Vehicle equipped with a device for assistance in emergency evacuation, liquid retention device equipped with such a device for assistance in evacuation, and device for assistance in emergency evacuation

Abstract

A vehicle comprising an inner wall (5), an exit for evacuation from the vehicle, and a device (1) for assistance in emergency evacuation of the vehicle, the device (1) being secured to the wall (5) by means of a fastening member (3, 4), the device (1) comprising a housing (2) with a main body (20) delimiting an inner volume (V), and also a cover (7) connected to the main body (20) by a permanent connection means (8), the main body (20), the fastening member (3, 4), the cover (7) and the permanent connection means (8) being shaped and dimensioned such that the cover (7) contributes to forming, in an open position, a support zone and / or a hold allowing a person to haul themselves up in the direction of the evacuation exit. - Equipment for assistance in the survival and evacuation of persons.

Description

[0001] VEHICLE EQUIPPED WITH AN EMERGENCY EVACUATION AID DEVICE, LIQUID RETENTION DEVICE EQUIPPED WITH SUCH AN EVACUATION AID DEVICE AND EMERGENCY EVACUATION AID DEVICE

[0002] TECHNICAL FIELD

[0003] The present invention relates to the general technical field of equipment for assisting the survival and evacuation of persons in danger in vehicles with closed cabins, in particular aircraft or marine and underwater vehicles, and also falls within the general field of equipment intended to be fixed to the walls of such vehicles.

[0004] The present invention relates more specifically to a vehicle comprising an interior wall, which forms for example an interior wall of a cabin or cockpit, as well as an evacuation exit from the vehicle.

[0005] The present invention also relates as such to a liquid retention device equipping such a vehicle.

[0006] Finally, the present invention also relates as such to a device for assisting in the emergency evacuation of a vehicle.

[0007] PRIOR TECHNIQUE

[0008] Vehicles with closed cabins can, in the event of an accident, trap their occupants and thus endanger their lives. This risk is particularly acute with regard to aircraft, such as helicopters. For example, if a helicopter accidentally hits the ground or a body of water and rolls onto its side, its passengers could have great difficulty reaching the side emergency exits that are still exposed, as they are above the passengers. The passengers must therefore climb inside the cabin to try to reach the emergency exit, which can be particularly difficult, especially in the moments immediately following the aircraft's impact on the ground or water.This problem primarily concerns helicopters dedicated to rescue missions, the cabin of which is generally cluttered with abundant and bulky equipment likely to hinder the evacuation of passengers if the helicopter rolls over on its side. In particular, helicopters dedicated to the recovery of individuals in the open sea may be equipped with a water retention tank placed on the floor of their cabin to collect seawater flowing from the stretcher after hoisting a person to be recovered from the sea, for example. The presence of such a retention tank, which covers the floor, does not facilitate the evacuation of the cabin in an emergency situation such as that mentioned above.

[0009] Of course, the problem described above does not only concern helicopters and also concerns airplanes, marine or underwater vehicles, and generally all closed vehicles in which passengers can be confined.

[0010] STATEMENT OF THE INVENTION

[0011] The objects assigned to the present invention therefore aim to remedy the various drawbacks listed above and to propose a new vehicle which, in the event of an accident, provides its passengers with an effective, compact, lightweight and easily integrated assistance option (including in a very restricted environment such as the cabin of a rescue helicopter), to enable passengers to extract themselves from said vehicle by their own means, in particular in the event of the latter becoming immobilized in an inclined orientation relative to the normal driving orientation.

[0012] Another object of the invention is to propose a new vehicle which, while being particularly safe in the event of an accident, is of particularly simple and robust construction.

[0013] Another object of the invention is to propose a new vehicle providing emergency evacuation assistance, the implementation of which is safe.

[0014] Another object of the invention is to propose a new vehicle which uses a minimum of components and provides particularly intuitive and ergonomic emergency evacuation assistance.

[0015] Another object of the invention is to provide a new vehicle which does not require positive action from the user to facilitate emergency evacuation in the event of an accident.

[0016] Another object of the invention is to provide a new vehicle which does not require an electrical power supply to facilitate emergency evacuation in the event of an accident.

[0017] Another object of the invention is to propose a new vehicle which, while providing particularly practical travel assistance in an emergency, has an optimized interior habitable volume.

[0018] Another object of the invention is to propose a new vehicle which allows easy access to emergency or evacuation functions and / or equipment.

[0019] Another object of the invention is also to propose a new liquid retention device intended to be mounted on the interior floor of a vehicle and which makes it possible to facilitate the evacuation of said vehicle in the event of an emergency, including when the vehicle stops in an orientation inclined relative to the normal driving orientation.

[0020] Another object of the invention is to propose a new device for assisting in the emergency evacuation of a vehicle which, while providing passengers of a damaged vehicle with the possibility of effective assistance to enable them to extract themselves from said vehicle by their own means, is of particularly compact, lightweight construction and easy to integrate even in a very constrained environment such as the cabin of a rescue helicopter.

[0021] Another object of the invention is to propose a new device for assisting in the emergency evacuation of a vehicle which has a universal character and can be used to secure any type of vehicle.

[0022] Another object of the invention is to propose a new device for assisting in the emergency evacuation of a vehicle, which is of particularly simple and robust construction.

[0023] Another object of the invention is to propose a new device for assisting in the emergency evacuation of a vehicle, the use of which is safe.

[0024] Another object of the invention is to propose a new device for assisting in the emergency evacuation of a vehicle, which uses a minimum of components and is particularly intuitive and ergonomic.

[0025] Another object of the invention is to propose a new device for assisting in the emergency evacuation of a vehicle which does not require positive action from the user in order to be used in an emergency.

[0026] Another object of the invention is to propose a new device for assisting in the emergency evacuation of a vehicle which does not require an electrical power supply.

[0027] Another object of the invention is to propose a new device for assisting in the emergency evacuation of a vehicle which, while being of particularly compact and discreet geometry, provides particularly practical assistance in the event of an emergency.

[0028] Another object of the invention is to propose a new device for assisting in the emergency evacuation of a vehicle which allows very easy access to emergency or evacuation functions and / or equipment.

[0029] The objects assigned to the present invention are achieved using a vehicle comprising:

[0030] - an interior wall, which forms, for example, an interior wall of a cabin or cockpit,

[0031] - an evacuation exit from the vehicle,

[0032] - and a device for assisting in the emergency evacuation of the vehicle which is secured to said wall by means of at least one fixing member, said device comprising a housing, said housing comprising a main body delimiting an interior volume as well as at least one cover connected to said main body by a permanent connection means which allows the cover to move relative to said main body between a closed position in which said cover closes access to said interior volume and an open position in which said cover releases access to said interior volume while projecting from said main body, said main body, fixing member, cover and permanent connection means being shaped and dimensioned so that the cover contributes to forming, in the open position, a support zone and / or a grip allowing a person to hoist themselves towards said evacuation exit by leaning on, and / or grabbing,said cover.,

[0033] The objects assigned to the present invention are also achieved using a liquid retention device intended to be carried on the interior floor of a vehicle according to the invention, said liquid retention device being designed and configured to collect equipment carried on board said vehicle, for example a seat or a stretcher, the retention device comprising at least:

[0034] - an upper wall designed and configured to support said equipment, said upper wall being provided with a plurality of through holes,

[0035] - a liquid storage tank arranged at least partly below said upper wall for collecting liquid passing through said through-holes,

[0036] - a housing provided in said upper wall,

[0037] - said housing being arranged within said housing.

