Fire-fighting device

Abstract

The present invention relates to a fire-fighting device, which comprises: - a casing (2) which delimits an internal cavity (3) in which is placed at least one dispersible extinguishing agent (4), and - pyrotechnic means (5) adapted to generate an explosion causing a rupture of said casing (2) and a dispersion of said extinguishing agent (4), which pyrotechnic means (5) comprise: - at least one explosive charge (6), generating said explosion, and - detonating means (7) intended to trigger said explosion of said at least one explosive charge (6), And said detonating means (7) comprise: - an ignition device (8) designed to trigger, in an active state, said explosion of said at least one explosive charge (6), and - a shock sensor (9) designed to detect a mechanical shock received by said device (1) and to bring said ignition device (8) into said active state upon detection of said mechanical shock.

Description

Domaine technique de l'invention

[0001] The present invention relates, in general, to the field of firefighting.

[0002] It relates more specifically to firefighting equipment. Etat de la technique

[0003] Whether they occur in urban areas or in the countryside, fires are likely to cause significant damage, both human and material.

[0004] In general, the human resources and equipment mobilized to fight fires are adapted to their scale and the site concerned.

[0005] Many types of firefighting equipment are known, from simple foam or powder extinguishers to fire tanker trucks and water bomber aircraft.

[0006] As described in US-6 796 382, ​​there is also known a fire-fighting device consisting of a destructible container in the form of a sphere of low-density rigid plastic foam (e.g., expanded polystyrene foam), from about ten centimeters to a few tens of centimeters in diameter, and which contains a dispersible chemical active against fire and a pyrotechnic detonator associated with a fuse.

[0007] In an "active" approach, it would be interesting to throw this firefighting device directly into the fire, so that its fuse ignites, ensuring the activation of the detonator, followed by the destruction of the container and the dispersion of the dispersible chemical.

[0008] However, in practice, such firefighting devices are unfortunately not entirely effective for this approach, particularly depending on the position of the fire to be extinguished or the configuration of the terrain.

[0009] It is indeed necessary that these firefighting devices remain in the fire for a sufficient time (at least a few seconds) to ignite its fuse and to activate the detonator ensuring the release of the dispersible chemical.

[0010] However, due to its inertia and trajectory, the firefighting device is likely to emerge from the fire before its fuse has had time to catch fire.

[0011] This is the case, for example, when the firefighting device bounces out of the fire, when the terrain is sloping, or when the projection speed was not adapted.

[0012] There is therefore a need to improve these control mechanisms to enable such an "active" approach. Présentation de l'invention

[0013] The present invention therefore proposes a firefighting device, improving / perfecting the firefighting devices conforming in particular to document US-6 796 382, ​​which is particularly suited to such an active approach (projected / launched directly into the fire).

[0014] More specifically, the invention proposes a fire-fighting device which includes: an envelope, preferably frangible, which delimits an internal cavity in which is placed at least one dispersible extinguishing agent, and pyrotechnic means adapted to generate an explosion causing a rupture of said envelope and a dispersion of said extinguishing agent.

[0015] Pyrotechnic devices include: at least one explosive charge, generating said explosion, and detonating means intended to trigger said explosion of said at least one explosive charge.

[0016] According to the invention, said detonating means comprise: an ignition device designed to trigger, in an active state, said explosion of said at least one explosive charge, and a shock sensor designed to detect a mechanical shock received by said device and to bring said ignition device into said active state upon detection of said mechanical shock.

[0017] Thus, in practice, the device according to the invention can be projected directly into the fire and can release its extinguishing agent within that fire (or even in the immediate vicinity or above) thanks to its impact triggering system.

[0018] Indeed, as soon as the projected device hits a surface (advantageously within that fire), its shock sensor detects a mechanical shock and brings (instantaneously, or even with a delay or latency) the ignition device into its active state.

[0019] The ignition device, in its active state, causes (instantaneously) the explosion of said at least one explosive charge and, as a corollary, the rupture of said casing and the dispersion of said extinguishing agent.

[0020] Such a device according to the invention therefore no longer needs a time of exposure to fire, as necessary with the firefighting devices known in the prior art.

[0021] In general, said shock sensor according to the invention advantageously comprises a movable part which is capable of moving between two positions: an initial position, in which the ignition device is in an inactive state, and a final position, in which the ignition device is in an active state, which moving part cooperates with: elastic return means to said final position, and holding means, designed to maintain said moving part in said initial position and to release said moving part during said mechanical shock.

[0022] According to a preferred embodiment, the retaining means include a metallic part, for example a ball, pinched between the moving part and a supporting part.

[0023] During the mechanical shock, the metal part is then destined to be extracted (to be ejected) from its location / its initial state (advantageously due to its inertia).

[0024] The movement of this metal part then releases the moving part which is maneuvered from its initial position to its final position under the effect of the elastic return means.

[0025] More generally, and according to a specific embodiment, the ignition system consists of an electric ignition device, also called an igniter. The shock sensor is an electrical module connected to this electric ignition device.

[0026] Preferably, the electrical module includes: an electrical power source, a switch that incorporates said moving part, which moving part is capable of moving between the two positions: the initial position, in which the switch is in an open state, and the final position, in which the switch is in a closed state.

