Rescue device, rescue system and vehicle

Abstract

including rescue device (10) a floating body (1, 7); and an energy supply (3); characterized by a tracking device (5) which is supplied with electrical energy by the power supply (3) in an emergency situation; and wherein the location device (5) can provide position data of the rescue device (10) in the emergency situation.

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to the field of rescue services. In particular, the invention relates to a rescue device, a rescue system and a vehicle.

[0002] There are known rescue devices used in vehicles or stationary installations to rescue people and animals in emergency situations. Vehicles include, for example, missiles, airplanes, helicopters, ships, passenger ships, freighters, container ships, ferries, yachts, boats, or other watercraft such as jet skis and similar devices, or water sports equipment such as surfboards, kitesurf boards, water skis, and the like. Stationary installations include, for example, oil rigs that are transported to the sea and firmly anchored there.

[0003] For safety reasons, certain rescue devices are legally required for use in emergency situations, such as life jackets, emergency slides, lifeboats, and life rafts. These devices are all designed for use in water and are therefore buoyant, at least in an emergency. Often, the vessel itself is no longer buoyant in an emergency, requiring people and animals to abandon ship and utilize a rescue device. Rescue is often difficult, for example, due to poor visibility, high waves, or the distance to the nearest land or vessel, making the rescue a critical time factor for the survival of the people and animals. Even a salvage operation under these circumstances is fraught with obstacles.

[0004] The object of the present invention is to provide rescue equipment that simplifies the rescue or recovery of persons and animals.

[0005] This problem is solved with a rescue device according to the features of claim 1. Furthermore, the problem is solved with a rescue system according to the features of claim 17 and with a vehicle according to the features of claim 20.

[0006] According to the invention, a rescue device is provided which comprises a buoyant body and a power supply. The rescue device includes a tracking unit that is powered by the energy supply in an emergency situation. Furthermore, the tracking unit is capable of providing position data for the rescue device in an emergency situation.

[0007] The rescue device's power supply can be electrical, for example, in the form of a battery or accumulator for storing electrical energy. Alternatively, the rescue device's power supply can be chemical, providing energy, for example, through the activation or release of one or more chemical substances, which can then be converted into electrical energy.

[0008] The rescue device can also be powered by an existing power supply, such as one for an emergency light. This existing power supply can then be used for the rescue device as well. This has the advantage of reducing the weight of the rescue device, as no second power supply is required.

[0009] The rescue device according to the invention is intended for use in emergency situations. A distinction can be made between normal operation and an emergency situation. In normal operation, the rescue devices are typically stored on or in the vehicle, as in aircraft and ships, or are used without coming into contact with water, such as when riding a jet ski. During normal operation, the rescue devices are typically in a passive state, meaning they are available but not yet activated. In an emergency situation, the rescue device is activated manually or automatically. Activation occurs, for example, when the buoyant body is inflated or comes into contact with water.

[0010] The rescue devices considered here are typically kept on hand during the regular operation of an aircraft, watercraft, oil rig, or during water sports and are only deployed in an emergency. A rescue device can be a life jacket or a life slide. Other rescue devices include life rafts, such as those used on ships and boats to provide protection for people and animals until rescue. These life rafts are stored packed and then, when deployed in the water, become a floating island; that is, their buoyancy chamber functions as a floating platform.

[0011] The rescue devices discussed here are needed in emergency situations and are typically used in water. Examples of emergency situations include aircraft crashes, hijackings, water landings, and accidents involving ships, ferries, yachts, or boats, as well as piracy attacks in the air and at sea. Another emergency situation can arise on an oil rig or other platform in the water, where a person or animal falls or is thrown into the water. Therefore, the wearing of life jackets or overalls during normal operations is also considered here, although the rescue components of the rescue device, such as the buoyancy aid, are only needed in an emergency.

[0012] The emergency situations considered here can affect humans and animals, so the rescue device according to the invention can be used for both humans and animals.

[0013] The buoyant body of the rescue device can come into contact with water in an emergency and provide buoyancy. The tracking device can provide position data for the rescue device in an emergency, for example, by acquiring satellite data. For this purpose, the tracking device can include a receiver for satellite signals, such as a GPS (Global Positioning System) receiver. This provides a rescue device with integrated GPS functionality.

