Leakage sail

Abstract

Leakage sail with at least one buoyancy body (6, 8) which can be brought into a position against the hull of an underwater vessel and which can be filled with pressure medium via a pressure medium source (28, 128), wherein a flexible attachment (58) of the buoyancy body (6, 8) is designed such that it substantially seals a leak by frictional and / or positive attachment to the hull, wherein the buoyancy body (6, 8) has a flexible tensioning element (12, 14), characterized in that a depth indicator is attached to the tensioning element (12, 14) or to a measuring rope (82) attached thereto.

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a leak sail for sealing a hull or the like.

[0002] In the following, the term "hull" refers to any floating body. This could be, for example, the hull of a ship (motor-, muscle-, or wind-powered), a board, or any other element that can move in the water or be lowered to the bottom.

[0003] Furthermore, the term pressure medium is to be understood as having a lower density than water and thus serving as a buoyancy agent.

[0004] DE 199 21 670 A1 discloses a hull buoyancy device. This known hull buoyancy device has at least two buoyancy bodies (floaters) connected to each other via a frictional connection. The floaters are inflatable and, when deflated, can be positioned on either side of the keel line of a ship's hull. The frictional connection extends transversely across this keel line, so that the two buoyancy bodies are arranged on either side of the keel line. After positioning, the buoyancy bodies are supplied with compressed air, so that the volume increase of the buoyancy bodies creates buoyancy sufficient to raise the ship and make it maneuverable again.

[0005] DE 32 27 348 A1 discloses a hull buoyancy device with elongated floaters that extend essentially along the entire length of the underwater hull. These floaters are also firmly attached to the hull with ropes.

[0006] Such hull buoyancy devices are not suitable for covering a leak in the hull, for example, in the event of an accident. Typically, leak covers are made of cloth or sails that are attached to the outside of the hull to cover the leak and prevent water from entering. Therefore, measures must be taken as quickly as possible to remove any water that continues to penetrate from the interior of the ship. Furthermore, positioning the leak cover is relatively complex, and there is no guarantee that it will remain in the predetermined covering position in rough seas.

[0007] In contrast, the invention is based on the object of creating a leak sail which has a simplified handling in the event of an accident.

[0008] This object is achieved by a leak sail having the features of patent claim 1.

[0009] Advantageous further developments of the invention are the subject of the subclaims.

[0010] The leak sail according to the invention has at least one floater that can be brought into a sealing position against the side of an underwater vessel to seal a leak and that can be filled with pressurized fluid via a pressure medium source. A flexible floater system is designed to rest tightly, frictionally, and / or positively against the side of the vessel, thus ensuring reliable sealing of the leak and preventing or at least minimizing water ingress.

[0011] The floater or its support can thus be designed in such a way that it remains in the predetermined position without additional holding means.

[0012] The term “leakage sail” is based on the conventional term – in principle, it is a sealing device for floating bodies that does not have to be designed like a sail.

[0013] For the "frictional connection" variant, it is intended that a static friction with the hull can be created, established, and maintained via the flexible system. In principle, this floater system is preferably designed so that it can be held in its position on the hull even without the aforementioned connecting devices.

[0014] If the side wall is approximately horizontal in the area of ​​the buoyancy position or has an angle of less than 65 degrees to the horizontal, this is usually possible without major technical effort. As the side wall becomes steeper (e.g., 65 to 75 degrees to the horizontal), increasing demands are placed on the static friction between the flexible system and the side wall, so the flexible system must be (increasingly) rough or adhesive.

[0015] For the "positive fit" connection variant, it is advantageous if the side of the ship is uneven, e.g. due to the shape of the underwater hull for guiding the water flow, in particular if it is designed with longitudinal grooves or longitudinal webs. For this purpose, the flexible system is designed so that it can adapt to the given unevenness of the side of the ship. A certain elastic deformability of the flexible system can be helpful here, so that its inner areas can still extend into a recess (e.g. longitudinal groove) in the side of the ship when the outer edge is already pressed on and fixed. The second connection variant can also be seen as a mixture of positive fit and friction fit. The system is preferably also designed to be sealing.

[0016] The form fit can be improved if the flexible system has structures running parallel to the longitudinal grooves or longitudinal webs in the transverse direction, e.g. in the buoyancy position.

[0017] If the flexible system has a concave shape, it can optimally adapt to most ship's sides and create the frictional and / or positive locking mechanism according to the invention. Furthermore, the penetration of water between the flexible system of the filled floater and the ship's side can be made more difficult. This makes it easier to maintain the frictional and / or positive locking mechanism according to the invention. Furthermore, the concave shape can also improve the tightness of the leakage sail.

[0018] In a particularly preferred embodiment, a pressure chamber receptacle is formed on the flexible system or integrally with the flexible system, into which a pressure chamber is inserted. In the "positive fit" connection variant, it is advantageous if the pressure chamber is also designed to be flexible enough to adapt to the given shape of the side wall, in particular to longitudinal grooves or longitudinal webs.

[0019] The pressure chamber mount can completely surround the pressure chamber, providing particularly good protection and reducing wear resistance requirements. Alternatively, the pressure chamber mount can consist of mounting sections (e.g., evenly distributed around the circumference) with drainage openings between them.

[0020] The pressure chamber can be approximately ring-shaped, and the outer edge of the pressure chamber mount can be approximately circular. Additionally, the pressure chamber mount can have a circumferential inner wall. A truck or tractor tire tube, which is also available inexpensively on the market, is suitable as the pressure chamber. A concentric design allows for self-centering of the pressure chamber in the pressure chamber mount.