[0027] The electrical ignition device advantageously includes a primer head which cooperates with said at least one explosive charge: indirectly, through a pyrotechnic fuse which connects said primer head and said at least one explosive charge, or directly, within said at least one explosive charge.

[0028] Preferably, the detonating means include state indicator means, particularly suitable for indicating an activated state of the shock sensor (for example, among audible, visual, etc. means).

[0029] According to another particular embodiment, the ignition device consists of a mechanical ignition device.

[0030] In this case, the mechanical ignition system advantageously includes: a striker, forming said moving part, a primer, intended to be struck by said striker when it passes from said initial position to said final position, and at least one fuse, intended to be ignited by said primer and which extends to said at least one explosive charge.

[0031] And where appropriate, the retaining devices are preferably implanted between the firing pin and the primer.

[0032] Other non-limiting and advantageous characteristics of the product according to the invention, taken individually or in all technically possible combinations, are as follows: The shock sensor is external to said internal cavity, on the surface of the casing or at a distance from the casing, or integrated into the internal cavity; the shock sensor is advantageously attached to the surface of said casing by means of removable fixing, for example adhesive strips or indentation structures in said casing; preferably, an attached pellet, forming a "target marking", is used and attached to facilitate the positioning of the primer head opposite the pyrotechnic fuse; the shock sensor is protected within a shell which advantageously has a shape selected from a spherical cap and a sphere; the casing consists of a spherical casing, for example made of at least one plastic material;said detonating means include priming means intended to be controlled to allow said ignition device to enter said active state upon detection of said mechanical shock.

[0033] The present invention also relates to a fire-fighting system, which system comprises: at least one device according to the invention, and at least one flying machine, advantageously a drone, comprising at least one drop module, adapted to receive said at least one device and to drop said at least one device over a fire.

[0034] The present invention also relates to a method of fighting fires, which method includes a step of dropping at least one device according to the invention, advantageously from a flying machine, preferably a drone, so that said at least one explosive charge is triggered when said device strikes a surface after its dropping.

[0035] The present invention also relates to detonating means for a device according to the invention, comprising: an ignition device designed to trigger, in an active state, said explosion of said at least one explosive charge, and a shock sensor designed to detect a mechanical shock received by said device and to bring said ignition device into said active state upon detection of said mechanical shock.

[0036] Of course, the different features, variants and embodiments of the invention can be combined with each other in various ways as long as they are not incompatible or mutually exclusive. Description détaillée de l'invention

[0037] Furthermore, various other features of the invention become apparent from the attached description made with reference to the drawings which illustrate non-limiting embodiments of the invention and where: [ Fig. 1 ] is a schematic, cross-sectional view of a fire-fighting device according to the invention comprising electrical detonating means equipped with a shock sensor formed by an external electrical module fixed to the casing, and an internal electrical ignition device; Fig. 2 ] is a schematic and perspective view of the embodiment conforming to the figure 1 , in which the shock sensor is separated from the casing; [ Fig. 3 ] is a schematic view that illustrates the components of a shock sensor confirms the figure 1 ; Fig. 4 ] is a schematic and exploded view of the shock sensor according to the figure 3 ; Fig. 5 ] is a schematic, cross-sectional view illustrating an alternative embodiment for the electrical detonating means according to the figure 1 ; Fig. 6 ] is a schematic, isolated view of the electrical detonating means according to the figure 5 ; Fig. 7 ] represents the electrical diagram of the electrical detonating devices according to the figures 1 à 6 ; Fig. 8 ] is a schematic, and partially exploded, view of another variant of the fire-fighting device, in which the electrical detonating means are equipped with an external electrical ignition device; Fig. 9 ] is a schematic, partial and enlarged view of the fire-fighting system according to the figure 8 showing the assembly between the wick and the electric ignition device; [ Fig. 10 ] is yet another schematic view of a variant of the fire-fighting device in which the electrical detonating means are grouped inside the casing; [ Fig. 11 ] is a schematic view that illustrates here the components of mechanical detonating devices; [ Fig. 12 ] is a schematic, cross-sectional view that illustrates the detonating means according to the figure 11 reported on an envelope (partially shown); [ Fig. 13 ] is a schematic and perspective view of mechanical detonating means according to the figure 11 ; Fig. 14 ] is a schematic, cross-sectional view that illustrates the detonating means according to the figure 11 after the removal of the priming means; [ Fig. 15 ] represents, according to a partial cross-sectional view, an alternative embodiment for assembling the detonating means onto a casing; [ Fig. 16 ] is a schematic, perspective view of the detonating means according to the figure 15 ; Fig. 17 ] is a schematic view, in cross-section and with two detail views, which shows a device in which the external shock sensor is located at a distance from the casing; [ Fig. 18 ] is a schematic, perspective view of a firefighting system comprising at least one device according to the invention (in a detailed view) and a drone-type flying machine; [ Fig. 19 ] is a schematic, exploded view illustrating a variant of the shock sensor according to the figures 8 Or 9 , surface-mounted, featuring a primer head in an "indirect" arrangement; [ Fig. 20 ] is a schematic view, with a partial cross-section, of the shock sensor according to the figure 19 ; Fig. 21 ] is a schematic and partial view illustrating a variant of the fire-fighting device, in which the electrical detonating means are partially grouped inside the casing; [ Fig. 22 ] is a schematic and partial view of the drone-type flying machine according to the figure 18 showing activation means provided for controlling the priming means equipping the device according to the invention; [ Fig. 23 ] is a schematic and partial view of the drone-type flying machine according to the figure 18 showing one embodiment of its drop module.