[0014] Position data refers to location data or coordinates that describe the current position of a rescue device, enabling the location of a person or animal using the device in an emergency. The rescue device can be positioned on or below the water's surface. Three-dimensional position data, such as latitude, longitude, and altitude, can be determined. This position data can be acquired by the rescue device's tracking unit. Furthermore, the tracking unit can transmit the position data, for example, to one or more emergency services. For this purpose, the tracking unit advantageously includes a transmitter capable of sending position data via radio link. Thus, the tracking unit can provide the rescue device's position data in an emergency.

[0015] Global tracking systems allow the rescue device to be located using its tracking equipment. This is achieved, for example, by receiving and processing satellite data. In this way, the rescue device can be deployed and located worldwide. In addition to satellite communication, the tracking device may also utilize mobile network technology, which may be available near coastlines.

[0016] Furthermore, the use of a tracking device is advantageous in the event of a kidnapping. Rescue devices, such as buoyancy aids or life jackets, equipped with a tracking device or system can help locate kidnapped persons more quickly. For example, such life jackets can enable rapid location and rescue in scenarios such as piracy, human trafficking, or emergencies at sea.

[0017] An integrated tracking device in the rescue equipment, such as a GPS system, can transmit the location of the person in distress to one or more rescue services in real time. Supplemented by automatic signals in case of loss of contact, especially radio contact, with a ship or boat, this can shorten response times and enable a timely rescue.

[0018] Furthermore, the use of a tracking device is advantageous in the recovery of deceased persons. In the event of a maritime accident or emergency, bringing the deceased home is often of paramount importance to relatives. This helps them cope with the loss and offers an opportunity to say a proper goodbye. A rescue device, particularly a life jacket with an integrated tracking system, makes the recovery of deceased persons possible.

[0019] A rescue device with a tracking system can also be used after a person's death to locate and recover the body. Additionally, automatic signal activation, for example, due to prolonged inactivity or the detection of deviations from normal behavior, can help facilitate the search.

[0020] Ethical considerations also play a significant role in the recovery of bodies. The recovery of the deceased should be carried out with the utmost respect. It is not only about documenting the loss, but also about giving relatives the opportunity to say goodbye and upholding the dignity of the deceased. Furthermore, cultural and religious beliefs can be taken into account, depending on the individual's faith. A timely recovery of the missing person, facilitated by the use of tracking equipment, is helpful in this regard.

[0021] Furthermore, it is advantageous that a tracking device is affordable, i.e., cost-effective, compared to a search operation at sea and therefore offers significant benefits. Searches for individuals can be more targeted, considerably narrowing the search area at sea. Consequently, rescue or recovery of individuals can be carried out promptly. If life jackets with tracking devices are used, they can be manufactured affordably, ensuring access to these life-saving devices for all segments of the population. Particularly in regions with a high risk of abductions or accidents, government subsidies could also be helpful. Additionally, some cultures have specific rituals or customs for dealing with the deceased. These can be taken into account in the development and application of the technologies proposed here.

[0022] The proposed rescue device has diverse applications. The rescue device with integrated tracking system can be used in both civilian and military settings. Examples include aviation, maritime operations, and military applications such as the navy, air force, paratroopers, and similar fields. The rescue devices can be used in missiles, watercraft, on oil rigs, or in water sports, mountaineering, and winter sports. Stationary installations include, for example, oil rigs that are transported to sea and anchored there. Civil aviation and shipping, such as passenger ships on rivers and at sea, offer significant potential for the use of the proposed rescue device, particularly in the form of life jackets. Passenger traffic in these sectors is high, and onboard emergency equipment needs to be further developed with regard to safety features.Advances in technology, such as digital networking, enable further improvements in the rescue and recovery of people and animals. The present invention and its embodiments contribute to this.

[0023] In one embodiment, the rescue device may be a piece of clothing.

[0024] An article of clothing is, for example, a vest, a shirt, trousers, or overalls that can be worn on the body. In this case, the article of clothing is intended to contribute to the rescue of a person or animal, as it is buoyant in an emergency situation.

[0025] In one embodiment, the rescue device may be a life jacket.

[0026] In the following, the terms life jacket and buoyancy aid are used synonymously. A life jacket or buoyancy aid advantageously has a buoyancy collar that keeps the head of the person or animal above water. Furthermore, a life jacket has one or more inflatable buoyancy chambers. The buoyancy collar can also be designed as a buoyancy chamber. Advantageously, the buoyancy chambers are automatically filled with gas in an emergency. This can be done using a gas cartridge located on or inside the life jacket. If the gas cartridge fails or is missing, the life jacket can also be manually inflated via an oral hose. The oral hose can also be used to supply additional gas to the buoyancy chambers or air chambers.

