Device of Anti-drowning by hypoxic syncope and device procedure activation

Abstract

The invention relates to an anti-drowning device for shallow-water blackout for a diver, comprising a vest (1) with a communicator (2) and an airbag (3) connected to a CO2 cylinder (27) by means of a feeder (8) and a detonation device (6) for the airbag (3), wherein the airbag (3) comprises a first stage airbag (4) and a second stage airbag (5), the feeder (8) comprises a two-way valve for communication with the two airbags (4, 5). The device also comprises a microcontroller (10) responsible for the electronic management of the device, the communicator (2) being configured for two-way communication between the diver and the microcontroller (10), the detonation device (6) comprising a pressure probe (11), a battery (12), a motor (21), and a punch mechanism to activate the outlet of CO2 from the cylinder (27) to inflate the airbag (3).

Description

OBJECT OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to an anti-drowning device for shallow-water blackout designed for diver safety during dives. The device is designed to communicate bidirectionally with the diver to detect if there is a problem in case of a lack of response to a request so that, on the one hand, the immediate extraction of the diver from the water is carried out in the event that it is detected that the diver is suffering from such blackout, for which it has connectivity intended for the monitoring and recording of diving routines and, on the other hand, a warning is issued to facilitate rescue.

[0002] The invention also relates to the method for activating the device.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0003] Spearfishing is a poorly regulated and controlled sport that is becoming more and more popular all over the world. Unfortunately, many deaths occur each year as a result of this sporting activity.

[0004] Shallow-water blackout is a loss of consciousness caused by an insufficient oxygen level in the body. It occurs towards the end of apnoea when oxygen in the blood has been almost completely consumed. During the dive, the oxygen reserve is gradually depleted. There comes a point where the partial pressure of oxygen in blood drops to the point where there is not enough to allow the brain to function normally. The body shuts down and the diver loses consciousness.

[0005] After a few seconds, the body resumes breathing itself and the diver wakes up without after-effects in the vast majority of cases. The real problem in a blackout is during the seconds that follow. If the diver's airways are submerged when the body resumes breathing, it is very likely that the diver will die from drowning.

[0006] US2021403132A1 describes a personal water safety system that includes a device that monitors vital signs of the wearer. If one or more of the monitored vital signs falls outside predetermined acceptable parameters, the safety device will emit an alarm and send a wireless distress signal. The safety device may be integrated into a garment such as an inflatable vest and maybe programmes to automatically inflate pockets in the vest when the safety device detects that the wearer is experiencing physical distress based on the readings of the vital sign monitor. The monitoring device may also include a deployable tracker that can be released from the safety device and sent to the surface of a body of water so that it may emit a visual and audio alarms, and sends a wireless distress signal.DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0007] The present invention solves the problems mentioned in the background which the current state of the art has not considered until now.

[0008] The invention consists of a freediving safety device that prioritises diver protection by means of an intelligent system that effectively interacts with the diver underwater. The device integrates advanced technology to monitor the diver's situation in real time, not in terms of vital signs, but in terms of the diver's diving conditions, especially focused on the continuous measurement of underwater pressure, to make immediate decisions in case of risk and to activate safety measures, such as the automatic inflation of a dual-stage airbag.

[0009] The system not only reacts in situations considered risky, but also allows active interaction between the diver and the device by means of a bidirectional communication system, improving the diver's safety and experience. In addition, it can have a geolocation and automatic communication system that sends alerts and coordinates to a pre-programmed recipient in case of emergency.

[0010] The device incorporates a series of advanced sensors and intelligent algorithms which, by means of a microcontroller, allow continuous monitoring of critical parameters related to the diver's situation, such as depth, pressure and dive time.

[0011] This data is processed in real time to assess the diver's condition. If a risky situation is detected, such as shallow-water blackout or an unexpected descent, the device automatically activates a dual-stage airbag to ensure the diver's buoyancy and facilitate his / her ascent to the surface.