[0038] The objects assigned to the present invention are finally achieved by means of a device for assisting in the emergency evacuation of a vehicle comprising a housing provided with at least one fixing member for reversibly securing said housing to a wall of said vehicle, said housing comprising a main body delimiting an interior volume as well as at least one cover connected to said main body by a permanent connection means which allows the cover to move relative to said main body between a closed position in which said cover closes access to said interior volume and an open position in which said cover releases access to said interior volume while projecting from said main body, said main body, fixing member, cover and permanent connection means being shaped and dimensioned so that the cover contributes to forming, in the open position,a support area and / or a grip allowing a person to hoist themselves towards an evacuation exit of the vehicle by leaning on, and / or grabbing, said cover, said device including, arranged in said interior volume, one or more of the following devices: a flexible unrollable ladder, a handle fixed or articulated to the main body, a hook, a ring, a breathing mask, an auxiliary breathing unit. Other objects and advantages of the invention will emerge in more detail on reading the description which follows, and with the aid of the appended figures provided for purely explanatory and non-limiting purposes, in which:,

[0039] - figure 1 illustrates, schematically in a perspective view, a device for assisting in the emergency evacuation of a vehicle according to a first embodiment of the invention, with its cover in the closed position.

[0040] - figure 2 illustrates, in a schematic perspective view, the emergency evacuation aid device of figure 1, the cover of which is this time in the open position, said device including a pivoting handle arranged within its interior volume.

[0041] - Figure 3 illustrates the emergency evacuation aid device of Figure 2, with its cover open, in a perspective view from below.

[0042] - Figure 4 illustrates, in a partially sectioned side view, the emergency evacuation assistance device of the preceding figures secured to a fixing rail integrated into a wall of the cabin of a vehicle, the cover of which in the open position is used as a step by a user to hoist himself towards an emergency exit of said vehicle.

[0043] - Figure 5 illustrates, in a schematic perspective view, a device for assisting in the emergency evacuation of a vehicle according to a second embodiment, the cover of which is in the open position, said second embodiment being distinguished from the first embodiment of the preceding figures essentially by the fact, on the one hand, that it incorporates, within its interior volume, not a pivoting handle but a flexible unrollable ladder, and on the other hand that it uses return springs to return the cover to the open position.

[0044] - Figure 6 illustrates, in a schematic perspective view, a third embodiment of a device for assisting in the emergency evacuation of a vehicle, with its cover in the open position, said device being distinguished from the second embodiment of Figure 5 by the fact that instead of the flexible unrollable ladder, a pivoting handle, hooks and a ring are housed within the interior volume. - Figure 7 illustrates, in a schematic perspective view, a fourth embodiment of an emergency evacuation aid device according to the invention, the cover of which is open, and which is provided with a lock and a lock control member which comprises a shock-sensitive element.

[0045] - figure 8 illustrates, in a schematic view in longitudinal section, the emergency evacuation assistance device of figure 7.

[0046] - Figure 9 illustrates, in a schematic cross-sectional view, the emergency evacuation assistance device of Figures 7 and 8, the cover of which is locked in the closed position.

[0047] - Figure 10 illustrates, in a partial schematic perspective view from above, a liquid retention device according to the invention, which incorporates a device for assisting in the emergency evacuation of a vehicle according to the invention.

[0048] - figure 11 illustrates, in a partial schematic perspective view from below, the liquid retention device of figure 10.

[0049] BEST WAY TO CARRY OUT THE INVENTION

[0050] The following description applies equally to the vehicle, the liquid retention device and the emergency evacuation assistance device of a vehicle according to the invention.

[0051] The invention relates, according to a first aspect, to a device 1 for assisting in the emergency evacuation of a vehicle, in particular for assisting in the evacuation of a damaged vehicle, intended to allow persons on board the vehicle, for example in a closed cabin of the latter, to extract themselves from the vehicle by their own means, in particular in the event of an emergency following for example an accident. The device 1 thus facilitates the evacuation of persons from the vehicle in question, including and especially when said vehicle has accidentally come to a standstill in a position and / or an orientation not corresponding to the normal driving position and / or orientation. In such an abnormal configuration, the vehicle rests for example on one of its sides, so that the floor of its cabin is for example vertical instead of horizontal.The emergency evacuation assistance device 1 according to the invention thus makes it possible, even in this type of catastrophic configuration, to assist in the survival and evacuation of persons in danger inside the vehicle, by providing them with support or attachment points facilitating movement towards an emergency exit, as will be described in more detail below.

[0052] The invention also relates as such to a vehicle equipped with such an emergency evacuation assistance device 1. Said vehicle comprises an interior wall 5, which forms for example an interior wall of a cabin or cockpit, said wall 5 thus being located inside the vehicle, for example in the cabin or cockpit of the latter, inside the cabin if it is an aircraft (plane or helicopter). The vehicle according to the invention also comprises at least one evacuation exit from the vehicle, which is for example in the form of an opening (whether or not equipped with a door, a porthole or a closing window) to allow any person housed in the vehicle (inside the cabin for example), to escape from the vehicle, if necessary by opening a door or breaking a window.

[0053] The emergency evacuation assistance device 1 according to the invention advantageously has a universal design which makes it suitable for equipping all types of vehicles, of whatever nature. For example, the vehicle according to the invention may be a land vehicle, a marine vehicle or an air vehicle. Preferably, said vehicle is part of at least one of the following groups:

[0054] - flying vehicles, including aerostats and fixed-wing (e.g., airplanes) or rotary-wing (e.g., helicopters) aerodynes,

[0055] - marine or underwater vehicles.

[0056] In the following, reference will be made to an emergency evacuation assistance device 1 intended to equip a helicopter, for example a rescue or evacuation helicopter, it being understood that the invention is in no way limited to this preferred application and may relate, as already mentioned above, to any other vehicle, and in particular vehicles delimiting a confined interior space.

[0057] As illustrated in the figures, the device 1 comprises a housing 2 which has, for example, a substantially oblong shape (figures 1 to 6) or a parallelepiped shape (figures 7 to 9). The housing 2 thus forms a volume element, which defines a useful interior space and has an evolving geometry allowing it, depending on the circumstances, to adopt a configuration of reduced size when the vehicle is in normal operation, while being capable of adopting, in the event of an accident, an emergency evacuation assistance configuration. Said housing 2 is advantageously made of a rigid material, such as, for example, a metallic material (steel or aluminum for example). The use of a plastic or composite material can however be envisaged. As illustrated in the figures, the housing 2 advantageously comprises a main body 20 delimiting an interior volume V.For example, the main body 20 comprises a bottom 20A as well as a side wall 20B which rises from said bottom 20A, for example at the periphery of the latter, between a lower edge secured to said bottom 20A and a free upper edge 200. Said free upper edge 200 defines an access opening to the interior volume V.