[0021] If the flexible system is also circular, it is preferred if the pressure chamber is also concentric with the flexible system and smaller than the flexible system itself. This eliminates a disadvantage of the elongated floaters of DE 32 27 348 A1, which could cover the intake opening for the engine cooling water, as they extend the entire length of the underwater hull.

[0022] The pressure medium source can be a pump that is operated manually or electrically, for example, with a battery. The pressure medium source can also comprise a pressure accumulator, in particular a compressed air cylinder.

[0023] The second aspect of the invention, "frictional engagement and / or positive engagement," can be further developed according to the first aspect. More specifically, a device for connecting the pressure chamber of the floater to a pressure medium sink can be provided to reduce the pressure medium pressure or to partially empty the pressure chamber in the buoyancy position.

[0024] This device can be a valve, e.g. a pilot-operated check valve, and the pressure medium sink can be the environment.

[0025] The pressure medium sink and the pressure medium source can also be formed jointly by the pump with reversible conveying device.

[0026] According to one embodiment of the invention, the leak sail is "vacuum packed," meaning that by applying a vacuum via the aforementioned pressure medium sink or via factory-provided measures, any air or other gas present in the floaters and other pressure medium flow paths is sucked out, thus reducing the packaging volume of the leak sail to a minimum. The weight of the leak sail is designed to be greater than the buoyancy of the entire assembly, so that the leak sail sinks under its own weight and can thus be easily positioned under the hull without additional weights. Furthermore, by applying the vacuum, the packaging volume of the entire assembly is minimized, requiring very little storage space. The dead weight of the leak sail can be adjusted using an additional weight or the like.

[0027] For handling, the floater may have a flexible traction device attached to the upper side of the body. This can extend across the entire inside of the flexible device and also have a downwardly projecting section.

[0028] If the flexible traction device is a belt, twisting can be prevented. If the belt is two-colored, for example, two-layered, twisting can be detected and prevented even more easily.

[0029] Preferably, the flexible traction means can also be used as a fastening means for securing the floater in the buoyancy position to an area of ​​the hull located above a waterline.

[0030] If a pressure line is routed along or within the flexible traction device, this can serve as strain relief for the pressure line. The pressure line is preferably located on the outside of the traction device, i.e., on the side of the traction device facing away from the fuselage.

[0031] If the pressure line is accommodated in the traction device, which is designed as a two-layer belt or as a fabric hose (fire hose), it is particularly well protected.

[0032] A depth indicator is preferred, which is attached to the flexible traction device or to a measuring rope attached to it, for example in the form of changing colors or numbers, via which the depth of the floater can be displayed.

[0033] If a lowering weight (lead line) is provided whose weight is greater than the buoyancy of the floater when empty, the empty floater can be lowered to the desired position on the side of the boat to the buoyancy position. The lowering weight is preferably attached to the downwardly projecting portion. The lowering weight can be designed as a ring. This variant can be advantageous if the deadweight of the leeward sail is not greater than the buoyancy force acting during lowering.

[0034] In a versatile development of the inventive leeward sail, the floater is also designed as a mudguard support, so that it can laterally support the hull in the event of a dry landing. In this case, a certain degree of wear resistance and, due to the uneven loading, high tear resistance are required on the outer side of the floater.

[0035] For space-saving storage and / or repeated use, the floater is preferably rollable or foldable when deflated. The flexible system can then serve as the outer surface of the rolled-up or folded floater.

[0036] If the pump has a reversible conveying device to generate the vacuum, or if a Venturi nozzle is provided through which the pressure chamber of the floater can be emptied as far as possible, the floater will then have a minimal packing volume.

[0037] In a leeward sail with two floaters, these are connected to each other via a connecting device. The connecting device can be attached to the two downwardly projecting sections or to the two lowering weights. To reduce the number of parts, the connecting device can be designed as the lowering weight. The connecting device can be adjustable in length to adapt to different hulls or to different locations on the hull.

[0038] A variation in the height and / or position of the two buoyancy positions of the two floaters can be adjusted by varying the connection points and thus varying the oblique tensioning of the two fastening means in an approximately horizontal direction on the hull (above the waterline), in particular if the connecting means remains in the same place under the keel.

[0039] It is particularly preferred if the two floaters of the leeboard and the respective depth indicators are designed symmetrically. For example, if a person positions the corresponding floater on each side of the hull, the depths indicated by the depth indicators of the two floaters can be compared before they are filled with the pressure fluid. This allows for the hull to be lifted evenly by the two symmetrically positioned floaters.

[0040] A uniform lifting of the hull during inflation with pressure fluid can be ensured or enabled with a Y-adapter designed as a trim valve, which connects the pressure fluid source to the two pressure chambers of the floaters. This allows the distribution of the pressure fluid flowing to the two floaters to be controlled.

[0041] A check valve is advantageously provided between the Y-adapter and each pressure chamber to safely maintain the inflation pressure of the affected floater. If the check valve can be unlocked, a side of the hull that has been raised too far can be lowered slightly and any tilt can be corrected.

[0042] Furthermore, a bag or a case can be provided to hold the at least one floater and the associated components, or the at least one floater is stowed in a box on deck.

[0043] According to the invention, a device for connecting the floaters to a pressure medium sink can further be provided, via which the pressure medium pressure can be reduced in the buoyancy position.

[0044] This makes it possible to release some of the pressure fluid, such as air, to change the floater's effective position, making it easier to move them along the underwater hull. To remove the dam, the pressure fluid can be completely sucked out or drained through the pressure fluid drain, making removal significantly easier. The floaters can be subjected to a vacuum for suction.

