signaling device

Abstract

The present invention relates to a signaling device.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The invention disclosed herein relates to a signaling device as defined in the preamble of claim 1. [Background technology]

[0002] The invention disclosed herein relates to a signaling device comprising a balloon including an opening, which can be inflated and expanded by introducing a fluid through the opening and via a valve arranged in the opening, the valve being arranged in the opening according to the teachings of the invention, which allows the fluid to be introduced inside the balloon on the one hand, but prevents the fluid from leaking out of the balloon on the other hand, so that the balloon maintains its shape defined by the fluid introduced inside the balloon.

[0003] The essential purpose of the signaling device of the present invention is to indicate position.

[0004] Devices for indicating a location by means of an inflated balloon floating above said location are known in the prior art.

[0005] The features of the embodiments described below can be implemented independently and cannot be derived from the specification of DE 200 02 657 (U1).

[0006] The device disclosed in Swiss Patent No. 705685 B1 is fundamentally different from the devices described below.

[0007] DE 32 37 060 A1 describes a device that is fundamentally different from the device disclosed below.

[0008] DE 1531694 does not state that the connecting nozzle 6 is released when a certain force state is reached.

[0009] Similarly, US Pat. No. 5,582,127 does not demonstrate the features of the embodiments of the inventive device described below.

[0010] German Patent No. 3237060 discloses a device for rescuing people caught in an avalanche. The device comprises a balloon with a filling opening that extends onto a collar in a rigid housing. The device does not have a housing surface from which the inflating balloon can be pushed off.

[0011] Similarly, the device disclosed in DE 202018107314 does not have a housing part for pushing off the inflating balloon.

[0012] German Patent No. 1531694 discloses another balloon inflation device.

[0013] Swiss Patent No. 705685 discloses a device for locating individuals buried by an avalanche. It is proposed that an inflated balloon be attached to the person by a retention means so that the balloon cannot detach itself from the person.

[0014] GB 2525394 discloses a balloon attached to a housing for inflation, the housing having no housing parts for pushing the balloon off.

[0015] US Pat. Nos. 5,582,127 and 6,082,287 disclose a balloon attached to a housing for inflation, the housing having no housing parts for pushing the balloon off. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0016] [Patent Document 1] German Utility Model No. 20002657(U1) [Patent Document 2] Swiss Patent No. 705685(B1) [Patent Document 3] German Patent Application Publication No. 3237060(A1) [Patent Document 4] German Patent No. 1531694 [Patent Document 5] U.S. Patent No. 5,582,127 [Patent Document 6] German Patent No. 3237060 [Patent Document 7] German Utility Model No. 202018107314 [Patent Document 8] GB Patent Application Publication No. 2525394 [Patent Document 9] U.S. Patent No. 6,082,287 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0017] The invention disclosed herein seeks to overcome the shortcomings of the prior art.

[0018] This object is achieved by the first claim. [Means for solving the problem]

[0019] According to the invention, the object is to the balloon further comprises a light source including a control device; A change in length or displacement of the switching element of the control device causes the light emitter to be switched on, in particular switched on, At least a first end of the switching element is fixed to a first balloon portion region of the balloon; a second end of the switching element is fixed to a second balloon portion region of the balloon; the balloon subregions are released by filling the balloon with a fluid and expanding the balloon; Thereby, a change in length and / or a displacement of the switching element is achieved, whereby the light emitter is switched on. This is achieved in

[0020] The light emitter can thus be switched, in particular switched on, by the balloon being expanded to a particular size, the balloon having a particular size, the length of the switching element being stretched to said particular length. A person skilled in the art may define the particular length of the switching element by selecting the switching element, thereby also defining the particular size at which the lamp is switched, e.g. switched on, at that size of the balloon and in turn at that length of the switching element.

[0021] Similarly, the light emitter may be switched on and off by expanding the balloon to a particular size, thereby displacing the switching element to a particular position. This embodiment may be achieved by placing a control element within the balloon as described above.

[0022] The operator may provide an LED as the light source, and preferably the LED as the light source is provided with a power source.

[0023] The LEDs can be switched via a brightness sensor.

[0024] Generally, the light emitter may be located inside the balloon or on the outer or inner surface.

[0025] When the light emitter is disposed inside the balloon, the switching element may be disposed as a cord extending inside, the cord undergoing the aforementioned change in length or displacement when the balloon is expanded to a particular size. According to the teachings of the present invention, the cord (also called a secant) extends from one balloon subregion to the opposite balloon subregion, and the cord does not necessarily extend through the central region of the balloon. However, the cord may extend through said central region.

[0026] If the light emitter is located inside the balloon, the switching element may be located as an element extending on the inner surface of the balloon, such that the switching element undergoes the above-mentioned change in length or displacement when the balloon is expanded to a particular size.

[0027] If the light emitter is disposed on the outer or inner surface of the balloon, the switching element may be disposed as an element extending on the outer surface of the balloon, such that the switching element undergoes the above-mentioned change in length or displacement when the balloon is expanded to a particular size.

[0028] The balloon control device may be implemented such that the light emitter remains switched on or is switched off when the balloon is deflated and thus the balloon sub-regions are then fused.

