Safety device for a user caught in an avalanche

Abstract

The invention relates to a safety device (10) for locating a user (12) in an avalanche, comprising: - a support (202) provided with attachments (203) configured to secure the support (202) to the user, - an inflatable airbag (206) that moves between a deflated state and an inflated stated, the airbag (206) being rigidly attached to the support (202) in its deflated state, - a gas generator (212) configured to inflate the airbag (206), - a rope connecting the support (202) to the airbag (206) in order to maintain the distance thereof from the support (202) when the airbag (206) is in the inflated state, the airbag (206) and the support (202) being configured relative to the user such that, during inflation, the airbag (206) bears against the support (202) and such that, in response to the contact made by the airbag (206), the support (202) exerts a force (224) on the airbag (206) that tends to move the airbag (206) away from the support (202).

Description

[0001] DESCRIPTION

[0002] TITLE: Safety device for a user swept away by an avalanche

[0003] The present invention relates to a safety device for locating a user carrying the device while the user is buried by a snow avalanche.

[0004] We know that avalanches represent a mortal danger for skiers and hikers, whether they are natural or triggered by their passage over an unstable snowpack.

[0005] Indeed, a person buried in an avalanche can only rely on others to be freed, otherwise they will quickly die of suffocation. If the person is freed within fifteen minutes of being buried, we know that their chances of survival are greater than or equal to 91% on average. After thirty-five minutes, their chances of survival drop extremely quickly to less than 34%. It is therefore essential to locate the person quickly, in order to maximize the chances of getting them out of the avalanche alive.

[0006] The buried person is by definition not visible, and locating them by surveying the terrain is often far too long and exhausting for rescuers in practice.

[0007] If the person is lucky, they may leave a trace, such as a ski or glove on the surface of the avalanche, or some other visual surface clue. However, this marker may be located at a great distance from the buried person, as this type of object is more easily carried away by the avalanche than the person themselves. In general, this trace does not allow the person to be found in less than fifteen minutes.

[0008] Traditionally, visual devices were used to help locate people, before the emergence of electromagnetic devices, or possibly in addition to them.

[0009] In the 1950s, there was a red avalanche rope that skiers could carry behind them at all times. However, such a device is not practical for skiing, and there is no guarantee that it will remain visible in the event of an avalanche.

[0010] The device, called the "Ballon Holder" in the 1970s, consists of an inflatable balloon. It is easily torn from the person wearing it in the event of an avalanche. This was a failure, mainly due to the materials used and faulty ejection.

[0011] The device, called the "Avalanche Bail," of Austrian origin, consists of a large mechanically deployable balloon stored in a dedicated backpack. It was therefore heavy and required the user to wear a backpack on which to attach the system. Its mechanical deployment system required regular inspections to check the condition of the metal (shock, rust).

[0012] The device called the "Rotauf MRK5," of Swiss origin, has drawbacks. The balloon it contains does not inflate completely, or too slowly when exposed to cold. In addition, this system requires a delicate technical action to be performed in an emergency situation to extract the balloon. Furthermore, this device, once inflated, tends to easily tear itself away from the buried person. The balloon of this device also tends not to float in heavy snow.

[0013] Furthermore, active electromagnetic systems are limited to a maximum range of 80m. They can be disrupted by a cell phone or any metallic object. They require a proper power supply, the quality of which must be monitored before each use. It is estimated that below 80% charge, the batteries should be changed preventively. The "transmit" mode consumes little power, but the search mode consumes batteries very quickly when exposed to the cold.

[0014] Additionally, for long-term health reasons, some people do not want to wear a device that emits electromagnetic waves.

[0015] Furthermore, these devices require training in use, which should be mandatory and recurring, which is not the case in practice, because many misuse biases are possible: in an emergency, one person in the group forgets to put their device in search mode during the search, which means that the other people present first find a person who has come to rescue, then the person caught in the avalanche, once the handling error is known to the search group. In practice, it is very common for several people in a group of snowshoe or ski hikers not to master searching with this device or to panic in a real emergency situation. In certain common cases, such as in the case of day snowshoe outings supervised by a guide or mountain leader, only the professional masters this search technique.

[0016] Due to legislative constraints on the use of electromagnetic waves, the new models have a reduced range compared to some older models, despite the addition of additional antennas (currently three on the most recent models).

[0017] In the case of several buried victims, managing several electromagnetic signals is not easy, especially in an emergency, and requires special training. Finally, in some cases, during outings, we also realize that a person in the group has simply not turned on their device, through forgetfulness, or has put their device in search mode when it should have been in transmission mode.

[0018] An aim of the invention is therefore to overcome all or part of the above drawbacks by providing a lightweight, relatively inexpensive safety device that increases the chances of quickly locating a user buried under an avalanche by providing a surface indicator that is visible from a distance and indisputable. The invention does not require any special training in searching for a buried user. The fact that the surface indicator is visual and indisputable greatly limits the harmful and dreaded effect of panic that can disrupt the proper handling of electronic search devices.

