 includes a light emitter 6 inside it, and the light emitter includes control means 4 for switching the light emitter 6 on and off.

[0265] The control device 4 is formed such that a change in the length of the switching element 5 of the control device 4 causes the switching (specifically, the turning on) of the light emitter 6. To this end, the first end 9 of the switching element 5 is fixed to the first balloon sub-region 7 of the balloon 1, and the second end 10 of the switching element 5 is fixed to the second balloon sub-region 8 of the balloon 1.

[0266] By introducing fluid into the interior of the balloon 1, the balloon 1 expands and the dimensions of the balloon change. Accordingly, by filling the interior of the balloon with fluid and by the balloon 1 expanding due to the filling of the interior of the balloon 1 with fluid, the balloon sub-regions 7, 8 move apart. The switching element 5 thus undergoes a change in length, causing the light emitter 6 to be switched via the control device 4.

[0267] Accordingly, the light emitter disposed in the interior 11 of the balloon 1 is switched by a change in the length of the control element 4 caused by the expansion of the balloon 1. This process is easy to perform even in an emergency.

[0268] The light emitter 6 disposed in the interior 11 of the balloon 1 has the advantage of illuminating the balloon 1 from the inside. The balloon 1 of the signaling device of the present invention is clearly visible in the dark.

[0269] Figure 1 A favorable special shape of the balloon 1 is shown. The first end 9 of the control element 5 is disposed in the region of the opening 2. The opening 2 also includes a balloon neck 24. This arrangement has the advantage that the control element 5 formed as a rigid element can be easily inserted through the opening 2 together with the light emitter 6 and the control device 4 (if required). Advantageously, the first end 9 can be attached in the region of the opening 2, and the second end 10 is preferably attached relatively on the inner surface of the balloon 1 via an adhesive surface or the like. As Figure 1 shown, the balloon 1 is easy to manufacture.

[0270] The change in the length of the chord of the balloon 1 extending from the opening 2 to the opposite side is a well-determinable change in length. It allows the switching of the light emitter 6 to be well controlled via the switching element 5.

[0271] Preferably, when the balloon 1 has a size sufficient to rise, the light emitter 6 is switched. The control device 4 can also have a hysteresis switch.

[0272] Figure 3 A cross-sectional view of the balloon 1 is shown as part of a possible embodiment of the signaling device of the present invention. The signaling device can also include only Figure 3 the balloon 1 shown.

[0273] As Figure 1 shown and discussed above, the balloon 1 can be inflated by an inflation device 15 as described based on Figure 1 what is described.

[0274] If the operator does not have the inflating device 15, they can blow up the balloon 1 shown as one would blow up an air balloon with their breath. Merely introducing breath or oxygen into the interior of the balloon 1 has the disadvantage that the balloon 1 cannot rise. Such a balloon 1 is not suitable as a signaling device. Figure 1 The interior of the balloon 1 is shown in a detailed cross-sectional view of another embodiment of the balloon 1.

[0275] Figure 3 A detailed cross-sectional view of another embodiment of the balloon 1 is shown.

[0276] Figure 3 The embodiment of the balloon 1 shown includes a gas container 12 having a discharge device 13 disposed in the interior 11 of the balloon 1. Preferably, the gas container 12 is pressurized and filled with the gas to be applied.

[0277] By analogy with the switch of the illuminant 6 described above, a change in the length of the trigger 14 of the discharge device 13 causes the gas container 12 to open and, in turn, causes gas to be discharged from the gas container 12 into the interior 11.

[0278] For this purpose, the first end 9 of the trigger 14 is fixed to the first balloon sub-region 7 of the balloon 1, and the second end 10 of the trigger 14 is fixed to the second balloon sub-region 8 of the balloon 1.

[0279] As the balloon 1 is filled with fluid and as a result of the balloon 1 expanding due to being filled with fluid, the balloon sub-regions 7, 8 move apart.

[0280] By filling the balloon 1 and thereby forcibly changing the length of the trigger 14, it is achieved that the gas container 12 is opened and the gas held in the gas container 12 is introduced into the interior. Thus, Figure 3 The balloon 1 shown is filled by the user's breath in a first method step and by the gas flowing out of the gas container 12 in a second method step. Thus, the balloon 1 is filled with a mixture of breath and gas. The gas held in the interior 11 is sufficient to cause the balloon 1 to rise.