[0012] Through the microcontroller, the device incorporates a bidirectional haptic communication system, which allows alerts to be sent to the diver by means of vibrations and light signals by means of an LED ring. This ensures that the diver receives immediate warnings without the need to visually consult other devices.

[0013] In addition, the diver has the option to activate the system manually at any time if he / she feels that he / she is in a risky situation, providing an additional level of safety and control for the diver.

[0014] The device may be equipped with a GPS geolocation system which allows the diver to be located in case of emergency, and a GSM communication system, preferably by means of a SIM card, so that it can send an SMS message to a pre-programmed recipient with the diver's exact coordinates, facilitating the diver's rapid location and rescue.

[0015] These systems are focused on increasing diver safety such that, in emergency situations, the device not only alerts the diver, but also sends vital information to rescue teams, speeding up response and reducing search times.

[0016] The device incorporates a pressure sensor and a temperature sensor which detects the release of gas when the dual-stage airbag is inflated. These sensors provide precise data that is processed by the microcontroller, ensuring that decisions made in emergency situations are precise and automatic.

[0017] Moreover, a concept that has not been neglected is to ensure the reliability of the device in saline environments and at high pressures, which are common conditions in freediving. To overcome these challenges, the device uses corrosion-resistant materials and a robust design that ensures optimal operation of the sensors and inflation system, even in extreme underwater environments.

[0018] Another important challenge is the development of a haptic communication system that works underwater, using resistant membranes that allow tactile signals (vibrations) to be transmitted effectively. This alert system ensures that the diver receives immediate warnings, even when he / she cannot visually consult the device.

[0019] The device has a high potential for industrial application in the recreational and professional diving industry. Its ability to act automatically in risky situations, in combination with geolocation and automatic communication features, make it an essential solution for increasing safety in freediving, spearfishing, and other aquatic activities.

[0020] The device of the invention represents a disruptive innovation in the freediving industry, being specifically designed to provide real-time active safety. Unlike passive devices currently available on the market, this system uses sensors and algorithms that act proactively to protect the diver, significantly reducing the risk of accidents.

[0021] The invention relates to an anti-drowning device for shallow-water blackout designed for diver safety during dives. The device is designed for the immediate extraction of the diver from the water in the event that it is detected that the diver is suffering from such blackout, for which it has connectivity intended for the monitoring and recording of diving routines.

[0022] The device is focused on the continuous measurement of underwater pressure and, therefore, the depth at which the diver is located by means of a pressure sensor. These measurements are sent to a microcontroller-based control system, which detects anomalous patterns, such as an interrupted ascent or an unexpected descent. In the event that an anomaly should appear to be occurring, the microcontroller sends an alert signal to the diver by means of the vibration of a buzzer and the illumination of an LED ring, ensuring efficient underwater communication. The diver can respond to this alert signal by pressing the push button on the communicator and thus confirm the absence of danger. Otherwise, the microcontroller detects a dangerous situation and activates the inflation mechanism of the dual-stage airbag and also a high luminosity LED lighting fixture as a distress signal.

[0023] To control the inflation of the airbag, a temperature sensor is used, said sensor being installed in the CO2 cylinder holder in direct contact with the CO2 cylinder. This sensor monitors the release of gas through the drastic temperature drop in the CO2 cylinder holder that occurs when the gas is released. In the event that no decrease in temperature is detected, which would indicate that the capsule has not been perforated correctly or the gas has not been released, the microcontroller will send new commands for the gas to be released and the inflation of the dual-stage airbag to occur effectively.

[0024] As for the release of gas from the CO2 cylinder, the operating mechanism is as indicated below.

[0025] The inflation of the airbag is triggered by means of a punch mechanism controlled by a partially toothed pinion, which releases gas from a CO2 cylinder when an emergency is detected, automatically inflating the airbag to provide buoyancy and bring the diver to the surface.