[0029] The signaling device of the present invention is characterized in that the light source is located inside the balloon, or The light source is built into the balloon shell, or The light source is placed on the balloon shell. The present invention may be characterized by the above.

[0030] Light sources placed inside the balloon illuminate the inflated balloon from the inside, making the illumination visible from all sides.

[0031] The light emitters may be located on the inner or outer surface of the balloon's shell. Advantageously, the balloon can be reintroduced into the signaling device or replaced with another balloon after inflation.

[0032] The fixed placement of the light emitter within the balloon allows the balloon to be more easily folded with the light emitter and introduced into an enclosed area.

[0033] An operator may inflate the balloon of the signaling device of the present invention by blowing oxygen through the opening, and since the user's breath and the surrounding air typically have the same density, only the operator's breath is introduced, thereby preventing the signaling device from rising.

[0034] To avoid this technical drawback, the embodiment according to claim 2 is proposed, which is an embodiment that can be implemented independently from the embodiment of claim 1.

[0035] The balloon embodiment with the light emitter may be implemented independently of any other implementation of the inflation device and / or balloon described below.

[0036] Similarly, the signaling device described below as comprising a balloon and a gas container therein may be implemented independently of the inflation device described below.

[0037] The present invention also provides a signaling device, comprising: the balloon further comprises a gas container having an exhaust device inside the balloon; a change in length or displacement of the actuator of the ejector causing the opening of the gas container and expansion of gas from the gas container; At least a first end of the actuator is secured to a first balloon subregion of the balloon; a second end of the actuator is secured to a second balloon portion region of the balloon; the balloon subregions are released by filling the balloon with a fluid and expanding the balloon; Thereby, a change in length and / or displacement of the actuator is achieved, thereby opening said gas container. The present invention also relates to a signaling device, characterized in that

[0038] Preferably, the gas is a gas lighter than oxygen. For example, an operator may infuse oxygen into the balloon, thereby expanding the balloon to a particular size, at which point the gas container is opened by a change in length and / or displacement of the applied actuator. By opening the gas container introduced inside the balloon, the inside of the balloon is filled with a gas lighter than oxygen, such as helium, in addition to oxygen. The signaling device of the present invention rises when at least partially filled with the gas lighter than oxygen, such as helium.

[0039] One skilled in the art can size the amount of gas held within the gas container so that when the gas container is opened and gas flows from the gas container to the inside of the balloon, a sufficient amount of gas is contained inside the balloon to allow the balloon to rise.

[0040] Preferably, the gas container is filled with a gas lighter than oxygen at an overpressure.

[0041] The gas held in the gas container may be helium. A skilled artisan preferably sizes the gas container so that it can accommodate 63.0 ml of helium or 2.2 g of helium at a pressure of 220 bar. The gas container in the test plant has a cylindrical shape with a diameter of 30.0 mm and a height of 120 mm. The test plant includes three gas containers.

[0042] The signaling device of the present invention comprises: It may be characterized in that the first balloon part region is arranged in the region of the opening.

[0043] Thus, one end of the control element and / or actuator is located in the region of the opening, the control element and / or actuator being introduced into the balloon as a rigidly formed element and fixed at the other end to the inner surface of the balloon.

[0044] The signaling device of the present invention comprises: The second balloon subregion may be located opposite the first balloon subregion.

[0045] The balloon sub-regions may be connected by tethers that extend through the balloon.

[0046] The balloon sub-regions may be arranged along a diameter or through a line extending parallel to a diameter.

[0047] The signaling device of the present invention comprises: The balloon may be characterized by a transmitter disposed within the balloon.

[0048] The signaling device of the present invention can also be used in water sports. Placing the transmitter inside the balloon ensures that the transmitter is located in dry space. An inflated balloon places the transmitter further above the water. The transmitter can emit a signal to locate the balloon.

[0049] The inflation device described below can be operated independently from the balloon embodiments described herein.

[0050] Those skilled in the art will be able to operate the inflatable device described below, in particular independently of the light source comprising one or more LEDs and the switching means as described above. For example, a signaling device comprising the inflatable device described below may comprise a manually operated switch. The switch may be located on the LED. Such a switch may allow the LED to be switched between multiple brightness levels.

[0051] The LEDs may also be switched solely via the brightness sensor.

[0052] The signaling device of the present invention comprises: an opening of the signaling device is coupled to an inflation device disposed outside the balloon; The inflator includes a housing and a tube including a tube end region in fluid communication with the opening; the opening of the balloon surrounds the tube end region by forming an enclosing surface; the housing has a circular or angled funnel-shaped housing surface that is curved or flat at a distance from the tube toward the tube axis; While the fluid is being introduced into the balloon, a first frictional force acting between the surrounding surface and the balloon and a second frictional force acting between the housing surface and the expanding balloon On the other hand, the expansion force generated by the introduction into the balloon is balanced by the repulsive force component of the expanding balloon from the housing surface. The present invention may be characterized by the above.

[0053] The connecting element can be incorporated into the opening of the balloon. Advantageously, the opening of the balloon and preferably the balloon neck with the valve of the balloon serve as the connecting element.