[0281] Figure 2 and Figure 3 The embodiment shown can be carried out independently of the other features of the signaling device of the present invention that are disclosed. Figure 2 and Figure 3 The embodiment shown can constitute an autonomous technical solution.

[0282] Figure 4 An improved embodiment of the embodiment shown is shown. The region above the housing surface 21 is covered by a cover 26. The non-inflated balloon 1 is disposed in the region between the housing surface 21 and the cover 26. The non-inflated or partially inflated balloon 1 is protected by the cover 26 and the housing surface 21. When the balloon 1 expands, Figure 1 The region above the housing surface 21 is covered by a cover 26. The non-inflated balloon 1 is disposed in the region between the housing surface 21 and the cover 26. The non-inflated or partially inflated balloon 1 is protected by the cover 26 and the housing surface 21. When the balloon 1 expands, Figure 4The force states shown and described above apply. Basically, the inflation of the balloon 1 and the resulting force state acting on the lid 26 are controlled by the characteristics of the housing surface 21. The frictional force between the inflated balloon 1 and the housing surface 21 controls the force acting on the inner side generated by inflating the balloon 1 and, in turn, controls the release of the lid 26 from the housing surface 21. It can be ensured that due to the frictional force between the housing surface 21 and the inflated balloon 1, the lid 26 is removed from the housing surface 21 only when the area between the housing surface 21 and the lid 26 is completely filled by the balloon 1.

[0283] The lid 26 can also be connected to the housing surface 21 on one side by a hinge ( Figure 4 not shown in the figure). The hinge can define the shape of the movement for removing the lid 26 from the housing surface 21.

[0284] The lid 26 can also be connected ( Figure 4 not shown in the figure) to the housing surface 21 by a locking mechanism as an exemplary form of a releasable mechanical connection.

[0285] Figures 5 to 9 Another embodiment is shown in various states and views in the figure.

[0286] Figure 5 This other embodiment is shown in the state where the balloon 1 is not inflated. Figure 5 The signal device shown includes a balloon 1 that includes an opening 2. The balloon 1 is made of expandable material and can be expanded by introducing a fluid. The device includes a valve 3 for introducing the fluid into the balloon, and the valve 3 is arranged within the opening 2 in the state where the balloon 1 is not inflated.

[0287] The balloon 1 includes a light emitter 6 that includes a control device 4. The control device 4 can change in length and has a first length in the state where the balloon 1 is not inflated. At this first length, the control device 4 switches the light emitter 6 or deactivates it. The reference numeral 4 indicates the approximate position of the light emitter 6 within the folded balloon 1.

[0288] The first end 9 of the switching element 5 is fixed to the first balloon sub-region 7 of the balloon 1, and the second end 10 of the switching element 5 is fixed to the second balloon sub-region 8 of the balloon 1. Figure 1 The reference numerals 7, 8, and 9 are not included in the figure because the exact lengths of these elements are not depicted.

[0289] The mentioned balloon sub-regions 7, 8 are arranged in the folded balloon 1 such that the balloon sub-regions 7, 8 are prevented from moving apart. Specifically, by filling the balloon 1 with fluid and by the expansion of the balloon 1 due to the filling of the balloon 1 with fluid, the balloon sub-regions 7, 8 are prevented from moving apart in the folded state. By the folded balloon 1 remaining within the enclosed region between the housing surface 21 and the lid 26 placed on the housing surface 21, such a length change or displacement of the switching element 5 and the switching of the light emitter 6 are prevented by these elements.

[0290] In the signaling device shown in the figure, the opening 2 of the balloon 1 is coupled to the inflation device 15. Basically, the entire portion below the folded balloon 1 is referred to as the inflation device 15.

[0291] The inflation device 15 described below can also be employed independently of the balloon 1 having the light emitter 6.

[0292] The inflation device 15 includes a housing 16 and a duct 17, which includes a duct end region 18 facing the opening 2. The opening 2 of the folded balloon 1 surrounds the duct end region by forming an enclosing surface 19. In Figure 5 the opening region of the opening 2 of the balloon 1 is shown by a dashed line. The duct 17 and the duct end region 18 are shown by solid lines.