[0026] The punch mechanism is key to releasing the gas by means of puncturing the CO2 cylinder. It works as follows: When the microcontroller detects an emergency, it activates a motor coupled to a with a reduction gear which, through a partially toothed pinion meshing with a rack fixed to a slide, moves the slide, compressing a spring. When, due to the absence of teeth in the end section, the pinion stops meshing with the rack and the slide stops pressing on the spring, the spring decompresses, pushing the slide which, with the needle it has at the end, perforates the CO2 capsule and releases the gas to inflate the airbag.

[0027] The needle incorporates an O-ring to prevent the gas from the cylinder from going into the compartment where the slide is located and staying in the cylinder holder to be directed to the airbag through its incorporated fitting.

[0028] The two-stage airbag is operated by means of a non-return valve which is incorporated between the first stage airbag and the second stage airbag.

[0029] When the release of the gas begins once the needle penetrates the CO2 cylinder, the gas is directed to fill the first stage airbag in order to slightly block the diver's airways so that they do not fill with water as he / she continues to breathe. This is because the first stage airbag configuration is larger in the nape of the neck area, causing the head to tilt forward. The first-stage airbag is communicated with the second-stage airbag by means of a non-return valve such that, once a specified pressure is reached, inflation of the second-stage airbag starts until both airbags are at the same pressure.

[0030] The invention furthermore also focuses on the method for activating the described anti-drowning device.

[0031] This method comprises the following steps: a) the microcontroller emits a warning signal to the diver through the communicator; b) if the diver does not take any action, the method goes to step d) c) if the diver presses the communicator, the method goes to step f) d) the microcontroller activates the motor to activate the punch mechanism, carried out according to the following steps: d1) activating the rotation of the partially toothed pinion; d2) activating the translation of the rack by means of the meshing of the partially toothed pinion; d3) activating the translation of the slide inside the compartment by compressing the spring; d4) ending the meshing of the last tooth of the partially toothed pinion in the rack; d5) decompressing the spring by pushing the slide with the needle; d6) inserting the needle into the CO2 cylinder to release the gas; e) activating the high luminosity LED lighting fixture; f) ending the process.

[0032] Furthermore, the method may also include a step where once the punch mechanism has been activated, if the temperature sensor detects no temperature variation in the CO2 cylinder holder, the method returns to step d) for the microcontroller to emit a new command to activate the punch mechanism.DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0033] As a complement to the description provided herein, and for the purpose of helping to make the features of the invention more readily understandable, in accordance with a preferred practical exemplary embodiment thereof, said description is accompanied by a set of drawings constituting an integral part of the same, wherein by way of illustration and not limitation, the following has been represented: Figure 1 shows a front perspective view of the device of the invention. Figure 2 shows a rear perspective view of the device of the invention. Figure 3 shows a front view of the device of the invention. Figure 4 shows a side view of the device of the invention. Figure 5 shows a rear view of the device of the invention. Figure 6 shows a front view of a diver wearing the anti-drowning device of the invention. Figure 7 shows a side view of the diver of Figure 1 with the device of the invention. Figure 8 shows a perspective view of the communicator of the device of the invention. Figure 9 shows a perspective view of the rear framework. Figure 10 shows a perspective view of the inside of the rear framework. Figure 11 shows a sectional view of the punch mechanism with the CO2 cylinder.

[0034] A list is provided below of the different elements represented in the figures with the numerical references associated therewith: 1. Vest. 2. Communicator. 3. Dual-stage airbag. 4. First stage airbag. 5. Second stage airbag. 6. Detonation device. 7. Connection wiring. 8. Airbag feeder. 9. Pressure sensor. 10. Microcontroller. 11. Pressure probe. 12. Battery. 13. CO2 cylinder holder. 14. CO2 outlet fitting. 15. Push button. 16. Buzzer. 17. High luminosity LED lighting fixture. 18. Warning LED lighting fixture. 19. Case. 20. Wiring outlet. 21. Motor. 22. Spring. 23. Slide. 24. Perforating needle. 25. Rack. 26. Pinion. 27. CO2 cylinder. PREFERRED EMBODIMENT OF THE INVENTION

[0035] A preferred embodiment of the anti-drowning device according to the present invention is described below with the aid of the figures.