[0054] A tangent or secant of the curvature may be determined such that the slope of the tangent or secant towards the curvature indicates the slope of the curvature towards the axis. The tangent may be determined at at least one of the endpoints of the curvature or at the centre of the curvature.

[0055] The fluid introduced inside the balloon may be a gas that is lighter than oxygen, such as helium, for example. The gas may also be a fluorescent gas, which acts as a light emitter when introduced inside the balloon.

[0056] The balloon may include a balloon neck which is fitted over the tube end region, as in known devices for inflating air balloons.

[0057] The housing surface may be formed as a flat or curved surface. In the case of a curved surface, the slope may be dictated by a tangent at a point of curvature. The friction force FR2 is directed parallel to the tangent at said point, and the repulsion force FL2 is directed perpendicular to the tangent.

[0058] To calculate the frictional force FR2 or repulsive force FL2 exerted on the balloon by the curved housing surface, it may be necessary to integrate the total acting frictional force FR2 or repulsive force FL2.

[0059] Those skilled in the art can determine the above balance condition iteratively or by extrapolating calculations. Generally, balance is more easily determined when the housing surface is flat and inclined.

[0060] In summary, frictional forces act to hold the balloon in place. Expansion and rebound forces act to release the balloon from the tube end. The basic idea is to create a housing shape that defines the balloon's condition up to which the balloon neck will remain attached to the tube end and beyond which the balloon neck will detach from the tube end.

[0061] The device of the present invention may have only the housing surface referred to as the surface of the housing, and the inflating balloon may contact the housing surface and open a cap attached to the housing that encases the balloon with the housing surface, or may withdraw the balloon from the tube.

[0062] Generally, the device of the present invention comprises: The opening of the balloon is connected to an inflation device; The inflator includes a housing and a tube including a connecting element facing the opening; the connecting element allows for a fluid-tight flow of fluid from the tube to the inside of the balloon; The opening can be released from the connecting element by overcoming the resistance force, the housing has a housing surface that is curved with rotational symmetry at a distance from the tube and is inclined or flat toward the tube axis of the tube; While the fluid is being introduced into the balloon, On the one hand, a resistance force acting between the coupling force and the opening, and a second friction force FR2 acting between the housing surface and the expanding balloon, On the other hand, the inflation force FL1 generated by the introduction into the balloon is balanced by the repulsive force component FL2 of the expanding balloon from the housing surface. The present invention may be characterized by the above.

[0063] The opening of the balloon can be released from the connecting element by overcoming a resistance force. The connecting element can be connected, for example, by a friction surface opening when a certain resistance force is reached, or by a latch connection opening when a certain resistance force is reached. Those skilled in the art are familiar with further suitable connection forms for connecting two elements, which connection form opens when the force acting on the connection form increases and the force reaches a maximum resistance force.

[0064] The resistance force may also be defined by a predetermined breaking point of the connecting element, which connects the opening and the joining element until it breaks at the predetermined breaking point.

[0065] The coupling element and the tube may be integrally formed. The coupling element may be connected to the tube.

[0066] For example, the connecting element and the balloon attached to the connecting element may have predetermined friction characteristics at their contact surface, which define the first friction force FR1. To this end, the surface of the connecting element that forms the contact surface may be formed as a rough or adhesive surface.

[0067] The rising balloon can withdraw the connecting element from the vessel, the necessary withdrawal force being defined by the above-described embodiments. Additionally or alternatively, the device of the present invention may comprise a release device for withdrawing the connecting element from the vessel or for expanding the connecting element.

[0068] The force conditions acting between the inflating balloon and the housing surface can be defined by the position of the connecting element relative to the housing surface. Preferably, when the tube has a vertical orientation, the connecting element is positioned below the housing surface so that the inflating balloon in contact with the housing surface is pulled relative to the housing surface. This can be achieved by the partial region of the balloon comprising the opening of the balloon being expanded.

[0069] The signaling device of the present invention comprises: The housing is formed as a hollow cylinder, The tube axis and the cylinder axis are aligned. The present invention may be characterized by the above.

[0070] The housing may include a carabiner for attaching the device to clothing or a backpack, and the carabiner may be connected to the device with an elastic band or elastic cord.

[0071] The signaling device of the present invention may also be characterized in that the housing surface of the housing is funnel-shaped. The housing surface may have the shape of a funnel.

[0072] The signaling device of the present invention comprises: It can be characterized in that when the tube or cylinder axis is positioned vertically, the funnel end region of the funnel with the smaller diameter and the tube end region are positioned at essentially the same height.

[0073] The signaling device of the present invention comprises: The housing may be characterized in that it comprises two housing halves having mating surfaces.

[0074] The plane extending through the joining surface may extend through the cylinder axis. Thus, the hollow cylinder may be divided into two sub-regions, each having a semicircular or similarly shaped layout. The sub-regions may be connected to each other, preferably by a stick.

[0075] The signaling device of the invention may be characterized in that the signaling device comprises a withdrawal element for manually releasing the coupling element from the tube.

[0076] The extraction element may be a lever, a pressure element, etc., which exerts a force on the coupling element that releases it from the tube.

[0077] The signaling device of the present invention comprises: The tube may be connected to at least one pressurized gas capsule, the pressurized gas capsule being filled with helium.