[0027] In one embodiment, the rescue device may have an identification identifier.

[0028] An identification identifier is a unique string of characters that can be assigned to a specific object, person, or animal. The identification identifier may also include a serial number of the rescue device, which is typically assigned only once by the manufacturer. Advantageously, the identification identifier is system-wide or even globally unique. The identification identifier can contain letters, numbers, and other characters, including special characters such as #. The identification identifier can be of any length. The identification identifier is preferably machine-readable. Advantageously, the identification identifier can be provided electronically by the rescue device.It can be provided that the tracking device can use the identification identifier to provide or transmit the identification identifier, or at least a part of it, in the event of an emergency call. For this purpose, the rescue device or the tracking device of the rescue device can have a radio chip that has at least a transmitting function. Advantageously, the rescue device and / or the tracking device of the rescue device and / or the radio chip of the tracking device have a transmitting and a receiving unit with which data can be sent and received electronically.

[0029] The identification identifier can advantageously include a location-based identifier and / or a group-based identifier. A location-based identifier can identify a specific area. These areas could be, for example, seat row numbers in an aircraft or deck numbers in a passenger ship. A group-based identifier can advantageously identify the membership of groups of people, such as cabin numbers on a passenger ship, container ship, or ferry. In an aircraft, these could be First Class, Business Class, Business Economy, and / or Economy Class. Furthermore, the memberships of groups of people can be divided into categories, such as crew or staff and passengers.

[0030] Furthermore, it is possible to identify a person in an emergency using the identification code. This is possible if the life-saving device has a unique identification code assigned to a specific person. For example, this can be achieved by including a seat number as part of the identification code and assigning the life jacket to that seat. With a check-in system, such as those used on airplanes and passenger ships, individuals with a reserved seat or cabin number can be linked to a life-saving device, such as a life jacket, in a data record during check-in. This data record uses, for example, personal data and data relating to the life jacket's position within the vessel.If a passenger uses their assigned life jacket in an emergency situation, which is located, for example, under or on their seat or in their cabin, this passenger can be identified during the rescue operation.

[0031] In one embodiment, it can be provided that the locating device can be activated by contact with water.

[0032] Such activation can occur electrically, for example, by creating electrical conductivity through water to activate the tracking device. Alternatively, the tracking device can be activated via the power supply through contact with water. In this case, activation occurs due to the activation of the power supply. This can be done electrically. Alternatively, activation of the power supply can be achieved mechanically, for example, by exposing one or more contacts.

[0033] In one embodiment, the tracking device may be provided with an emergency activation.

[0034] The emergency activation can be performed manually and / or electronically. Manual activation can be achieved, for example, by pulling a cord or flipping a handle on the rescue device. This activates the tracking device, enabling it to transmit position data without the rescue device needing to come into contact with water.

[0035] In an emergency situation, such as an aircraft hijacking, access to the emergency rescue systems from external systems may be possible. This means that the rescue system can be used as an additional or even the sole means of signaling to transmit its position data. This can be helpful, for example, if an aircraft's black box has been tampered with. In this case, the aircraft can be located using the position data from the life vests on board. Thus, a variety of radio signals are available for locating the aircraft via the life vest tracking system. Activation of the life vest tracking systems and transmission of position data can be carried out, for example, via the onboard flight-in system or externally from outside the aircraft, such as from a ground control station.This allows for the electronic emergency activation of life jackets on the aircraft. Authorized authorities and airlines thus gain remote access to the life jackets or emergency slides in order to locate the aircraft. A similar electronic emergency activation is possible on a ship, for example, in the event of piracy. Here, too, the life-saving devices can be activated on board the ship or remotely to transmit position data.

[0036] In one embodiment, the tracking device may have a time-controlled activation.

[0037] Time-controlled activation of the rescue device can be achieved, for example, using a chemical mechanism. A gel that dissolves upon contact with water can be used, allowing the tracking device to be activated with a time delay. This has the advantage of allowing energy to be used more efficiently to operate the tracking device, as activation should only occur upon contact with water, at which point the device should transmit its position data.

[0038] In one embodiment, it may be provided that the tracking device can establish a radio contact with internal communication units or internal communication systems.