[0019] To this end, the invention relates to a safety device intended to make a user visually identifiable when the user is caught in a snow avalanche, the device comprising:

[0020] - a support provided with fasteners configured to secure the support to the user,

[0021] - an inflatable bladder, movable between a deflated state and an inflated state, the bladder being integral with the support in its deflated state,

[0022] - a gas generator configured to inflate the bladder,

[0023] - a rope connecting the support to the bladder to keep it at a distance from the support when the bladder is in its inflated state, the bladder and the support being configured relative to the user so that, during inflation, the bladder bears against the support and so that in reaction to the support of the bladder, the support exerts a force on the bladder tending to move the bladder away from the support.

[0024] According to particular embodiments, the device may comprise one or more of the following characteristics, taken alone or in all technically possible combinations:

[0025] • The gas generator is placed in the bladder.

[0026] • The gas generator includes a chamber containing a pressurized gas and a pyrotechnic device configured to release the pressurized gas and inflate the bladder.

[0027] • The device further comprises a storage pouch for the bladder in its deflated state, the storage pouch being configured to open upon inflation of the bladder.

[0028] • The storage pouch is configured to be reused after inflation of the bladder. • The support includes a flat portion on which the bladder rests during inflation, the force being mainly perpendicular to the flat portion.

[0029] • The support further comprises at least one curved portion arranged on the periphery of the flat portion.

[0030] • The device further comprises a control module configured to control the gas generator, the control module comprising a triggering system configured to actuate the gas generator and a control member separate from the triggering system and making it possible to put the device into service or out of service.

[0031] • The device also includes a damping system arranged on the rope.

[0032] • When the bladder is in its deflated state, the rope is coiled to form loops between which the rope extends in a substantially straight line, the length of substantially straight rope separating two successive loops increasing from the bladder towards the support.

[0033] • The device further comprises a fastening system connecting one end of the rope to the bladder, the fastening system comprising several straps, each of the straps having at least one segment fixed along its entire length to the bladder, and / or each of the straps at least partially surrounding the bladder in the inflated state.

[0034] • The straps form loops surrounding the bladder in the inflated state, the second fastening system further comprising parts glued or welded to the bladder and spanning said segments of the straps, the parts being adapted to block said segments against the bladder.

[0035] • The bladder is made up of several parts fixed together and forming in each of the parts, a falling edge on which the rope is fixed.

[0036] • When the bladder is in its deflated state, the cord is held by elastic organs.

[0037] • The device further comprises a control module configured to control the gas generator, the control module comprising a base configured to connect to a plug secured to the bladder, the control of the gas generator passing through the base and the plug, a translation axis of the disconnection movement of the plug and the base being substantially parallel to the direction of the force exerted by the support on the bladder.

[0038] • The rope is braided and includes high-density polyethylene fibers, with a molar mass greater than 10 6 g / mol, the first attachment system comprising, on the one hand, a connecting splice forming a loop, and, on the other hand, a carabiner intended to be attached to the harness. • The bladder comprises an envelope comprising a polyurethane-coated fabric.

[0039] • The straps form loops surrounding the bladder in the inflated state, the second fastening system further comprising parts glued or welded to the bladder and spanning said segments of the straps, the parts being adapted to block said segments against the bladder.

[0040] • The trigger system includes a handle adapted and intended to be located outside the storage pouch in the passive use configuration and to be pulled by the user to trigger the inflation of the bladder by the fluid, the handle preferably being adapted to be grasped in the palm of the hand by the user, the hand forming an “O” or a “C” surrounding the entire handle.

[0041] • The bladder is adapted to be manually deflated by the user, and includes a valve allowing oral inflation of the bladder by the user.

[0042] • The handle has a shape of revolution around the handle axis, for example a pear shape.

[0043] The invention will be better understood upon reading the following description, given solely by way of example and with reference to the appended drawings, in which: Figure 1 is a schematic perspective view of a user wearing a device according to a first embodiment of the invention, the device being in the passive use configuration, Figure 2 is a perspective view of the device shown in Figure 1, the user being in the process of actuating the triggering system of the device, Figures 3 and 4 are successive views in time, in perspective, showing the deployment of the device shown in Figures 1 and 2, the device being in the active use configuration in Figure 4, Figure 5 is a schematic sectional view of the device and the person shown in Figures 1 to 4, the device being in the active use configuration,the person being buried in an avalanche, Figure 6 is a view of the rope of the device shown in Figures 1 to 5, the device being in the passive use configuration, Figure 7 is a view of the first attachment system of the device shown in Figures 1 to 5, Figure 8 is a view of a variant of the first attachment system shown in Figure 7, Figure 9 is a view of the bladder and part of the second attachment system of the device shown in Figures 1 to 5, Figure 10 is a view of a first variant of the bladder and part of the second attachment system shown in Figure 9, Figure 11 is a sectional view of a detail of the bladder and part of the second attachment system shown in Figure 10, Figure 12 is a view of a second variant of the second attachment system shown partially in Figure 9,Figure 13 is a partial view of a third variant of the second attachment system shown partially in Figure 9, and Figure 14 is a view of an optional damping system of the device shown in Figures 1 to 5, Figure 15 is a schematic perspective view of a user wearing a device according to a second embodiment of the invention, the device being in the passive use configuration, Figures 16 and 17 are views of the device of Figure 15, Figure 16 is an exterior view and Figure 17 is an exploded view, Figures 18 and 19 are successive views over time, showing the deployment of the device shown in Figures 15 to 17.,

[0044] For the sake of clarity, the same elements will have the same references in the different figures.