[0045] In one embodiment of the invention, the pressure medium source and the pressure medium sink are formed by a pump with a reversible flow direction. The device can also be a valve through which the floaters can be connected to the pressure medium sink for filling and to the environment for draining. Draining is assisted by the water pressure.

[0046] To improve the positioning of the leak sail, each floater can be assigned a fastening device to fix the respective floater in the respective sealing position.

[0047] To adjust the floater position, the connecting element is preferably designed to be adjustable in length.

[0048] Bringing the leak sail into the sealing position is simplified if the connecting means is designed as or with a lowering weight that is at least heavy enough to overcome the buoyancy force of the floaters when unfilled.

[0049] In one embodiment, the floaters are designed to provide lateral support for the hull when it runs dry, for example, in tidal waters – the floater in question then acts as a mudflat support. It is particularly advantageous if the geometry of the floater is optimized with regard to lateral support of the hull.

[0050] Storing the leak sail is particularly easy if the floaters can be rolled up or folded when deflated.

[0051] It is particularly preferred if the entire unit is arranged in a pocket.

[0052] In one embodiment of the invention, the floaters are ring-shaped.

[0053] Preferred embodiments of the invention are explained in more detail below with reference to schematic drawings. They show:

[0054] Fig. 1 a schematic diagram of a recovery device with two fuselage buoyancy devices;

[0055] Fig. 2 the rescue facility according to Fig. 1 in a state attached to a vessel;

[0056] Fig. 3 a leak sail in individual representation;

[0057] Fig. 4 the basic procedure of a rescue using a rescue device in accordance with Fig. 1 and Fig. 2;

[0058] Fig. 5 a cross-section of a fuselage with a floater with frictional, preferably sealing, fastening in a schematic representation;

[0059] Fig. 6 a cross-section of a fuselage with a floater with positive, preferably sealing fastening in a schematic representation;

[0060] Fig. 7 the floater Fig. 6 with a pressure chamber and with a part of a pressure chamber receptacle;

[0061] Fig. 8 a connection of an upper belt to the floater made of Fig. 7;

[0062] Fig. 9 a connection of a lower protruding section to the floater from Fig. 7;

[0063] Fig. 10 a section of a double-sided leak sail in a schematic representation;

[0064] Fig. 11 a section of a depth indicator;

[0065] Fig. 12 a trim valve for the double-sided leak sail according to Fig. 10 with a common hose;

[0066] Fig. 13 a trim valve for the double-sided leak sail according to Fig. 10 with a pressure accumulator;

[0067] Fig. 14 views of a further embodiment of a leak sail according to the invention;

[0068] Fig. 15 an exploded view of the leak sail according to Fig. 14;

[0069] Fig. 16 one Fig. 14a corresponding detailed view of a leak sail;

[0070] Fig. 17 a Fig. 16 corresponding representation with partially opened inspection opening;

[0071] Fig. 18, Fig. 19, Fig. 20 and Fig. 21 Detailed representations of the leak sail according to the Fig. 14 to Fig. 17 and

[0072] Fig. 22 a view of a variant of the embodiment according to the Fig. 14 to Fig. 21.

[0073] Fig. 1 shows a schematic diagram of a rescue device according to the invention 1 , which has two fuselage buoyancy devices as described in the applicant's parallel application, which are connected by means of a longitudinal connection 4 are connected to each other. Each hull buoyancy device 2 , 2‘ can also be used as a leak sail as described below 2 , 2‘ be used.

[0074] In the embodiment shown, each fuselage buoyancy device has two floaters 6 , 8 , each with a connecting means 10 are connected to each other. In this embodiment, each floater 6 , 8 Fasteners 12 , 14 formed, via which the respective fuselage buoyancy device 2 , 2’in the deck area of ​​the watercraft, for example a ship 16 ( Fig. 2), can be determined.

[0075] The longitudinal connection 4 is secured by one or more ropes 18 formed by a multitude of loops 20 the floater 6 are guided, forming a zigzag-shaped connection. Of course, a plurality of parallel ropes or the like can also be provided.

[0076] Fig. 2 shows the rescue facility 1 in a ship 16 , in this case a motor yacht, in its attached state. For example, there is a hull buoyancy device 2 in the bow area and the other hull buoyancy device 2’ in the rear area, so that the entire hull can be raised. The longitudinal connection 4 is adjustable so that the positioning of the fuselage buoyancy devices2 , 2’ in the stern and bow area and is adjustable to different ship lengths.

[0077] According to the presentation in Fig. 2 are the fastening means 12 from the waterline 22 out upwards into the deck area 24 and secured there to a cleat or a winch, so that the respective hull buoyancy device 2 , 2’ The positioning is done in such a way that the two floaters 6 , 8 on both sides of a keel line 26 on the hull of the ship 16 so that in the page display according to Fig. 2 only the floaters 6 the respective fuselage buoyancy device 2 , 2’ are visible.