[0038] It should be noted that, in these figures, the structural and / or functional elements common to the different variants may have the same references.

[0039] THE figures 1 à 17 And 19 à 21 illustrate fire-fighting devices, in accordance with the invention.

[0040] In general, device 1 includes: an envelope 2 which delimits an internal cavity 3 in which is placed at least one dispersible extinguishing agent 4, and pyrotechnic means 5 adapted to generate an explosion causing a rupture of said envelope 2 and a dispersion of said extinguishing agent 4.

[0041] The envelope 2 thus advantageously consists of a frangible envelope, also called "destructible", adapted to be degraded by the explosion generated by the pyrotechnic means 5 while being able to withstand a mechanical shock described below.

[0042] This envelope 2 advantageously presents the shape of a sphere (spherical shape).

[0043] This envelope 2 is advantageously made of a plastic material, preferably rigid low density, for example of the foam type, for example expanded polystyrene foam.

[0044] This envelope 2 is advantageously wrapped in a protective plastic film.

[0045] This envelope 2 advantageously presents an outside diameter of about ten, or a few tens, of centimeters.

[0046] Said at least one extinguishing agent 4 preferably consists of a dispersible chemical, advantageously a powder, active against fire.

[0047] Said at least one extinguishing agent 4 is advantageously chosen from extinguishing powders which are composed mainly of non-toxic inorganic salts, mixed with water-repellent and anti-caking agents as well as various additives (stearates, silicones, starch, inert minerals, etc.) to facilitate their flow.

[0048] Such powders may be based on sodium or potassium bicarbonate, or on phosphate and / or ammonium sulfate (preferably ammonium phosphate).

[0049] Pyrotechnic means 5 include: at least one explosive charge 6 (also called "pyrotechnic charge"), generating the explosion capable of causing the rupture of said casing 2 and the dispersion of said extinguishing agent 4, and detonating means 7 intended to trigger the explosion of said at least one explosive charge 6.

[0050] Said at least one explosive charge 6 is advantageously implanted within the internal cavity 3, preferably still in the center of the latter.

[0051] Said at least one explosive charge 6 is advantageously embedded in said at least one extinguishing agent 4. In other words, said at least one explosive charge 6 is advantageously surrounded (or enveloped) by said at least one extinguishing agent 4.

[0052] The said at least one explosive charge 6 is for example chosen from black powders for fireworks (advantageously deflagrating mixtures of sulfur, potassium nitrate (saltpeter) and charcoal), in particular from bursting charges.

[0053] Said at least one explosive charge 6 is advantageously contained in a casing which can be made of different materials (paper, fabric, plastic, etc.)

[0054] The detonating means 7, forming here an impact-triggering system, include: an ignition device 8 designed to trigger, in an active state, said explosion of said at least one explosive charge 6, a shock sensor 9 designed to bring this ignition device 8 into said active state upon detection of a mechanical shock, preferably state indicator means 10 (illustrated in the figures 7, 8 , 19 à 21) which are particularly suitable for indicating / signaling an activated state of the shock sensor 9, preferably priming means 11 intended to be driven to prevent / allow the ignition device 8 to pass into the active state upon detection of mechanical shock by the shock sensor 9.

[0055] The ignition device 8 advantageously consists of means adapted to initiate the combustion of said at least one explosive charge 6.

[0056] Such an ignition device 8 is advantageously chosen from among pyrotechnic detonators. It advantageously consists, as described below in relation to the various figures, of an electrical ignition device or a mechanical ignition device.

[0057] Such an ignition device 8 thus presents two states: an inactive, initial and inert state, not triggering said explosion of said at least one explosive charge 6, and an active, final state, capable of triggering the explosion of said at least one explosive charge 6.

[0058] This ignition device 8 may advantageously have two main arrangements in relation to said at least one explosive charge 6: a "direct" arrangement (in particular figure 1 ), wherein the ignition device 8 is positioned directly within said at least one explosive charge 6, or an "indirect" arrangement (in particular figures 8 , 9 , 19 Or 20 ), wherein the ignition device 8 is connected to said at least one explosive charge 6 via a pyrotechnic fuse 89.

[0059] The aforementioned pyrotechnic fuse 89 then extends advantageously from said at least one explosive charge 6 and emerges at the level of the outer surface of the envelope 2.

[0060] This pyrotechnic fuse 89 may include an annular section 891 (visible on the figure 8 ) which extends over the circumference of the outer surface of envelope 2 and in a transverse plane of envelope 2.

[0061] Such a pyrotechnic fuse 89 may be interesting to consider, in addition to active use (projected onto a target surface), a passive use of device 1 which would come into contact with a fire.