[0045] With reference to Figures 1 to 5, a safety device 10 is described according to a first embodiment of the invention.

[0046] The device 10 is adapted to make a user 12 visually identifiable while the user is caught in an avalanche 14 of snow (figure 5).

[0047] User 12 is for example a skier or a mountain hiker

[0048] In Figures 1 and 2, the device 10 is in a passive use configuration, in which it is simply carried by the user in the absence of a threatening avalanche.

[0049] In Figure 3, the device 10 is evolving into an active use configuration shown in Figures 4 and 5, in which the user 12 is likely to be buried in the avalanche 14, totally (as shown in Figure 5), or partially.

[0050] The device 10 comprises a storage pouch 16, an inflatable bladder 18 (Figures 3 to 5), at least one container 20 (Figures 3 and 4) containing a pressurized fluid 22 for inflating the bladder, and a trigger system 24 for triggering the inflation of the bladder by the fluid. The device 10 comprises a rope 26, a first attachment system 28 intended to connect a first end 30 of the rope to a harness 32 worn by the user, and a second attachment system 34 connecting a second end 36 of the rope to the bladder 18.

[0051] Optionally, the device 10 comprises a damping system 38 shown in FIG. 14. The damping system 38 is arranged on the rope 26. It can be arranged at one of the ends of the rope 26 or at the break of the rope as shown in FIG. 5.

[0052] The storage pouch 16 is for example removably attached to the harness 32.

[0053] Advantageously, as visible in Figure 6, the storage pouch 16 comprises a wall 40, and two elastic members 42, 44 fixed to the wall and adapted to retain a middle part 46 of the rope 26 against the wall in the passive use configuration.

[0054] According to variants not shown, the storage pocket 16 comprises a single elastic member, or more than two elastic members.

[0055] The rope 26 is advantageously braided and comprises, for example, high-density polyethylene fibers, with a molar mass greater than 10 6 g / mol. The 26 rope is for example made of sheathed Dyneema®, or in an unsheathed variant.

[0056] The rope 26 advantageously has a length, in the deployed state, between the first end 30 and the second end 36, of between 4.0 and 8.0 meters, the possible damping system 38 being deployed.

[0057] The middle portion 46 of the rope is stored in the storage pouch 16 in the passive use configuration (Figure 6) and deployed out of the storage pouch in the active use configuration (Figure 5).

[0058] In the passive use configuration, the middle part 46 is for example folded edge to edge, and advantageously forms loops 48 retained by the two elastic members 42, 44 so as to prevent the formation of knots. In the example shown, the rope portions 26 separating two successive loops 48 all have the same length. Alternatively, it is possible to arrange the middle part 46 so that the rope portions 26 separating the different loops have different lengths in order to prevent one loop from pulling the next during uncoiling to limit the risk of tangling the rope 26. The rope portions 26 separating the different loops advantageously have an increasing length from the second end 36, on the bladder side, to the first end 30.

[0059] According to variants not shown, the middle portion 46 is coiled or wound inside the storage pouch 16 in the passive use configuration. The first end 30 of the rope 26 is located outside the storage pouch 16 and attached to the harness 32 by the first fastening system 28 in the passive use configuration.

[0060] In the passive use configuration, the second end 36 of the rope 26 is located in the storage pouch 16 and attached to the bladder 18 by the second attachment system 34.

[0061] The first fastening system 28 is distinct from the storage pouch 16 in that it is adapted to fix the rope 26 directly to the harness 32 independently of the fact that the storage pouch is itself possibly fixed to the harness.

[0062] Advantageously, the first attachment system 28 comprises a connecting splice 50 forming a loop 52 in the extension of the first end 30 of the rope 26, and a carabiner 54 passing through the loop and intended to be attached to the harness 32.

[0063] The connecting splice 50 is for example sewn (figure 7), or made on braid (figure 8).

[0064] The bladder 18 is movable between a deflated state (Figure 3), and an inflated state (Figures 4 and 9) in which it has an external volume of between 5 and 60 liters, preferably between 15 and 50 liters. In the inflated state, the bladder 18 advantageously has a spherical or ellipsoidal shape.

[0065] The bladder 18 is adapted to be stored in a deflated state in the storage pouch 16 in the passive use configuration.

[0066] In the active use configuration, the bladder 18 is in the inflated state and located outside the storage pouch 16, the bladder being intended to float above the avalanche 14 and to be located by one or more rescuers (not shown).

[0067] The bladder 18 advantageously has a color that is visible from a distance and easily, for example red.

[0068] The bladder 18 advantageously comprises an envelope 56 made of polyurethane-coated fabric.

[0069] Advantageously, the bladder 18 is adapted to be manually deflated by the user, and comprises a valve 58 (FIG. 9) allowing oral inflation by the user. For example, the bladder 18 is manually deflated via the valve 58.

[0070] According to a variant shown in Figures 10 and 11, the bladder 18 is for example formed by at least two parts 58, 60 fixed to one another in a manner sealed to said fluid 22 in the inflated state, said parts forming a falling edge 62. In other words, the falling edge 62 is a free edge of each of the parts 58 and 60 not located inside the volume sealed to said fluid 22. According to a variant not shown, the bladder 18 is formed by more than two parts, forming several falling edges.