[0078] The Floaters 6 , 8are designed as inflatable bodies. It is preferred that these are inflated according to Fig. 2 positioned in their respective buoyancy position (in the stern and / or bow area) and then by means of a pump 28 The buoyancy that comes with filling the floaters 6 , 8 pressed against the hull wall or side walls and additionally positioned, whereby the respective floaters 6 , 8 via the connecting element running across the keel line 10 (see Fig. 1) are connected to each other. This pressing action can be used to seal a leak in the hull or to bring a sealing element into contact with the leak. The pressure lines 30 for the filling medium or pressure medium, preferably air, are preferably also integrated into the fuselage buoyancy device 2 , 2’integrated and do not need to be installed separately. The pump 28 or the other conveying device is designed to be reversible in its conveying direction, so that the floaters 6 , 8 can also be emptied via this device, for example to change the position or to empty the entire fuselage buoyancy device 2 , 2’ or rescue facility 1 Without such emptying, the change in relative position or the loss due to the considerable buoyancy of the floaters 6 , 8 and the associated loading into the position against the hull is considerably more difficult. As explained above, the floater(s) 6 , 8and the pressure-carrying lines of the leakage sail are emptied / evacuated before stowing. The weight of the leakage sail, including the supply lines and connecting elements, is designed so that the resulting dead weight is greater than the buoyancy force acting during lowering. This means that the floater / leakage sail can be positioned in the designated area without additional weight. Furthermore, this evacuation ensures a particularly compact packaging and design, minimizing storage space and facilitating handling during stowing.

[0079] The pump 28 can therefore act both in the direction of pressure build-up and pressure reduction (pressure medium source, pressure medium sink). The pump 28 can be manually operated or motorized.

[0080] In principle, it is also possible to provide a separate pressure medium source and a separate draining device, both of which are connected to the respective pressure line 30 A valve can also be provided that in a switching position the floaters 6 , 8 with the pump 28 and in another switching position connects to the atmosphere so that the air is released, with the water pressure assisting the emptying.

[0081] Fig. Figure 3a shows an embodiment of a leak sail or a hull buoyancy device that can be used with a recovery device described above. In this embodiment, the two floaters 6 , 8 each ring-shaped. In the specific embodiment, each floater 6 , 8For example, they are formed by a truck tire tube or similar, which is characterized by maximum robustness and high buoyancy and is perfectly suitable for such an application. Of course, other floaters can also be used.

[0082] In Fig. 3a are the floaters 6 , 8 shown in the inflated state. In this view you can see that each floater 6 , 8 with a tarpaulin or cover 32 into which the respective floater 6 , 8 after releasing the air (evacuation) via the pressure medium sink according to Fig. 3b, so that the storage space is minimal. To fix the position, this cover can 32 with a Velcro strap 34 be fixed.

[0083] As explained, the connection of the two floaters 6 , 8 via the connecting means 10, the end sections of which have suitable tabs 36 , 38 a section of the annular floater 6 , 8 Specifically, the connecting element 10 in sections as a chain 40 whose weight is designed so that the weight force is greater than the buoyancy of the floaters 6 , 8 in the deflated state. In the buoyancy position, the chain extends 40 across the keel line 26 To avoid damage, the chain 40 in the plant area by a cover 42 which rests against the hull in the buoyancy position.

[0084] Diametrically to the loops 36 , 38 are the fasteners 12 , 14 on the floaters 6 , 8 This fastening can also be done using tabs or similar.

[0085] Each of the floaters 6, 8 is equipped with a valve 44 , 44’ to which a pressure line 30 These pressure lines 30 run in a Y-adapter 48 which in turn is connected via a hose 50 connected to the pressure medium source / pressure medium sink. In the illustrated embodiment, a hand- or motor-operated pump 28 with reversible conveying direction.

[0086] Such pumps 28 are available on the market and can, for example, be battery-operated.

[0087] After use, as described above, the pump 28 the pressure medium from the floaters 6 , 8 The pump can 28 be designed so that a vacuum can be created so that any air is removed from the interior and the storage volume of the floaters 6 , 8is minimal.

[0088] In a subsequent, in Fig. 3b, the floaters 6 , 8 of the leak sail is then rolled up and the cover 32 closed, so that two approximately cylindrical floater bodies are created, from which the other pressure medium connections extend.

[0089] This entire unit can then, as in Fig. 3c shown, very compact in a case 52 be stowed away.

[0090] The Fig. The variant shown in Figure 3 is characterized by a very compact design with minimal storage volume, so that such a unit can easily be carried on any larger boat. In principle, it is also possible to integrate the leaking sail into the hull wall, so that the hull can be sealed in the event of an accident. The sealing of the floater 6 , 8On the hull, reliable sealing is guaranteed even when the watercraft is moving.

[0091] Another possible application is that the floaters 6 , 8 Their geometry is designed so that if the boat runs aground in tidal waters, the hull is supported laterally and thus remains in a relatively upright position – the leeward sail then replaces a mooring support. The support position can be adjusted by varying the floater inflation pressure.

[0092] The inflatable leak sail can also be used as a recovery device.

[0093] The function of the rescue facility is illustrated by the Fig. 4 explained.

[0094] It is assumed that a ship 16 or motorboat with its stern area or its drive onto a shoal 54In this case, further travel is not possible without damaging the propulsion / stern area. Normally, for example, in tidal waters, the next high tide would have to be waited for, or a recovery vehicle would have to be used to tow the ship. 16 This can be solved much more easily with the rescue device according to the invention.

[0095] According to the presentation in Fig. 4b the rescue facility 1 with the two longitudinally connected fuselage buoyancy devices 2 , 2’ (or leaky sails 2 , 2‘ ) from the bow area under the hull, whereby the floaters 6 , 8 are arranged on different sides of the fuselage. The fuselage buoyancy devices 2 , 2’ are then placed along the keel line 26 into the area of ​​the shallows 54guided and in the desired position via the fasteners 12 in the deck area 24 of the ship 16 The floaters are then 6 , 8 as shown in Fig. 4c filled with pressure medium (marked by the small arrows and the dashed lines), so that the buoyancy of the floaters 6 , 8 raised and accordingly the stern from the shallows 54 lifted or the leak can be sealed (see Fig. 4d). After takeoff, the ship can 16 drive out of the emergency area using motor power. The compressed air is then released from the floaters via the pressure medium sink. 6 , 8 pumped out or drained, so that they can be easily pulled forward to the bow. The floaters 6 , 8or their contact surface on the fuselage wall is preferably designed so that the floaters 6 , 8 held in the predetermined area by force or form. The fastening elements 12 are therefore only used to position the floaters – the holding force is preferably generated by the appropriate design of the system on the torso.