[0058] Said housing 2 is provided with at least one fixing member 3, 4 for securing, preferably reversibly, the housing 2 to a wall 5 of said vehicle. As mentioned previously, said wall 5 of the vehicle is an interior wall of the vehicle, which forms for example an interior wall of a cabin or cockpit. This means that the wall 5 is included in an internal volume of the vehicle, so that it is not directly exposed to the external environment and is protected at least from rain, unlike an external wall, that is to say a wall (for example of a fuselage) which is directly exposed to the external environment (air or water for example) of the vehicle. Advantageously, the fixing member 3, 4 is integral with the main body 20, that is to say that it is embedded by said main body 20 and advantageously projects from the main body 20, towards the outside of the latter.The fixing member 3, 4 projects, for example, from the bottom 20A and / or the side wall 20B, as illustrated in the figures.

[0059] Said wall 5 advantageously constitutes the interior floor of the vehicle, for example the interior floor of the cabin of a helicopter. However, it is perfectly conceivable to secure the housing 2 to an interior wall of the vehicle other than the floor. The fixing member 3, 4 preferably ensures reversible securing of the housing 2 to the wall 5, that is to say that the housing 2 can be easily and at will detached from, and attached to, said wall 5, preferably without the need to use tools. The fixing member 3, 4 therefore advantageously constitutes a quick, tool-free fixing system, which allows removable fixing of the housing 2 to the wall 5. Thanks to this reversible nature, the emergency evacuation assistance device 1 according to the invention can be easily installed and uninstalled, depending for example on the usage constraints of the vehicle concerned and the equipment possibly carried by the latter.In the case of a helicopter or other aircraft, the interior layout of the cabin and / or cockpit may change depending, for example, on the use assigned to the vehicle and the missions to be carried out. The reversible securing provided by the fixing member 3, 4 makes it possible to place or move the housing 2 to an appropriate location, to take into account the size and the placement of other equipment required within the cabin.

[0060] For example, as illustrated in Figure 4, the fixing member 3 is intended to cooperate with an aeronautical rail 6 which is for example embedded in the wall 5. Such aeronautical rails are well known as such and are for example intended to receive aircraft seat anchors. In this embodiment, the fixing member 3 comprises at least one foot 30, and preferably two feet 30, 31 intended to cooperate with an aeronautical rail 6 of conjugate shape. Each foot 30, 31 comprises for example one or more enlarged head(s) intended to be inserted into corresponding cells provided on the surface of the rail 6. Each cell of the rail 6 is separated from the adjacent cells by an inter-cell portion of reduced section. It is then sufficient to shift the feet 30, 31 longitudinally along the rail 6 to capture the enlarged heads of the latter by an inter-cell portion of reduced section.Said longitudinal offset of the feet 30, 31 to capture their heads widened by inter-cell portions of the rail 6 is obtained by translation of the feet 30, 31 along the fixed rail 6. For example, the feet 30, 31 are fixed relative to the main body 20, so that said translation of the feet 30, 31 is carried out by translation of the main body 20 relative to the rail 6. Alternatively, the feet 30, 31 are mounted to be movable in translation relative to the main body 20. The latter is therefore in this case placed opposite the rail 6 in its fixing position, then the feet 30, 31 are moved in translation relative to the main body 20 and to the rail 6 to thus offset the enlarged heads of the feet 30, 31 and the cells of the rail 6. Advantageously, the housing 2 includes a means of manual control (not illustrated) of the translational movement of the feet 30, 31 relative to the main body 20.Preferably, for reasons of safety and reliability, said manual control means is housed inside the housing 2, in the interior volume V, so that it is only accessible from inside the main body 20. Such a rapid reversible installation / uninstallation system is well known as such and therefore does not need to be described further here. The use of a rail 6 is however absolutely not obligatory, and it is for example conceivable that the fixing member 3 cooperates with localized bases, which do not have an elongated shape like that of the rails.

[0061] Alternatively, or in addition to the fixing member 3 described above, the housing 2 is provided with a fixing member 4 capable of cooperating with a smooth surface, without an aeronautical rail. In this case, the fixing member 4 comprises for example one or more suction cups 40, 41. Each suction cup 40, 41 comprises for example a flexible membrane associated with a control means 400, 410 (for example a lever) allowing a depression of the interstitial space delimited by the wall 5 on the one hand and said flexible membrane on the other hand. Here again, the control means 400, 410 is advantageously housed inside the main body 20, in the interior volume V, so that it is only accessible from the inside of the main body 20.

[0062] The invention is of course not limited to a particular type of fixing member 3, 4, and other fixing members can be implemented, provided that they preferably ensure rigid securing of the housing 2 to the wall 5, that is to say securing substantially eliminating any degree of freedom between the housing 2 and said wall 5.

[0063] The fixing member 3, 4 may be designed to secure the housing 2 directly to the wall 5, as illustrated for example by FIG. 4, but it is alternatively possible for the fixing member 3, 4 to reversibly secure the housing 2 to another piece of equipment which is itself secured (reversibly or not) to the wall 5. In this case, the fixing member 3, 4 is designed to secure the housing 2 indirectly to the wall 5.

[0064] According to the invention, the housing 2 also comprises at least one cover 7 connected to said main body 20 by a permanent connection means 8 which allows the cover 7 to move relative to said main body 20 between a closed position (Figures 1 and 9) in which said cover 7 closes access to said interior volume V and an open position (Figures 2 to 8) in which said cover 7 releases access to said interior volume V while projecting from said main body 20. The permanent connection means 8 thus advantageously ensures the guidance of the cover 7 between its closed and open positions. The cover 7 may be formed, as illustrated in the figures, by a single piece in the form of a plate whose shape is combined with that of the access opening defined by the upper edge 200.It is however perfectly conceivable that the cover 7 is formed by different moving parts which are independent of each other.

[0065] In accordance with the invention, said housing 2, fixing member 3, 4, cover 7 and permanent connection means 8 are shaped and dimensioned so that the cover 7 contributes to forming, in the open position, a support zone and / or a grip allowing a person to hoist themselves towards an evacuation exit of the vehicle by leaning on, and / or grabbing, said cover 7. In other words, the cover 7 provides a dual function, namely:

[0066] - a first function of closing the access opening to close the interior volume V; and

[0067] - a second support or grip function intended to support all or part of the weight of one or more people to help them move within the vehicle towards the emergency exit.

