Arrangement for actuating a closure element, device for dropping water from an aircraft for firefighting, and aircraft

Abstract

Arrangement (1; 1') for actuating a closure element (110; 110') which is movable for selectively closing and opening an outlet opening (121) of a tank (120) of a device (100) for discharging water (W) for firefighting, which tank can be accommodated or housed in an aircraft (200), wherein the arrangement (1; 1') is formed with a Geneva gear mechanism (4; 4') and wherein by means of the arrangement (1; 1') at least a closing of the closure element (110; 110') located in an open position (112) for closing the outlet opening (121) in a closed position (111; 111'), a locking of the closure element (110; 110') in the closed position (111; 111'), and an unlocking of the closure element located in the closed position (111; 111') locked closure element (110; 110') for opening the same when the tank (120) is full for water delivery.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The invention relates to an arrangement for actuating a closure element that is movable for selectively closing and opening an outlet opening of a tank of a device for discharging water from an aircraft for firefighting. Furthermore, the invention relates to a device for discharging water from an aircraft having such an arrangement. The invention also relates to an aircraft, in particular an airplane, having such a device. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] The invention and the problem underlying it are described below using the example of a transport aircraft, in particular a transport aircraft, which is temporarily equipped for the purpose of firefighting, without, however, limiting the invention in this respect.

[0003] It is well known that, in particular, vegetation fires such as forest fires can be fought using specially equipped firefighting aircraft capable of dropping water in flight. However, the procurement and maintenance of such firefighting aircraft, built specifically for such purposes, involves considerable effort and high costs.

[0004] At the same time, there are transport aircraft for a wide variety of civil and military purposes, which are equipped with a spacious cargo hold to accommodate a wide variety of items, are capable of carrying considerable loads, and are equipped with a rear ramp for loading, unloading and airdrop purposes, for example.

[0005] It may therefore be desirable to be able to use such transport aircraft also to fight fires and / or to provide support in this regard, for example by preventing further fire spread, and in this way to avoid or limit the procurement and maintenance of specialised aircraft designed solely for firefighting purposes.

[0006] DE 26 19 350 A1 and US 4 195 693 A describe the use of a transport aircraft with a tailgate as a firefighting aircraft, based on the Transall C-160 aircraft type. The transport aircraft carries an extinguishing agent kit with a tank. The kit is described as being driven directly into the fuselage or moved on roller conveyors.

[0007] It has now become apparent that it would be desirable if equipping a transport aircraft for temporary firefighting operations could be not only simple and quick, but also with as few requirements as possible regarding aircraft equipment. At the same time, it would be desirable if devices for blocking or releasing water discharge could be activated as easily and quickly as possible during firefighting operations.

[0008] US 2021 / 0 107 650 A1 describes a system for aerial firefighting. It describes a tank attached to the wing of an aircraft and having a nozzle with controllable flow. An auxiliary tank in a cargo hold, which is in fluid communication with the wing-mounted tank, is described. To control the flow, nozzle angle, or pulsation of the flow, a valve is controlled by the crew using an actuator motor. Furthermore, US 2021 / 0 107 650 A1 describes a conversion kit for converting a standard aircraft into a firefighting aircraft.

[0009] A device for extinguishing a fire from the air is further described in RU 2 033 828 C1. The device is fastened in an aircraft cargo hold by means of an anchoring system and comprises a container for a fire-extinguishing liquid. The device further comprises a release device having a pivotable lid, means for pressing the lid against one end of the container, a locking mechanism for the lid in its closed position, a rotary drive, and a limiter, wherein the limiter can fix the lid in its open position. The rotary drive is formed with counterweights. The mechanism for locking the lid in its closed position comprises a two-armed locking lever, the smaller arm of which can be engaged with an eyelet on a lid holder, while a position of the larger arm of the locking lever is fixed by means of a camshaft.To release the fire extinguishing liquid, the camshaft in the device of RU 2 033 828 C1 is rotated and the larger arm of the locking lever is disengaged from it.

[0010] A device for ejecting a liquid or analogous agent or a solid object from an aircraft is described in FR 2 610 894 A1. A container containing the agent or object is arranged on board the container, with a line connecting the container to the outside environment of the aircraft and equipped with a shut-off valve. The use of overpressure for ejection is described.

[0011] CA 2 879 287 A1 describes a system for dispensing liquids, powders, or other agents from the air. Tanks for the agent to be dispensed and tanks for a propellant are each arranged on individual pallets, with the dispensed agent being described as firefighting substances. Furthermore, CA 2 879 287 A1 describes the actuation and / or control of outlet valves by a hydraulic actuator system.

[0012] Another unit for fighting fires from an aircraft is shown in SU 1 631 789 A1.

[0013] Furthermore, EP 2 687 763 A1 describes a valve system for connecting two pipes or hoses, comprising a main body and an operating unit detachably attached to the main body. A diaphragm, by means of which the flow path can be opened or closed, is housed in a valve chamber of the main body. Furthermore, a pilot valve is provided for controlling the diaphragm. A valve element of the pilot valve can be actuated by means of the magnetic field of a magnet of the removable operating unit, wherein the magnet can be rotated by means of an electric actuator. EP 2 687 763 A1 describes equipping the electric actuator with a Geneva gear for rotating the magnet. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0014] Against this background, the object of the invention is to propose an arrangement that enables the closure element of a tank for firefighting from the air to be operated in a simple and labor-saving manner, and which can also be used in an aircraft with little effort. Furthermore, it is an object of the invention to propose a device for discharging water that is easy to operate and can be used in an aircraft with little effort, and a correspondingly improved aircraft.

[0015] According to the invention, this object is achieved by an arrangement having the features of claim 1 and / or by a device having the features of claim 15 and / or by an aircraft having the features of claim 16.

[0016] Accordingly, an arrangement for actuating a closure element that is movable for selectively closing and opening an outlet opening of a tank of a device for discharging water for firefighting, which tank can be accommodated or housed in an aircraft, is proposed. The arrangement is formed with a Geneva-type gear mechanism. The arrangement enables at least one closing of the closure element in an open position to close the outlet opening in a closed position, a locking of the closure element in the closed position, and an unlocking of the closure element locked in the closed position to open it when the tank is full for discharging water.

[0017] Furthermore, according to the invention, a device for dropping water from an aircraft for firefighting is proposed, which device has a tank with an outlet opening, a closure element for selectively closing and releasing the outlet opening, and such an arrangement according to the invention for actuating the closure element.

[0018] Furthermore, the invention provides an aircraft, in particular an airplane, with such a device.

[0019] One of the insights underlying the invention is that the effort required to use the arrangement and device for discharging water can be significantly reduced if electrical and / or hydraulic and / or pneumatic devices, in particular actuators, for actuating the closure element are avoided and mechanical actuation of the closure element, which is particularly easily possible by manual force, is provided. Thus, the invention eliminates the need to provide aircraft-side interfaces for operating electrical, hydraulic, or pneumatic actuators for using the device for discharging water.Instead, the Geneva gear mechanism enables the locking element to be actuated mechanically, which is simple for an operator, involves little workload, and implements the desired actuation processes for the intended use in a predefined sequence.

[0020] This allows the water release to be released with minimal effort, the locking element to be closed again after the water release, and the closed locking element to be securely locked for refilling the tank and for a new takeoff and approach to the target area. Reliable and rapid closing of the locking element after the water release not only allows the system to be restored to operational readiness during the return flight, but also effectively prevents unwanted water residue from entering the cargo hold.

[0021] Thus, aircraft, especially transport aircraft with a cargo hold, can be equipped or converted with a water jettisoning device for firefighting purposes, especially for temporary use, without requiring significant modifications or upgrades to the aircraft, for example, with regard to electrical, hydraulic, or pneumatic coupling points and supply equipment. The simplicity of the operation of the invention contributes to the rapid implementation of the water jettisoning and the subsequent restoration of operational readiness for the next flight. This contributes to effective firefighting.

[0022] A particular advantage of the invention is that in the case of different versions of an aircraft type, which differ in terms of the possibilities for supplying equipment accommodated in the cargo hold, for example electrically, pneumatically or hydraulically, the invention can be used equally simply and reliably.

[0023] Closing the closure element via a mechanism also helps to advantageously compress a seal, such as a gasket seal, in a way that enables reliable sealing. The use of the mechanism contributes to the application of the compression force.

[0024] Although the invention is advantageously applicable for converting transport aircraft for general civil or military transport purposes for firefighting, in particular temporarily, it is equally conceivable to advantageously use the invention in an aircraft specifically designed for firefighting with a permanently installed water tank.

[0025] Advantageous embodiments and further developments of the invention emerge from the subclaims and from the description with reference to the figures.