[0071] The two parts 58, 60 are for example welded to each other on an area 64 which delimits the falling edge 62.

[0072] Alternatively, the two parts 58, 60 are glued or sewn onto each other.

[0073] The second fixing system 34 comprises for example a splice 66 (figure 6) forming a loop 68 in the extension of the second end 36 of the rope 26.

[0074] The second attachment system 34 extends more than 5 cm in at least one direction D against the bladder 18 in the inflated state.

[0075] In the example shown in Figure 9, the second attachment system 34 comprises three straps 70, 72, 74, each of the straps forming a loop 75 surrounding the bladder 18 in the inflated state and having segments 76 attached over their entire length to the bladder.

[0076] The straps 70, 72, 74 form, for example, a connecting loop 78 passing through the loop 68 of the splice 66. The straps 70, 72, 74 are advantageously formed by a single braid, for example made from the same material as the rope 26.

[0077] The segments 76 are for example blocked by parts 80 glued or welded to the bladder 18 and which span the segments 76.

[0078] According to variants not shown, the straps are two in number, or more than three, or each of the straps, or the strap, has only one segment fixed to the bladder 18.

[0079] According to a first variant shown in Figures 10 and 11, the second fastening system 34 comprises two straps 70, 72 (in continuity with one another, since formed by a single braid in the example). The segments 76 are advantageously sewn onto the drop edge 62 of the bladder 18, for example by a zigzag seam 82. Advantageously, the straps 70, 72 encapsulate the drop edge (Figure 11). For example, the straps 70, 72 are sewn along the entire edge of the drop 62.

[0080] According to a second variant shown in Figure 12, the second fixing system 34 comprises a plurality of straps 84 surrounding the bladder 18 in the inflated state, advantageously forming a net 86.

[0081] According to a third variant shown in Figure 13, the second fixing system 34 comprises at least one eyelet 88, a ribbon 90 passing through the eyelet, and a fixing part 92 fixed to the bladder and defining an orifice 94 through which a central part 96 of the ribbon 90 protrudes.

[0082] The ribbon 90 further comprises, in a longitudinal direction, two lateral parts 98, 100 extending between the bladder 18 and the fixing part 92.

[0083] The fixing part 92 has, for example, a disc shape.

[0084] The capacity 20 is adapted to be mounted on the trigger system 24 in the passive use configuration. The capacity 20 is advantageously rechargeable with fluid 22, or is a cartridge intended to be replaced and advantageously recycled.

[0085] The fluid 22 is advantageously gaseous at a reference pressure of at least 10 bars absolute and a reference temperature of -20°C. The fluid 22 is stored in the capacity 20 at a pressure which is not necessarily the reference pressure, and at a temperature which is not necessarily the reference temperature.

[0086] The pressure of the fluid 22 in the capacity 20 is for example between 50 and 210 bars absolute.

[0087] The fluid 22 comprises, for example, at least 50% by volume of nitrogen, argon, or a mixture of nitrogen and argon.

[0088] According to particular embodiments, the fluid 22 is compressed air, or industrial nitrogen or argon with a purity of at least 99% by volume.

[0089] The trigger system 24 is advantageously adapted to conduct the fluid 22 from the capacity 20 to the bladder 18 when it is actuated. The trigger system 24 is advantageously a percussion system.

[0090] The triggering system 24 advantageously comprises a handle 102 capable and intended to be located outside the storage pouch 16 in the passive use configuration and to be pulled by the user 12 to trigger the inflation of the bladder 18 by the fluid 22 under pressure coming from the capacity 20.

[0091] According to a particular embodiment, the triggering system 24 is adapted to be triggered remotely by a third person or an automated system (not shown). For example, the triggering system 24 is adapted to receive an electromagnetic triggering signal (not shown).

[0092] The handle 102 is preferably adapted to be grasped in the hollow of the hand by the user 12, the hand forming an “O” or a “C” surrounding the entire handle 102, for example around an axis of the handle D1. Thus, the handle 102 advantageously does not form a loop in which the user 12 would have to pass his fingers (an operation made difficult if the user wears gloves for example), and in which his fingers would risk being trapped, which would prevent the device 10 from being deployed. Advantageously, the handle 102 has a shape of revolution around the handle axis D1, for example a pear shape.

[0093] As seen in Figure 14, the damping system 38 advantageously comprises a frame 104, and comprises portions 106 of the cord 26 folded edge to edge inside the frame. The portions 106 are adjacent to each other successively in a direction D2, and are sewn onto each other. The seams 108 are designed to release progressively if a tension T greater than a given threshold is applied to the cord 26.

[0094] In the example shown in Figure 14, the rope is interrupted by connecting systems 110, 112 located on either side of the damping system 38.

[0095] The threshold is for example 200 daN.

[0096] Other types of damping systems can be implemented, such as a spring system.

[0097] The operation of the device 10 will now be described.

[0098] Beforehand, the user 12 ensures that the capacity 20 is functional and connects it to the trigger system 24, the bladder 18 being in the deflated state and stored in the storage pouch 16. At least the middle portion 46 of the rope 26 is also stored in the storage pouch. Optionally, the user 12 has several capacities, which can be used as spares.