[0062] Furthermore, the shock sensor 9 is designed to, on the one hand, detect a mechanical shock received by said device 1 and, on the other hand, bring the aforementioned ignition device 8 into said active state upon detection of said mechanical shock.

[0063] The term "mechanical shock" conveniently encompasses very high-amplitude accelerations resulting from the impact / collision of device 1 with a receiving or target surface. Such a mechanical shock also corresponds to a discontinuity in the velocity of the moving device 1.

[0064] For example, and not limited to, such a mechanical shock corresponds to the impact of device 1 on a rigid receiving surface, which is dropped from a height of at least 0.5 m (or even at least 1 m, or even at least 1.5 m).

[0065] The shock sensor 9 advantageously presents two states: an initial rest state, in which the ignition device 8 also remains in its inactive state, and a final activated state, in which this shock sensor 9 drives the ignition device 8 into its active state capable of triggering the explosion of said at least one explosive charge 6.

[0066] To that end, as illustrated for example on the figures 7 And 11 , these states of the shock sensor 9 are advantageously obtained by the movements of a moving part 91.

[0067] The shock sensor 9 thus advantageously includes a movable part 91 which is capable of moving between two positions: an initial position (continuous lines on the figures 7 , 11 , 20 et 21 ), corresponding to the rest state of the shock sensor 9, in which the ignition device 8 is in its inactive state, and a final position (dashed lines on the figures 7 And 11 ), corresponding to the activated state of the shock sensor 9, in which the ignition device 8 is driven into its active state.

[0068] For this purpose, this moving part 91 has at least one part having a degree of freedom, advantageously a degree of freedom in rotation around an axis of rotation 91' ( figures 3 , 7 ,11 ) or a degree of freedom in translation.

[0069] For its implementation, mobile unit 91 cooperates advantageously with: elastic return means 92 towards the final position, and holding means 93, designed to maintain the moving part 91 in its initial position and to release the moving part 91 during said mechanical shock.

[0070] The elastic return means 92 advantageously consist of mechanical means, for example spring means, designed to tend to bring the moving part 91 from its initial position to its final position.

[0071] The 93 support means are advantageously designed to degrade or deform upon mechanical shock.

[0072] The retaining means 93 here include at least one metallic part 931, for example a metallic ball 931, which is intended to be extracted (to be ejected) from its location / initial state due to its inertia, when the shock sensor 9 is subjected to a shock / collision with a receiving surface.

[0073] As mentioned previously, the metal part 931 is intended to be extracted (ejected) from its location / initial state upon impact of the device 1, on a rigid receiving surface, which is dropped from a drop height of at least 0.5 m (or even at least 1 m, or even at least 1.5 m).

[0074] In this case, the metal part 931 is advantageously pinched (directly or indirectly) between the movable part 91, in initial position, and a support part 94.

[0075] During the mechanical shock, the displacement of said at least one metal part 931 then releases the moving part 91 which is maneuvered from its initial position to its final position under the effect of the elastic return means 92.

[0076] In general, the shock sensor 9 (or even all or part of the ignition device 8) can advantageously be located in different places within this device 1: the shock sensor 9 can be external to said internal cavity 3, for example either on the surface of the casing 2, also called "surface-mounted" (for example according to the figure 1 ) either at a distance from envelope 2 ( figure 17 ), or the shock sensor 9 can be integrated, fully or partially, into the internal cavity 3 (see for example the figures 10 And 21 ).

[0077] The shock sensor 9 can therefore be attached to the surface of said casing 2 (surface-mounted), by means of removable fixing means 12, for example: adhesive strips 121 ( figure 13 ), or indentation structures 122 in said envelope 2 ( figures 15 et 16 ).

[0078] The driving structures 122 consist for example of rods which are terminated by hooking fins.

[0079] Shock sensor 9, at a distance from envelope 2 ( figure 17 ), has the advantage of potentially being able to reach the target surface before the envelope 2 (release of device 1 with the shock sensor 9 suspended below). In this case, the explosion will be generated at a height relative to the ground, further improving the dispersion of said at least one extinguishing agent 4.

[0080] In general terms, the shock sensor 9 (and even all or part of the ignition device 8) is advantageously protected within a shell 13.

[0081] Shell 13, for example, is made of a rigid plastic material, advantageously resistant to the aforementioned mechanical shock.

[0082] Shell 13 advantageously presents a shape chosen from: a spherical cap 131 (especially on the figures 1 et 2 ), in particular for a surface mounting of the envelope 2 (advantageously with a concave lower face 132 to conform to the envelope 2), and a sphere (notably figure 17 ), in particular for remote mounting of envelope 2.

[0083] The 10 state indicator means are therefore suitable for indicating / signaling an activated state of the shock sensor 9.

[0084] These means of indicating state 10 are for example chosen from sound components (for example a buzzer or beeper) and / or light components (for example a light-emitting diode or LED).

[0085] Such state indicator means 10 are particularly useful to avoid connecting a shock sensor 9, in the activated state, with an ignition device 8 at the risk of its unintentional switching to the active state.

[0086] Alternatively or complementarily, such state indicator means 10 are intended to emit an immediate signal following a shock causing the shock sensor 9 to switch to an activated state, with time-delay means (for example, electronic time-delay means) for ignition by the ignition device 8, in order to warn nearby people of an imminent explosion and the dispersion of said extinguishing agent 4.