[0096] The floaters' buoyancy is designed to be sufficient to achieve a tight seal against the leak or the surrounding hull sections. Different floater sizes can be provided depending on the ship's displacement.

[0097] Fig. 5 shows an embodiment of a single floater 6 a one-sided fuselage buoyancy device 2 with a port or starboard side of the corresponding hull of a ship 16 in cross-section. The floater 6was moved to the desired installation or sealing position 56 of the underwater hull and then filled with the pressure medium serving as a buoyancy agent, whereby Fig. 5 the floater 6 in its filled state. The floater has 6 the shape of a roughly circular cushion and also has a flexible system 58 , with which it rests against the side of the boat and transfers its always vertical buoyancy force A to the side of the boat.

[0098] The buoyancy force A is compensated by the sum of a normal force N and a friction force R to be transmitted by friction. Since the side wall in the area of ​​the buoyancy position 56 an inclination of approximately 45° relative to the horizontal or the waterline 22the normal force N is approximately as large as the friction force R to be transmitted, so that the normal force is comparatively large in relation to the friction force R. In this consideration, the part that increases the normal force is not taken into account, which results from the force acting on the floaters 6 , 8 in contact with the hull, whereby this normal force resulting from the water pressure is only effective when the floater is in sealing contact with the hull wall with its hull-side surface and therefore no water pressure is effective here.

[0099] This means that Fig. 5 shown embodiment of the floater 6 the buoyancy force A or the normal force required for sealing even without a force-locking connection – in particular without a rope that is below the keel line 26 runs – onto the ship 16 This is achieved by a frictional connection between the flexible system58 of the floater 6 and the side wall.

[0100] If, in deviation from the Fig. 5 shown buoyancy position 56 If a higher buoyancy position is selected, in which the example side is steeper, the normal force N becomes smaller and the friction force R to be transmitted to compensate for the buoyancy increases. This reduces the normal force N and thus the sealing effect, which is, however, also supported by the water pressure acting approximately in the direction of the normal force. If this ratio falls below a critical value, the friction coefficient must be improved. This can be achieved, for example, by a particular roughness of the flexible system. 58 happen.

[0101] Fig. 6 shows a representation of a ship 16 and a single floater 6 basically comparable to the embodiment according to Fig. 5. Deviating from the embodiment according to Fig. 5 has the ship 16 on the side shown in its side wall two longitudinal grooves 60 , which serve to guide the flow at faster speeds. The flexible system 58 is designed in such a way that it can adapt to such unevenness of the side wall, at least to a certain extent, and thus virtually creates a form fit between the floater 6 and the side wall can generate.

[0102] Furthermore, in Fig. 6 shows that the flexible system 58 a surrounding protruding edge 61 which forms a seal against the fuselage. With this increase in area, the sealing surface of the flexible system 58 and thus the leak sail 2 , 2‘ enlarged.

[0103] In Fig. 6 is still the inside of the floater 6 schematically shown. There, a circular flexible pressure chamber holder 62formed, which has an essentially circular cylindrical inner wall 64 In the pressure chamber 62 is a pressure chamber designed as a tractor or truck hose 66 This is also designed to be flexible and elastic so that it can adapt to the unevenness of the side wall, at least to a certain extent, in order to ensure the form fit and the sealing system of the floater 6 to generate.

[0104] It is particularly preferred if, in the case of an uneven side wall, Fig. 6 or e.g. due to the mussel growth both inventive forms of the invention, i.e. in addition to the form fit also the frictional connection of the floater 6 with the side wall.

[0105] Fig. 7 shows the floater 6 out of Fig. 6 in a perspective view. In the rear area, an outer shell 67partially cut off and removed, so that the circular pressure chamber 66 is exposed.

[0106] In a front area of ​​the Fig. 7 it can be seen that the outer shell 67 of the floater 6 a circular top 68 has, over whose concentric circular inner seam 70 which (with reference to Fig. 6 explained) inner wall 64 the pressure chamber recording 62 is attached. On the outer edge of the top 68 are segments distributed around the circumference 72 sewn on, which covers the outer circumference of the floater 6 Finally, the surrounding edge 61 the facility 58 shown.

[0107] While the representations according to the Fig. 5 to Fig. 7 a pressure medium supply and handling aids have been omitted, these are shown in the Fig. 8 and Fig. 9 shown. Fig. 8 shows the side of the floater 6 from the Fig. 6 and Fig. 7, which, when used as intended, is at the top, i.e. near the waterline 22 is. Fig. 9 shows the area of ​​the floater 6 according to the Fig. 6 and Fig. 7, which, when used as intended, is located below, i.e. near the keel line 26 is arranged.

[0108] In both Fig. 8 and Fig. 9 are at the edge 61 reinforcements attached or formed integrally with it 74 shown, which extend approximately in an arc or U-shape from the edge 61 They reinforce a belt 12 or its connection to the floater 6 especially in a direction of tension that deviates from the radial direction and is accordingly oblique. In such a direction of tension, one of the two legs of the reinforcements 74subjected to tension and in the case of the upper connection according to Fig. 8 a bend in the pressure line 30 (cf. Fig. 3a) prevented.