[0099] The user 12 first puts the device 10 into the passive use configuration (FIG. 1). For example, he puts on the harness 32, connects the storage pouch 16 to the harness, and connects the first attachment system 28 to the harness. For example, he connects the carabiner 54 to a bridge of the harness 32. The possible handle 102 of the trigger system 24 is placed, or is naturally located, outside the storage pouch 16.

[0100] Alternatively, the device 10 is already connected to the harness 32, and the user 12 only has to put on the harness.

[0101] In the absence of an avalanche, the user 12 does not in principle use the triggering system 24 and the device 10 remains in the passive use configuration.

[0102] Optionally, the user 12 can remove the bladder 18 from the storage pouch 16 and perform oral inflation of the bladder using the valve 58, which makes it possible to put the device 10 preventively into the active use configuration without using the capacity 20. The user 12 can then manually deflate the bladder 18 and replace it in the storage pouch 16. He also replaces the middle part 46 of the rope 26 in the storage pouch if the rope has been deployed.

[0103] If the user 12 notices or senses a risk, he puts the device 10 into the active use configuration by actuating the trigger system 24 (figure 3). For example, the user 12 pulls on the handle 102 which is constantly accessible. Advantageously, by this single action, he removes the bladder 18 from the storage pouch 16 and triggers its inflation by the pressurized fluid 22. Pulling the handle 102 triggers the inflation of the bladder 18 advantageously by percussion.

[0104] Then, the user 12 advantageously projects the bladder 18, the capacity 20 and the triggering system from a distance, for example in the opposite direction of the avalanche (figure 4).

[0105] This projection is facilitated by the mass of the assembly 114 consisting of the bladder, the capacity and the triggering system. The projection causes the middle part 46 of the rope 26 to come out of the storage pocket 16, which deploys.

[0106] If the avalanche 14 unfortunately reaches the user 12 and buries him (figure 5), the bladder 18 in the inflated state floats by a reverse segregation effect. The first fastening system 28, the rope 26 and the second fastening system 34 firmly hold the bladder 18 to the user 12. The traction line thus created passes through the harness 32, the first fastening system 28 and the rope 26 without significantly passing through the storage pouch 16, which prevents the device 10 from being accidentally torn away from the user 12 by the avalanche 14.

[0107] Within the device 10, the second fixing system 34 prevents the bladder 18 from being torn from the rope 26.

[0108] The bladder 18 is in principle located downstream of the user 12 relative to the direction of progression of the avalanche 14 (arrow F in FIG. 5), which makes it possible to determine an approximate location of the user relative to the bladder 18, in an angular sector (not shown) widening from the bladder towards the upstream of the avalanche 14, at a maximum distance E determined by the length of the rope 26. The rescuer(s) can search for the user 12 by starting from this location, then in a certain perimeter around the bladder 18, starting from the upstream side defined by the avalanche 14.

[0109] If the avalanche 14 does not reach the user, the latter can rearm the device 10 by connecting a new capacitor 20, if available, to the triggering system 24. He can also carry out manual inflation and deflation of the bladder 18.

[0110] This feature allows the user to deploy the device 10 in areas with high potential avalanche risk and to rearm it once the area has been left without consuming the fluid 22 of the capacity 20.

[0111] Thanks to the characteristics described above, the device 10 is lightweight, relatively inexpensive, and significantly increases the chances of quickly locating the user 12 buried under the avalanche 14. In addition, the device 10 can possibly be rearmed if the user 12 has spare capacities 20. Reconditioning the device 10 is also easier and less expensive than for very large airbags.

[0112] Using the optional valve 56, the device 10 can be manually inflated for preventive deployment, for example to cross a risk zone, and then returned to the passive use configuration.

[0113] The device 10 is light, with a mass for example less than or equal to 800 g without the harness.

[0114] The device 10 is advantageously complementary to electromagnetic safety devices known per se (not shown).

[0115] The device 10 makes it possible to considerably reduce the primary search time, particularly in avalanches or large-scale landslides. In certain cases, the device 10 makes it possible to move directly to the final, so-called secondary, search, which saves considerable time.

[0116] Device 10 also makes it possible to significantly reduce uncertainties regarding location, particularly if there are several victims and if surface clues (gloves, poles) are distributed incoherently, because they are carried away at different speeds by the avalanche 14.

[0117] Device 10 is an indisputable and immediate location indicator.

[0118] Bladder 18 inflation is very rapid, especially with argon or nitrogen capacity, even at low ambient temperatures.

[0119] The optional feature that the rope 26 is braided and comprises high density polyethylene fibers, having a molecular weight greater than 10 6 g / mol ensures particularly high mechanical strength. In addition, the use of connecting splices 66 eliminates weak points, thanks to constriction / friction retention. The risk of loss of the bladder 18 by detachment due to the high stresses exerted by the avalanche 14 is considerably reduced.

[0120] The attachment of the bladder 18 to the rope 26 by the second fixing system 34 by zigzag stitching on the falling edge 62 of the bladder is very strong and does not compromise the sealing of the bladder, because it is carried out away from the zone 64 of welding or gluing of the parts 58, 60 of the bladder.

[0121] The storage pouch 16 is secured in a “floating” manner to the user 12. The storage pouch 16 is attached to the harness 32, but the structural strength of the connecting chain does not rely on the storage pouch. Tearing or sliding along the body (leg or arm) of the user 12 cannot occur.