[0293] The housing 16 includes a flat housing surface 21 in the shape of a angled funnel at a distance from the duct 17 towards the duct axis 20 of the duct 17. The upper end of the duct 17 is formed at the center of the layout of the funnel.

[0294] Until fluid is introduced into the balloon 1, the opening 2 of the balloon 1 is held by a first frictional force (FR1) acting between the enclosing surface 19 and the balloon 1. For this purpose, the relevant surface region of the duct end region 18 can be made rough. It is also feasible for the duct end region 18 to include an adhesive layer to hold the opening 2.

[0295] A coupling element is arranged within the opening 2 of the balloon 1, which is coupled to the inflation device 15, specifically to the duct 17 for introducing fluid into the interior of the folded balloon 1. The coupling element ensures a fluid-tight flow of fluid from the duct 17 into the interior 11 of the folded balloon 1.

[0296] The coupling element can be formed as a sealing ring. The coupling element can be integrally formed with the duct 17.

[0297] In Figure 5 the illustrated embodiment, the housing 16 is formed as a hollow prism with a polygonal layout. The duct axis 20 and the tank axis 22 are arranged to coincide.

[0298] In Figure 5In the arrangement of the pipeline axis 20 or the tank axis 22 shown, the funnel end region 27 of the funnel with a smaller diameter is arranged above the pipeline end region 18. Thus, it can be ensured that the folded balloon 1 is arranged above the pipeline end region 18. This promotes the inflation of the folded balloon 1 because the bends or folds of the folded balloon 1 are minimized.

[0299] The signal device of the present invention is characterized in that: the pipeline 17 is coupled to at least one pressurized capsule 23, and the pressurized capsule 23 is filled with helium. At least one thorn 25 can be driven into each pressurized capsule 23 to open the pressurized capsule. Figure 5 The embodiment includes a rotating element 28 that can rotate around the tank axis 22 to drive the thorn 25. Preferably, the thorn 25 is driven by the rotating element 28 such that the thorn 25 is inserted into the pressurized capsule 23 in a given order rather than simultaneously. Preferably, a single thorn 25 is inserted into the pressurized capsule 23, and then another thorn 25 is inserted into another pressurized capsule 23.

[0300] This continuous introduction of the thorn 25 can be achieved by a mechanical system. It is also feasible that the thorns 25 are arranged in their original positions at different distances from the pressurized capsule 23 or they have different lengths.

[0301] Helium flows from the pressurized capsule 23 into the balloon 1 via the pipeline 17. The openings of the pressurized capsule 23, the thorns 25, the pipeline 17, and the balloon 1 are arranged such that the helium first flows downward and then upward within the pipeline 17. The formation of this subsequent flow direction allows for a favorable arrangement of the rotating element 28 in the lower region of the housing 16. The housing surface 21 is arranged between the rotating element 28 and the cover 26. Figure 6 Shows Figure 5 The external view of the shown embodiment. The user can hold the signal device with one hand on the housing and the other hand on the rotating element 28.

[0302] Figure 6 The shown embodiment can be surrounded by a sheet material that is not visible in Figure 6 . The sheet material can be formed into a waterproof housing.

[0303] Figure 7 Shows Figure 5 And Figure 6 The shown embodiment, where, different from Figure 5 is that the balloon 1 is inflated. The balloon 1 is still connected to the inflation device 15.

[0304] The balloon 1 includes a light emitter 6, and the light emitter includes a control device 4, wherein a change in length or displacement of the switching element 5 of the control device 4 causes the light emitter 6 to be turned on. For this purpose, in Figure 5In the folded state of the balloon 1 shown, the first end 9 of the switching element 5 is fixed to the first balloon sub-region 7 of the balloon 1, and the second end 10 of the switching element 5 is fixed to the second balloon sub-region 8 of the balloon 1. Since the balloon 1 shown is filled with fluid and the balloon expands due to being filled with fluid, the balloon sub-regions 7, 8 will move apart. Thereby, the length change or displacement of the switching element 5 mentioned above will be achieved, and the light emitter 6 is switched. The length change or displacement of the switching element 5 is a gradual process. Figure 6 In the state where the balloon 1 is filled with fluid and the balloon expands due to being filled with fluid, the balloon sub-regions 7, 8 will move apart. Thereby, the length change or displacement of the switching element 5 mentioned above will be achieved, and the light emitter 6 is switched. The length change or displacement of the switching element 5 is a gradual process. Figure 5 A control element is shown, which is characterized by a length change or displacement before the light emitter 6 is turned on.