[0026] In one embodiment, the arrangement enables locking of the closure element in its open position and furthermore, releasing the closure element locked in the open position for closing it. In this way, it is possible to prevent the closure element from falling back into the flow and interacting with it after it has been unlocked and the outlet opening is thereby released for water discharge. This prevents rapid water discharge from being impaired by a falling-back closure element. A high mass flow is enabled. The locking of the closure element in the open position preferably occurs automatically during the opening process.

[0027] According to a further development, a movable locking sub-mechanism is provided for locking the closure element in the closed position. This further development allows the locking sub-mechanism to be secured when the closure element is closed and locked, and the secured locking sub-mechanism to be released. This reliably prevents unintentional unlocking and unintentional water release at a time other than the intended release moment.

[0028] In particular, the closing of the closure element, its locking in the closed position, and the unlocking of the closure element locked in the closed position can be accomplished by moving a common actuating element. The actuating element can be designed, in particular, as a lever pivotable by an operator. These actuating processes can thus be accomplished by means of a common mechanical arrangement and, in particular, in the desired sequence. This, and the actuation via an actuating element for these processes, make the work of the operator, such as the so-called "loadmaster," considerably easier.

[0029] In one embodiment, the closure element, which is locked in the open position, can be released for closing by moving the common actuating element. This step can thus also be conveniently accomplished without the need to operate additional control elements, allowing the outlet opening to be closed again with minimal effort and in a time-saving manner.

[0030] In a further development, the locking and unlocking of the locking sub-mechanism can be achieved by moving the common actuating element. The locking and unlocking steps can thus also be carried out in a cost-effective manner without the need for additional control elements, thus enabling further improved reliability with a reduced workload for the operator.

[0031] In particular, the Geneva mechanism is designed with a first Geneva gear and a second Geneva gear. This contributes to reliably executing operations in a defined sequence when operating the locking element.

[0032] According to a further development, a drive geometry of the first Geneva-type gear and a drive geometry of the second Geneva-type gear can be moved together by means of the common actuating element. This contributes to low actuation effort and makes it possible to ensure the desired, defined sequence of actuation processes.

[0033] In one embodiment, the common actuating element is rotationally fixedly connected to a drive element of the Geneva-type gear mechanism. In particular, it can be provided that the drive element is designed with the drive geometry of the first Geneva-type gear and the drive geometry of the second Geneva-type gear. The Geneva-type gear drive is thus achieved in a simple, reliable, and space-saving manner.

[0034] In one embodiment, the closing of the closure element can be effected by means of the first Geneva-type gear by moving it from its open position to its closed position. The closure element can thus advantageously be reliably closed at the desired time within the defined sequence of operations. The mechanical actuation of the closure element also contributes to the implementation of a sealing concept that requires the compression of a seal.

[0035] According to one embodiment, by means of the first Geneva-type gear, a movable snap-in assembly can be moved into a snap-in position, in which the closure element can be locked by snapping into the open position of the same by means of the snap-in assembly, and into a release position, in which the locking of the closure element in the open position is released and the snapping of the closure element is not possible. The processes of snapping in and releasing the locking are thus also reliably integrated into the defined sequence of actuation processes.

[0036] According to a further development, a first control geometry is rotatably movable on the output side by the first Geneva gear, wherein the closure element can be moved into the closed position by an engagement element coupled to the closure element engaging a portion of the first control geometry during a rotational movement of the same by entraining the engagement element along a substantially circular arc-shaped path. The first control geometry can, in particular, be designed as a groove or slot. In this way, a reliable transfer of the closure element into the closed position is achieved, while at the same time, the control geometry prevents its opening under the water pressure of the filled tank at the desired discharge time from being impeded.

[0037] In one embodiment, the snap-in assembly is movable between the snap-in position and the release position by guiding an engagement element coupled to the snap-in assembly through a rotation of the first control geometry along a path with a variable distance from an axis of rotation. By changing the distance from the axis of rotation, in particular by combining regions of constant and variable distance in the first control geometry, the snap-in geometry can be brought into the snap-in position at a desired time, for example, shortly before the closure element is unlocked and the outlet opening is released, so that the closure element preferably snaps into the fully open position upon opening and is thereby locked open.In addition, when the first control geometry is moved back, it is possible to return the snap-in assembly to its release position in order to be able to move the locking element to close it.

[0038] In one embodiment, a locking element is movable by means of the second Geneva-type gear, by means of which the closure element can be locked in the closed position. Thus, locking can also be integrated into the sequence of actuation processes in a defined mechanical manner.

[0039] According to a further development, a safety hook is movable by means of the second Geneva-type gear, by means of which the locking element can be temporarily secured against movement out of a locked position. Thus, a securing means for the locking element can be created that enables protection against unwanted unlocking.

[0040] In particular, it can be provided that the locking element is designed as a component of the locking sub-mechanism, and that the locking sub-mechanism performs a dead center passage when the locking element is transferred from its locking position to its unlocking position or vice versa. This can further prevent unwanted release of the locking mechanism under stress on the closure element, particularly due to the water pressure in the tank.

[0041] In one embodiment, a second control geometry is movable on the output side by the second Geneva gear, wherein the locking element can be transferred into a locking position by an engagement element, which is movable in a manner coupled to a movement of the locking element, on a first section of the second control geometry during a rotational movement of the latter by entraining the engagement element along a substantially circular arc-shaped path in a first direction, and into an unlocking position on a second section of the second control geometry during a rotational movement of the latter by entraining the engagement element along the path in a second direction. The second control geometry can in particular be designed in a groove-like or slot-like manner.In particular, this not only makes it possible to lock and unlock, but it can also ensure that the locking element opens quickly and unhindered when it is released by the locking element.

[0042] The engagement element, which is movably coupled to the movement of the locking element, can be arranged, in particular, on an articulated connection of the locking sub-mechanism. By driving the engagement element along by means of the first and second sections of the second control geometry, the dead center passage of the locking sub-mechanism can be brought about, for example.

[0043] According to a further development, the safety hook can be moved between a securing position and a release position by guiding an engagement element coupled to the safety hook through a rotation of the second control geometry along a path with a variable distance from an axis of rotation. Thus, with regard to the positions assumed by the safety hook, a defined temporal progression is possible, which can be adapted in a predefined manner to the change in position of the locking element and, for example, to the position of the engagement element that is coupled to the locking element with respect to movement. In particular, it can be provided that the safety hook, in the securing position, engages with the engagement element that is coupled to the locking element with respect to movement, or with an engagement section of the locking sub-mechanism provided in the region of this engagement element.

[0044] In one embodiment, the locking sub-mechanism can be arranged so that it is movable within itself and fixed as a whole relative to the outlet opening. In particular, in a further development, a sub-mechanism comprising the locking sub-mechanism, the securing hook, and the second control geometry can be arranged so that it is movable within itself and fixed as a whole relative to the outlet opening. This can contribute to simplifying the structure of the arrangement.

[0045] In another embodiment, the locking sub-mechanism can be arranged so that it is movable within itself and can move along with the closure element relative to the outlet opening. In particular, in a further development, a sub-mechanism comprising the locking sub-mechanism, the securing hook, and the second control geometry can be arranged so that it is movable within itself and can move along with the closure element relative to the outlet opening as a whole. In this way, installation space in the region of the outlet opening, for example, below it and / or in a lower region thereof, can be saved, and the accommodation of the arrangement can be further facilitated.

[0046] According to one embodiment, the arrangement can comprise a pretensioning device by means of which the closure element can be pretensioned in an opening direction when it is closed to close the outlet opening. In particular, the pretensioning device can comprise a spring element. The effect of the water pressure on the closure element when the tank is full can thus be supported by the pretensioning device. In this way, it can be ensured that after the closure element is unlocked, it opens quickly and reliably to release the water and expose the outlet opening.

[0047] In a further embodiment of the invention, the water-jetting device is designed to be mobile, with the tank being designed to be accommodated and secured in the cargo hold of the aircraft. The water-jetting device can thus be designed as a "roll-on / roll-off firefighter kit." In other words, the device can be quickly and easily moved into the cargo hold and then used for temporary firefighting. The device can be removed from the cargo hold just as easily once the firefighting requirement is no longer met.

[0048] In particular, the device for shedding water may comprise an outlet line through which water contained in the tank can flow out of the tank for shedding the water, the outlet line being adapted to extend from the tank to a free end of a rear ramp of the aircraft.