[0122] The optional damping system 38 further reduces the risk of tearing by limiting the traction T between the bladder 18 and the user 12. The device 10 in the passive use configuration is still usable and does not require removing a handle, since it is already accessible. The pear-shaped handle 102 does not get caught in branches when crossing. The handle 102 is easily released from the hand, even with gloves, when the bladder 18 is thrown by the user 12.

[0123] Proper storage of the middle portion 46 of the rope 26 avoids knots and ensures an excellent deployment rate of the device 10.

[0124] The bladder 18 is optionally provided with a deflation valve for storage and reconditioning, also allowing oral inflation for preventive triggering when passing through avalanche zones, saving the use of a capacity 20, which is very useful for ski touring. This also allows the user 12 to continue to be “covered” by the device 10 during a long outing after an initial triggering.

[0125] The volume of the 18 bladder ensures good buoyancy, even in very heavy snow.

[0126] The weight of the 20 capacity and 24 trigger system ensures good "ballistic" deployment by the user.

[0127] The optional feature according to which the triggering system 24 can be operated remotely can compensate for a lack of reflexes on the part of the user 12 or a lack of time for him to trigger the device 10.

[0128] With reference to Figures 15 to 19, a safety device 200 is described according to a second embodiment of the invention. As for the device 10, the device 200 is adapted to make the user 12 visually identifiable while the user is caught in an avalanche.

[0129] In Figures 15 to 17, the device 200 is in a passive use configuration, in which it is simply worn by the user in the absence of a threatening avalanche. The device 200 comprises a support 202 provided with fasteners 203 configured to attach the support 202 to the user 12 either directly or, via an item of clothing or an accessory worn by the user, such as for example a backpack 204 having straps 205 allowing the backpack 204 to be attached to the back 228 of the user 12, as shown in Figure 15. It is possible to attach the device 200 to other parts of the user's body, to the belt, as illustrated in the first embodiment, to the thorax, to a limb, etc. the fasteners 204 are then adapted accordingly.

[0130] The device 200 comprises an inflatable bladder 206 similar to the bladder 18 of the first embodiment. In the passive use configuration, the bladder 206 is in a deflated state secured to the support 202. In the example shown, the device 200 comprises a storage pouch 208 for the bladder 206 in its deflated state. The storage pouch 208 encloses the bladder 206 and protects it from any external aggression when the bladder 206 is in its deflated state. The support 202 may be arranged outside or inside the storage pouch 208. The storage pouch 208 ensures that the bladder 206 is held in its deflated state on the support 202. Alternatively, other means may ensure that the bladder 206 is held secured to the support 202, such as, for example, possibly elastic wire ties. The advantage of the storage pouch 208 is that it completely protects the bladder 206 in its deflated state.

[0131] The storage pouch 208 is configured to open under the effect of the inflation of the bladder 206. In other words, the inflation of the bladder 206 opens the storage pouch 208. No other maneuver than the inflation of the bladder 206 is necessary to open the storage pouch 208. Alternatively, in the case of implementation of links holding the bladder 206 in its deflated state to the support 202, the inflation of the bladder 206 releases these links without external action, for example by breaking the links or by inflating between the links.

[0132] The storage pouch 208 may tear under the effect of the pressure exerted by the bladder 206 during its inflation. It is possible to provide a fragile portion in the storage pouch 208 in order to control the area of ​​the pouch that tears. By tearing, the storage pouch 208 is for single use and must be replaced after inflation of the bladder 206. Alternatively, the storage pouch 208 may be configured to be reused after inflation of the bladder 206. To do this, the bladder may comprise self-gripping type closure means 210, known in particular under the registered trademark “Velcro” as shown in FIG. 16. Other reusable closure means are possible, such as for example a zipper whose teeth separate under the pressure of the bladder 206 during its inflation.

[0133] The device 200 comprises a capacity containing a pressurized gas and more generally a gas generator 212 for inflating the bladder 206. The gas generator may be a pressurized gas tank as described for the capacity 20. It may be advantageous to provide a hybrid gas generator containing a pressurized gas in a chamber 213 equipped with one or more nozzles each closed by a cover 214 in the passive use configuration, that is to say when the bladder 206 is deflated. The hybrid gas generator comprises a pyrotechnic device 215 comprising a propellant capsule and an ignition device. By initiating the combustion of the propellant, the gas pressure in the chamber 213 increases rapidly and the covers 214 open, releasing the gas into the bladder 206 in order to inflate it. The gas from the hybrid gas generator is cold, making it less sensitive to a temperature variation of the external environment in an avalanche.

[0134] The device may also comprise several gas generators 212, in particular, in order to make its implementation redundant or to increase the volume of the bladder 206.

[0135] The gas is for example based on carbon dioxide. However, this gas or mixture of gases based on carbon dioxide has a significant sensitivity at low temperatures and a risk of producing dry ice leading to poor inflation of the bladder 206. For the implementation of the invention, a gas based on argon, helium, or nitrogen or a mixture based on these gases is preferred. This type of gas has the advantage of expanding well, even at low temperatures. In addition, there are gas generators, notably used in side airbags arranged in motor vehicles (also known as side airbags) and producing this type of gas.