[0039] Internal communication units can be, for example, units that were on board a vehicle or fixed installation during or prior to the emergency situation. Internal communication units can include, for example, the vehicle's rescue equipment, such as life jackets, emergency slides, life rafts, and lifeboats.

[0040] Internal communication systems include, for example, systems on board one's own vehicle, such as a black box, other rescue devices of one's own vehicle, the flight-in system of an aircraft, radio systems on a ship, and similar systems.

[0041] It is advantageously designed so that the rescue device, with its internal communication units and systems, can send and / or exchange data via a radio link with the tracking device in an emergency situation.

[0042] In one embodiment, it may be provided that the tracking device can establish a radio contact with external communication units or external communication systems.

[0043] External communication units and external communication systems are devices that were not originally part of the vehicle. Satellites are an example of an external communication unit. A satellite system is an example of an external communication system.

[0044] The positioning system can be configured to use various satellite systems. Hybrid positioning systems can also be used. For example, the positioning system can process signals from a combination of GPS, Galileo, and / or GLONASS for improved location accuracy. This is particularly advantageous in areas with weak satellite coverage.

[0045] Furthermore, the rescue device can trigger an automated distress call. For this purpose, the rescue device can be equipped with an automatic distress frequency, such as AIS (Automatic Identification System) and / or VHF (Very High Frequency). This means that the rescue device can be integrated with Automatic Identification System (AIS) and / or VHF radio for distress signals, enabling precise localization near the coast or at sea. Position data from the tracking device can be transmitted along with the distress call.

[0046] Overall, the tracking device can have a transmitting unit and a receiving unit to exchange data with internal and external communication units and communication systems.

[0047] In one embodiment, it may be provided that the rescue device has at least one communication device.

[0048] Not only can the tracking device provide communication links, but also an additional communication device independent of the tracking device. This communication device can be powered by the same energy source as the tracking device. For redundancy, the communication device can also have its own power supply.

[0049] This opens up numerous opportunities for communication and networking.

[0050] The rescue device may incorporate Bluetooth and / or LoRaWAN technologies. These technologies can be used to connect to other devices or networks, for example to send alarms and location data to nearby vessels or rescue services.

[0051] Furthermore, the rescue device can be designed to communicate with mobile devices. This could be done, for example, via text message, pre-recorded voice message, or live voice communication. Location data, such as the location and / or status, could be transmitted to smartphones in real time and forwarded to a smartphone app or pre-defined emergency contacts.

[0052] Furthermore, the rescue device can be integrated into a mesh network. This allows, for example, communication between multiple life jackets to support search and rescue teams, such as in group accidents. This communication can occur in real time, transmitting location data and / or status updates.

[0053] Overall, the communication unit of the rescue device can have a transmitting unit and a receiving unit to exchange data and signals with internal and external communication units and communication systems.

[0054] In one embodiment, the rescue device may have at least one sensor.

[0055] A sensor on or inside the rescue device can collect additional data about the emergency situation or the accident. Inertial sensors can be used, such as an accelerometer or a gyroscope. These sensors can be used to locate the rescue device and the person inside it. Accelerometers and gyroscopes can be used to estimate the position. This is advantageous if a GPS connection is temporarily lost, for example, underwater.

[0056] A sensor can also be used to monitor the condition of the person or animal being rescued. For example, the rescue device can have a temperature sensor that measures the body temperature of the person or animal being rescued. Furthermore, a temperature sensor can measure the water temperature and / or the air temperature.

[0057] In one embodiment, the energy supply may include an electrical storage device that can be charged with at least one external energy source.

[0058] An electrical energy storage device for the rescue equipment is advantageously a battery or accumulator. This is advantageously mounted in a waterproof manner on or inside the rescue equipment.

[0059] An external energy source can be solar energy. For example, solar charging can be used. Flexible, waterproof solar panels can be used on a life jacket to charge the tracking system.

[0060] Furthermore, wind energy can be an external energy source. This can be harnessed on the rescue device using wind turbines, converting mechanical rotational energy into electrical energy. Miniature wind turbines, such as propellers with a diameter of just a few millimeters or centimeters, can be used for this purpose. These can be housed, for example, in tubes.

[0061] Furthermore, kinetic energy sources can be used as an energy source for the rescue device. For example, the energy generated during the use of the rescue device can be harnessed. Thus, an electrical energy storage device can be continuously charged by utilizing this kinetic energy.

[0062] Overall, the use of additional energy sources can ensure an energy supply to the rescue device and increase energy efficiency.