[0036] Figures 1 to 5 represent the device of the invention. In particular, in Figures 1 and 3, which represent a front view of the device, it can be seen that the device comprises a vest (1) with a communicator (2) and incorporating a dual-stage airbag (3) in which the first-stage airbag (4) and the second-stage airbag (5) are located.

[0037] In Figures 2 and 4, which represent a rear view of the device, the detonation device (6) of the airbag (3), the feeder (8) of the airbag, the connection wiring (7) from the communicator (2) to the detonation device (6) of the airbag (3) and the pressure sensor (9) can be seen.

[0038] Figures 6 and 7 represent a diver wearing the device of the invention.

[0039] Figure 8 represents the communicator (2) of the diver, where the cover has been removed in order to see its main components located inside. These include a push button (15), a buzzer (16), a high luminosity LED lighting fixture (17) and a warning LED lighting fixture (18). All the components are housed in a case (19) incorporating a wiring outlet (20) for connection to the microcontroller (10) through the connection wiring (7). The device also incorporates a GPS geolocation system and a GSM communication system, by means of a SIM card, not represented in the figures, such that the diver can be geolocated and an SMS message can be sent to a pre-programmed recipient to facilitate rescue.

[0040] The anti-drowning device can thereby be put into contact with the diver by means of activating the microcontroller (10) by sending a signal to the buzzer (16) or also activating the warning LED lighting fixture (18). In the first case, the diver will feel the vibration on his / her body through the vest (1), and in the second case, the diver will detect the illumination, without the diver needing to be paying attention to the communicator (2) in either case. The microcontroller (10) usually sends the two signals, both by means of the buzzer (16) and by means of the warning LED lighting fixture (18).

[0041] In the event that there is no problem, the diver can respond to this signal by pressing the push button (15), deactivating any alarm signal.

[0042] However, in the event that the diver does not activate the push button (15), the microcontroller (10) will understand that there is a problem and must act.

[0043] One of the actions performed by the microcontroller (10) is to send an SMS message to a pre-programmed recipient.

[0044] Another action consists of activating the high luminosity LED lighting fixture (17) as an alarm signal for third parties.

[0045] Another action will be to activate the CO2 cylinder to inflate the airbag (3). In this case, the first stage airbag (4), which is responsible for closing the diver's airways to prevent water from entering, is inflated first. This occurs because of the shape of the first stage airbag (4), which is inflated more in the rear area of the head, near the nape of the neck, pushing the diver's chin forward and blocking access to the airways. Once a specified pressure is reached in the first stage airbag (4), a non-return valve communicating with the second stage airbag (5) opens to begin inflation.

[0046] It should be noted that the first stage airbag (4) is configured such that, in addition to bringing the diver to the surface, it positions the diver face upwards, such that the airways are not submerged and have access to air.

[0047] In addition, in the event that the diver considers that he / she is in trouble, he / she can activate the LED warning lighting fixture (18) to show his / her position to third parties and alert them to a situation in which assistance is needed.

[0048] Figure 9 represents the housing of the detonation device (6).

[0049] Figure 10 represents the components included in the detonation device (6), with some of the most essential components being described below.

[0050] One of these components is a microcontroller (10), which is the brain of the device, responsible for sending and receiving commands according to the programming incorporated therein.

[0051] Another component is a pressure probe (11), which is responsible for determining the pressure of the airbag (3).

[0052] Another component is a battery (12) which is responsible for providing power to the device and incorporates a charging port.

[0053] Another component is a CO2 cylinder holder (13), where the CO2 cylinder (27) for filling the airbag (3) through a fitting (14) is housed.

[0054] Another component is a motor (21) responsible for activating the CO2 cylinder to fill the airbag (3).

[0055] Figure 11 shows in more detail the punch mechanism for inflating the airbag (3). This figure shows a spring (22) housed in a compartment, a slide (23) fixed to the spring (22) and capable of moving inside the compartment, a needle (24) solidly fixed to the slide (23), a rack (25) solidly attached to the slide (23), a pinion (26) meshing with the rack (25) and connected to the motor (21), and a CO2 cylinder (27) housed in the cylinder holder (13) with the opening aligned with the needle (24).