[0087] Alternatively or in a complementary manner, the state indicator means 10 are intended to enable the location of the ignition device 8 after explosion, in order for example to recover the source of electrical energy 95 (for example an electric battery or an electric cell).

[0088] The priming means 11 are advantageously intended to cooperate with the moving part 91, possibly via the holding means 93, so as to lock / hold this moving part 91 in its initial position in case of mechanical shock (before use, for example during transport).

[0089] These priming means 11, for example of the pin type, are advantageously intended to be removed / degraded to allow the ignition device 8 to pass into the active state upon detection of the mechanical shock.

[0090] Preferably, these priming means 11 (equipped with an external gripping part) are accessible through the shell 13 (advantageously at the level of the spherical cap 131), for the purpose of their removal / degradation.

[0091] In practice and generally speaking, the priming means 11 are removed where appropriate.

[0092] Device 1 can be set in motion (launched, projected, dropped, sent, etc.) within the fire to be extinguished, so as to land on a target surface.

[0093] Upon impact on the target surface, the shock sensor 9 is brought from its initial rest state to its final activated state.

[0094] For this reason, in this case, the movable part 91 is displaced from its initial position (continuous lines on the figures 7 And 11 ) until its final position (dashed lines on the figures 7 And 11 ).

[0095] This movement is ensured here by the elastic retrieval means 92, following the degradation of the restraint means 93.

[0096] The shock sensor 9, in the activated state, then drives the ignition device 8 (immediately or with a delay) into its active state, which triggers the explosion of said at least one explosive charge 6 and the dispersion of said at least one extinguishing agent 4.

[0097] This dispersion advantageously forms a cloud of extinguishing agent 4 which allows a brutal three-dimensional extinguishing effect.

[0098] According to the invention, device 1 can take different forms of embodiment.

[0099] A first family of embodiments according to the invention is illustrated on the figures 1 à 10 And 19 à 21 .

[0100] In these first embodiments, the devices 1 each include an ignition device 8 which consists of an electric ignition device 8, also called an igniter or electric igniter.

[0101] In a conventional manner, such an igniter 8 allows for instantaneous ignition via an electrical line.

[0102] The igniter 8 generally consists of a resistor mounted in a short circuit, which is brought into contact with a ball of pyrotechnic mixture.

[0103] As depicted on the figure 7 The igniter 8 consists of a primer head 81 (for example composed of mercury fulminate) welded to a double conductor 82. When the short circuit is created at the double conductor 82, the primer head 81 heats up by Joule effect and reaches its auto-ignition temperature.

[0104] The primer head 81 can have different arrangements, in order to cooperate with said at least one explosive charge 6: a "direct" arrangement, in which the primer head 81 is housed directly within said at least one explosive charge 6 ( figures 1 , 5 , 10 Or 21 ), or an "indirect" arrangement, in which the primer head 81 cooperates with the pyrotechnic fuse 89 which connects said primer head 81 and said at least one explosive charge 6 ( figures 8 , 9 , 19 And 20 ).

[0105] For the "direct" assembly, according to a first embodiment illustrated on the figure 2 , the double conductor 82 extends radially within the envelope 2 and the cavity 3 so as to terminate with an external electrical connector 83 allowing its connection to the shock sensor 9 equipped with a complementary electrical connector 99.

[0106] Still for the "direct" assembly, according to a second method of implementation illustrated on the figures 5 et 6 , the double conductor 82 extends radially within the envelope 2 and the cavity 3, along the length of a tube 84 originating from the shock sensor 9.

[0107] This tube 84 has a terminal end 84a, advantageously pointed to facilitate its insertion, which is provided with a window 85 at the level of which is located the primer head 81.

[0108] This terminal end 84a is intended to be housed, advantageously by insertion, within said at least one explosive charge 6. The flame generated by the primer head 81 is intended to exit through the window 85.

[0109] For the "indirect" assembly, the primer head 81 is advantageously attached to the annular section 891 of the pyrotechnic fuse 89.

[0110] The retention is achieved, for example, by means of an adhesive element 811 (for example, an adhesive pad), as illustrated in the figure 8 For example.

[0111] Alternatively, the concave lower face 132 has a slot 1321 within which the primer head 81 is positioned ( figures 19 And 20 ). The primer head 81 is then advantageously attached to the annular section 891 of the pyrotechnic fuse 89. The retention of the primer head 81 on the pyrotechnic fuse 89 is advantageously achieved by mounting the ignition device 8 on the casing 2.

[0112] In this case, an added pellet 15, forming a "target marking", is advantageously used and added to facilitate the positioning of the primer head 81 in relation to the pyrotechnic fuse 89.

[0113] This added pellet 15 is advantageously intended to be added between the envelope 2 and the ignition device 8.

[0114] The attached pellet 15 is advantageously made of an adhesive plastic film.

[0115] The added disc 15, in the shape of a crown, advantageously includes: an internal border 151, delimiting a through orifice, adapted to come opposite the primer head 81 and the pyrotechnic fuse 89, a lower face 152, advantageously adhesive, intended to come to fit the envelope 2, a upper face 153, intended to receive the concave lower face 132 of the shell 13, and an external border 154.