[0063] In one embodiment, the rescue device may include a heating element.

[0064] The rescue device may include a heating system designed as thermal insulation through the integration of warming materials.

[0065] Furthermore, the rescue device may have one or more heating elements as a heating device, which are supplied by an electrical or chemical energy source on or in the rescue device.

[0066] These heating devices can prevent hypothermia. This is particularly relevant when the rescue situation is complex and the rescue measures initiated are time-consuming. In this way, the safety and comfort function of the rescue device is increased.

[0067] In one embodiment, the rescue device may be provided with an electronic data storage device.

[0068] An electronic data storage device can consist of one or more electronic components that are attached to or within the rescue device, for example, a memory chip. Alternatively, an electronic data storage device can be located remotely from the rescue device, for example, in a cloud system.

[0069] A data storage device enables additional functionalities for the rescue device. For example, a data storage device with a microprocessor unit can be used in or on the rescue device. Diagnostic capabilities can be provided, allowing a diagnostic program to determine the functionality and operational readiness of the rescue device. This enables self-diagnosis of the rescue device without an additional radio connection.

[0070] Furthermore, if a data storage device is available, data logging can be performed. This involves storing movement and environmental data to reconstruct the exact circumstances after an accident. The data can be read from the electronic data storage device in real time or at time intervals. The electronic data storage device can also be connected to one or more sensors and / or a processor to store data related to the rescue device.

[0071] In one embodiment, it may be provided that the tracking device can establish a radio connection to an analysis system.

[0072] An external analysis system can, for example, enable self-diagnosis of the rescue device to check whether it is still operational in an emergency. This includes an automated check of the functionality of the electronics, sensors, and energy storage. Following the check, reports can be sent to the user of the rescue device, such as the airline, at predetermined intervals.

[0073] The analysis system can analyze data from one or multiple rescue vehicles. This data is collected and evaluated, for example, in a central system such as a cloud service, a regulatory authority, an airline, a shipping company, a tour operator, etc.

[0074] The analysis system can be provided as a software program or as an application. An application can be used, for example, to coordinate rescue operations. For this purpose, the application runs on a variety of mobile devices and / or in a server or cloud environment, e.g., as part of an emergency control center, to coordinate a rescue operation.

[0075] In one embodiment, the rescue device may be provided with a two-way radio communication system.

[0076] This allows for radio communication between the person being rescued and a rescue center or a ship near the accident site. For example, a waterproof radio can be integrated into or attached to the rescue device.

[0077] Furthermore, the object of the present invention is achieved with a rescue system for locating a plurality of rescue devices. The rescue system comprises a database, a receiving unit, a transmitting unit, and an evaluation unit for evaluating at least one identification identifier of a rescue device. It is provided that a plurality of identification identifiers of rescue devices are stored in the database and that an identification identifier can be received by the receiving unit.

[0078] The rescue system according to the invention can be geographically distributed. It can also integrate an internal data network and / or the internet. Furthermore, cloud solutions can be used for the rescue system. The rescue system is operated, for example, by a regulatory authority, an airline, a shipping company, a tour operator, or a similar organization.

[0079] In one embodiment of the rescue system, the location system may include an analysis system.

[0080] The rescue device can provide data to the analysis system, for example, via a wireless connection. The analysis system can then read and process data from the rescue device's data storage. In an emergency, the data provided by the rescue device can be used for accident pattern recognition. The analysis system can be set up on a server or in a cloud environment.

[0081] In one embodiment of the rescue system, it may be provided that the analysis system is equipped with artificial intelligence.

[0082] Data analysis can be supported by artificial intelligence (AI). For example, the analysis system can contain sample data and datasets in its library, enabling the identification of accident patterns through pattern recognition. Based on training data, the AI ​​system can, for instance, detect abrupt movements or accidents. Furthermore, alarms can be automatically triggered after such a detection. Rescue measures, such as dispatching emergency vehicles or vessels, can also be initiated automatically.

[0083] The analysis system, which includes artificial intelligence, can also analyze the swarm behavior of numerous located rescue devices. By analyzing this swarm behavior, the movement of the rescue devices can be determined in real time, for example, by existing water currents. Rescue measures can then be initiated based on this swarm behavior. Furthermore, the sequence of events leading to an accident can be reconstructed using this analysis.

[0084] Furthermore, the object of the present invention is solved with a vehicle that has a rescue device according to the invention.