[0305] The light emitter 6 is arranged at the highest point of the balloon 1. Since the balloon 1 is filled with helium, the light emitter 6 is always at this highest point.

[0306] In Figure 7 In the state shown, the opening 2 of the balloon 1 is coupled to an inflation device 15, which includes a housing 16 and a duct 17, and the duct includes a duct end region 18 facing the opening 2.

[0307] Figure 7 A state of the balloon 1 is shown, in which the opening 2 of the balloon 1 surrounds the duct end region 18 by forming an enclosing surface 19. For this purpose, preferably, the opening 2 has elastic properties. During Figure 7 In the state shown, a first frictional force (FR1) acting between the enclosing surface 19 and the balloon 1 holds the balloon 1.

[0308] In addition, a second frictional force (FR2) acts between the funnel-shaped housing surface 21 and the inflated balloon 1. The second frictional force (FR2) decreases as the size of the balloon 1 increases and gradually releases from the housing surface 21. Figure 7 A state of the balloon 1 is shown, in which the balloon 1 only partially contacts the housing surface 21.

[0309] The holding forces FR1 and FR2 mentioned are canceled by the inflation force FL1 generated by the introduction into the balloon 1 and the repulsive force component (FL2) between the inflated balloon 1 and the housing surface 21. These forces depend on the balance.

[0310] In Figure 7 In the state of the balloon 1 shown, the balloon 1 is still provided with a coupling element located on the duct 17.

[0311] In Figure 5 In the depiction of the signaling device shown, the cover 26 is arranged to be clamped around the circumference of the housing surface 21. Since the balloon 1 expands and thus occupies space, the clamping of the cover 26 is released, and the cover 26 is opened by rotating around the bearing 29.

[0312] Figure 8 shows Figures 5 to 7 an embodiment of the signal device shown, in which the balloon 1 is fully inflated.

[0313] Since the balloon 1 expands and thus changes its shape, this expansion and shape change can be seen from Figures 5 to 7 the depiction, achieving a change in length or displacement of the illuminant 6.

[0314] The first end 9 of the switch element 5 is fixed to the first balloon sub-region 7 of the balloon 1. Due to the balloon expansion and the associated change in length or displacement of the switch element 4 to a second length, the second end 10 of the switch element 5 is released from the second balloon sub-region 8 of the balloon 1. This change in length or displacement of the switch element 4 causes the illuminant 6 to be turned on by the control device 4 before the second end 10 is released from the second sub-region 8.

[0315] In Figure 7 the depiction, helium flows from at least one gas container 23 into the balloon 1. This process is independent of the switching of the illuminant 6 and the force state acting on the balloon 1. Helium flows into the pipe 17 and then further into the balloon 1 from at least one gas container 23 via the pressure chamber 39 and the valve.

[0316] Viewed in the flow direction, the valve 38 is arranged at the end of the pressure chamber 39. The amount of flowing gas is controlled using the valve 38 in the pressure chamber 39 to prevent noise generation.

[0317] The pressure chamber 39 can concentrate the gas flow from the container 23 and direct them to the valve 38 and the pipe 17. The pressure chamber 39 can be made of a reinforcing material to be able to hold the pressure.

[0318] In Figure 8 the state of the embodiment shown, the illuminant 6 is arranged at the highest point of the balloon 1, which is defined by the introduction of helium into the balloon 1 and the geometry of the balloon 1. The illuminant 6 is arranged inside or on the balloon 1, opposite the opening 2.

[0319] For example, as an addition or alternative to the illuminant, the balloon 1 can also include other electronic or electrical devices, such as a transmitter.

[0320] Since the balloon 1 is inflated with helium, the balloon 1 rises and thus is removed from the housing 16 (specifically the housing surface 21). There is no force holding the balloon 1. The coupling element is pulled off from the pipe 17.

[0321] The balloon 1 is connected to the inflation device 15 via a rope. The rope is stored on a winch in a pay-outable manner.