[0068] To this end, the fixing member 3, 4 must ensure sufficiently robust securing of the housing 2 to the wall 5 to prevent any untimely detachment of the housing 2 from the wall 5. This means that the fixing member 3, 4 must provide a fixing of the housing 2 to the wall 5 which resists a force corresponding at least to the weight of an individual, corrected where appropriate by a safety coefficient. The minimum force which the fixing provided by the fixing member 3, 4 must resist is for example equal to 1000 N, preferably equal to 2000 N, even more preferably equal to 3000 N, preferably regardless of the direction in which the minimum force in question is exerted (traction, shear, torsion, etc.).Similarly, the main body 2, to which the fixing member 3, 4 and the cover 7 are attached, must itself be sufficiently strong so as not to break when a person leans on the cover 7 in the open position to hoist themselves towards the evacuation exit. To this end, the main body 2 is advantageously made of metal (for example aluminum) with sufficient dimensions so as not to deform, deteriorate or break when a person leans on the cover 7 connected to the main body 20 of the housing 2. The cover 7 is of course also designed to withstand the forces involved when a person leans on it, or hangs from it, to hoist themselves towards the evacuation exit of the vehicle.The cover 7 is therefore advantageously made of a metallic material (for example aluminum) and has sufficient thickness to avoid plastic deformation or breaking when a person leans on the cover 7 to pull themselves up towards the evacuation exit.

[0069] Finally, the permanent connection means 8, which ensure the connection of the cover 7 to the main body 20, are also sufficiently robust to withstand the forces transmitted to them by the cover 7 when the latter is used as a support area and / or gripped by an individual. The permanent connection means 8 are advantageously also made of metal (aluminum or steel for example), with sufficient dimensions to withstand the forces involved.

[0070] Advantageously, the cover 7 has at least a first surface S1, while the main body 20 has at least a second surface S2 located in said interior volume V. The first surface S1 is for example formed by the internal face 7A of the cover 7, which is intended to be located opposite the internal volume V when the cover 7 is in the closed position. The second surface S2 is for example formed by a portion of the internal face 21 of the side wall 20B, said internal face 21 of the side wall 20B being located opposite the interior volume V. Advantageously, said first surface S1 is positioned substantially in the continuity of said second surface S2 when the cover 7 is in the open position, as illustrated in Figures 2, 5, 6 and 7.Thanks to this characteristic, the first and second surfaces S1, S2 combine to form a larger resulting support surface, and therefore easier, more practical and comfortable to use, as illustrated for example in Figure 4. In the situation of Figure 4, an individual uses the cover 7 as a step in order to hoist himself towards an evacuation exit of the vehicle, this step having a large surface since corresponding to the combination of the first and second surfaces S1, S2. Preferably, the space in line with the first surface S1 and the second surface S2 is relatively clear, in order to allow the user to lean there and / or insert a part of his body there, as illustrated for example in Figure 4.Advantageously, the cover 7 is hinged to the main body 20, so that the movement of the cover 7 relative to the main body 20 is a rotational movement, or at least includes a rotational component. Preferably, the permanent connecting means 8 includes at least one hinge 80 connecting the main body 20 and cover 7, so that said cover 7 is pivotally mounted relative to the main body 20, along a pivot axis X-X'. For example, the hinge 80 is arranged at the upper edge 200 of the side wall 20B, and advantageously extends over a rectilinear portion of said upper edge 200.

[0071] Advantageously, the permanent connection means 8 includes at least one means 81 for holding said cover 7 in the open position. The holding means 81 may include, for example, one or more compasses, as illustrated in FIGS. 2 to 6, which make it possible, in combination with the hinge 80, to limit the angular movement of the cover 7 relative to the main body 20. For example, in the embodiment illustrated in the figures, the permanent connection means 8 includes, in addition to the hinge 80, two compasses 81 arranged on either side of the housing 20 and which limit the angular movement of the cover 7 relative to the main body 20 to an angle of 90°.In other words, the cover 7 can pivot from its closed position, in which it forms an angle of 0° with the main body 20, to its open position in which it forms, as illustrated in the figures, an angle of 90° with the main body 20, which makes it possible to bring the first surface S1 into continuity with the second surface S2 as explained previously. The invention is of course not limited to an angular movement of 90°. Such an angular movement proves, however, to be particularly advantageous because it makes it possible to create a particularly practical support point in the situation where the vehicle is accidentally immobilized on its side, so that its floor, which corresponds in this case to the wall 5 to which the housing 2 is fixed by its bottom 20A, is then vertical as illustrated in FIG. 4.In this case, the passage of the cover 7 into the open position, corresponding to an angular travel of 90°, makes it possible to position the shutter 7 substantially horizontally, so that it can serve as a step or rung for hoisting oneself towards an evacuation exit which extends, for example, perpendicular to the floor forming the wall 5.

[0072] The permanent connection means 8 includes, for example, a member for locking the cover 7 in the open position, which acts on the holding means 81 to prevent the cover 7 from returning to the closed position from its open position. Thanks to this advantageous characteristic, it is possible to bear not only on the inner face 7A of the cover 7, but also on its opposite outer face, without the cover 7 folding back into the closed position. For this, each compass advantageously forming the holding means 81 is, for example, provided with a system for relative locking of its arms, which automatically locks the latter in the relative position when the cover 7 reaches its open position.

[0073] As illustrated in the figures, the cover 7 is advantageously designed to:

[0074] - in the closed position, extend in a first plane substantially perpendicular to the side wall 20B to close the access opening defined by the free upper edge 200, and

[0075] - in the open position, extend into a second plane which is advantageously substantially perpendicular to said first plane.

[0076] Preferably, the first plane is substantially parallel to the wall 5, so that in the closed configuration the cover 7 does not constitute an obstacle likely to hinder the passengers of the vehicle. On the other hand, the second plane is advantageously perpendicular to the wall 5, so that in the open position the cover 7 advantageously projects in line with said wall 5, perpendicular to the latter.

[0077] Thus, it proves particularly advantageous to attach the main body 20 by its bottom 20A to the wall 5, with the pivot axis X-X' of the cover 7 relative to the main body 20 arranged substantially parallel to said wall 5 to obtain, by pivoting the cover 7 from its closed position to its open position, a support zone and / or a grip positioned and oriented appropriately. Of course, several emergency evacuation aid devices 1 according to the invention may be provided and attached in different locations within the same vehicle, for example in different orientations taking into account the arrangement of each evacuation exit of the vehicle, to deal with all emergency situations which may be envisaged and which correspond for example to an accidental immobilization of the vehicle in different spatial orientations.Advantageously, the housing 2 is coupled to one or more of the following systems: signaling system, location system, external distress systems, so that the passage of the cover 7 out of its closed position is detected and in response commands the triggering of one or more actions by one or more of the aforementioned systems, such as for example:.

[0078] - emission of an audible, luminous, radioelectric and / or pyrotechnic signal by the signaling system,

[0079] - transmission by the location system of a signal containing the instantaneous coordinates (for example GPS) of the vehicle,

[0080] - triggering of one or more external distress systems (for example, release of a beacon or inflation of a buoyancy aid device).