[0136] The gas generator 212 may be arranged outside the bladder 206, for example fixed to the bladder 206. However, this arrangement may present disadvantages when using the device. Indeed, the gas generator 212 then forms a protrusion outside the bladder 206. This protrusion may hinder the deployment of a rope 216 connecting the bladder 206 to the support 202 or even tear off a portion of the bladder 206 by getting stuck in an external object.

[0137] Alternatively, the gas generator 212 can be arranged in the bladder 206 as shown in FIG. 17. Thus, the bladder 206 does not have any protrusion that could hinder its deployment at a distance from the support 202. In addition, by arranging the gas generator 212 in the bladder 206, it is easy to provide several nozzles allowing the gas to exit the gas generator 212 to fill the bladder 206.

[0138] The rope 216 may be similar to the rope 26 described in the first embodiment, in particular with the attachment system 34 to the bladder and the damping system 38. In addition to the different variants of the attachment system 34 described above, the rope 216 may be attached by any means to a falling edge 62 of one or more parts of the bladder 206. To ensure this attachment, the rope 216 may be sewn onto one of the falling edges 62 or sewn to both falling edges 62 in order to limit mechanical stress on the area 64 where the parts 58 and 60 of the bladder are attached to each other. It is also possible to crimp an eyelet in the drop edges 62 to fix the rope 26 there, for example by means of a splice or more simply a loop of a knot forming the end of the rope 216. The bladder 206, in its deflated state, can be stored in different ways around the gas generator 212.The bladder 206 can be folded, rolled or more simply crumpled around the gas generator 212.

[0139] The ignition device of the pyrotechnic device 215 is electrically controlled by a control module 218 fixed to the support 202. More generally, the control module 218 is configured to control the gas generator 212.

[0140] A triggering system similar to the system 24, for example connected by a cable 220, can be made available to the user 12. The cable 220 can run along one of the straps 205 in order to be more easily accessible to the user 12. The triggering system is advantageously mechanical, for example in the form of a cable that can slide in a sheath and operated by a handle available to the user 12. The cable acts directly on the control module 218, which converts the mechanical action of the user into an electrical signal intended for the ignition device of the pyrotechnic device 215.

[0141] The control module 218 may also be equipped with a control member 221 for putting the device 200 into operation or out of operation. The control member 221 is separate from the triggering system. The out of operation is used when the device is not worn by a user 12 in order to avoid unwanted inflation of the bladder 206 and in order to save the energy of a battery included in the control module 218. In the presence of a storage pouch 208, the control member 221 is accessible from the outside of the storage pouch 208.

[0142] Figure 18 shows the bladder 206 being inflated. The gas generator 212, located inside the bladder 206, is connected to the control module 218 via a base 222 equipping the control module 218 and a plug 223 equipping the gas generator 212. The plug 223 is located across the casing 206. The base 222 and the plug 223 provide the electrical connection of the control module 218 and the gas generator 212 in the passive use configuration of the device 200.

[0143] During its inflation, the bladder 206 bears against the support 202. In reaction to the support of the bladder 206, the support 202 exerts a force 224 represented by an arrow in FIG. 18 and tending to move the bladder 206 away from the support 202. By moving away, the plug 223 disconnects from the base 222, releasing the bladder 206 from the control module 218. By implementing a gas generator 212 with rapid gas release, in particular the pyrotechnic device 215, the support of the bladder 206 increases rapidly during inflation, causing a significant reaction force 224 tending to quickly expel the bladder 206 away from the support 202 as shown in FIG. 19. The presence of the gas generator 212 in the bladder 206 makes it possible to increase its mass.When expelling the bladder 206, its mass generates greater inertia due to the presence of the gas generator 212, allowing the bladder 206 to be expelled further than in the absence of the gas generator 212 inside the bladder 206.

[0144] The plug 223 and the base 222 connect and disconnect in a translational movement along an axis 225. In order to facilitate the disconnection of the plug 223 and the base 222 during inflation of the bladder 206, it is advantageous to avoid any locking of the connection according to another movement, such as for example a bayonet lock which is operated by means of a rotation. Indeed, this type of locking could prevent the release of the bladder 226. To overcome this problem, it is possible to provide a fragile part in the plug 223 or in the base 222, a part intended to break during the expulsion of the bladder 206. Advantageously, the fragile part is in the plug 223 secured to the bladder 206 which forms a consumable element unlike the control module 218 which it is desirable to be able to reuse.

[0145] In an advantageous variant, it is possible to avoid the implementation of a fragile part either in the plug 223 or in the base 222. The axis 225 of translation of the disconnection movement of the plug 223 and the base 222 can be substantially parallel to the direction of the force 224 exerted by the support 202 on the bladder 206 during the inflation of the bladder 206. These parallel directions facilitate the disconnection of the plug 223 and the base 222 during the expulsion of the bladder 206.

[0146] It is possible to provide mechanical guidance for the plug 223 in its translational movement when it is disconnected. It is also possible to provide mechanical protection for the control module 218 and in particular for its base 222 to prevent the bladder 206 from damaging the control module 218 during disconnection, which may be sudden.