[0322] The balloon 1 has a surface with reflective properties. The surface of the balloon 1 can be arranged in the lower region of the balloon 1, opposite to the light emitter 6.

[0323] Figure 9 The housing 19 with the cover 26 open is shown, and then the inflated balloon 1 and the cord 30 are removed.

[0324] Figure 10 A three - dimensional depiction of the triggering device is shown in a simplified manner. The triggering device is used to insert the spike 25 into the pressurized capsule 23 so that the fluid stored in the pressurized capsule 23 for inflating the balloon 1 is released. Figure 10 The depiction in does not show the elements required to ensure the inflow of gas from the gas container into the balloon. The triggering device can also operate independently of the balloon described above and / or the inflation device 15 described above.

[0325] For clarity, the balloon 1 and other elements (not directly referred to in the following description of Figure 10 are not included in Figure 10 .

[0326] Figure 10 The rotating element 28 is shown. The user rotates the rotating element 28 in the shown direction. This rotation is transmitted to the first gear element 31. The rotating element 28 and the first gear element 31 are engaged via an invisible recess within the rotating element and a visible protrusion 33 arranged within the first gear element 31. It is also possible to integrally form the first gear element 31 and the rotating element 23.

[0327] The first gear element 31 is engaged with the second gear element 32 via a guide 34. The guide converts the rotational movement of the rotating element 28 into a linear movement of the second gear element 34, such that the second gear element 34 and the spike 25 applied to the second gear element 34 move linearly and parallel to the axis of rotation of the rotational movement of the rotating element 28. The spike 25 is inserted into the pressurized capsule 23 by this linear movement. The spikes of the spike 25 have different distances from the corresponding pressurized capsule, so that the spike 25 is continuously inserted into the pressurized capsule 23.

[0328] The guide 34 is formed by a first guide element 35 of the first gear element 31 and a second guide element 36 of the second gear element 32. The first guide element 35 in the shape of a protrusion slides along an inclined surface as the second guide element 36 around the axis of rotation, thereby converting the rotational movement of the first guide element 35 into a linear movement of the second guide element 36. The first guide element 34 is guided by the surrounding edge 37 of the second gear element 32 and / or by a cylindrical protrusion of the second gear element 32 ( Figure 10 and Figure 11A guide (not shown in the figure) is provided, and the first guide element 35 surrounds the protrusion.

[0329] Figure 11 The second gear element 32 is shown in detail.

[0330] Figure 12 The possible shapes of the spike 25 are shown.

[0331] Figure 13 An additional pulling-off device 40 for pulling off the balloon 1 or the opening 2 of the balloon 1 from the pipe end region 18 is shown. For example, the pulling-off device 40 can be combined with Figures 1 to 3 the device shown or Figures 4 to 12 the device shown.

[0332] The pulling-off device 40 includes a recess 41, which preferably has a circular shape. The pulling-off device 40 further includes a handle 42, which extends in the radial direction from the circular opening 41.

[0333] Figure 14 A bottom view and a top view of the use of the pulling-off device 41 are shown. The embodiments described above can be combined with the pulling-off device 43.

[0334] The pulling-off device 40 is arranged on the inflation device 15 such that the neck of the balloon 1 together with the opening 2 extends through the recess 41. By pulling the handle 42 of the pulling-off device 40, the opening 2 of the balloon 1 is pulled off from the pipe end region 18. In the preferred embodiment shown herein, the handle 42 has the shape of an arrow, showing the direction of the pull to be applied.

Claims

1. A signal device, comprising: a balloon (1) including an opening (2), said balloon (1) being capable of expanding by introducing a fluid via said opening (2) and via a valve (3) arranged within said opening (2), characterized in that: said balloon (1) further includes a light emitter (6), said light emitter including a control device (4), wherein, a change in length or displacement of a switching element (5) of said control device (4) causes said light emitter (6) to be turned on, wherein, a first end (9) of said switching element (5) is fixed to a first balloon sub-region (7) of said balloon (1), and wherein, a second end (10) of said switching element (5) is fixed to a second balloon sub-region (8) of said balloon (1), by filling said balloon (1) with said fluid and by said balloon (1) expanding due to filling said balloon (1) with said fluid, the balloon sub-regions (7, 8) move apart, thereby achieving a change in length and / or displacement of said switching element (5) and said light emitter (6) is thereby switched on and off.