[0081] Advantageously, the housing 2 comprises a lock 9 capable of alternately adopting an activated configuration, in which it is designed to hold the cover 7 in the closed position, and a deactivated configuration, in which it is designed to allow the cover 7 to move into the open position. Preferably, the housing 2 includes at least one elastic element 10 which exerts a return force on the cover 7 in the open position. Such an elastic element is illustrated in relation to the embodiments of FIGS. 5 to 9, but it can also be included in the other embodiments of FIGS. 1 to 4. Generally speaking, the different embodiments illustrated can be combined, so that features present in one embodiment can be implemented in another embodiment which does not have them.The elastic element 10, which includes for example one or more torsion springs as illustrated in the figures, permanently exerts a return force on the cover 7 in the open position. Thus, when the cover 7 is in the closed position, with the lock 9 in the activated configuration, and said lock 9 switches to the deactivated configuration, the cover 7 is automatically returned, under the effect of the force exerted by the elastic element 10, to the open position.

[0082] The use of means exerting a restoring force on the cover 7 is, however, entirely optional. Thus, in the absence of an elastic element 10 exerting a restoring force on the cover 7 to the open position, the passage of the lock 9 from its activated configuration to its deactivated configuration, while the cover 7 is in the closed position, will not lead to the spontaneous passage of the cover 7 to the open position. The user will then have to manually move the cover 7 from its closed position to its open position.

[0083] The lock 9 comprises, for example, a rotating latch 9A fitted on the cover 7 and mounted to rotate relative to the latter between:

[0084] - a locking position, in which said latch 9A is designed to fit into a complementary cavity 9B provided in the side wall 20B of the main body 20, and

[0085] - an unlocking position in which the latch 9A is released from the complementary cavity 9B.

[0086] The lock 9 thus forms in this case a mechanical latch. The invention is however not limited to the implementation of a lock 9 formed by such a latch, and the use of an electrical, electromechanical, or magnetic device is perfectly conceivable without departing from the scope of the invention. In the context of a mechanical locking, the use of a pivoting latch is also not obligatory. Thus, as illustrated by figures 7 to 9, and as will be described in more detail in the following, it is alternatively possible to implement, as lock 9, a system based on one or more fixed (but preferably elastically deformable) hooks 16 carried by the cover 7 and intended to hook onto a detachable retaining pin 14 secured to the main body 20.

[0087] Advantageously, the device 1 comprises a control member 11 for the lock 9 to control the transition of the lock 9 from its activated configuration to its deactivated configuration. For example, in accordance with the embodiments of FIGS. 1 to 6, the control member 11 comprises a manually actuable portion 12 for manually controlling the transition of the lock 9 from its activated configuration to its deactivated configuration. For example, the manually actuable portion 12 is in the form of a rotary button which directly rotates the latch 9A and thus allows the user to directly control the pivoting of the latch 9A.Thus, in the event of an emergency, it is sufficient to turn the button forming the manually operable portion 12 to unlock the cover 7, which can then open automatically under the effect of the return force exerted by the elastic element 10 or under the effect of a manual opening force exerted by the user, possibly via the manually operable portion 12 which can serve as a gripping member.

[0088] Alternatively, or in addition, the control member 11 comprises a shock-sensitive element 13 connected to the lock 9, or forming part of the latter, to automatically switch the lock 9 from its activated configuration to its deactivated configuration when the housing 2 undergoes an impact, and more precisely an impact characteristic of an accidental event. In this embodiment, an example of which is illustrated by FIGS. 7 to 9, it is not necessary to take a positive step to open the cover 7 and thus access the support and / or gripping zone function provided by the latter. On the contrary, in this embodiment, the device 1 is designed to detect by itself the situations in which the opening of the cover 7 is required, in order to automatically cause the cover 7 to move into the open position.Such emergency situations are generally associated, in particular in the case where the vehicle is an aircraft, with one or more violent shocks, linked for example to an impact of the vehicle against the ground or against a body of water. The control member 11 is in this case advantageously capable of detecting the shock in question, in order to respond immediately and automatically to switch the lock 9 from its activated configuration to its deactivated configuration, thus releasing the cover 7 which can spontaneously return to its open position under the effect for example of the restoring force exerted by the elastic element 10.

[0089] For example, the shock-sensitive element 13 is an acceleration-sensitive element, capable of transitioning from a first state to a second state when subjected to acceleration of a predetermined level in one or more predetermined directions.

[0090] For example, the shock-sensitive element 13 comprises on the one hand a first part 14 connected to, or forming part of, the lock 9 and on the other hand a connecting device 15 ensuring between said first part 14 and main body 20 a rigid connection (i.e. an immobilization connection) designed to break under the effect of a predetermined movement of said first part 14 relative to the main body 20. In other words, the connecting device 15 immobilizes (rigid connection) the first part 14 relative to the main body 20 as long as the first part 14 has not been subjected to a predetermined acceleration, corresponding to an impact.

[0091] For example, and as already mentioned in the above, the lock 9 advantageously comprises at least one hook 16 secured to the cover 7 and which rises in line with the internal face 7A of the latter on the one hand, and a retaining pin which forms the first part 14 and is attached in a predetermined position to the housing 20, for example to the internal face of the bottom 20A as illustrated in the figures. In the closed position, with the cover 7 folded down onto the main body 20 to close the access opening, said at least one hook 16 is hooked to the retaining pin forming the first part 14, as illustrated in Figure 9. Under the effect of an impact of a predetermined nature (amplitude and direction), the first part 14 moves and leaves its predetermined position, which causes the concomitant rupture of the rigid connection previously ensured by the connecting device 15.The cover 7 is then no longer held by the lock 9 in the closed position, and it can open, possibly spontaneously under the effect of a restoring force exerted for example by an elastic element 10, to reach its open position which makes it usable as a support and / or gripping area.

[0092] Preferably, breaking the rigid connection provided by the connecting device 15 leads to the first part 14 being completely released so that it can disengage from the hook 16. However, in order to prevent the first part 14 from being able to transform into a dangerous projectile for the vehicle and its occupants, the device 1 advantageously comprises a flexible safety link 15A, formed for example by a cable (preferably waterproof), which permanently connects the first part 14 to the main body 20, including when the rigid connection is broken.

[0093] In the embodiment illustrated in the figures, the connecting device 15 comprises at least one first bolt 17A mounted to move between a deployed elastic return position (illustrated in FIG. 8) and a retracted position. The first bolt 17A is for example formed by a sliding finger subjected to the influence of a first spring 18A which permanently returns it to its deployed position. The connecting device 15 also advantageously comprises a first striker 19A, preferably formed by a cavity or concavity or groove, in which the first bolt 17A engages in the deployed position, to thus ensure said rigid connection between said first part 14 and main body 20. More precisely, in the example illustrated in the figures, the retaining axis forming the first part 14 extends longitudinally between a first and a second end. Said first end carries the first striker 19A, which cooperates with the first bolt 17A.To this end, the connecting device 15 comprises a first flange 150 which projects from the bottom 20A inside the housing 2, in the interior volume V.

[0094] The first flange 150 advantageously supports an elastic connection block which includes the first spring 18A and the first bolt 17A. The first striker 19A is positioned opposite the first bolt 17A to allow the mechanical engagement of the latter within it and thus achieve said rigid connection.