[0049] It should be noted that, in particular, the embodiments and further developments described above can each be applied to the arrangement for actuating the closure element, the device for releasing water and the aircraft. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0050] The invention is explained in more detail below with reference to the figures of the drawings. The figures show: Fig. 1 shows a device for discharging water from an aircraft for firefighting according to a first embodiment of the invention, in a schematic side view, in a state in which an outlet opening of a tank is closed, some components of an arrangement for actuating a closure element for the outlet opening being omitted for clarity; Fig. 2 the device according to the first embodiment in the state of Fig. 1, showing some further components of the arrangement for actuating the closure element which serves to selectively close and release the outlet opening; Fig. 3A, Fig. 3B shows the arrangement for actuating the closure element according to the first embodiment in a side view from a first side and from a second side opposite the first, in each case in a reference position of a pivotable, lever-shaped actuating element in which the closure element is open; Fig. 4A, Fig. 4B the arrangement for actuating the closure element according to the first embodiment in side views analogous Fig. 3A, Fig. 3B, in a Fig. 3A, Fig. 3B the following state in each case with a position of the actuating element of 45 degrees relative to the reference position; Fig. 5A, Fig. 5B the arrangement for actuating the closure element according to the first embodiment in side views analogous Fig. 3A, Fig. 3B, in a Fig. 4A, Fig. 4B the following state in each case with a position of the actuating element of 135 degrees relative to the reference position; Fig. 6A, Fig. 6B the arrangement for actuating the closure element according to the first embodiment in side views analogous Fig. 3A, Fig. 3B, in a Fig. 5A, Fig. 5B the following state in each case with a position of the actuating element of 195 degrees relative to the reference position; Fig. 7A, Fig. 7B the arrangement for actuating the closure element according to the first embodiment in side views analogous Fig. 3A, Fig. 3B, in a Fig. 6A, Fig. 6B the following state in each case with a position of the actuating element of 135 degrees relative to the reference position; Fig. 8A, Fig. 8B the arrangement for actuating the closure element according to the first embodiment in side views analogous Fig. 3A, Fig. 3B, in a Fig. 7A, Fig. 7B the following state in each case with a position of the actuating element of 45 degrees relative to the reference position; Fig. 9A, Fig. 9B the arrangement for actuating the closure element according to the first embodiment in side views analogous Fig. 3A, Fig. 3B, in a Fig. 8A, Fig. 8B the following state in each case with a position of the actuating element of 15 degrees relative to the reference position; Fig. 10 is a schematic illustration of the actuation of the actuating element of the first embodiment based on angular positions thereof, wherein the reference position of 0 degrees as well as positions of 45, 135 and 195 degrees relative to the reference position are illustrated; Fig. 11 an exemplary aircraft designed as an airplane in which a device for dropping water according to the embodiment of the Fig. 1 and Fig. 2 may apply; Fig. 12 the aircraft of Fig. 11 in a side view with the stern ramp open during the schematically illustrated discharge of water for fire fighting; and Fig. 13A, Fig. 13B shows an arrangement for actuating a closure element according to a second exemplary embodiment in a side view from a first side and from a second side opposite the first, in each case in a position of a pivotable, lever-shaped actuating element in which the closure element is closed.

[0051] In the figures, the same reference numerals designate identical or functionally equivalent components unless otherwise stated. The elements of the drawings are not necessarily shown to scale. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION

[0052] Fig. 11 and Fig. 12 show an aircraft 200 configured as a transport aircraft. The aircraft 200 has a fuselage 201, wings 202, a tail unit 203, a nose 204, and a tail 205. A cargo compartment is provided inside the fuselage 201, which has a Fig. 12 rear ramp 206 shown open is accessible.

[0053] The aircraft 200 is equipped with a device 100 for discharging water from the aircraft 200, which is arranged and fixed in the cargo hold as a "roll-on / roll-off firefighter kit." The device 100 can be relatively easily inserted into and removed from the cargo hold and enables the temporary or seasonal use of the aircraft 200 in firefighting, for example, in the course of fighting vegetation fires such as forest or field fires.

[0054] The device 100 comprises a tank 120 for holding water, which can be provided with suitable additives if necessary. The tank 120 can have a capacity of, for example, 20 t or approximately 20 cubic meters of water, whereby this value is to be understood as an example, and lower or higher capacities are conceivable. The tank 120 is illustrated schematically in the figures. It is understood that the shape of the tank 120 and its arrangement within the cargo hold can be adapted with regard to its accommodation and emptying and can be selected to deviate from the shape only schematically indicated in the figures.

[0055] Fig. 12 shows the aircraft 200 in flight with the tail ramp 206 open. It can be seen that the device 120 further comprises a tubular outlet line 130 through which the water contained in the tank 120 is discharged for the purpose of jettisoning the water in flight, as in Fig. 12, indicated schematically by the arrow W. The outlet line 130 extends from the tank 120 to a free end 207 of the rear ramp 206.

[0056] The tank 120 can be moved into the cargo hold and secured there when the aircraft 200 is on the ground. The line 130 can also be attached and removed either in the cargo hold or on the rear ramp 206. On the ground, the tank 120 can be filled, for example, after it has been secured in the cargo hold, using a fire hose or several such hoses. The line 130 can be designed to be articulated in some areas to allow the rear ramp 206 to move.

[0057] For water release in flight, the water escapes quickly, ie with a high mass flow, through a Fig. 12 only schematically indicated outlet opening 121 from the tank 120 through the outlet line 130. The device 100 comprises a closure element 110, by means of which the outlet opening 121 can be selectively closed and released at the desired time for the discharge of the water, as well as a Fig. 12 also only schematically indicated arrangement 1 for actuating the closure element 110.

[0058] The arrangement 1 according to a first embodiment of the invention is described below with reference to the Fig. 1 to 10 are described in more detail.

[0059] In Fig. 1 and Fig. 2, the tank 120 is indicated in each case, it being understood that the shape and size of the tank 120 are only shown schematically in these figures and that the closure element 110, the outlet opening 121 and the components of the arrangement 1 explained below are not drawn in scale relation to the dimensions of the tank 120.

[0060] Fig. 1, Fig. 2 show that the outlet opening 121 can be tightly closed or opened for water discharge by means of the flap-like closure element 110, which can be pivoted in the opening direction 140, for example, by an angle of approximately 90 degrees. Fig. 1, Fig. 2, a closed position 111 of the closure element 110 is sketched in solid lines and an open position 112 of the closure element 110 is sketched in dashed lines.

[0061] Arrangement 1 includes a Fig. 1, Fig. 2 shows a pretensioning device 5, shown only schematically, which is formed with a spring element 6, for example, a compression spring. The pretensioning device 5 applies an elastic force to the closure element 110 in the opening direction 140, so that the closure element 110 is pretensioned in the direction 140 when it is closed. In this way, the pretensioning device 5 assists the opening of the closure element 110 under the action of the water pressure of the filled tank 120.

[0062] Fig. 1, Fig. 2 show the pretensioning device 5 schematically for the open position 112 of the closure element 110. Further components of the arrangement 1, which will be described below, are shown in Fig. 1, Fig. 2 in their positions for the closed position 111 of the closure element 110. In Fig. 3A, 3B to 9A, 9B, only a housing of the pretensioning device 5 is visible, wherein one or more spring elements are located in its interior and in these figures the articulated coupling of the pretensioning device 5 with the closure element 110 via a joint and an arm 115 firmly connected to the closure element 110 is shown in more detail.

[0063] Instead of a compression spring as spring element 6, which acts on the closure element 110 via an arm such as arm 115, in a variant not shown in the drawing, the pretensioning device 5 can be formed with a spring which, as a whole, is subjected to torsion in the region of the axis of rotation.

[0064] The arrangement 1 enables an operator (“loadmaster”) to perform the following operating operations by using a single, common actuating element 7, which in the first embodiment is designed as a lever that can be pivoted by the operator using manual force: - closing the closure element 110 in the open position 112 to close the outlet opening 121 before the first filling of the tank 120 for a fire-fighting operation or after the water has been discharged for the subsequent filling; - locking the locking element 110 in the closed position 111 and securing the locking against unintentional unlocking; - Unlocking the locking of the closed closure element 110 and unlocking the closure element 110 locked in the closed position 111 for opening the same when the tank 120 is filled for water delivery.

[0065] The opening process is assisted by the pretensioning device 5 to ensure that the closure element 110 opens quickly. The closure element 110 opens upwards with respect to the direction of gravity, whereby the closure element 110 does not represent an obstacle in the flow of water W. Furthermore, by means of the actuating element 7, when the closure element 110 is unlocked, the arrangement 1 is brought into a state in which the closure element 110 snaps into the open position 112 and is thereby locked in the open position 112, whereby the closure element 110 does not fall back into the flow of water W and undesirably influence it. To close the closure element 110 again, the arrangement 1 further enables the locking of the closure element 110 in the open position 112 to be released by means of the actuating element 7.

[0066] Fig. 3A,B to 9A,B show the assembly 1 together with the closure element 110 in various operating states, with the tank 120 and the outlet line 130 omitted for the sake of clarity. Fig. 3A to 9A a front side of the arrangement 1 and Fig. 3B to 9B a back side of arrangement 1.

[0067] The arrangement 1 comprises a first sub-mechanism 2 and a second sub-mechanism 3, which are coupled to one another by means of a transmission element 8 designed, for example, as a rod.