[0078] Helium gas is typically utilized in inflating air balloons because helium has a lower density than the oxygen surrounding the air balloon, thereby achieving lift for the air balloon. Those skilled in the art may utilize different gases in place of helium, which also have a lower density than oxygen.

[0079] The pressurized gas capsule may also be filled with gaseous fluorescein upon introduction inside the balloon.

[0080] As mentioned above, the amount of fluid introduced into the balloon per unit time after opening the pressurized capsule depends on the filling pressure of the pressurized capsule. The balloon may be provided with a pressure reducing valve for limiting the amount of fluid per unit time flowing into the balloon via the tube.

[0081] The signaling device of the present invention comprises: The balloon may be connected to an inflation device via a cord.

[0082] The cord may have a predetermined length and may also include markings indicating the length of the unwound cord.

[0083] The cord may have conductive properties. Thus, embodiments are possible in which, on the one hand, the LED is located inside the balloon and, on the other hand, the energy storage device and at least part of the electrical circuitry is located inside the housing.

[0084] The cord may be fixed at one or more points, preferably at four points.

[0085] Additionally, the cord may be coupled to a switching element such that the LED can be switched by applying a force to the cord.

[0086] The signaling device of the present invention comprises: The cord is stored on the coil so that it can be unwound, The coil is supported rotatably about a coil axis that is aligned with the tube axis for unwinding the cord. The present invention may be characterized by the above.

[0087] The cord can only be unwound from the coil by the rising balloon, which can unwind the cord from the coil against a resistance, such as a spring resistance, and one skilled in the art will select the resistance to be high enough so that the cord is always taut when the balloon is rising.

[0088] Gas exiting the pressurized gas capsule can be directed into the balloon via a flow path, thereby accelerating or decelerating the unwinding of the cord. Slowing down the unwinding of the cord from the coil can be achieved by directing a flowing fluid onto a guiding surface, thereby creating a force that slows down the unwinding of the cord from the coil. Conversely, unwinding of the cord can be accelerated by directing a flowing fluid onto a guiding surface, thereby creating a force that accelerates the unwinding of the cord. For example, the cord can be considered a guiding surface, similar to the drive surface of a wheel or propeller, with the flow into the drive surface either in the direction of rotation of the coil or opposite to the direction of rotation of the coil.

[0089] The signaling device of the present invention comprises: the inflator comprises a plurality of pressurized gas capsules; the inflation device includes a plurality of spines, each for introducing a respective pressurized gas capsule; The spine has a different length of extension in the direction of each capsule to be opened. The present invention may be characterized by the above.

[0090] In the prior art, opening a pressurized gas capsule by inserting a spine into a predetermined opening requires the application of force. In an emergency, it is nearly impossible for an operator to apply the force required to open multiple pressurized gas capsules simultaneously. The signaling device of the present invention can be configured to open pressurized gas capsules sequentially in order.

[0091] The device disclosed herein may include a spine for the pressurized gas capsule, the spine being introduced by breaking the pressurized capsule, particularly a predetermined breaking point in the pressurized capsule for opening the pressurized capsule. To fill the balloon, a certain amount of fluid is required, and this amount of fluid is preferably held in multiple pressurized capsules, such that multiple pressurized capsules must be opened to fill the balloon.

[0092] The device may comprise one spine for each pressurized capsule to be opened. Thus, the device preferably comprises a plurality of pressurized capsules and a plurality of spines. Preferably, the spines are introduced sequentially into the pressurized capsules by manual manipulation.

[0093] If introduced at a similar speed, the spine may be positioned at various distances from the pressurized capsule at its original position. Equivalently, the spine may be accelerated at different times for introduction into the pressurized capsule.

[0094] Additionally or alternatively, the spine may be introduced into the pressurized capsule at different speeds when accelerated over a similar period of time.

[0095] The spine may be accelerated by a spring and introduced into a pressurized capsule. The acceleration may be released by a user in an emergency. Alternatively or additionally, the user may bias the spring in an emergency.

[0096] The spine may also be introduced into the pressurized capsule via an actuator, the movement of which and the movement of the spine may be transmitted via gears, which may achieve sequential introduction of the spine into the pressurized capsule.

[0097] The gear may be formed as a screw thread, for example. In this case, the actuator is rotated around the screw shaft like a nut. The screw thread may have an external thread, and the actuator may have an internal thread, which are engaged with each other. The screw thread converts the rotational movement of the actuator into a linear movement, which can introduce the spine into the pressurized capsule.

[0098] As mentioned above, the amount of fluid per unit time introduced into the balloon after opening the pressurized capsule depends on the filling pressure of the pressurized capsule. The signaling device may comprise a pressure reducing valve for limiting the amount of fluid per unit time flowing through the tube into the balloon.

[0099] The actuation device or the actuation element described above may act as a switching element for the LEDs, which may additionally or alternatively be switched via a brightness sensor.

[0100] The signaling device of the present invention comprises: The inflation devices may each be characterized by comprising a lever or a rotating or pushing element as a respective actuator for releasing the flow of fluid from the pressurized capsule to the balloon.

[0101] The device of the present invention may comprise a housing. The housing may have a conical shape, with its minimum width in its upper region where the balloon is released and its maximum width in the region of the lever or rotating element. The maximum width may be in the lower region of the housing.