2. The signal device according to claim 1, characterized in that: said light emitter (6) is arranged inside said balloon (1), or said light emitter (6) is incorporated into the outer shell of said balloon (1), or said light emitter (6) is arranged on the outer shell of said balloon (1).

3. The signal device according to any one of claims 1 to 2, characterized in that: said first balloon sub-region (7) is arranged in the region of said opening (2), and / or said second balloon sub-region (8) is arranged opposite to said first balloon sub-region (7).

4. A signal device, comprising: a balloon (1) including an opening (2), said balloon (1) being capable of expanding by introducing a fluid via said opening (2) and via a valve (3) arranged within said opening (2), characterized in that: said balloon (1) further includes a light emitter (6) inside the balloon, said light emitter including a control device (4), said control device (4) is coupled to an input unit via radio communication, said input unit sends a signal for switching said light emitter (6) on and off to said control device (4) when triggered by a person.

5. A signal device, comprising: a balloon (1) including an opening (2), said balloon (1) being capable of expanding by introducing a fluid via said opening (2) and via a valve (3) arranged within said opening (2), characterized in that: a transmitter is arranged inside said balloon.

6. The signal device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that: said opening (2) of said balloon (1) is coupled to an inflation device (15), said inflation device (15) includes a housing (16) and a pipe (17), said pipe including a pipe end region (18) facing said opening (2), said opening (2) surrounds said pipe end region (18) by forming an enclosing surface (19). The housing (16) includes a housing surface (21) shaped as a rounded or angled funnel at a distance from the pipe (17) towards the pipe axis (20) of the pipe (17), and the housing surface is curved or straight. Wherein, when the fluid is introduced into the balloon (1), on the one hand, the first frictional force (FR1) acting between the surrounding surface (19) and the balloon (1) and the second frictional force (FR2) acting between the housing surface (21) and the inflated balloon (1) and On the other hand, the expansion force (FL1) generated by the introduction into the balloon (1) and the repulsive force component (FL2) between the inflated balloon (1) and the housing surface (21) are balanced.

7. The signaling device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, Characterized in that: The opening (2) of the balloon (1) is coupled to an inflation device (15), The inflation device (15) includes a housing (16) and a pipe (17), and the pipe includes a coupling element facing the opening (2), The coupling element allows the fluid to flow from the pipe (17) into the interior (11) of the balloon (1) in a fluid-tight manner, Wherein, the opening (2) can be released from the coupling element by overcoming resistance, Wherein, when the fluid is introduced into the balloon (1), on the one hand, the resistance acting between the coupling force and the opening (2) and the second frictional force (FR2) acting between the housing surface (21) and the inflated balloon (1) and On the other hand, the expansion force (FL1) generated by the introduction into the balloon (1) and the repulsive force component (FL2) between the inflated balloon (1) and the housing surface (21) are balanced.

8. The signaling device according to any one of claims 6 to 7, Characterized in that: In a vertical arrangement of the pipe axis (20) or the tank axis (22), the funnel end region (27) of the funnel with a smaller diameter is arranged above the pipe end region (18).

9. The signaling device according to any one of claims 6 to 8, Characterized in that: The signaling device includes a pull-off element (40) for manually releasing the coupling element from the pipe (17).

10. The signaling device according to any one of claims 6 to 9, Characterized in that: The balloon (1) is connected to the inflation device (15) via a rope (30).

11. The signaling device according to any one of claims 6 to 10, Characterized in that: The inflation device (15) includes a plurality of spikes (25), and each spike is inserted into a corresponding pressurized capsule (23), The spikes (25) have different extension lengths in the direction of the corresponding capsules to be opened.

12. The signaling device according to any one of claims 6 to 11, Characterized in that: The inflation device (15) includes a control rod (26) or a rotary element (28) or a pushing element, each serving as a corresponding triggering device for releasing a fluid flow from the pressurized capsule (23) into the balloon (1).

13. The signal device according to any one of claims 1 to 12, characterized in that: the signal device is arranged within a housing, the housing being opened by the inflation of the balloon (1).

14. The signal device according to claim 13, characterized in that: the housing includes two elements movable relative to each other, wherein one element serves as a triggering element for releasing the gas held within the pressurized capsule (23).

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