[0056] In this way, when the microcontroller (10) detects an emergency, it activates the motor (21) to move the pinion (26) and the rack (25) with which it meshes to move the slide (23) the section that determines the number of teeth of the pinion (26) and compress the spring (22). Once the last tooth of the pinion (26) stops meshing with the rack (25), the slide (23) stops exerting pressure on the spring (22), which decompresses, pushing the slide (23) so that the needle (24) is inserted into the CO2 cylinder and releases the gas to inflate the airbag (3).

[0057] The inflation process starts by initially inflating the first stage airbag (4) for the purpose of blocking the diver's airways. Subsequently, the inflation process of the second stage airbag (5) starts when the diver is close to the surface. The pressure of the first stage airbag (4) is then reduced to free up the airways so that the diver has the option to breathe.

Claims

1. An anti-drowning device for shallow-water blackout for a diver, comprising a vest (1) where a communicator (2) is fixed and comprising an airbag (3) connected to a CO2 cylinder (27) through a feeder (8) and a detonation device (6) for the airbag (3), characterised in that: - the airbag (3) is dual stage and comprises a first stage airbag (4) and a second stage airbag (5), - the feeder (8) comprises a two-way valve for communication with the two airbags (4, 5), - it comprises a microcontroller (10) responsible for the electronic management of the device, - the communicator (2) is configured for bidirectional communication between the diver and the microcontroller (10), - the detonation device (6) comprises - a pressure probe (11), - a battery (12), - a motor (21), and - a punch mechanism, wherein the punch mechanism has the function of activating the outlet of CO2 from the cylinder (27) to inflate the airbag (3).

2. The device of claim 1, wherein the valve is configured to allow the initial access of gas to the first stage airbag (4) until a specified pressure is reached, then block this access and allow the access of gas to the second stage airbag (5), and finally allow the partial outlet of gas from the first stage airbag (4).

3. The device of claim 1, comprising a temperature sensor in the CO2 cylinder holder (13) for detecting the release of gas from the CO2 cylinder (27).

4. The device of claim 1, wherein the communicator (2) comprises: - a push button (15), - a buzzer (16), - a high luminosity LED lighting fixture (17), - an LED warning lighting fixture (18), - a GPS geolocation system, and - a GSM communication system5. The device of claim 1, wherein the punch mechanism comprises: - a spring (22) housed in a compartment, - a slide (23) fixed to the spring (22) and capable of moving inside the compartment, - a needle (24) solidly fixed to the slide (23), - a rack (25) solidly attached to the slide (23), - a pinion (26) meshing with the rack (25) and connected to the motor (21), and - a cylinder holder (13) where the CO2 cylinder (27) is housed with the opening aligned with the needle (24), and - a fitting (14) connecting the CO2 outlet of the cylinder holder (13) to the feeder (8) of the airbag6. A method for activating the anti-drowning device of any of claims 1 to 5, characterised in that it comprises the following steps: a) the microcontroller (10) emits a warning signal to the diver through the communicator (2); b) if the diver does not take any action, the method goes to step d) c) if the diver presses the communicator (2), the method goes to step f) d) the microcontroller (10) activates the motor (21) to activate the punch mechanism, carried out according to the following steps: d1) activating the rotation of the partially toothed pinion (26); d2) activating the translation of the rack (25) by means of the meshing of the partially toothed pinion (26); d3) activating the translation of the slide (23) inside the compartment by compressing the spring (22); d4) ending the meshing of the last tooth of the partially toothed pinion (26) in the rack (25); d5) decompressing the spring (22) by pushing the slide (23) with the needle (24); d6) inserting the needle (24) into the CO2 cylinder (27) to release the gas; e) activating the high luminosity LED lighting fixture (17); f) ending the process.

7. The method of claim 6, wherein if the temperature sensor detects no temperature variation, the microcontroller (10) emits a new command to activate the punch mechanism.

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