[0095] Advantageously, a second latch 19B is provided at the other end of the retaining axis forming the first part 14, as well as a second flange 151 which carries a second elastic connection block carrying a second spring 18B which returns a second bolt 17B to the deployed position. The first part 14 is thus held between the two flanges 150, 151 by elastic connection blocks which ensure the establishment of said rigid connection between said first part 14 and main body 20.

[0096] Advantageously, the first bolt 17A, respectively the second bolt 17B, is designed to be pushed back into the retracted position under the effect of said predetermined movement of said first part 14 relative to said main body 20, by a cam effect exerted by the edges of the first latch 19A, respectively of the second latch 19B, so as to disengage from said first latch 19A, respectively said second latch 19B, and thus break said rigid connection. Said predetermined movement occurs in response to an acceleration whose value exceeds a predetermined threshold value in a predetermined direction, characterizing an impact. The breaking of the rigid connection causes the cover 7 to unlock and move it into the open position, under the effect of the return exerted advantageously by the elastic element 10.

[0097] This embodiment is particularly advantageous because it allows automatic triggering of the opening of the cover 7 when an accident situation occurs, thanks to extremely simple, reliable and robust means which do not require any electrical power supply or complex maintenance operation.

[0098] In order to calibrate the breaking of the rigid connection made by the connecting device 15 between the first part 14 and the main body 20, it is of course appropriate to play in particular on the dimensioning and the stiffness of each spring 18A, 18B but also on the mass of the first part 14, which is for this purpose provided with one or more weights 14A, 14B of predetermined mass.

[0099] The invention is of course not limited to the embodiment illustrated in the figures. It is for example alternatively possible that said rigid connection provided by the connection device 15 between said first part 14 and main body 20 is a magnetic connection. In this case, each end of the retaining axis advantageously forming the first part 14 is for example provided with a magnet which is attached by magnetic attraction to the corresponding flange 150, 151.

[0100] According to yet another alternative, the connecting device 15 comprises for example at least one breakable part which ensures said rigid connection between said first part 14 and main body 20. Said breakable part connects for example one end of the retaining axis advantageously forming the first part 14 to the corresponding flanges 150, 151. Said breakable part is designed to break under the effect of the predetermined displacement of said first part 14 relative to the main body 20, so as to thus break said rigid connection.

[0101] The various alternative solutions set out in the foregoing all have the major advantage of not requiring electrical power sources, and of relying on extremely simple and passive mechanical or magnetic mechanisms. However, it is perfectly conceivable, without departing from the scope of the invention, to implement a shock-sensitive element 13 which comprises electrical, electronic or electromagnetic means, with electrically powered sensors where appropriate.

[0102] Preferably, the device 1 for assisting in the emergency evacuation of a vehicle according to the invention includes, arranged in said interior volume V, one or more of the following devices: - A flexible unrollable ladder 60. Preferably, the flexible ladder 60 is designed to unroll automatically as soon as the cover 7 is opened, and thus makes it easier for an individual to access the support zone formed by the cover 7.

[0103] - A handle 61 fixed or articulated to the main body 20. For example, the handle 61 is pivotally mounted relative to the main body 20 along an axis of rotation parallel to the axis of rotation X-X' of the cover 7. The handle 61 can advantageously move between a retracted position (illustrated in figures 2 and 6) and a deployed position which it reaches after an angular travel of 90° bringing it perpendicular to the bottom 2A. Preferably, the deployed position is an elastic return position, to make the handle 61 immediately accessible and practical to use as soon as the cover 7 moves into the open position. The handle 61 thus acts as a grip or additional support point to facilitate evacuation, in combination with the support and grip surface provided by the cover 7 itself.

[0104] - A hook 62, which can for example be used to hang emergency equipment.

[0105] - A ring 63, which can serve as an attachment, hooking or gripping point (for example for holding on manually) in order to facilitate the evacuation operation, in combination with the support zone formed by the cover 7.

[0106] - A breathing mask (not shown), to enable, for example, an individual to breathe properly in the event of a fire, if the area in which they are located is filled with smoke. Such a breathing mask can also be used, when the vehicle is a marine or underwater vehicle, to enable breathing underwater if the area in which the individual concerned is located is drowned, or if the escape route leads to a submerged area.

[0107] - A supplemental breathing unit (not shown), which includes a supplemental cylinder containing breathing gas (air, oxygen) and a regulator, to enable underwater evacuation.

[0108] In this advantageous embodiment, the device 1 thus assumes, in addition to its function of providing in the event of an emergency a support zone and / or a grip allowing a person to hoist themselves towards an evacuation exit from the vehicle, a function of providing equipment capable of facilitating the evacuation and / or survival of the individuals present in the damaged vehicle.

[0109] Of course, the above list is by no means exhaustive and it is perfectly possible for other equipment to be placed within the interior volume V, whether it be emergency equipment, signalling equipment or any other equipment useful or not for evacuation or survival.

[0110] Preferably, retro-reflective 500 and / or photoluminescent 600 signaling devices are arranged in the interior volume V, to be visible once the cover 7 is in the open position, in order to facilitate evacuation operations and survival. The retro-reflective 500 and / or photoluminescent 600 signaling devices may for example cover a fixed surface inside the main body 20 as illustrated in FIG. 5 and / or cover one or more of the equipment (handle 61 for example) present in the interior volume V. A procedure for recharging the photoluminescent devices 600 may consist, prior to any movement of the vehicle, in opening the cover 7 to expose the photoluminescent devices 600 to a light source for a predetermined duration.

[0111] The invention relates, according to another aspect, to a liquid retention device 50 intended to be embarked on the interior floor of the vehicle, which is preferably a rescue or evacuation helicopter. The liquid retention device 50 is designed and configured to collect equipment embarked (not illustrated) by said vehicle, for example a seat or a stretcher, in particular during a rescue operation. Such a rescue mission comprises for example an operation to recover an individual from a body of water, in particular at sea (including on a ship). The on-board equipment comprises for example a stretcher, but it may alternatively be a passenger seat of the vehicle, or any other equipment.The dimensions of the liquid retention device 50 are preferably adapted to support the entire on-board equipment, that is to say that the retention device 50 is configured to be interposed between the interior floor of the vehicle and the on-board equipment. According to a particular embodiment, the on-board equipment comprises a stretcher, which has for example been submerged during an operation to recover an individual at sea. The individual is therefore placed on the stretcher, which is then transported (for example by helicopter) within the vehicle, which is for example a helicopter. In this latter particular case or in other situations, liquid (water in this case) is likely to flow from the stretcher and the rescued individual.The liquid retention device 50 is thus advantageously designed to capture and retain the liquid which spills from the wet stretcher in particular and / or from any other wet equipment during the recovery operation at sea.

[0112] To this end, the liquid retention device 50 comprises at least one upper wall 51 designed and configured to support said on-board equipment, said upper wall 51 being provided with a plurality of through-holes 52. The retention device 50 also comprises a liquid storage tank 53 arranged at least partly below said upper wall 51 to collect liquid passing through said through-holes 52.