[0102] The layout of the housing may, for example, have a circular or oval shape or a polygonal shape such as a pentagon or hexagon.

[0103] The housing is connected to the actuating element and, as a result of actuating the actuating element, may be connected to a movable element, in particular a driven element, via a fixing element. The fixing element may extend from the housing to the actuating element and other elements, such as a lid, for example, as described below. The fixing element may have a predetermined break point at the transition between the housing and the actuating element and / or other elements, such that when the actuating element is actuated, the fixing element breaks and the other elements move.

[0104] The rotating element opens the pressurized capsule as a result of a rotational movement applied to the pressurized capsule.

[0105] The pressure element may be a displaceable element relative to the pressurized capsule, which can be introduced into the pressurized capsule by pressure. The necessary pressure can be exerted by the operator's hand or by a device that strikes an immovable object. The necessary pressure can also be exerted via a biasing spring.

[0106] The signaling device of the present invention comprises: The signaling device may be incorporated into the life jacket.

[0107] The inflation device may inflate the balloon and the life jacket.

[0108] The signaling device of the present invention may allow for marking of location over multiple days, a feature that may be particularly advantageous when locating a drowning person in water.

[0109] The signaling device of the present invention comprises: The balloon may be characterized as having a cylindrical or conical shape, such as a cone, pyramid, or sphere.

[0110] A cylinder may allow a large height extension and therefore a large volume despite a small base. The cylindrical shape mentioned above or the conical shapes mentioned above, such as spheres or pyramids, may be advantageous for the balloon to rise out of crevasses and canyons.

[0111] The balloon may have one or more chambers to be filled with fluid. The chambers may be located in one plane or at different levels. The cylindrical or spherical shape of the balloon allows for the placement of chambers.

[0112] The balloon shell may be made of one piece or several assembled pieces. The assembly of the pieces into the balloon allows the cords to be fixed in the joining zones. In particular, the balloon pieces may be welded together.

[0113] One prototype balloon has a four-piece shell, with the shell pieces welded together. In each case, a cord is inserted into the weld seam and connected to the balloon shell by welding the weld seam.

[0114] The outer surface of the balloon is orange and may display white lettering that reads "SOS."

[0115] The signaling device of the present invention comprises: The balloon may be constructed as a composite material, characterized in that the composite comprises polyethylene on the inside, propylene in the middle layer, and polyamide on the outside.

[0116] The material PPT is advantageous for use as a balloon due to its light weight and its density.

[0117] The signaling device of the present invention comprises: The balloon may be characterized by having a surface, light-reflecting property.

[0118] The signaling device of the present invention comprises: The signaling device may be characterized in that it has a balloon shell into which the balloon can be introduced.

[0119] The balloon shell may protect the balloon from damage, which may be particularly advantageous if the balloon ascends in a crevasse or canyon. The balloon shell, like the balloon, may have light-reflecting properties or may be transparent.

[0120] The signaling device of the present invention comprises: The signaling device may be located within the shell.

[0121] The shell is opened by inflating the balloon.

[0122] The shell may be a soft shell, such as a pouch, which may be opened by inflation. The pouch may have a predetermined break point that ruptures at a predetermined size of the balloon, thereby opening the pouch.

[0123] The shell may be a rigid shell, such as a plastic box or container, which may be opened at a predetermined size for the balloon, or broken at a predetermined break point, similar to the soft shell embodiment described above.

[0124] The signaling device of the present invention comprises: the shell comprises two elements movable relative to each other; One element serves as an actuating element for releasing the gas held within the pressurized capsule. The present invention may be characterized by the above.

[0125] The invention will now be further explained on the basis of the following embodiments represented in the drawings. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0126] [Figure 1] 1 illustrates a cross-sectional view of one embodiment of a signaling device of the present invention. [Figure 2] 1 shows a detailed cross-sectional view of one embodiment of a signaling device of the present invention. [Figure 3] 1 shows a detailed cross-sectional view of one embodiment of a signaling device of the present invention. [Figure 4]1 illustrates a cross-sectional view of one embodiment of a signaling device of the present invention. [Figure 5] 10 shows a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of a signaling device of the present invention. [Figure 6] 1 shows a diagram of another embodiment of a signaling device of the present invention; [Figure 7] 1 shows a diagram of another embodiment of a signaling device of the present invention; [Figure 8] 1 shows a diagram of another embodiment of a signaling device of the present invention; [Figure 9] 1 shows a diagram of another embodiment of a signaling device of the present invention; [Figure 10] 1 shows a diagram of another embodiment of a signaling device of the present invention; [Figure 11] 1 shows a diagram of another embodiment of a signaling device of the present invention; [Figure 12] 1 shows possible shapes of the spine. [Figure 13] An additional device for withdrawing the balloon from the tube is shown. [Figure 14] An additional device for withdrawing the balloon from the tube is shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0127] It should be noted that the illustrated embodiments only show possible embodiments, and the present invention is not limited to these specifically illustrated variant embodiments, and that combinations between individual variant embodiments as well as combinations of one embodiment with the general description above are possible. These other possible combinations are within the knowledge of a person skilled in the art based on the technical teachings of the present invention, and therefore there is no need to explicitly mention such other possible combinations.