[0109] According to Fig. 8 the belt extends 12 from a handle (not shown) or a fastener to the top of the floater 6 and then along the facility 58 to the bottom edge of the floater 6 according to Fig. 9. There the belt forms 12 a protruding section where a ring 140 is attached. The ring 140 can be used as a lowering weight when using the floater on one side 6 as a leak sail or, in the case of a double-sided floater arrangement, additionally as a fastening means for the connecting means 10 (cf. Fig. 3a).

[0110] Fig. 8 shows that in the belt 12in a channel limited by seams, which runs along the belt 12 extends, a recording 78 for the pressure line 30 (cf. Fig. 3a). This means that the pressure line 30 a strain relief is implemented.

[0111] Fig. 10 shows part of a leak sail arrangement with two floaters 6 in a schematic representation. Two of the floaters 6 according to the Fig. 6 to Fig. 9, of which only one floater 6 shown. The two lower rings 140 of the two floaters 6 are connected via a lead line 240 or chain, whereby the hull buoyancy device 2 according to Fig. 10 in principle the same function as that of Fig. 3a. The frictional and / or positive connection of the floaters according to the invention 6 to the fuselage.

[0112] At the upper (in Fig. 10 right) end section of the belt 12 is an upper fastener 80 and / or a handle. Furthermore, a measuring rope 82 attached, and the pressure line 30 is there from the belt 12 via fastening clips 84 are the measuring rope 82 and the pressure line 30 loosely connected to each other, so that any tension on the measuring rope 82 when positioning the floater 6 not to the pressure line 30 is transferred. On the measuring rope 82 can be another fastening device 80 and / or a handle may be provided so that the belt 12 with the measuring rope 82 on the one hand to manually position the floater 6 and can also be used for (temporary) fastening, as already explained in the previous text.

[0113] Fig. 11 shows a schematic representation of the measuring rope 82 , which is a scale with fields 83 which in this example are 10 cm wide. The individual fields 83 of the measuring rope 82 can be colored and also fluorescent. Since on each side of the double-sided leak sail arrangement according to Fig. 10 such a dimensional rope 82 For example, two people can lift the lee sail 2 want to position, the heights of the two floaters 6 compare.

[0114] Fig. 10 still shows the suitcase 52 , in which, in addition to storage space for the leak sail 2 also a pressure accumulator designed as a compressed air bottle 128 This is according to an option 1 over the hose 50 with a trim valve 148 further developed Y-piece (cf. Fig. 3a), through which the pressure medium serving as buoyancy medium from the pressure accumulator 128 to the two pressure lines 30 and thus to the two floaters 6 can be distributed. According to an option 2 can also be used as a trim valve 148 The further developed Y-piece is omitted and instead only a control valve 248 The control valve 248 according to option 2 is used when the pressure accumulator 128 just a floater 6 a one-sided leak sail 2 should be filled.

[0115] Fig. 12 shows the trim valve 148 , over which the water from the hose 50 incoming pressure medium either evenly or unevenly to the two pressure lines 30 and thus to the two assigned floaters 6 can be distributed. The trim valve 148 has a control element 86for opening and closing the pressure medium connection.

[0116] Furthermore, a control element 88 provided that the Fig. 12 shown middle position in both directions. This proportionally increases the volume flow of pressure medium to the assigned pressure line 30 increased or to the opposite pressure line 30 reduced. With the trim valve 148 is a sensitive balancing and lifting of the affected ship 16 with the double-sided embodiment of the leak sail according to the invention 2 possible.

[0117] Fig. 13 shows a modification of the trim valve 148 where the inlet is not connected to the hose 50 but directly with the pressure accumulator designed as a compressed air bottle 128 is connected.

[0118] In Fig. 14 are a front view ( 14a ), a side view ( 14b) and a top view ( 14c ) of a module 90 another embodiment of a leak sail 2 shown. From this module 90 For example, a leaky sail arrangement with the basic structure according to Fig. 3, which uses two floaters.

[0119] The Fig. 14 shown module 90 In principle, like the previously described embodiments, it has a floater (see Fig. 15) 6 with a buoyancy body, which is protected by the aforementioned robust outer shell 67 (also called DE-Fender) and thus protected. This outer shell 67 is with the flexible system 58 connected, on the one hand via the reinforcement 74 which serves as strain relief for the pressure line 30 effective belt 12 and on the other hand a weight 340 with a connection for the connecting device 10to another module of the same construction.

[0120] As described above, the outer shell 67 designed so that they can support the actual buoyancy / volume body, for example the hose 50 In case the space between this hose 50 and the outer shell 67 Water penetrates, the cover 67 with one or more drainage openings 92 , 94 In the illustrated embodiment, these drainage openings are 92 , 94 in the axis of the belt 12 .

[0121] As in the previously described embodiments, in the belt 12 spanned axis and reinforcements are applied in a transverse axis, which are referred to below as Bumper 96 , 97 which are called and which both the outer shell 67as well as the volume body encompassed by it (hose 50 ) against damage.

[0122] Fig. 15 shows an exploded view of the module 90 , in which the individual components can be seen. From top to bottom in Fig. 15 shows the elastic but very shock and wear-resistant outer shell 67 (D-Fender), the buoyancy body (tube 50 ) and the two bumpers arranged in the direction of the belt axis 97 . These are each equipped with a window 98 which is covered by a net-like material that covers the two drainage openings 92 , 94 On an axis arranged at right angles to this, the other two bumpers are 96 which are also applied to the outer skin of the outer shell 67 are upset.