[0113] Said upper wall 51 is thus advantageously intended to receive the entire weight of said on-board equipment, in particular the entire weight of a stretcher, possibly wet with sea water. Said upper wall 51 advantageously has a generally flat surface, which thus forms a false floor arranged above the interior floor of the vehicle. The upper wall 51 is formed for example by at least one plate. The through-orifices 52 are provided through the entire thickness of said plate and are advantageously distributed regularly over all or part of the surface of the upper wall 51. The liquid storage tank 53 for its part advantageously forms a tank, which preferably has its own mechanical strength, said tank being closed at its upper opening by the upper wall 51.

[0114] Advantageously, a housing is provided in said upper wall 51. Said housing is for example in the form of a cavity provided at least on the surface of the upper wall 51. According to the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 10, the liquid retention device 50 also comprises at least one device 1 for assisting in the emergency evacuation of a vehicle in accordance with the invention and the preceding description. The housing 2 of said device 1 is arranged within said housing provided in the upper wall 51, preferably in such a way that the cover 7, in the closed position (FIG. 10), is flush with the upper wall 51 which surrounds it, that is to say that the cover 7 advantageously extends in the same plane as the upper wall 51.

[0115] Advantageously, in this embodiment, the emergency evacuation aid device 1 comprises a seal arranged between the main body 20 and the cover 7, so that when the cover 7 is in the closed position, the liquid which is possibly likely to spill onto the liquid retention device 50 cannot penetrate into the interior volume V.

[0116] Advantageously and as illustrated in the figures, the emergency evacuation assistance device 1 which equips the liquid retention device 50 is attached directly to the interior floor of the vehicle, which interior floor in this case forms said wall 5 on which rests the tray forming the liquid storage tank 53. In this case, said housing provided in the upper wall 51 advantageously forms a well which passes through the tray and allows the fixing member 3 to be attached to the wall 5 (preferably interior) which forms the floor, for example by means of an aeronautical rail fixed to said wall 5 or integrated into the latter according to the principle illustrated by figure 4.

[0117] Alternatively, however, it is perfectly conceivable that the emergency evacuation aid device 1 is simply attached to the upper wall 51 and / or to the liquid storage tank 53, the latter being attached to the wall 5. In this alternative embodiment, the emergency evacuation aid device 1 equipping the liquid retention device 50 is therefore indirectly secured to the wall 5, via the upper wall 51 and / or the liquid storage tank 53.

[0118] The liquid retention device 50 thus makes it possible to provide an emergency evacuation assistance function by providing a support zone and / or a grip formed by the cover 7 in the open position, in the event of an accident situation with, for example, the vehicle being immobilized on one of its sides, causing the floor forming the wall 5 to become vertical.

[0119] Generally speaking, beyond the example set out above concerning a liquid retention device 50, the invention also relates independently to a system comprising a false floor intended to cover the interior floor of a vehicle as well as an emergency evacuation assistance device 1 in accordance with the preceding description and which is integrated into the thickness of this false floor, to be flush with the surface of the latter.

[0120] Finally, the invention also relates generally, as mentioned above, to a vehicle, and in particular a vehicle which is one of those mentioned above (including a helicopter), comprising a wall 5 as well as an emergency evacuation assistance device 1 in accordance with the preceding description, in which said emergency evacuation assistance device 1 is secured to said wall 5 by means of said fixing member 3, 4, directly (figure 4) or indirectly (for example by being fixed to equipment, such as a liquid retention device 50, itself fixed to the wall 5, which is preferably an interior wall).

[0121] POSSIBILITY OF INDUSTRIAL APPLICATION

[0122] The invention finds its industrial application in the design, manufacture and use of survival aid equipment and the vehicles and devices provided therewith.

Claims

DEMANDS 1. Vehicle comprising: - an interior wall (5), which forms, for example, an interior wall of a cabin or cockpit, - a vehicle evacuation exit, - and a vehicle emergency evacuation aid device (1) which is secured to said wall (5) by means of at least one fastening element (3, 4), said device (1) comprising a housing (2), said housing (2) comprising a main body (20) delimiting an interior volume (V) and at least one cover (7) connected to said main body (20) by a permanent connection means (8) which allows the cover (7) to move relative to said main body (20) between a closed position in which said cover (7) closes access to said interior volume (V) and an open position in which said cover (7) releases access to said interior volume (V) while protruding from said main body (20), said main body (20), fastening element (3, 4), cover (7) and permanent connection means (8) being shaped and dimensioned so that the cover (7) contributes to forming, in the open position,a support area and / or a handhold enabling a person to pull themselves up towards said evacuation exit by leaning on, and / or grasping, said cover (7).

2. Vehicle according to the preceding claim characterized in that said fastening member (3, 4) reversibly secures said device (1) to said wall (5).

3. Vehicle according to any one of the preceding claims characterized in that said cover (7) is articulated to said main body (20), said permanent connecting means (8) including at least one hinge (80) connecting said main body (20) and cover (7).

4. Vehicle according to any one of the preceding claims characterized in that said permanent connecting means (8) includes at least one retaining means (81) in open position of said cover (7). A vehicle according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that said housing (2) comprises a latch (9) capable of alternately adopting an activated configuration, in which it is designed to hold said cover (7) in the closed position, and a deactivated configuration, in which it is designed to allow the cover (7) to move to the open position. A vehicle according to the preceding claim, characterized in that it comprises a control element (11) for the latch (9) to control the transition of the latch (9) from its activated configuration to its deactivated configuration. A vehicle according to the preceding claim, characterized in that said control element (11) comprises a manually actuable portion (12) for manually controlling the transition of the latch (9) from its activated configuration to its deactivated configuration.A vehicle according to claim 6 or 7 characterized in that said control member (11) comprises a shock-sensitive element (13) connected to, or forming part of, the lock (9) for automatically switching the lock (9) from its activated to its deactivated configuration when the housing (2) is subjected to a shock. A vehicle according to the preceding claim characterized in that said shock-sensitive element (13) comprises, on the one hand, a first part (14) connected to, or forming part of, the lock (9) and, on the other hand, a connecting device (15) providing a rigid connection between said first part (14) and the main body (20) designed to break under the effect of a predetermined displacement of said first part (14) relative to said main body (20).Vehicle according to the preceding claim characterized in that said rigid connection provided by the connecting device between said first part (14) and main body (20) is a magnetic connection. Vehicle according to claim 9 characterized in that the connecting device (15) comprises at least one first bolt (17A) movably mounted between a deployed elastic return position and a retracted position, as well as a first strike plate (19A) in. which engages the first bolt (17A) in the deployed position to ensure said rigid connection between said first piece (14) and main body (20), said first bolt (17A) being designed to be pushed back into the retracted position under the effect of said predetermined displacement of said first piece (14) relative to said main body (20) so as to disengage from said first strike plate (19A) and thus break said rigid connection.