[0116] For the positioning of the ignition device 8, the upper face 153 advantageously has a marking corresponding to the contour of the concave lower face 132 of the shell 13. Alternatively, the contour of the outer rim 154 corresponds to the contour of the concave lower face 132 of the shell 13.

[0117] In practice, the added pellet 15 is affixed to the envelope 2 so that its inner edge 151 surrounds part of the pyrotechnic wick 89. Then, the ignition device 8 is suitably positioned on the envelope 2, thanks to the added pellet 15 in place; for this purpose, if necessary, the adhesive element 811 equipping the concave lower face 132 of the shell 13 adheres to the upper face 153 of the added pellet 15.

[0118] In these first embodiments, the shock sensor 9 advantageously consists of an electrical module connected to the electrical ignition device 8.

[0119] By "electrical module" we mean a piece of equipment comprising an electrical circuit made up of a set of electrical and / or electronic components.

[0120] In this case, as schematically represented on the figures 7 , 19 And 20 The electrical module 9 advantageously includes: an electrical power source 95, for example an electric battery or an electric cell, advantageously associated with an insulating blade 951 intended to be removed to initiate the electrical supply, and a switch 96 which incorporates the movable part 91.

[0121] This electrical module 9 is intended to be connected, electrically, to the electric ignition device 8.

[0122] The movable part 91 is thus able to move between the two positions: the initial position (solid lines), constrained, in which the switch 96 is in an open state and the ignition device 8 is not electrically powered by the electrical energy source 95, and the final position (dashed lines), at rest, in which the switch 96 is in a closed state and the ignition device 8 is electrically powered by the electrical energy source 95.

[0123] In an initial location or initial state, a metal part 931 (here a ball 931) is pinched between, on the one hand, the moving part 91 of the switch 96, in its initial position and in its open state and, on the other hand, the opposite support part 94.

[0124] Alternatively (not shown), instead of a moving part 91, the electrical module 9 may include an accelerometer-type sensor, preferably a non-servo-controlled displacement accelerometer, and more specifically advantageously chosen from: a piezoelectric sensing accelerometer, a piezoresistive sensing accelerometer, a capacitive sensing accelerometer.

[0125] In this case, the electrical module 9 still advantageously includes: the electrical power source 95, for example an electric battery or a battery, and control means (for example a microcontroller), cooperating with the accelerometer-type sensor.

[0126] The state indicator means 10 are advantageously adapted to emit a signal (audible, visual, etc.) when the shock sensor 9 is in an activated state.

[0127] This electrical module 9 integrates for this purpose, for example, sound means (buzzer), visual means (LED), etc.

[0128] The state indicator means 10 are, where appropriate, adapted to emit a signal when the moving part 91 is in its final position (switch 96 in a closed state).

[0129] Such state indicator means 10 are thus intended to prevent the assembly of a shock sensor 9 in an activated state with the ignition device 8, at the risk of causing the latter to immediately switch to its active state.

[0130] Alternatively or complementarily, in the presence of a time delay, such state indicator means 10 may emit a signal after the shock, in order to warn operators in the vicinity of the imminent explosion causing the dispersion of said extinguishing agent 4.

[0131] Alternatively or in addition, the state indicator means 10 can still be useful for locating and recovering the ignition device 8 after the explosion.

[0132] The priming means 11 here consist of a pin 111 which passes through the metal part 931, or even the support part 94, for example so as to extend between the support part 94 and the moving part 91.

[0133] Within this first category, various (non-exhaustive) combinations are therefore possible, as illustrated: THE figures 1 et 2 on the one hand, and the figures 5 et 6 On the other hand, they envision a shock sensor 9 external to said internal cavity 3, on the surface of the casing 2, with a primer head 81 (internal) housed directly within said at least one explosive charge 6, the figures 8 , 9 , 19 And 20 are considering an external shock sensor 9 on the surface of the casing 2, with an external primer head 81 which cooperates with the pyrotechnic fuse 89, figures 10 And 21 are considering a shock sensor 9 inside said internal cavity 3, with a primer head 81 (internal) housed directly within said at least one explosive charge 6, the figure 17 envisages a shock sensor 9 external to said internal cavity 3, at a distance from the envelope 2, with a primer head 81 (internal) housed directly within said at least one explosive charge 6; the shock sensor 9 is attached to the envelope 2 here by a flexible link, for example formed by the double conductor 82.

[0134] In particular, the figure 10 envisages a shock sensor 9 which is entirely internal to said internal cavity 3, with a primer head 81 (internal) housed directly within said at least one explosive charge 6.

[0135] There figure 21 considers a shock sensor 9 which is partially internal to said internal cavity 3 (part of its shell 13 is accessible through the envelope 2), with a primer head 81 (internal) housed directly within said at least one explosive charge 6.

[0136] According to this figure 21 , the shell 13 advantageously includes a spherical cap 131 which forms a continuous part of the envelope 2 of the device 1 (the radius of the spherical cap 131 is identical to the radius of the envelope 2).