[0123] The lower section of the outer hull adjacent to the hull wall 67 forms an elastic floor 91 , which are designed as a tarpaulin, for example.

[0124] In the exploded view according to Fig. 15 also visible are the aforementioned, tensile strength with the ground 91 associated reinforcements 74 where, for example, the belt 12 In the illustrated embodiment, this belt is 12 two-part consisting of a holder for the pressure line 30 forming the upper part of the belt 100 and a connected belt base 102 formed. This belt 12 overstretches the outer shell 67 with the elastic floor 91 diametrically where at the Fig. 15 short end section protruding to the right, the weight 340 This weight 340 is shown in the illustration according to Fig. 15 partly from the bumper96 covered.

[0125] The reinforcement 74 can – how Fig. 15 removable – be designed in several parts, with an additional multi-part handle in this area 104 is provided, which is attached to the reinforcement 74 is attached.

[0126] Shown in Fig. 15 is also a ground-side tarpaulin 106 which, together with the elastic floor 91 the outer shell 67 the flexible system 58 The tarpaulin has two side flaps 108 , 110 that cover the connection areas where the belt 12 with the outer shell 67 or the ground 91 is connected.

[0127] As will be explained in more detail below, this tarpaulin serves 106 even when not in use as “packaging”, whereby for closing on the tarpaulin 106 and on the ground 91Velcro fasteners 112 are provided.

[0128] Fig. 16 shows a partial top view of the module 90 as shown in Fig. 14a In this illustration you can see the indicated pressure chamber mount 62 for the solid body (hose 50 ). The pressure chamber of the annular pressure chamber 62 The enclosed interior is surrounded by a ceiling wall 114 the outer shell 67 covered. This covering wall 114 has an inspection opening 116 which can be opened to access the interior of the outer shell 67 to make accessible.

[0129] According to Fig. 17 is the inspection opening 116 in use by a velcro flap 118 covered, when opened a lock 120 the inspection opening 116 accessible. This closure 120In the illustrated embodiment, it is formed by lacing. Of course, other types of closure can also be used.

[0130] Fig. 18 shows the Fig. 14a upper part of the module 90 with the bumper 97 , which forms the outer shell 67 As explained above, the tab 108 , a suitably trained section 122 of the soil 91 and reinforcement 74 radially over the outer circumference of the outer shell 67 and form a reinforcement / connection for the belt 12 and the pressure pipe running through it. Adjacent to this approximately trapezoidal protruding area is also the drainage 94 The exploded view according to Fig. 15 indicated handle 104is connected to the trapezoidal overhang in a suitable manner, for example by short lines or the like, so that the module can be handled relatively easily.

[0131] Fig. 19 shows a radial view of the Fig. 14a lower drainage 92 , which in the bumper 97 trained. In Fig. 19 below the drainage 92 is the weight 340 visible, which is connected to a corresponding radially projecting trapezoidal tab of the reinforcement 74 , of the soil 91 and the short end section of the belt 12 is set.

[0132] Fig. 20 shows a radially outer area of ​​the floater 6 as shown in Fig. 14c. In this figure, one can see that – as already explained – the flexible system 58 with its floor 91 and the tarpaulin 106 with the Fig. 7 shown edge 61 over the outer shell 67 and the buoyancy body and thus increases the contact surface to the hull, so that a reliable force- and / or form-fitting and / or sealing connection of the module 90 on the hull is guaranteed.

[0133] This weight is in Fig. 21. As explained, this weight is attached to the radially projecting tab 110 the tarpaulin 106 and if necessary also on a corresponding section of the floor 91 The shorter end section of the belt 12 is above this tab 110 outwards, with an eyelet at the end section 124 is provided, to which, for example, the connecting means 10 to the other module. The weight 340In the illustrated embodiment, it is designed as a molded body. For example, lead weights or the like can be molded with plastic and then attached to the tab. 110 In principle, it is also possible to adjust the lowering weight by removing individual weight elements of the weight 340 to be designed to be interchangeable.

[0134] Fig. 22 shows a view of the module 90 viewed from the side facing the fuselage. In this illustration, you can see that the tarpaulin 106 is basically ring-shaped and the edge area of ​​the floor 91 As explained, the belt overextends 12 the ground 91 diagonally and is over the flaps 108 , 110 , 122 and other reinforcements 74 to the flexible system 58 connected so that reliable positioning is possible.

[0135] As can be seen from the exploded view in Fig. 15, are on the tarpaulin 108 and the ground 91 Velcro fasteners 112 arranged, which allow that when the pressure medium (air) is released, the entire module 90 rolled up around a winding axis running parallel to the belt axis and then over the Velcro fasteners 112 is fixed in position so that the storage space is minimal.

[0136] In the embodiments described above, it is preferred that the respective floater 6 , 8 with the Fig. 22 side against the fuselage wall, so that the straps 10 , 12 also run along the hull wall.

[0137] Alternatively, especially when used as a leak sail, it may be advantageous to use the floater 6 with his in Fig. 14a visible large area, ie actually with the rear side described here in contact with the leak, so that the straps pre-tension the floater against the leak or the hull wall. Accordingly, the Fig. 15 with the reference symbol 126 The area provided can be designed as a sealing surface that encompasses the leak or the area provided on the hull or pre-stresses a sealing material against the leak.