[0085] The term "vehicles" here refers to vehicles on land, vehicles in the air, and vehicles on water, whether manned or unmanned. These vehicles include, for example, aircraft such as airplanes, helicopters, drones, air taxis, and jet aircraft. Furthermore, these vehicles include watercraft such as ships, passenger ships, freighters, container ships, yachts, boats, and other watercraft such as jet skis and similar devices, or water sports equipment such as surfboards, kitesurf boards, water skis, and similar devices. Finally, these vehicles include land vehicles such as motorcycles, bicycles, ATVs, and snowmobiles.

[0086] The proposed rescue device and its embodiments can also be used by persons moving independently of a vehicle, particularly when there is a risk of injury and location becomes necessary in an emergency. The proposed rescue device and its embodiments can be used as emergency equipment, for example, during sporting activities such as hiking, mountaineering and winter sports, skiing, snowboarding, mountaineering, jet skiing, water skiing, swimming (especially open sea swimming), diving, surfing, kitesurfing, windsurfing, skydiving, paragliding, gliding, and similar activities, including non-sporting activities such as working on an oil rig to increase workplace safety.

[0087] The invention, as well as further features, objectives, advantages, and possible applications thereof, are / are explained in more detail below with reference to a description of preferred embodiments and the accompanying drawings. In the drawings, the same reference numerals denote the same or corresponding elements. All features described and / or illustrated, individually or in any meaningful combination, constitute the subject matter of the present invention, irrespective of their compilation in the claims or their cross-reference. The drawings schematically depict various embodiments and different options of a rescue device with a locating unit according to the invention. These are exemplary representations and are not to scale. The drawings show: Fig. 1 a first embodiment of a rescue device; Fig. 2 a second embodiment of a rescue device; and Fig. 3 a third embodiment of a rescue device.

[0088] In the Fig. Figures 1 to 3 describe exemplary embodiments of a rescue device 10 in the form of a life jacket or buoyancy aid, also called a passenger life jacket (in English: life preserver). The illustrated rescue devices 10 have a buoyancy collar 1 and inflatable buoyancy chambers 7, which enable the life jacket to remain buoyant in the water. The life jacket also has one or more fasteners 4 for closing it. Additionally, the life jacket has a power supply 3 that provides electrical current to an emergency lamp 2 via an electrical connection 6.

[0089] According to the invention, the rescue device 10 has a locating device 5 to locate the rescue device 10 in an emergency situation.

[0090] The locating device 5, also referred to as locating system 5, can be attached to, in, or on the rescue device at various locations. This means that the locating device 5 or locating system 5 is integrated into the rescue device 10. For this purpose, the following are incorporated into the Fig. One to three different embodiments are shown. Further designs and additional equipment on and in the rescue device 10 are possible.

[0091] Fig. Figure 1 shows a first embodiment of a rescue device 10, which is designed as a life jacket or buoyancy aid. A tracking device 5 is attached to the power supply 3, here a battery.

[0092] Fig. Figure 2 shows a second embodiment of a rescue device 10, designed as a life jacket or buoyancy aid. In this embodiment, a locator 5 is attached to the emergency light 2. The emergency light 2 is, for example, an LED lamp. The locator 5 is housed in a waterproof casing with a flat, round shape. The flat, round casing can be attached to the back of the emergency light, for example, using an adhesive.

[0093] Fig. Figure 3 shows a third embodiment of a rescue device 10, designed as a life jacket or buoyancy aid. In this embodiment, a locating device 5 can be arranged at any point in, on, or within the rescue device 10. For example, the locating device 5 can be located in a pocket of the rescue device 10. Alternatively, the locating device 5 can be attached in a cavity, such as a compartment, of the life jacket. In this third embodiment, the locating device 5 can also have its own power supply, independent of the power supply of the emergency light 5. This independent power supply can also be selected for the first and second embodiments.

[0094] All illustrated examples of the Fig.Figures 1 to 3 have in common that the rescue device 10 according to the invention is designed as a life jacket or buoyancy aid and comprises a buoyant body with a buoyancy collar 1 and inflatable chambers 7, a power supply 3, and a tracking device 5. The illustrated rescue devices 10 are suitable for rescuing people. Various sizes of life jackets can be provided, so that the life jackets can be used for babies, toddlers, teenagers, and adults. In a modified form, the life jacket according to the invention and its exemplary embodiments can also be used to locate animals.