[0068] The first sub-mechanism 2 comprises a Geneva drive mechanism 4, which is formed with a first Geneva drive 10 and a second Geneva drive 20. In English, a Geneva drive is referred to as a "Geneva drive."

[0069] The Geneva-type gear mechanism 4 has a drive element 9, which is disk-shaped and has a round outer contour. The actuating element 7 is connected in a rotationally fixed manner to the drive element 9, which is mounted for rotation about a first pivot axis a1. Pivoting the actuating element 7 about the axis a1 thus causes the drive element 9 to rotate about it.

[0070] On a first side of the drive element 9, visible in Fig. 3B-9B, a drive geometry 11 of the first Geneva-type gear 10 is formed with the drive element 9. The drive geometry 11 has two first and second pins 12, 13 offset from one another about the axis a1, for example by an angle of substantially 90 degrees, as well as a locking sector formed as a projection on the drive element 9 with a circular-arc-shaped outer contour forming a first locking active surface 14. The pins 12, 13 serve to stepwise drive a first output element 19, which is mounted rotatably about a second pivot axis a2, by means of engagement of the pins 12 and 13 in a first radial slot 17 and a second radial slot 18 of the first output element 19, respectively. The disc-like output element 19 further has a rounded recess 15 and a second locking active surface 16, between which the second slot 18 is arranged.The active surface 16 is formed with a radius corresponding to that of the active surface 14, such that the active surface 14 can engage with the active surface 16 and thus temporarily block rotation of the first output element 19. The drive geometry 11 can be formed integrally with the drive element 9, or the locking sector and / or the pins 12, 13 can be formed as separate elements and firmly connected to the drive element 9.

[0071] On a second side of the drive element 9, visible in Fig. 3A-9A, a drive geometry 21 of the second Geneva gear 20 is formed with the drive element 9. The drive geometry 21 has two third and fourth pins 22, 23 offset from one another about the axis a1, for example by an angle of substantially 180 degrees. Furthermore, the drive geometry 21 has a projection on the drive element 9, which has two interconnected, opposite sectors, each with a circular-arc-shaped outer contour. One of these sectors forms a locking sector, whose circular-arc-shaped outer contour forms a third locking active surface 24. Furthermore, Fig. 3A shows the rounded outer contour 25 of the other sector. The pins 22, 23 serve to stepwise drive a second output element 29, which is mounted rotatably about a third pivot axis a3, by means of engagement of the pins 22, 23 in a third radial slot 27 and a fourth radial slot 28, respectively, wherein the slots 27 and 28 are formed in the second output element 29. The disc-like second output element 29 further has a fourth locking active surface 26, which is arranged between the third slot 27 and the fourth slot 28. The active surface 24 is formed with a radius corresponding to that of the active surface 26, such that the active surface 24 can engage the active surface 26 and thus temporarily block rotation of the second output element 29.The drive geometry 21 can be formed integrally with the drive element 9, or the sectors and / or the pins 22, 23 can be formed as separate elements and fixedly connected to the drive element 9.

[0072] The drive geometries 11 and 21 can be moved together by means of the actuating element 7. If the actuating element 7 is moved within a predefined angular range, which is Fig. 10 is illustrated by way of example and in the first embodiment has a size of substantially 195 degrees, is pivoted by the operator, then according to the arrangement of the pins 12, 13, 22, 23, as well as the arrangement and dimensioning of the slots 17, 18, 27, 28 and the locking active surfaces 14, 16, 24, 26, the two output elements 19 and 29 each carry out rotations or rest in a predefined sequence.

[0073] In a main extension surface of the first output element 19, it is provided with a first control geometry 60. The control geometry 60 has a first region 64, which is formed with a constant radius around the pivot axis a2 and forms the largest part of the control geometry 60. Furthermore, the control geometry 60 has a second region 65, in which the radius changes with respect to the pivot axis a2, and a third, small region 66 with a constant radius. The radius of the control geometry 60 relative to the axis a2 is larger in the third region 66 than in the first region 64. The control geometry 60 is designed as a slot having the regions 64, 65, and 66 adjoining one another continuously.

[0074] An engagement element 61, which is, for example, pin-shaped, engages into the slot-shaped control geometry 60. The engagement element 61 is attached to an arm 113 that is rotationally fixedly connected to the closure element 110, wherein the closure element 110 and the arm 113 are pivotally mounted about the second pivot axis a2.

[0075] A snap-in assembly 50 is also pivotally mounted about a fourth pivot axis a4. The snap-in assembly 50 can assume a snap-in position 52, in which the engagement element 61 engaging the control geometry 60, or an engagement section arranged adjacent thereto on the arm 113, can snap behind an edge 54 of a catch 53, wherein the edge 54 prevents a backward movement of the engagement element 61 and the arm 113, see Fig. 3A. Furthermore, the snap-in assembly 50 may have a release position 51, see for example Fig. 4A, in which the engagement element 61 can move past the edge 54. The snap-in assembly 50 can be pivoted about the axis a4 between the positions 51 and 52. For this purpose, the snap-in element 53 is coupled to an arm 55, wherein an engagement element 63, for example a pin-like engagement element, is arranged on the arm 55, adjacent to a free end of the arm 55, which also engages in the first control geometry 60.

[0076] The second output element 29 is non-rotatably coupled to an arm 81 and is rotatable together with the arm 81 about the axis a3. The arm 81 is connected to the transmission element 8 in an articulated connection 82 adjacent to a free end of the arm 81.

[0077] The second sub-mechanism 3 comprises a control element 80 which is rotatably mounted about a fifth pivot axis a5 and is in particular disc-shaped with a round outer contour, a safety hook 40 and a locking sub-mechanism 30.

[0078] The control element 80 is rotationally coupled to an arm 83, which is also pivotally mounted about the axis a5. Moving the arm 83 thus causes the control element 80 to rotate about the axis a5. The arm 83 is connected to the transmission element 8 via an articulated connection 84 adjacent to a free end of the arm 83.

[0079] The locking sub-mechanism 30 comprises a locking element 31 which is pivotally movable about a sixth pivot axis a6, by means of which the closure element 110 - see in particular Fig. 1, Fig. 2 - can be locked in the closed position 111. A locking position 32 of the locking element 31 is shown Fig. 1, 2 and 6A, 6B to 9A, 9B. However, Fig. 3A, 3B to 5A, 5B the locking element 31 in its unlocking position 33, in which the closure element 110 can be closed or opened.

[0080] With respect to the locking element 31, the axis a6 is arranged approximately in its central region. A first end region 38 of the locking element 31, which acts upon the closure element 110 when it is locked, and a second end region 39 of the locking element 31 are arranged opposite one another with respect to the sixth pivot axis a6, see, for example, Fig. 4A and Fig. 6A.

[0081] The locking sub-mechanism 30 further comprises an arm 35, which is pivotably mounted about the fifth pivot axis a5. The arm 35 is not rotationally fixedly connected to the control element 80, but is freely rotatable about the axis a5. An intermediate member 36 of the locking sub-mechanism 30 is connected to a free end of the arm 35 at one end thereof in an articulated connection 34, while the intermediate member 36 is connected at its other end in the second end region 39 to the locking element 31 in an articulated connection 37.

[0082] The locking sub-mechanism 30 is thus designed such that a dead center passage occurs when the locking element 31 is moved from the locking position 32 to the unlocking position 33, or vice versa. In the joint axis of the articulated connection 34, the locking sub-mechanism 30 has, for example, a pin-like engagement element 71, wherein the locking sub-mechanism 30 can be pushed past the dead center from both sides by acting on the engagement element 71.

[0083] The safety hook 40 is designed, for example, as a flat element and is pivotally mounted about a seventh pivot axis a7. By pivoting about the axis a7, the safety hook 40 can be moved into a securing position 41 and a release position 42. For this purpose, the safety hook 40 has, for example, a pin-like engagement element 74 at an end region 43. By acting on the engagement element 74, the safety hook 40 and thus a hook structure 44 thereof are pivoted about the axis a7.

[0084] A second control geometry 70 is formed in the flat, disc-shaped control element 80, wherein the second control geometry 70 has a first part 70a and a second part 70b. The separate parts 70a, 70b are each formed in the control element 80 in the manner of a groove or slot.

[0085] The first part 70a is configured to follow a path in the form of a circular arc with a constant radius relative to the fifth pivot axis a5. The engagement element 71 engages the first part 70a.

[0086] In contrast, the second part 70b is formed with a bent basic shape, wherein the main bend of the basic shape points toward an outer edge of the control element 80. In further detail, the part 70b has a first region 75, a second region 76, a third region 77, a fourth region 78, and a fifth region 79. In the first, third, and fifth regions 75, 77, and 79, the radius of the path of the slot-shaped second part 70b is constant with respect to the fifth pivot axis a5, wherein the radius in the first and fifth regions 75 and 79 is each smaller than the radius in the third region 77.