[0147] Disconnection can occur even if the bladder 206 is not fully inflated. Indeed, the control module 218 is advantageously configured to control the gas generator 212 by means of a pulse signal. As soon as this signal is received by the gas generator 212, disconnection can occur even if the gas generator 212 has not yet delivered all of the gas it contains to the bladder 206. In practice, it has been found that approximately halfway through the inflation of the bladder 206, the force 224 is already sufficient to begin the expulsion of the bladder 206 and disconnect the plug 223 from the base 222.

[0148] During this expulsion, the rope 216 uncoils, allowing the bladder 206 to reach the configuration shown in Figure 5. In the passive use configuration as shown in Figure 18, the rope 216 is coiled, forming loops between which the rope extends in a substantially rectilinear manner, as shown in Figure 6. Advantageously, the substantially rectilinear parts separating the loops have increasing lengths from the bladder 206 to the support 202. These different lengths make it possible to prevent one loop from catching on the next during uncoiling. On the bladder 206 side, the rope 216 can be fixed in the immediate vicinity of the plug 223.

[0149] The support 202 comprises a flat portion 226 intended to be positioned parallel to the back 228 of the user 12 carrying the device 200 on a backpack 204. The force 224 exerted by the support 202 on the bladder 206 is mainly perpendicular to the flat portion 226. It is also possible to provide a flat portion 226 of the support 202 inclined relative to the backpack 204 of the user 12 in order to direct the force 224 in a direction not perpendicular to the back 228 of the user 12, for example upwards for a user 12 in a standing position.

[0150] It is possible for friction to occur between the bladder 206 and the support 202 during inflation of the bladder 206. This friction may modify the direction of the force 224. In order to improve the guidance of the bladder 206 during its expulsion from the support 202, the support 202 may comprise at least one curved portion 230, 232 arranged on the periphery of the flat portion 228. In the example shown, the curved portion 230 has a greater inclination relative to the flat portion 226 than the portion 232.

Claims

DEMANDS 1. A safety device intended to make a user (12) visually detectable while the user (12) is caught in a snow avalanche (14), the device (200) comprising: - a support (202) equipped with fasteners (203) configured to fix the support (202) to the user (12), - an inflatable bladder (206), mobile between a deflated state and an inflated state, the bladder (206) being fixed to the support (202) in its deflated state, - a gas generator (212) configured to inflate the bladder (206), - a cord (216) connecting the support (202) to the bladder (206) to keep it away from the support (202) when the bladder (206) is in its inflated state, the bladder (206) and the support (202) being configured with respect to the user so that, during inflation, the bladder (206) rests against the support (202) and that, in reaction to the rest of the bladder (206), the support (202) exerts a force (224) on the bladder (206) tending to move the bladder (206) away from the support (202).

2. Device according to claim 1, in which the gas generator (212) is disposed in the bladder (206).

3. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the gas generator (212) comprises a chamber (213) containing a gas under pressure and a pyrotechnic device (215) configured to release the gas under pressure and inflate the bladder (206).

4. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a storage pouch (208) for the bladder (206) in its deflated state, the storage pouch (208) being configured to open under the effect of inflation of the bladder (206).

5. Device according to claim 4, wherein the storage pouch (208) is configured to be reused after inflation of the bladder (206).

6. Device according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the support (202) comprises a flat part (226) on which the bladder (206) rests during its inflation, the force (224) being principally perpendicular to the flat part (226).

7. Device according to any one of claim 6, wherein the support (202) further comprises at least one curved part (230) disposed on the periphery of the flat part (226).

8. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a control module (218) configured to control the gas generator (212), the control module (218) comprising a triggering system (24) configured to actuate the gas generator (212) and, a control element (221) separate from the triggering system (24) and enabling the device (200) to be put into service or taken out of service.

9. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a damping system (38) disposed on the rope (216).

10. Device according to any one of the preceding claims wherein, when the bladder (206) is in its deflated state, the rope (216) is coiled into loops (48) between which the rope (216) extends in a substantially straight line, the substantially straight rope length separating two successive loops (48) being increasing from the bladder (206) towards the support (202).

11. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a fastening system (34) connecting one end (36) of the rope (216) to the bladder (206), the fastening system (34) comprising several straps (70, 72, 74), each of the straps (70, 72, 74) having at least one segment (76) fixed along its entire length to the bladder (18), and / or each of the straps (70, 72, 74) at least partially surrounding the bladder (18) in the inflated state.

12. Device according to claim 11, wherein the straps (70, 72, 74) form loops (75) surrounding the bladder (18) in the inflated state, the second fastening system (34) further comprising parts (80) glued or welded to the bladder (18) and spanning said segments (76) of the straps (70, 72, 74), the parts (80) being adapted to lock said segments (76) against the bladder (18).

13. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the bladder (216) is formed of several parts (58, 60) fixed together and forming in each of the parts, a drop edge (62) on which the rope (216) is fixed.

14. A device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, when the bladder (206) is in its deflated state, the rope (216) is held by elastic elements (42, 44).

15. A device according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a control module (218) configured to control the gas generator (212), the control module (218) comprising a base (222) configured to connect to a plug (223) integral with the bladder (206), the control of the gas generator (212) being transmitted via the base (222) and the plug (223), an axis (225) of translation of the disconnection movement of the plug (223) and the base (222) being substantially parallel to the direction of the force (224) exerted by the support (202) on the bladder (206).

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