[0128] The scope of protection is defined by the claims. However, the specification and drawings should be used when interpreting the claims. Individual features or combinations of features from the various embodiments shown and described may represent separate inventive solutions in themselves. The underlying purpose of such separate inventive solutions can be understood from the description.

[0129] In the figures, the following elements are designated by preceding reference numerals: For clarity of the drawings, the relevant reference numerals are also specified in the figures. [Explanation of symbols]

[0130] 1 balloon 2 Opening 3 valves 4. Control device 5 Switching elements 6. Luminous Object 7 First balloon region 8 Second balloon subregion 9 First end of switching element or actuator 10 Second end of switching element or actuator 11 Inside the balloon 12 Gas bottles 13 Ejection device 14 Actuators 15 Expansion device 16 Expansion device housing 17 tube 18 Tube end region of tube 17 19 Siege Surface 20 tube shaft 21 Housing surface 22 Cylindrical shaft 23 Pressurized Capsule 24 Balloon Neck 25 Spine 26 Lid 27 Funnel end area 28 Rotational Elements 29 Bearings 30 Code 31 First gear element 32 Second gear element 33 Protrusion 34 Information 35 First Guidance Element 36 Secondary Guidance Element 37 Siege Rim 38 valves 39 Pressure Chamber 40 Extraction device 41 Recess 42 Handle

[0131] Figure 1 shows a cross-sectional view of a possible embodiment of the device of the invention. The device shown in Figure 1 can be combined with at least one of the devices shown in Figures 2 and 3. The devices shown in Figures 1 and / or 2 and / or 3 may also constitute separate solutions.

[0132] The signaling device shown in FIG. 1 comprises a balloon 1 including an opening 2; Balloon 1 can be expanded by introducing fluid through opening 2 and through valve 3 located within opening 2. Balloon 1 can be formed similarly to commercially available air balloons.

[0133] The embodiment shown in Figure 1 and discussed herein provides a solution for filling the balloon 1 with a gas in an emergency, preferably a gas with a lower density than oxygen, to cause the balloon 1 to rise.

[0134] The signaling device of the invention is characterized in that the opening 2 of the balloon 1 is connected to an inflation device 15. For this purpose, the inflation device 15 comprises a tube 17 with a tube end region 18 facing the opening 2, A balloon neck 24 surrounds the tube end region 18 by forming an enclosing surface 19. The balloon neck 24 expands upon application to the tube end region 18, thereby creating a tight fit between the balloon 1 and the tube 17.

[0135] The solution shown in Figure 1 is further characterized in that the inflating balloon 1 is withdrawn from the tube end region 18 and thus released at a specific size. This object is achieved by providing a housing 16 with a housing surface 21 that is curved or flat at a distance from the tube 17 and towards the tube axis 20 of the tube 17. The housing surface 21 may have the shape of a circular funnel or an angled funnel. The funnel shape extends around the tube axis 20.

[0136] The housing 16 further comprises a free space in a partial region adjacent to the balloon neck 24, which is configured to provide a storage location for the uninflated balloon 1 (not shown in FIG. 1 ). The partial region of the housing 16 forming the housing surface 21 is configured as a body that is rotationally symmetric about the balloon neck 24 and / or the tube axis 20 of the tube 17.

[0137] While the fluid is being introduced into the balloon 1, on the one hand, a first frictional force FR1 acts between the surrounding surface 19 and the balloon 1, and a second frictional force FR2 acts between the housing surface 21 and the expanding balloon 1, and on the other hand, an expansion force FL1 occurs due to the introduction into the balloon 1, as well as a repulsive force component FL2 of the expanding balloon 1 from the housing surface 21. While the balloon 1 is inflated and attached to the tube end region 18, said forces are balanced.

[0138] The inflation force FL1 and the rebound force FLS are forces FL1, FL2 that release the balloon 1 from the tube end region 18. The release forces FL1, FL2 continuously increase while the balloon 1 is inflated until the balance described above no longer exists and the balloon 1 is released from the tube end region.

[0139] Since the expansion of the balloon 1 is always associated with a change in the size of the balloon 1, the shape of the balloon 1 at which the repulsive force component FL2 together with the expansion force FL1 exceeds the holding force, essentially the first friction force FR1, can be defined by forming the housing surface 21.

[0140] The rotationally symmetrical formation of the housing surface 21 about the tube axis 20 has an advantageous effect on the above-mentioned force conditions, as it makes it possible to achieve rotationally symmetrical force conditions about the tube axis 20.

[0141] The signaling device of the present invention comprises: The housing 16 is formed as a hollow cylinder, The tube axis 20 and the cylinder axis 22 are arranged to coincide with each other. The present invention may be characterized by the above.

[0142] The signaling device of the present invention comprises: The housing surface 21 of the housing 16 may be characterized as having a funnel shape. Figure 1 shows a funnel having a curved funnel surface with an arcuate profile. In cross section, the funnel surface may also have a linear profile.