[0087] In the second region 76 and the fourth region 78, the radius of the path of part 70b is variable with respect to the axis a5, with the second region 76 providing a transition from the first region 75 to the third region 77, and the fourth region 78 providing a transition from the third region 77 to the fifth region 79. Regions 75, 76, 77, 78, and 79 adjoin one another continuously in this order. The engagement element 74 engages in part 70b.

[0088] The functioning of arrangement 1 is explained below with reference to Fig. 3A, 3B to 9A, 9B and Fig. 10 described.

[0089] In Fig. 3A,B, the closure element 110 is in the open position 112. For example, this may be a time at which the water contained in the tank 120 has just been discharged and the tank 120 is empty. The actuating element 7 is in a position that will be used below as the reference position and will be referred to as the 0-degree position s0.

[0090] For reuse, the closure element 110 is closed. For this purpose, the operator pivots the actuating element 7 into a 45-degree position s45; in position s45, the actuating element 7 is thus pivoted by 45 degrees relative to s0. Fig. 4A,B show arrangement 1 for position s45. In the 0-degree position s0, the first pin 12 is engaged with the first slot 17 and the third pin 22 is engaged with the third slot 27. By pivoting from s0 to s45, the drive element 9 is rotated about the axis a1. Due to the interaction of pin 12 and slot 17, the first output element 19 is rotated about the axis a2, whereby the first control geometry 60 is rotated about the axis a2. The engagement element 63, located in the third region 66 in position s0, is pulled by the second region 65 to a smaller radius relative to the axis a2 than in the third region 66. The engagement element 63 remains at this smaller radius in the first region 64.In this way, the snap-in assembly 50 is pivoted about the axis a4, and the engagement of the catch 53 and the engagement element 61, or alternatively the engagement section, by which engagement the closure element 110 is locked in the open position 112, is released. Due to the movement of the control geometry 60, the engagement element 61 runs relative to the first region 64 within the latter, whereby, due to the constant radius in the region 64 between s0 and s45, no action on the engagement element 61 occurs. In the position s45, the engagement element 61 just rests against an end-side section 62 of the slot-like first control geometry 60, designed as an end.

[0091] At the same time, during the transition from s0 to s45, the second output element 29 is rotated about the third pivot axis a3 by the interaction of pin 22 and slot 27, whereby the arm 81 pivots about the axis a3 and transmits this movement to the control element 80 via the transmission element 8. Mediated by the arm 83, the control element 80 is rotated about the axis a5, whereby the second control geometry 70 also performs a rotational movement about the axis a5. In position s0, see Fig. 3B, the engagement element 74 is located in the first region 75 of the second part 70b of the second control geometry 70. During the transition from s0 to s45, the engagement element 74 runs along the second region 76 in the direction of a larger radius with respect to the axis a5, whereby the safety hook 40 pivots about the pivot axis a7.

[0092] In positions s0 and s45, the locking element 31 is in its unlocking position 33. The safety hook 40 does not engage the locking sub-mechanism 30 during the transition from s0 to s45, especially since the engagement element 71 or the engagement section adjacent to it are not within reach of the hook structure 44.

[0093] At the same time, during the transition from s0 to s45, the engagement element 71 on the articulated connection 34 of the locking sub-mechanism 30, or alternatively the engagement section arranged there, runs in the first part 70a, whereby initially no action is exerted on the engagement element 71.

[0094] In the 45-degree position s45 of the actuating element 7, the engagement element 71 is just at an end-side section 72 of the slot-like first part 70, which is designed as an end.

[0095] Fig. 4A further shows that in position s45 the third pin 22 already emerges from the third slot 27 and the locking active surfaces 24 and 26 have already engaged with each other and block the pivoting position of the second output element 29.

[0096] When the actuating element 7 is further pivoted about the pivot axis a1 into the 135-degree position s135, see Fig. 10 and Fig. 5A, Fig. 5B, in which the actuating element 7 is pivoted by 135 degrees from the reference position s0, the first output element 19 is driven by the first Geneva gear 10, while the second output element 29 is locked against pivoting by the cooperating locking active surfaces 24, 26.

[0097] During the transition from s45 to s135, the closure element 110 is pivoted about the axis a2 into its closed position 111. This simultaneously tensions the pretensioning device 5. For this purpose, the engagement element 61 located at the end section 62 of the first control geometry 60 is entrained along a circular arc-shaped path by the first control geometry 60 during the further rotation of the first output element 19 achieved by the interaction of the second pin 13 with the second slot 18. The engagement element 61, coupled to the closure element 110 via the arm 113, thus pivots the closure element 110 into the closed position 111 and enables the application of a compression force to a seal (not shown in the figures) in the edge region of the outlet opening 121.

[0098] When the actuating element 7 is further pivoted from the 135-degree position s135 to a 195-degree position s195, in which the actuating element 7 is rotated by an angle of 195 degrees around the axis a1 relative to the reference position s0, see Fig. 5B, Fig. 6B - the first output element 19 is now locked against further pivoting by the locking surfaces 14 and 16 engaging with each other. Furthermore, during the transition from s135 to s195, during which the closure element 110 is already in the closed position 111, the locking element 31 is pivoted into the locking position 32. To achieve this, see Fig. 5A and Fig. 6A, the active surfaces 24 and 26 are disengaged again, while the fourth pin 23 engages the fourth slot 28. The second output element 29 thus undergoes a further pivoting movement during the transition from s135 to s195, which is transmitted to the control element 80 via the arm 81, the transmission element 8, and the arm 83.

[0099] Thus, the control element 80 pivots again about the axis a5. In doing so, the engagement element 71 resting on the first section 72 of the first part 70a is carried along a substantially circular arc-shaped path in a first direction, whereby the locking sub-mechanism 30 is pushed beyond the dead center position and the locking element 31 pivots into its locking position 32. At the same time, the engagement element 74 of the securing hook 40 passes through the third, fourth and fifth regions 77, 78 and 79, respectively, of the second part 70b of the second control geometry 70. This pivots the securing hook 40 in such a way that the hook structure 44 does not collide with the engagement element 71 in the region of the articulated connection 34 while the sub-mechanism 30 is moved beyond the dead center position, see, for example, Fig. 6A.

[0100] From the position s195, the operating element 7 is pivoted back into the 135-degree position s135 by the operator, see Fig. 7A, Fig. 7B. The extension of the first part 70a of the second control geometry 70 is selected such that no effect is exerted on the engagement element 71. The locking sub-mechanism 30 thus remains in its configuration with the locking element 31 in the locking position 32. At the same time, during the transition from s195 to s135, the engagement element 74 passes through the regions 79, 78, and 77 again in the reverse order as before and reaches a larger radius relative to the axis a5. As a result, the securing hook 40 pivots in, and the hook structure 44 can engage around a section of the engagement element 71 designed for this purpose, or a separate engagement section of the locking sub-mechanism 30, which is also arranged on the articulated connection 34. This configuration shows Fig. 7A. The locking sub-mechanism 30 and the locking element 31 are thus secured against unintentional release of the locking of the closure element 110.

[0101] When the actuating element 7 is pivoted back from the 135-degree position s135 to the 45-degree position s45, the second output element 29 is again locked against pivoting, see Fig. 7A, Fig. 8A. However, during the transition from s135 to s45, the first output element 19 is pivoted back about the second pivot axis a2, wherein the engagement element 61, which is coupled to the closure element 110, remains spatially fixed and the first control geometry 60 moves relative to the engagement element 61 such that the latter passes through the first control geometry 60 only within the first region 64, which is formed with a constant radius to the axis a2. Thus, the first control geometry 60 does not influence the engagement element 61. The locking of the closure element 110 does not hinder the movement of the first output element 19.

[0102] In the Fig. 8A, Fig. In the situation shown in Figure 8B, the locking sub-mechanism 30 is further secured by the safety hook 40 against overrunning the dead center in the direction of unlocking.