[0138] As explained above, the sealing of larger leaks can also be carried out by a sealing tarpaulin or another sealing element being carried by the two floaters on either side or by one of the floaters in such a way that this sealing element is brought into sealing contact with the hull wall and thereby extends the leak in a sealing manner, whereby the positioning of this sealing element can be carried out extremely easily and quickly when the floaters are emptied.

[0139] Of course, several such leak sails can be provided, each with one, two or more floaters next to each other for sealing.

[0140] It is also conceivable to provide several floaters that are arranged interchangeably on the leak sail, so that a suitable floater or a suitable sealing element can be selected depending on the size of the leak.

[0141] Revealed are a leak sail with a floater. List of reference symbols 1 rescue facility 2 Hull buoyancy device / leak sail 4 Longitudinal connection 6 floaters 8 floaters 10 connecting devices 12 Fasteners / Strap 14 Fasteners / Strap 16 ships 18 ropes 20 loops 22 waterline 24 deck area 26 Kiel line 28 Pump 30 pressure line 32 Cover 34 Velcro 36 tab 38 tab 40 chain 42 Cover 44 Valve 48 Y-adapter 50 hose 52 suitcases 54 shoal 56 Buoyancy position 58 flexible system 60 longitudinal groove 61 rand 62 pressure chamber mount 64 interior wall 66 pressure chamber 67 Outer shell 68 Top 70 seam 72 segments 74 reinforcements 76 belt 78 recording 80 Fasteners and / or handle 82 measuring rope 83 field 84 fastening clips 86 Control element 88 Control element 90 module 91 Floor 92 Drainage opening 94 Drainage opening 96 Bumper 97 Bumper 98 windows 100 belt top 102 Belt bottom part 104 handle 106 tarpaulins 108 tab 110 tab 112 Velcro fastener 114 Deck wall 116 Inspection opening 118 Velcro flap 120 closure 122 Bottom tab 124 eyelet 126 Sealing surface 128 pressure accumulators 140 rings 148 trim valve 240 lead line 248 Control valve 340 weight A buoyancy force N normal force R friction force QUOTES CONTAINED IN THE DESCRIPTION

[0142] This list of documents submitted by the applicant was generated automatically and is included solely for the convenience of the reader. This list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA assumes no liability for any errors or omissions. Cited patent literature

[0143] DE 19921670 A1

[0004] DE 3227348 A1 [0005, 0021]

Claims

[1] Leak sail with at least one floater ( 6 , 8 ), which can be brought into position against the side of an underwater vessel and which is connected to a pressure medium source ( 28 , 128 ) can be filled with pressure medium, whereby a flexible system ( 58 ) of the floater ( 6 , 8 ) is designed in such a way that it essentially seals a leak by frictional and / or positive engagement with the side of the vessel. [2] Leakage sail according to claim 1, wherein the flexible system ( 58 ) is rough or sticky. [3] Leak sail according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the floater ( 6 , 8 ) or the flexible system ( 58 ) can be adapted to unevenness of the side wall. [4] Leakage sail according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the flexible system ( 58 ) has structures running approximately in the transverse direction for the positive transmission of the buoyancy force (A). [5] Leakage sail according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the flexible system ( 58 ) has a concave shape. [6] Leakage sail according to one of the preceding claims, wherein on the flexible system ( 58 ) or in one piece with the flexible system ( 58 ) a flexible pressure chamber holder ( 62 ) in which a flexible pressure chamber ( 66 ) is used. [7] Leakage sail according to claim 6, wherein the pressure chamber ( 66 ) is approximately ring-shaped, and wherein an outer edge of the pressure chamber receptacle ( 62 ) is approximately circular. [8] Leakage sail according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the pressure medium source is a pump ( 28 ) or a pressure accumulator ( 128 ) and is provided with a device for connecting the floater ( 6 , 8 ) with a pressure medium sink to reduce the pressure medium pressure in the buoyancy position. [9] Leak sail according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the floater ( 6 , 8 ) a flexible traction device ( 12 , 14 ). [10] Leak sail according to claim 9, wherein the flexible traction means is a fastening means ( 12 , 14 ) to set the floater ( 6 , 8 ) in a sealing position on a vessel above a waterline ( 22 ) area of ​​the fuselage. [11] Leakage sail according to claim 9 or 10, wherein a pressure line ( 30 ) along the flexible traction element ( 12 , 14 ) or in the flexible traction device ( 12 , 14 ), which serves as strain relief for the pressure line ( 30 ) serves. [12] Leak sail according to one of claims 9 to 11 with a depth indicator which is attached to the flexible traction means ( 12 , 14 ) or on a measuring rope attached to it (82 ) is attached. [13] Leak sail according to one of the preceding claims with a lowering weight ( 40 ; 140 ; 240 ), whose weight is greater than the buoyancy of the floater ( 6 , 8 ) is in the unfilled state. [14] Leak sail according to one of the preceding claims, with two floaters ( 6 , 8 ), which have a connecting means ( 10 ) are connected to each other. [15] Leakage sail according to claim 14, wherein a height of the sealing position ( 56 ) or the two floaters ( 6 , 8 ) by varying the connection points of the two fastening elements ( 12 , 14 ) on the fuselage is adjustable. [16] Leak sail according to claim 12 and according to claim 14 or 15, wherein the two floaters ( 6 , 8 ) and the respective depth indicators are designed symmetrically. [17] Leak sail according to one of claims 14 to 16 with a trim valve ( 148 ) Y-adapter ( 48 ), through which the pressure medium source with the two floaters ( 6 , 8 ) can be connected. [18] Leak sail according to one of the preceding claims, with a floater ( 6 , 8 ) which can be brought into sealing contact with the leak.