[0143] 1 has a special shape of the funnel end region 27 of the funnel-shaped housing surface 21, which has a smaller diameter and is positioned higher than the tube end region 18 when the tube axis 19 or cylinder axis 22 is positioned vertically. Due to the height position of the funnel end region 27 as described above with respect to the tube end region, this is essentially determined by the shape of the inflated balloon 1, whose balloon neck 24 adheres to the tube end region 18, maintaining the balance condition described above.

[0144] 1 may be limited to a particular inflated balloon shape because tube end region 18 is positioned at a particular height relative to housing surface 21. Essentially, only one balloon shape, particularly one having balloon neck 24, may be used with this device.

[0145] The signaling device of the present invention may be characterized in that the housing 16 comprises half housings having a mating surface. The housing 16 may be separable into two half housings.

[0146] The device of the present invention may allow housing halves of the housing 16 to be removed from the device in order to mount the balloon neck 24 onto the tube end region 18. The housing 16 is separable into housing halves.

[0147] The balloon neck 24 is then attached to the tube end region 18. The housing 16 is then reassembled by inserting the housing halves together.

[0148] The signaling device of the invention may be characterized in that the tube 17 is connected to at least one pressurized capsule 23, which is filled with helium.

[0149] Helium stored in a pressurized capsule 23 is introduced into the balloon 1 by a gas release device.

[0150] The signaling device may be characterized in that the inflation device 15 comprises a plurality of spines 25 each to be introduced into a respective pressurized capsule 23, 23', the spines 25 having different lengths of extension in the direction of each capsule to be opened.

[0151] 1 shows only one spine 25, which is introduced into the pressurized capsule 23. After the spine 25 is introduced into the pressurized capsule 23, another spine, not shown in FIG. 1, is introduced into the pressurized capsule 23'.

[0152] An actuation device for introducing gas stored in at least two pressurized capsules 23, 23' can be configured such that in a first step, the pressurized capsules 23 are opened and in a second step, a flow path from the pressurized capsules 23 to the tube end region 18 is released by actuating the gas release device.

[0153] Opening the pressurized capsules 23, 23' is accomplished by sequentially (sequentially) introducing one spine 25 into each of the pressurized capsules 23, 23' as described above. By introducing one spine each, the pressurized capsules 23, 23' are opened in sequence.

[0154] The device further comprises a valve lever 26. Actuation of the valve lever 26 opens a flow path from the pressurized capsules 23, 23' into the balloon 1. Advantageously, the pressurized capsules 23, 23' are arranged symmetrically with respect to the tube axis 20, so that the fluid from the pressurized capsules 23, 23' reaches the inside of the balloon 1 symmetrically.

[0155] The shape of the actuator is not limited to the lever 26. Instead of the lever 26 shown in Figure 1, a loop may be provided.

[0156] Figure 2 shows a detailed cross-sectional view of balloon 1 as part of a possible embodiment of the signaling device of the present invention. Figure 2 also includes a portion of inflation device 15, however, the description of Figure 2 will only discuss the configuration of balloon 1.

[0157] The signaling device of the present invention may also comprise solely the balloon 1 shown in Figure 2. The balloon 1 may be connected to a cord not shown in Figure 2.

[0158] The balloon 1 comprises an opening 2 in which a valve 3 is also introduced. The inside 11 of the balloon 1 may be filled with this fluid, inter alia, via the opening 2, thereby achieving rotation of the balloon 1 and a change in its size. Such balloons 1 are known in the prior art.

[0159] The embodiment of the balloon 1 shown in FIG. 1 comprises inside thereof a light source 6 including a control device 4 for switching the light source 6 .

[0160] The control device 4 is configured in such a way that a change in the length of the switching element 5 of the control device 4 causes the light emitter 6 to be switched on, in particular switched on. For this purpose, a first end 9 of the switching element 5 is fixed to a first balloon sub-region 7 of the balloon 1, and a second end 10 of the switching element 5 is fixed to a second balloon sub-region 8 of the balloon 1.

[0161] By introducing fluid into the inside of the balloon 1, the balloon 1 is expanded and the size of the balloon is changed. As a result, the balloon sub-regions 7, 8 are moved apart, filling the inside of the balloon with fluid and expanding the balloon 1 as the inside of the balloon 1 is filled with fluid. The switching element 5 thereby changes length, causing the light emitter 6 to be switched on and off via the control device 4.

[0162] Thus, the light emitters arranged inside 11 of the balloon 1 are switched on by the change in length of the control element 4 caused by the inflation of the balloon 1. This procedure is also easy to carry out in an emergency.

[0163] The luminaries 6 arranged on the inside 11 of the balloon 1 have the advantage that the balloon 1 is illuminated from the inside. The balloon 1 of the signalling device of the invention is highly visible in the dark.

[0164] FIG. 1 shows an advantageous special shape of the balloon 1. The first end 9 of the control element 5 is arranged in the region of the opening 2, which further comprises a balloon neck 24. This arrangement has the advantage that the control element 5, formed as a rigid element, can be easily introduced through the opening 2, together with the light emitter 6 and the control device 4, if necessary. Advantageously, the first end 9 is attached in the region of the opening 2, and the second end 10 can be attached to the inner surface of the balloon 1, preferably on the opposite side, for example via an adhesive surface. The balloon 1 shown in FIG. 1 is easy to manufacture.