[0103] After approaching the operational area, the water in tank 120, with or without additives, is to be released at the desired time by opening the outlet opening 121. For this purpose, the operator pivots the actuating element 7 from the 45-degree position s45 to the 0-degree position s0. Fig. 9A and Fig. 9B show an intermediate state in which the actuating element is at an angle of 15 degrees relative to the reference position s0. The lock of the second output element 29 against pivoting thereof is released, the third pin 22 acts on the third slot 27 and rotates the second output element 29. The pivoting movement is in turn transmitted by the transmission element 8 to the control element 80, which is rotated about the axis a5. In the Fig. 9A, Fig. In the situation shown in Figure 9B, the engagement element 71 arranged in the region of the articulated connection 34 of the locking sub-mechanism 30 is located at a second end-side portion 73 of the first part 70a of the second control geometry 70. In addition, the control element 80 is in Fig. 9A, Fig. 9B is rotated so far that the engagement element 74 of the safety hook 40 has passed through the second region 76 of the second part 70b of the second control geometry 70 and re-enters the first region 75. Thus, the engagement element 74 was moved during the transition from s45 into the 15-degree position of the Fig. 9A, Fig. 9B is again brought to a greater distance from the axis a5, the securing hook 40 is pivoted about the axis a7 and the hook structure 4 is disengaged from the engagement element 71, or the engagement section alternatively provided in the area of ​​the connection. Thus, in the state of Fig. 9A, Fig. 9B, the locking sub-mechanism 30 is released. By further moving the actuating element 7 to the 0-degree position, the locking sub-mechanism 30 is moved in a second direction along a short circular arc path past the dead center by the engaging element 71 being driven by the section 73. The locking element 31 can thus pivot open. Thus, the closure element 110 can open under the action of the water pressure in the tank 120 and assisted by the pretensioning device 5.

[0104] In the state of Fig. 9A, Fig. 9B, the engagement element 63 of the snap-in assembly 50, due to the further rotation of the first output element 19, is about to enter the second region 65 of the first control geometry 60, in which the radius of the slot-like geometry 60 increases relative to the axis a2. If the actuating element 7 is now moved further into the position s0, the snap-in assembly 50 pivots to the larger radius about the fourth pivot axis a4 by means of the control geometry 60 guiding the engagement element 63 and returns to its snap-in position 52. The quickly opening closure element 110 is firmly connected to the engagement element 61 via the arm 113; the latter can snap behind the edge 54 of the snap-in catch 53, which is movable, for example, under spring load relative to the arm 55 and is articulated to the arm 55, but cannot move back.In this way, the opened closure element 110 is locked again in the open position 112, and the water can flow out unhindered through the outlet line 130.

[0105] The arrangement 1 according to the first embodiment thus enables, by using a single actuating element 7, designed as a lever pivotable within an angular range of approximately 195 degrees, - closing the closure element 110 and causing it to open, - the closing and opening of the locking sub-mechanism 30 having a dead center situation, - closing and opening a safety device of the locking sub-mechanism 30 by means of the safety hook 40, - closing and opening a lock of the closure element 110 in the open position 112 by means of the snap-in assembly 50.

[0106] The pivoting angular range of 195 degrees results in separate, sequential actuation of the individual mechanisms and exemplifies a possible sequence of processes in the corresponding positions. By exploiting the non-linear transmission of a rotary motion characteristic of a Geneva gear, while taking into account the temporal dependencies of the various processes, the interaction of the first and second Geneva gear can be used by superimposing the actuation of the individual mechanisms to adapt, in one variant, the pivoting angular range of the actuating element 7 and, in particular, to reduce it. The change can be achieved by adjusting the position of pins 22 and 23 relative to one another and the arrangement of pins 12, 13 relative to pins 22, 23.

[0107] In the first embodiment described above, the following processes are briefly summarized in the positions s0, s45, s135, s195 of the actuating element 7 for one working cycle of the arrangement 1: Position s0: The closure element 110 is opened, the snap-in assembly 50 is closed, in other words in the snap-in position 52, the preload of the preloading device 5 is released and the spring element 6 is at least partially relieved, the locking sub-mechanism 30 is opened, the securing hook 40 is open. Position s45: The snap-in assembly 50 is in the release position 51 and thus open. Position s135: The closure element 110 is closed, the pretensioning device 5 is pretensioned and thus the spring element 6 is loaded. Position s195: The locking sub-mechanism 30 is closed and the locking element 31 is thus in its locking position 32. Position s135: The safety hook 40 is closed and thus secures the locking sub-mechanism 30. Position s45: The device 100 is ready for water discharge. Position s0: The safety hook 40 is open or in the release position, the locking sub-mechanism 30 is open, the closure element 110 is open, the snap-in assembly 50 is in its snap-in position, and the spring force of the pre-tensioning device 5 is released. Water is released quickly.

[0108] Advantageously, the arrangement 1 and the device 100 equipped therewith can be easily operated by a single operator or a "loadmaster", and a quick and easy restoration of the operational readiness of the device 100 for refilling the tank 120 is already possible during the return flight after the water drop.

[0109] The arrangement 1 further contributes to implementing a sealing concept in which a seal in the region of the outlet opening 121 is compressed when the closure element 110 is closed, since sufficient force can be applied with the aid of the mechanism.

[0110] The above-mentioned provisions in relation to the Fig. The device 100 described in the first exemplary embodiment shown in Figures 1-12 is mobile and can be introduced into the cargo hold of the aircraft 200 and secured therein in the manner of a kit and / or as a finished, fully functional assembly, or removed from the cargo hold and stored for reuse. The aircraft 200 can thus be used very flexibly for firefighting from the air. In addition, the aircraft-side effort for this is minimal. The arrangement 1 for actuating the closure element 110 implements the described actuation processes purely mechanically and with the aid of a single, common actuation element 7. The workload for the operator is thus greatly reduced, and interfaces to electrical, hydraulic, or pneumatic systems in the aircraft 200 are not required for actuating the closure element 110.

[0111] Although the design of the device 100 for temporary use in the cargo hold as needed, as just described, is very advantageous, in variants the arrangement 1 for actuating a closure element which serves to selectively close and release an outlet opening of a tank for fire-fighting water permanently installed in an aircraft can be used equally.

[0112] An arrangement 1' according to a second embodiment for actuating a closure element 110', which is movable for selectively closing and releasing the outlet opening 121 of the above-described tank 120 which can be accommodated or housed in the aircraft 200, is described below with reference to the Fig. 13A, Fig. 13B. The arrangement 1' can be used in the above-described device 100 for throwing water W for firefighting instead of the above-described arrangement 1, in particular for example in the aircraft 200 of Fig. 11, Fig. 12. The advantages described with reference to the first embodiment can also be achieved with the second embodiment. In addition, the second embodiment allows for further simplification of the device's housing, whereby, in particular, the space requirement in a lower region of the outlet opening 121 and / or below it, in particular in a direction approximately vertical with respect to a cargo compartment floor, can be reduced.

[0113] Fig. 13A shows that in the second embodiment, the outlet opening 121, not designated in the figure, can be tightly closed or released for water discharge by means of the flap-like closure element 110' which can be pivoted, for example, by an angle of approximately 90 degrees for opening in the opening direction 140'. Fig. 13A-B show a closed position 111' of the closure element 110' only in solid lines. Analogous to the first embodiment, in the arrangement 1', the opening of the closure element 110' in the direction 140' is assisted by a pretensioning device 5', which can be designed as in the first embodiment.

[0114] The device 1' of the second embodiment is a modification of the device 1 of the first embodiment and comprises a first sub-mechanism 2' and a second sub-mechanism 3', wherein the second, lower sub-mechanism 3' is not arranged fixedly with respect to the outlet opening 121 as in the device 1 as a whole, but instead is movable with the closure element 110' when it is pivoted open.

[0115] In Fig. 13A-B for the second embodiment, which are provided analogously to the first embodiment, are provided below with the same reference numerals, but supplemented by an apostrophe, with differences from the first embodiment being described below.

[0116] In the arrangement 1', the closure element 110' is fixedly connected to an arm 115', which is coupled to the pretensioning device 5' via a joint. However, the arm 115' is larger than in the device 1 in order to realize the co-pivoting capability of the second sub-mechanism 3'.

[0117] The arrangement 1' also features a single actuating element 7' designed as a pivotable lever, which enables the operator to close the open closure element 110', lock it in the closed position 111' and secure this lock, release the lock, and unlock the closure element 110' for opening it to dispense water. As in the first embodiment, the closure element 110' opens upwards with respect to the direction of gravity, and upon unlocking, the arrangement 1' is again brought into a state in which the closure element 110' can snap into its open position and is thereby locked open. In the second embodiment, this lock is also released again in the open position when the closure element 110' is closed.

[0118] Fig. 13A shows a front side of the assembly 1', Fig. 13B a ​​back side of this, for the same condition of the arrangement 1'.

[0119] In the arrangement 1', the first sub-mechanism 2' additionally has a coupling device 90', which is designed, for example, as a so-called Schmidt coupling. The coupling device 90' ​​enables a torsionally rigid transmission of a pivoting state from one pivot element to a second and simultaneously allows a significant displacement of the axes of both relative to each other. The mode of operation in the arrangement 1' is described in more detail below. The two sub-mechanisms 2', 3' are coupled via the coupling device 90' ​​and a transmission element 8', for example, a rod-shaped one.

[0120] A first Geneva gear 10' of a Geneva gear mechanism 4' is formed, as in arrangement 1, with pins 12', 13' and a locking surface 14' on a drive element 9' that is pivotable about a pivot axis a1' and non-rotatably connected to the actuating element 7'. In contrast, a Geneva gear 20' of the mechanism 4' is modified compared to the first embodiment, with the angular spacing of the pins 22', 23' on the drive element 9' being reduced and the locking surface 24 now being omitted.