[0137] In this embodiment, the envelope 2 advantageously includes a through orifice adapted for the insertion (advantageously within clearance) of the shock sensor 9. This through orifice is thus advantageously closed by the added shock sensor 9.

[0138] The envelope 2 advantageously includes a second through-hole, in order to facilitate the filling of the envelope 2 with the extinguishing agent 4. This second through-hole is intended to be sealed after filling, for example by means of a polystyrene plug.

[0139] For this purpose, envelope 2 advantageously comprises two identical half-envelopes (or half-shells or hemispheres), each having a through orifice (advantageously at its apex).

[0140] These two half-envelopes are intended to be assembled, one with the other, to together form envelope 2 of device 1.

[0141] In practice, in these early embodiments, during percussion, the metal part 931 is, if necessary, ejected from its initial location.

[0142] The movable part 91 is thus able to move from its initial position (solid lines), in which the switch 96 is in an open state, to its final position (dashed lines), at rest, in which the switch 96 is in its closed state.

[0143] Alternatively, and if necessary, the mechanical shock is detected by the accelerometer.

[0144] The shock sensor 9, when activated, then drives the ignition device 8 into its active state: a short circuit is created at the level of the double conductor 82, so that the primer head 81 heats up by Joule effect and reaches its auto-ignition temperature.

[0145] The primer head 81 triggers the explosion of said at least one explosive charge 6 and the dispersion of said at least one extinguishing agent 4: directly, when the primer head 81 is housed directly within said at least one explosive charge 6 ( figures 1 , 5 , 10 Or 21 ), or indirectly, when the primer head 81 cooperates with the pyrotechnic fuse 89 which connects said primer head 81 and said at least one explosive charge 6 ( figures 8 , 9 , 19 Or 20 ).

[0146] A second family of embodiments according to the invention is illustrated in the figures 11 à 14 .

[0147] In these second embodiments, the devices 1 include an ignition device 8 which consists of a mechanical ignition device 8.

[0148] For example, as described in connection with the figure 11 The mechanical ignition device 8 comprises: a striker 91, forming the moving part 91, a primer 97, intended to be struck by the striker 91 when it passes from said initial position to said final position (under the effect of the elastic return means 92), and at least one fuse 98, intended to be ignited by the primer 97 and which extends to said at least one explosive charge 6 (advantageously via the aforementioned pyrotechnic fuse 89).

[0149] The wick 98 opens advantageously below the ignition device 8 with a spiral portion designed to cover the aforementioned pyrotechnic wick 89. This particular shape of the wick 98 aims to optimize the ignition of the pyrotechnic wick 89.

[0150] Preferably, in this case, the retaining means 93 are implanted between the striker 91 and the primer 97.

[0151] The means of maintenance 93 include here: the aforementioned metal part 931, and a movable stop 932, cooperating with elastic return means 933.

[0152] The stop 932 is adapted, on the one hand, to clamp the metal part 931 with the support part 94 and, on the other hand, to maintain the movable part 91 in its initial position.

[0153] The stop 932 is movable between two end-of-stroke positions, here in translation along a translation axis 932', namely: a deployed position ( figure 11 ), held by the metal part 931, in which said stop 932 is interposed on the stroke of the moving part 91 for its retention in the initial position, and a retracted position, after ejection of the metal part 931 and under the action of the elastic return means 933, in which said stop 932 is moved away from the stroke of the moving part 91 (striker) to allow its passage into the final position.

[0154] In the deployed position, the metal part 931 is therefore pinched between the stop 932 (in the deployed position) and the support part 94.

[0155] The priming means 11 include here: a pin 111 which passes through the metal part 931 so as to extend between the support part 94 and the movable stop 932, and a plate 112, forming a screen placed in front of the primer 97 and positioned on the stroke of the movable part 91.

[0156] Here again, various (non-exhaustive) arrangements are possible.

[0157] THE figures 11 à 16 are considering an external shock sensor 9 to said internal cavity 3, on the surface of the envelope 2, cooperating with the pyrotechnic fuse 89.

[0158] Alternatively and without limitation, the shock sensor 9 could also be internal to said internal cavity 3.

[0159] In practice, in these second embodiments, during percussion, the metal part 931 is ejected from its initial location.

[0160] After removal of the metal part 931 and under the action of the elastic return means 933, the stop 932 is maneuvered into its retracted position so as to move away from the stroke of the moving part 91 to allow its passage into the final position.

[0161] The moving part 91 is thus able to move from its initial position (solid lines) to its final position (dashed lines), at rest, in which it strikes the primer 97 which ignites the fuse 98 causing the explosion of the explosive charge 6 (here via the pyrotechnic fuse 89).

[0162] Device 1 according to the invention is advantageously implemented within a fire-fighting system 20 ( figures 18 , 22 et 23 ).

[0163] Such a system 20 includes: at least one device 1 according to the invention, and at least one flying machine 21, advantageously a drone.

[0164] Said at least one flying machine 21 comprises at least one drop module 22 which is adapted to receive at least one device 1 according to the invention and to drop said at least one device 1 over a fire.

[0165] The 22 release module advantageously has two positions for this purpose: a transport position, closed, for the storage of at least one device 1, and a release position, open, for the release of at least one device 1.