[0095] Other forms of rescue devices can also be provided that have the features of a locating device 5, such as rescue slides, overalls, and life rafts. All rescue devices within the scope of the present invention have in common that they can be used in water. The quality of the water, the type of water (such as seawater, river water, or lake water), and the temperature of the water are irrelevant.

[0096] Overall, the proposed solutions offer numerous advantages. They provide a cost-effective solution that enables the rapid rescue and recovery of people and animals using simple means. Furthermore, existing systems can be easily retrofitted by equipping existing rescue equipment with a tracking device.

[0097] The location tracking capabilities of rescue devices are improved through radio links to internal and external communication units or systems. The described tracking functions can be integrated into the tracking device itself, or alternatively, they can be used as add-on devices on the rescue equipment.

[0098] The proposed solutions improve the technical safety and reliability of rescue devices. In particular, the user-friendliness of buoyancy aids and life jackets is enhanced. Furthermore, the rescue devices can be equipped with electronic and digital add-ons that can interact with the tracking system. In further embodiments, more complex development stages of a rescue device can be achieved, for example, through the use of artificial intelligence. This opens up further data analysis possibilities, either within the rescue device itself or in external systems, such as cloud systems with training data and data libraries for recognizing situational patterns.

[0099] The ability to network rescue devices with each other, as well as with internal and external communication facilities and systems, facilitates the rescue of people and animals. Rescues can be expedited because location data and other sensor information can be made available. Even if rescue is no longer possible, the search for surviving relatives can be ensured as part of aftercare obligations and in accordance with ethical standards.

[0100] Life jackets and buoyancy aids with tracking systems offer a promising way to provide rapid assistance in emergencies such as kidnappings, as well as to support the recovery of deceased persons. This is a technologically and ethically significant innovation that can make a vital contribution to maritime safety and human dignity. It is crucial to advance the development and implementation of such systems with respect for data privacy, cultural sensitivity, and the rights of those affected. The cost-effective solution proposed here would enable the widespread availability of life jackets worldwide, thereby saving lives and facilitating rescues.

[0101] Overall, the safety standards of the proposed rescue devices, rescue systems and vehicles are increased, and the necessary rescue or recovery of persons and animals is made possible and simplified by the present invention and its embodiments. Reference symbol list 1 buoyancy collar of the life jacket 2 emergency lamps 3 Energy supply 4. Fastener, e.g. clip or strap 5 Location device 6 electrical connection 7 inflatable swimming chambers 10 life jackets

Claims

[1] having a rescue device (10) a floating body (1, 7); and an energy supply (3); characterized by a tracking device (5) which is supplied with electrical energy by the power supply (3) in an emergency situation; and wherein the location device (5) can provide position data of the rescue device (10) in the emergency situation. [2] Rescue device (10) according to claim 1, wherein the rescue device (10) is a piece of clothing. [3] Rescue device (10) according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the rescue device (10) is a life jacket. [4] Rescue device (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the rescue device (10) has an identification identifier. [5] Rescue device (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the locating device (5) can be activated by contact with water. [6] Rescue device (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the locating device (5) has an emergency activation. [7] Rescue device (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the locating device (5) has a time-controlled activation. [8] Rescue device (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the locating device (5) can provide radio contact to internal communication units or internal communication systems. [9] Rescue device (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the locating device (5) can provide radio contact to external communication units or external communication systems. [10] Rescue device (10) according to one of the preceding claims, further comprising at least one communication device. [11] Rescue device (10) according to one of the preceding claims, further comprising at least one sensor. [12] Rescue device (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the power supply (3) has an electrical storage device which can be charged with at least one external energy source. [13] Rescue device (10) according to one of the preceding claims further comprising a heating device. [14] Rescue device (10) according to one of the preceding claims further comprising an electronic data storage device. [15] Rescue device (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein a radio connection to an analysis system can be provided with the locating device (5). [16] Rescue device (10) according to one of the preceding claims, further comprising a radio communication device. [17] Rescue system for locating a large number of rescue devices (10), comprising a database; a receiving unit; a transmitting unit; an evaluation unit for evaluating at least one identification identifier of a rescue device (10); wherein a large number of identification identifiers of rescue devices (10) are stored in the database; and where an identification identifier can be received by the receiving unit. [18] Rescue system according to claim 17, wherein the locating system comprises an analysis system. [19] Rescue system according to claim 18, wherein the analysis system is equipped with artificial intelligence. [20] Vehicle comprising at least one rescue device (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 16.

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