12. Vehicle according to claim 9 characterized in that the linkage device (15) comprises at least one breakable part which ensures said rigid linkage between said first part (14) and main body (20), said breakable part being designed to break under the effect of said predetermined displacement of said first part (14) relative to said main body (20), so as to break said rigid linkage.

13. Vehicle according to any one of the preceding claims characterized in that said housing (2) includes at least one elastic element (10) which exerts on said cover (7) a restoring force in the open position.

14. Vehicle according to any one of the preceding claims characterized in that said cover (7) has at least a first surface (S1), while said main body (20) has at least a second surface (S2) located in said internal volume (V), said first surface (S1) being positioned substantially in continuity with said second surface (S2) when the cover (7) is in the open position.

15. Vehicle according to any one of the preceding claims characterized in that said main body (20) comprises a bottom (20A) and a side wall (20B) which rises from said bottom (20A) between a lower edge integral with the bottom (20A) and a free upper edge (200) which defines an access opening to said internal volume (V), said cover (7) being designed to, in closed position, extend in a first plane substantially perpendicular to said side wall (20B) to close said access opening, and to, in open position, extend in a second plane substantially perpendicular to said first plane.

16. Vehicle according to any one of the preceding claims characterized in that said emergency vehicle evacuation aid device (1) includes, disposed in said interior volume (V), one or more of the following devices: - a flexible, retractable ladder (60), - a handle (61) fixed or hinged to the main body (20), - a hook (62), - a ring (63), - a respiratory mask, - a supplementary breathing block.

1. Vehicle according to any one of the preceding claims characterized in that it belongs to at least one of the following groups: - flying vehicles, including aerostats and fixed-wing or rotary-wing aircraft, - marine or underwater vehicles.

18. A liquid retention device (50) intended to be mounted on the interior floor of a vehicle according to any one of the preceding claims, said liquid retention device (50) being designed and configured to collect equipment carried by said vehicle, for example a seat or a stretcher, the retention device (50) comprising at least: - an upper wall (51) designed and configured to support said equipment, said upper wall (51) being provided with a plurality of through-holes (52), - a liquid storage tank (53) arranged at least partly below said upper wall (51) to collect liquid passing through said through orifices (52), - a housing unit provided in said upper wall (51), - said box (2) being disposed within said housing.

19. Emergency vehicle evacuation aid device (1) comprising a housing (2) provided with at least one fastening element (3, 4) for reversibly securing said device housing (2) to a wall (5) of said vehicle, said housing (2) comprising a main body (20) delimiting an interior volume (V) and at least one cover (7) connected to said main body (20) by a permanent connection means (8) which allows the cover (7) to move relative to said main body (20) between a closed position in which said cover (7) closes access to said interior volume (V) and an open position in which said cover (7) releases access to said interior volume (V) while protruding from said main body (20), said main body (20), fastening member (3, 4), cover (7) and permanent connection means (8) being shaped and dimensioned so that the cover (7) contributes to forming, in the open position, a support area and / or a handhold enabling a person to pull themselves up towards an evacuation exit of the vehicle by bracing themselves on, and / or grasping, said cover (7), said device (1) including,arranged in said interior volume (V), one or more of the following devices: - a flexible, retractable ladder (60), - a handle (61) fixed or hinged to the main body (20), - a hook (62), - a ring (63), - a respiratory mask, - a supplementary breathing block.

20. Device (1) for assisting emergency evacuation of a vehicle according to the preceding claim characterized in that said cover (7) is articulated to said main body (20), said permanent connection means (8) including at least one hinge (80) connecting said main body (20) and cover (7).

21. Device (1) for assisting emergency evacuation of a vehicle according to any one of claims 19 and 20 characterized in that said permanent connecting means (8) includes at least one holding means (81) in open position said cover (7).

22. A vehicle emergency evacuation aid device (1) according to any one of claims 19 to 21, characterized in that said housing (2) comprises a lock (9) capable of alternately adopting an activated configuration, in which it is designed to hold said cover (7) in the closed position, and a configuration deactivated, wherein it is designed to allow the passage of the cover (7) into the open position. Emergency vehicle evacuation aid device (1) according to the preceding claim, characterized in that it comprises a control member (11) of the lock (9) for controlling the passage of the lock (9) from its activated configuration to its deactivated configuration. Emergency vehicle evacuation aid device (1) according to the preceding claim, characterized in that said control member (11) comprises a manually actuable portion (12) for manually controlling the passage of the lock (9) from its activated configuration to its deactivated configuration.A vehicle emergency evacuation aid device (1) according to claim 23 or 24, characterized in that said control member (11) comprises a shock-sensitive element (13) connected to, or forming part of, the lock (9), for automatically switching the lock (9) from its activated to its deactivated configuration when the housing (2) is subjected to an impact. A vehicle emergency evacuation aid device (1) according to the preceding claim, characterized in that said shock-sensitive element (13) comprises, on the one hand, a first part (14) connected to, or forming part of, the lock (9) and, on the other hand, a connecting device (15) providing a rigid connection between said first part (14) and the main body (20), designed to break under the effect of a predetermined displacement of said first part (14) relative to said main body (20).Emergency vehicle evacuation aid device (1) according to the preceding claim, characterized in that said rigid connection provided by the connecting device between said first part (14) and main body (20) is a magnetic connection. Emergency vehicle evacuation aid device (1) according to claim 26, characterized in that the connecting device (15) comprises at least one first bolt (17A) movably mounted between a deployed elastic return position and a retracted position, as well as a first strike plate (19A) into which the first bolt (17A) in deployed position to ensure said rigid connection between said first part (14) and main body (20), said first bolt (17A) being designed to be pushed back into the retracted position under the effect of said predetermined displacement of said first part (14) relative to said main body (20) so as to disengage from said first strike plate (19A) and thus break said rigid connection. Emergency vehicle evacuation aid device (1) according to claim 26 characterized in that the connecting device (15) comprises at least one breakable part that ensures said rigid connection between said first part (14) and main body (20), said breakable part being designed to break under the effect of said predetermined displacement of said first part (14) relative to said main body (20), so as to break said rigid connection.A vehicle emergency evacuation aid device (1) according to any one of claims 19 to 29, characterized in that said housing (2) includes at least one elastic element (10) which exerts a return force on said cover (7) in the open position. A vehicle emergency evacuation aid device (1) according to any one of claims 19 to 30, characterized in that said cover (7) has at least one first surface (S1), while said main body (20) has at least one second surface (S2) located within said internal volume (V), said first surface (S1) being positioned substantially in continuity with said second surface (S2) when the cover (7) is in the open position.Emergency vehicle evacuation aid device (1) according to any one of claims 19 to 31 characterized in that said main body (20) comprises a base (20A) and a side wall (20B) which rises from said base (20A) between a lower edge integral with the base (20A) and a free upper edge (200) which defines an access opening to said internal volume (V), said cover (7) being designed to, in the closed position, extend in a first plane substantially perpendicular to said side wall (20B) to close said access opening, and to, in the open position, extend in a second plane substantially perpendicular to said first plane.

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