[0166] Such a drop module 22 includes, for example, a housing 221 associated with movable closing means 222 ( figures 18 And 23 ).

[0167] For example, the control between these two positions is carried out remotely by an operator.

[0168] According to an embodiment illustrated on the figure 23 , the movable sealing means 222 include for example a sealing member 2221 (for example a strap) which passes through the lower opening of the housing 211 so as to retain the device 1 in the transport position.

[0169] This shuttering element 2221 cooperates with an actuator 2222 (for example a servomotor) for the maneuvering of the shuttering element 2221 between the transport position ( figure 23 ) and the drop position (not shown).

[0170] In this case, strap 2221 includes: a fixed end, attached to the chassis of the flying machine 21, and a movable end cooperating with the actuator 2222.

[0171] According to an advantageous embodiment, said at least one flying machine 21 further comprises activation means 23 provided for piloting the initiation means 11 equipping the device 1 according to the invention before the latter is released ( figure 22 ).

[0172] The activation means 23 include for example an actuator 231 (for example a servomotor) which is connected to the priming means 11 by means of a linking member 232.

[0173] The activation means 23 are adapted to maneuver the priming means 11 into a withdrawn / degraded state, advantageously just before the piloting of the release module 22, to allow the ignition device 8 to pass into the active state upon detection of the mechanical shock.

[0174] In practice, such a system 20 allows the implementation of the firefighting process.

[0175] This method includes a step of dropping at least one device 1 according to the invention, from the flying machine 21 which is advantageously positioned above the fire to be extinguished.

[0176] For this, at least one drop module 22 is piloted from its transport position to its drop position.

[0177] As previously developed, when device 1 strikes a surface after its release, said at least one explosive charge 6 is (immediately) triggered, causing the (immediate) dispersion of said at least one extinguishing agent 4.

[0178] Of course, various other modifications can be made to the invention within the scope of the attached claims.

Claims

1. Firefighting device, which device (1) comprises: - an enclosure (2) which delimits an internal cavity (3) in which is placed at least one dispersible extinguishing agent (4), and - pyrotechnic means (5) adapted to generate an explosion causing a rupture of said enclosure (2) and a dispersion of said extinguishing agent (4), which pyrotechnic means (5) comprise: - at least one explosive charge (6), generating said explosion, and - detonating means (7) intended to trigger said explosion of said at least one explosive charge (6), characterized in thatsaid detonating means (7) comprise: - an ignition device (8) designed to trigger, in an active state, said explosion of said at least one explosive charge (6), and - a shock sensor (9) designed to detect a mechanical shock received by said device (1) and to bring said ignition device (8) into said active state upon detection of said mechanical shock, which ignition device (8) consists of an electrical ignition device (8), also called an igniter, and in that The shock sensor (9) consists of an electrical module connected to said electrical ignition device (8), which electrical module (9) comprises: - an accelerometer-type sensor, - an electrical power source (95), and - control means cooperating with the accelerometer-type sensor, and in thatsaid device includes a pyrotechnic fuse (89) which extends from said at least one explosive charge (6) and emerges at an outer surface of the envelope (2).

2. Firefighting device, according to claim 1, characterized in that The accelerometer-type sensor consists of a non-servo-controlled displacement accelerometer.

3. Firefighting device, according to claim 2, characterized in that The sensor of the non-servo-controlled displacement accelerometer type is chosen from: - a piezoelectric sensing accelerometer, - a piezoresistive sensing accelerometer, - a capacitive sensing accelerometer.

4. Firefighting device, according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the envelope (2) consists of a spherical envelope, and in thatthe pyrotechnic fuse (89) has an annular section (891) which extends over the circumference of the outer surface of the envelope (2) and in a transverse plane of the envelope (2).

5. Firefighting device, according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that The control means consist of a microcontroller, cooperating with the accelerometer-type sensor.

6. Firefighting device, according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the primer head (81) cooperates with said at least one explosive charge (6): - indirectly, through said pyrotechnic fuse (89) which connects said primer head (81) and said at least one explosive charge (6), or - directly, within said at least one explosive charge (6).

7. Firefighting device, according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in thatthe detonating means (7) include state indicator means (10), particularly adapted to indicate an activated state of the shock sensor (9).

8. Firefighting device, according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that the shock sensor (9) is external to said internal cavity (3), on the surface of the casing (2).

9. Firefighting device, according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that the shock sensor (9) is external to said internal cavity (3), at a distance from the casing (2).

10. Firefighting device, according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that the shock sensor (9) is integrated into the internal cavity (3).

11. Firefighting device, according to any one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in thatsaid detonating means (7) include priming means (11) intended to be piloted to permit said ignition device (8) to pass into said active state upon detection of said mechanical shock.

12. Firefighting system, which system comprises: - at least one device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 11, and - at least one flying machine (21), advantageously a drone, comprising at least one drop module (22), adapted to receive said at least one device (1) and to drop said at least one device (1) over a fire.

13. Firefighting method, which method includes a step of dropping at least one device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 11, advantageously from a flying machine (21), preferably a drone, such that said at least one explosive charge (6) is triggered when said device (1) strikes a surface after being dropped.

Images