[0121] The pins 12', 13' of the drive geometry 11' serve to gradually drive a first output element 19', which is mounted rotatably about a second pivot axis a2', by engaging the pins 12', 13' in its slots 17' and 18', respectively. A second locking active surface 16' can interact with the first locking active surface 14', as in arrangement 1.

[0122] The pins 22', 23' of the drive geometry 21', which are offset from one another around the axis a1', for example, by an angle of essentially 90 degrees, serve for a step-by-step drive of a second output element 29', which is mounted rotatably about a third pivot axis a3', by means of engagement of the pins 22', 23' in its slots 27' and 28', respectively.

[0123] The drive geometries 11', 21' are thus jointly movable by means of the actuating element 7'. In particular, in the exemplary arrangement 1', the angular range within which the actuating element 7' can be pivoted can be somewhat reduced compared to the exemplary embodiment of arrangement 1.

[0124] The output element 19' is designed analogously to the output element 19 with a first control geometry 60' with areas 64', 65', 66', but is arranged rotated about the axis a2' compared to the first embodiment.

[0125] An arm 113' which is connected to the closure element 110' in a rotationally fixed manner and carries an engagement element 61' for engagement in the geometry 60' is, compared to the arrangement 1, also arranged in a modified position about the axis a2', analogous to the rotation of the output element 19'.

[0126] As with arrangement 1, a snap-in assembly 50' is provided, which is pivotably mounted about a fourth pivot axis a4'. Corresponding to the modification of the position of the output element 19', the orientation of the snap-in assembly 50' is also modified; its design with a catch 53', an edge 54', and an arm 55', as well as its function, are nevertheless the same as described above for the assembly 50. In particular, the snap-in assembly 50' can assume a snap-in position and a release position 51', as described in more detail above. Fig. 13A-B only show the release position 51'. Furthermore, the pin-like engagement element 63' of the snap-in assembly 50' is in Fig. 13A indicated.

[0127] The positions of the axes a1', a2', a3' are fixed with respect to the outlet opening 121, as in the first embodiment. The arm 115' is pivotable about the axis a2' with the closure element 110'. In the arrangement 1', the second output element 29', which is pivotable about the axis a3', is coupled via the coupling device 90' ​​to an arm 81' pivotally mounted on the arm 115' about a further pivot axis a3" in such a way that the position of the output element 29' can be transmitted to the arm 81' in a rotationally rigid and angularly accurate manner, regardless of the pivot position of the arm 115'. This angularly accurate transmission with a large possible displacement of the axis a3" is made possible by the coupling device 90', which is designed, for example, as a Schmidt coupling.

[0128] In a variant, instead of the coupling device 90' ​​designed as a Schmidt coupling, it could be provided that the axes a2', a3' and a3" geometrically coincide, whereby the functions of these axes are still decoupled. The Schmidt coupling 90' enables in the example of the Fig. 13A, Fig. 13B Flexibility in the arrangement and spacing of the axes a2', a3', a3".

[0129] In particular, the example of Fig. 13A, Fig. 13B, the second output element 29' is non-rotatably coupled to a first clutch disc 91' pivotable about the axis a3', and the arm 81' is non-rotatably coupled to a third clutch disc 93' pivotable about the axis a3" and mounted on the arm 115'. The discs 91', 93' are each coupled via three parallel couplers to a second, central clutch disc 92', whose pivot axis is not fixed. The arm 81' is connected to the transmission element 8' in an articulated connection 82'.

[0130] The second sub-mechanism 3' comprises a control element 80' mounted for rotation about a fifth pivot axis a5', a locking sub-mechanism 30' with a locking element 31' mounted for rotation about a sixth pivot axis a6', and a securing hook 40' mounted for rotation about a seventh pivot axis a7', the arrangement of which is modified compared to that in the first exemplary embodiment. Although the axes a5', a6', and a7' are fixed relative to one another, they are not fixed relative to the outlet opening 121. Instead, the control element 80', the locking element 31', and the securing hook 40' are mounted on a rigid frame 117' that is firmly connected to the closure element 110'. Thus, the positions of the axes a5', a6', and a7' are fixed relative to the frame 117'.

[0131] The control element 80' is coupled to the transmission element 8' via an arm 83' which is connected to the control element 80' in a rotationally fixed manner and an articulated connection 84'.

[0132] By means of the locking element 31', the closure element 110' can be Fig. 13A-B shown closed position 111'. For this purpose, the locking element 31' in its locking position 32' engages behind a retaining section 125', which is formed, for example, with an edge and / or surface behind which the locking element 31' can engage. With regard to the outlet opening 121, in Fig. 13A-B the partial mechanism 3' is arranged on the outside of the closure element 110', the water pressure acts when the tank is filled in Fig. 13A from the right onto the closure element 110'.

[0133] An arm 35', which is freely rotatable about the axis a5', is connected to the locking element 31' via an intermediate member 36' by means of articulated connections 34' and 37', analogously to the first embodiment. In or on the articulated axis of the articulated connection 34', the locking sub-mechanism 30' has an engagement element 71', by means of which the sub-mechanism 30' can be pushed past a dead center during the transition from the locked to the unlocked position or vice versa, analogously to the first embodiment.

[0134] An engagement element 74' on the safety hook 40' enables it to pivot about the axis a7' between a safety position 41' and a Fig. 13A-B not shown in the release position.

[0135] A second control geometry 70' is formed in the control element 80', comprising a first part 70a' for the engagement of the engagement element 71' and a second part 70b' for the engagement of the engagement element 74'. Compared to the first exemplary embodiment, the parts 70a' and 70b' are modified in that each of the parts 70a', 70b' has been extended by an additional circular arc-shaped region. The additional region serves to accommodate the additional rotation of the control element 80' in the open position of the closure element 110' caused by the co-pivoting of the sub-mechanism 3' with the closure element 110' during its movement by, for example, approximately 90 degrees between the open and closed positions, without forcing the sub-mechanism 30' beyond the dead center. The additional rotation is caused by the fact that the arm 115' pivots and at the same time the position of the clutch disc 93' remains angularly maintained.During the additional rotation, the engagement elements 71' and 74' can pass through the additional area of ​​each of the parts 70a' and 70b' without any effect on the engagement elements 71', 74'.

[0136] In the second embodiment, the first part 70a' follows a path in the form of a circular arc section with a constant radius, which also includes the additional region. The second part 70b' is again formed with a bent shape, the main bend of this shape facing the outer edge of the control element 80'. The second part 70b' comprises first to fifth regions 75', 76', 77', 78', 79', with the circular-arc-shaped fifth region 79' being extended by the aforementioned circular-arc-shaped additional region. Furthermore, reference is made to the first embodiment.

[0137] The functioning of the arrangement 1' corresponds to that described for the first embodiment, with the differences explained below.

[0138] An example is Fig. 13A-B the tank is filled. The closure element 110' is closed and locked, the locking element 31' is secured by means of the safety hook 40'. By further pivoting the actuating element 7' in Fig. 13A counterclockwise, the engagement element 74' is shifted to a smaller radius with respect to the axis a5', the safety hook 40' pivots and releases the locking element 31', and by the engagement element 71' being in contact with the Fig. 13A-B downwardly moving section 73', the sub-mechanism 30' is pushed past the dead center position. Thus, the closure element 110' is unlocked and the outlet opening 121 is quickly exposed as described above, with the closure element 110' opening under the action of the water pressure in the tank 120 and assisted by the pretensioning device 5'.

[0139] The locking element 110' locked in the open position is released after the water has been released by pivoting the actuating element 7' in Fig. 13A is unlocked in a clockwise direction, closed and locked in the closed position 111'. The reduced angle between the positions of the two pins 22', 23' contributes to a temporal overlap of the processes of closing the closure element 110' and locking the locking element 31'. This results in a reduced pivotable angular range of the actuating element 7'. By the subsequent pivoting of the actuating element 7' in the view of the Fig. 13A counterclockwise back to the Fig. In the initial position shown in Figure 13A, the locking element 31' is secured by the safety hook 40'.

[0140] The arrangement 1' can also be used in a water jettisoning device, which is introduced into the cargo hold of the aircraft 200 in the manner of a kit and / or as a fully functional assembly, or alternatively is permanently installed in the aircraft 200. Advantageously, the arrangement 1' also implements the above-described actuation processes purely mechanically and with the aid of a single actuation element 7', wherein, in particular, the accommodation of the sub-mechanism 3' is even easier, since little or no installation space is required in the lower area or below the outlet opening 121.

[0141] Although the invention has been fully described above using preferred embodiments, it is not limited thereto but can be modified in many ways. LIST OF REFERENCE SYMBOLS 1, 1' arrangement 2, 2' first sub-mechanism 3, 3' second partial mechanism 4, 4' Maltese cross mechanism 5.5' pre-tensioning device 6 spring element 7, 7' Actuator 8, 8' transmission element 9, 9' drive element (Maltese cross mechanism) 10, 10' first Maltese cross gear 11, 11' drive geometry (first Geneva gear) 12, 12' first pin 13, 13' second pin 14, 14' first locking effective area 15 rounded recess 16, 16' second locking effective area 17, 17' first slot 18, 18' second slot 19, 19' first output element 20, 20' second Maltese cross gear 21, 21' drive geometry (second Geneva gear) 22, 22' third pin 23, 23' fourth pin 24 third locking effective area 25 rounded outer contour 26 fourth locking effective area 27, 27' third slot 28, 28' fourth slot 29, 29' second output element 30, 30' locking partial mechanism 31, 31' locking element 32, 32' locking position (locking element) 33 Unlocking position (locking element) 34, 34' articulated connection 35. 35' Arm 36, 36' intermediate link 37, 37' articulated connection 38, 38' first end area 39, 39' second end area 40, 40' safety hook 41, 41' securing position 42 Safety release position 43, 43' end area 44, 44' hook structure 50, 50' snap-in assembly 51, 51' release position (snap-in assembly) 52 snap-in position (snap-in assembly) 53, 53' Snapper 54, 54' edge 55, 55' arm 60, 60' first control geometry 61, 61' engagement element 62, 62' section 63, 63' engagement element 64, 64' first area 65, 65' second area 66, 66' third area 70, 70' second control geometry 70a, 70a' first part (second steering geometry) 70b, 70b' second part (second control geometry) 71, 71' engagement element 72, 72' section 73, 73' section 74, 74' engagement element 75, 75' first area 76, 76' second area 77, 77' third area 78, 78' fourth area 79, 79' fifth area 80, 80' control 81, 81' arm 82, 82' articulated connection 83, 83' arm 84, 84' articulated connection 90' coupling device 91' first clutch disc 92' second clutch disc 93' third clutch disc 100 Device for ejecting water 110, 110' closure element 111, 111' closed position (closing element) 112 open position (locking element) 113, 113' arm 115, 115' arm 117' frame 120 tanks 121 Outlet opening 125' retention section 130 Outlet line 140, 140' opening direction 200 aircraft 201 hull 202 wing 203 tail unit 204 Nose 205 rear 206 rear ramp 207 free end (rear ramp) W Water a1, a1' first swivel axis a2, a2' second swivel axis a3, a3' third swivel axis a3" additional swivel axis a4, a4' fourth swivel axis a5, a5' fifth swivel axis a6, a6' ​​sixth swivel axis a7, a7' seventh swivel axis s0 0-degree position (actuating element) s45 45-degree position (actuating element) s135 135-degree position (actuator) s195 195-degree position (actuator)

Claims

[1] Arrangement (1; 1') for actuating a closure element (110; 110') which is movable for selectively closing and releasing an outlet opening (121) of a tank (120) of a device (100) for discharging water (W) for firefighting, which tank can be accommodated or housed in an aircraft (200), wherein the arrangement (1; 1') is formed with a Geneva gear mechanism (4; 4') and wherein by means of the arrangement (1; 1') at least a closing of the closure element (110; 110') located in an open position (112) for closing the outlet opening (121) in a closed position (111; 111'), a locking of the closure element (110; 110') in the closed position (111; 111'), and an unlocking of the closure element located in the closed position (111; 111') locked closure element (110; 110') for opening the same when the tank (120) is full for water dispensing. [2] Arrangement according to claim 1, characterized bythat by means of the arrangement (1; 1') a locking of the closure element (110; 110') in the open position (112) thereof and further a release of the closure element (110; 110') locked in the open position (112) for the closing thereof are made possible. [3] Arrangement according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by that a movable locking sub-mechanism (30; 30') is provided for locking the closure element (110; 110') in the closed position, and that the arrangement (1; 1') enables the locking sub-mechanism (30; 30') to be secured when the closure element (110; 110') is closed and locked, and the secured locking sub-mechanism (30; 30') to be unlocked. [4] Arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, characterized bythat the closing of the closure element (110; 110'), the locking thereof in the closed position (111; 111') and the unlocking of the closure element (110; 110') locked in the closed position (111; 111') can be brought about by moving a common actuating element (7; 7'), wherein the actuating element (7; 7') is designed in particular as a lever which can be pivoted by an operator. [5] Arrangement according to claim 4 in conjunction with claim 2, characterized by that furthermore the closure element (110; 110') locked in the open position (112) can be released for closing the same by moving the common actuating element (7; 7'). [6] Arrangement according to claim 4 or 5 in conjunction with claim 3, characterized by that furthermore the securing and unlocking of the locking sub-mechanism (30; 30') can be brought about by moving the common actuating element (7; 7'). [7] Arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the Geneva mechanism (4; 4') is formed with a first Geneva gear (10; 10') and a second Geneva gear (20; 20'). [8] Arrangement according to claim 7 in conjunction with claim 4, characterized by that a drive geometry (11; 11') of the first Geneva gear (10; 10') and a drive geometry (21; 21') of the second Geneva gear (20; 20') can be moved together by means of the common actuating element (7; 7'). [9] Arrangement according to claim 7 or 8, characterized bythat by means of the action of the first Geneva gear (10; 10'), the closing of the closure element (110; 110') can be effected by transferring it from its open position (112) into its closed position (111; 111') and / or that by means of the action of the first Geneva gear (10; 10'), a movable snap-in assembly (50; 50') can be moved into a snap-in position (52), in which the closure element (110; 110') can be locked by snapping into the open position (112) by means of the snap-in assembly (50; 50'), and into a release position (51; 51'), in which the locking of the closure element (110; 110') in the open position (112) is released and the snapping of the closure element (110; 110') is not is possible, is movable. [10] Arrangement according to claim 9, characterized bythat a first control geometry (60; 60') is rotatably movable on the output side by the first Geneva gear (10; 10'), wherein the closure element (110; 110') is movable by an engagement element (61; 61') coupled to the closure element (110; 110') abutting a portion (62; 62') of the first control geometry (60; 60') during a rotational movement thereof by entraining the engagement element (61; 61') along a substantially circular arc-shaped path into the closed position (111; 111') and / or the snap-in assembly (50; 50') is movable by guiding an engagement element (63; 63') coupled to the snap-in assembly (50; 50') by a rotation of the first control geometry (60; 60') is movable along a path with a variable distance from an axis (a2; a2') of rotation between the snap-in position (52) and the release position (51; 51'). [11] Arrangement according to one of claims 7 to 10, characterized bythat by means of the action of the second Geneva gear (20; 20') a locking element (31; 31') is movable, by means of which the closure element (110; 110') can be locked in the closed position (111; 111') and / or that by means of the action of the second Geneva gear (20; 20') a securing hook (40; 40') is movable, by means of which the locking element (31; 31') can be temporarily secured against movement out of a locking position (32; 32'). [12] Arrangement according to claim 11 in conjunction with claim 3, characterized by that the locking element (31; 31') is designed as a component of the locking sub-mechanism (30; 30') and that the locking sub-mechanism (30; 30') performs a dead center passage when the locking element (31; 31') is transferred from its locking position (32; 32') to its unlocking position (33) or vice versa. [13] Arrangement according to claim 11 or 12, characterized bythat a second control geometry (70; 70') is movable on the output side by the second Geneva gear (20; 20'), wherein the locking element (31; 31') can be transferred by an engagement element (71; 71') which is movable in a manner coupled with a movement of the locking element (31; 31') on a first section (72; 72') of the second control geometry (70; 70') during a rotational movement thereof by entraining the engagement element (71; 71') along a substantially circular arc-shaped path in a first direction into a locking position (32; 32') and on a second section (73; 73') of the second control geometry (70; 70') during a rotational movement thereof by entraining the engagement element (71; 71') along the path in a second direction into an unlocking position (33) and / or the securing hook (40; 40') by guiding an engagement element (74; 74') coupled to the securing hook (40; 40') by a rotation of the second control geometry (70;70') is movable along a path with a variable distance from an axis (a5; a5') of rotation between a securing position (41; 41') and a releasing position (42); [14] Arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the arrangement (1; 1') has a pretensioning device (5; 5') by means of which the closure element (110; 110') can be pretensioned in an opening direction when closing the same in order to close the outlet opening (121) and in particular that the pretensioning device (5; 5') has a spring element (6). [15] Device (100) for dropping water from an aircraft (200) for firefighting, comprising a tank (120) with an outlet opening (121), a closure element (110; 110') for selectively closing and releasing the outlet opening (121), and an arrangement (1; 1') according to one of the preceding claims. [16] Aircraft (200) with a device (100) according to claim 15.

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