[0165] The change in length of the strand of balloon 1 extending from opening 2 to the other side is a well-determined change in length, which allows the switching of light emitter 6 to be well-controllable via switching element 5.

[0166] Preferably, the light source 6 is switched on when the balloon 1 has a sufficient size to rise. The control device 4 may also have a delay switch.

[0167] 3 shows a cross-sectional view of a balloon 1 as part of a possible embodiment of a signaling device of the present invention. The signaling device may also comprise exclusively the balloon 1 shown in FIG.

[0168] The balloon 1 shown in FIG. 1 and described above may be inflated by an inflation device 15 as described with reference to FIG.

[0169] If the operator does not have an inflation device 15, the operator can inflate the balloon 1 shown in Figure 1 using his / her own breath, just like an air balloon. However, introducing only breath or oxygen into the balloon 1 has the disadvantage that the balloon 1 cannot rise. Such a balloon 1 is not suitable as a signaling device.

[0170] FIG. 3 shows a detailed cross-sectional view of another embodiment of the balloon 1.

[0171] The embodiment of the balloon 1 shown in Figure 3 comprises a gas container 12 having an evacuation device 13 located inside 11 of the balloon 1. Preferably, the gas container 12 is pressure filled with the gas to be applied.

[0172] Similar to the switching of the light emitter 6 described above, the change in length of the actuator 14 of the ejector 13 results in the opening of the gas container 12 and the ejection of gas from the gas container 12 to the inside 11 .

[0173] For this purpose, a first end 9 of the actuator 14 is fixed to a first balloon sub-region 7 of the balloon 1, and a second end 10 of the actuator 14 is fixed to a second balloon sub-region 8 of the balloon 1, The balloon part regions 7, 8 are separated by filling the balloon 1 with fluid and expanding the balloon 1 by filling the balloon 1 with fluid.

[0174] By filling the balloon 1 and thereby forcing a change in length of the actuator 14, the gas container 12 is opened and the gas held in the gas container 12 is introduced inside. Thus, the balloon 1 shown in Fig. 3 is filled in a first method step by the user's exhaled breath and in a second method step by the gas flowing out of the gas container 12. As a result, the balloon 1 is filled with a mixture of exhaled breath and gas. The gas held inside 11 is sufficient to raise the balloon 1.

[0175] The embodiment shown in Figures 2 and 3 can be implemented independently of the other features of the present signaling device disclosure. The embodiment shown in Figures 2 and 3 can constitute an autonomous solution.

[0176] FIG. 4 illustrates an advanced embodiment of the embodiment shown in FIG. 1 . The area above the housing surface 21 is covered by a cap 26. An uninflated balloon 1 is located in the area between the housing surface 21 and the cap 26. The uninflated or partially inflated balloon 1 is protected by the cap 26 and the housing surface 21. While the balloon 1 is inflated, the force conditions described above and illustrated in FIG. 4 apply. Essentially, the inflation of the balloon 1 and the resulting force conditions acting on the cap 26 are controlled by the properties of the housing surface 21. The frictional force between the inflating balloon 1 and the housing surface 21 controls the force generated by the inflating balloon 1 acting on the inner surface and, in turn, the release of the cap 26 from the housing surface 21. The friction between the housing surface 21 and the inflating balloon 1 ensures that the cap 26 is removed from the housing surface 21 only when the area between the housing surface 21 and the cap 26 is completely filled by the balloon 1.

[0177] The cap 26 may furthermore be connected to the housing surface 21 by a hinge (not shown in FIG. 4 ). The hinge may define the shape of the movement by which the cap 26 is removed from the housing surface 21.

[0178] Cap 26 may further be connected to housing surface 21 by a latching connection (not shown in FIG. 4) as an exemplary form of releasable mechanical connection.

[0179] Another embodiment is shown in various states and views in FIGS.

[0180] Figure 5 shows this alternative embodiment with the balloon 1 in an uninflated state. The signaling device shown in Figure 5 includes a balloon 1 with an opening 2. The balloon 1 is made of a stretchable material and is expandable by introducing a fluid. The device includes a valve 3 for introducing a fluid into the balloon, the valve 3 being disposed within the opening 2 when the balloon 1 is in an uninflated state.

[0181] The balloon 1 includes a light source 6 that includes a control device 4. The control device 4 has a variable length and has a first length in the uninflated state of the balloon 1. In this first length, the control device 4 switches the light source 6 on or off. The reference number 4 indicates the approximate location of the light source 6 within the folded balloon 1.

[0182] A first end 9 of the switching element 5 is fixed to a first balloon sub-region 7 of the balloon 1, and a second end 10 of the switching element 5 is fixed to a second balloon sub-region 8 of the balloon 1. Reference numerals 7, 8, and 9 are not included in FIG. 1 because the exact lengths of these elements are not depicted.

[0183] The above-mentioned balloon sub-regions 7, 8 are arranged within the folded balloon 1 in such a way that they are prevented from separating. In particular, the balloon sub-regions 7, 8 are prevented from separating in their folded state by filling the balloon 1 with a fluid and by the expansion of the balloon 1 caused by filling the balloon 1 with a fluid. This change in length or displacement of the switching element 5 and the switching of the light emitter 6 are prevented by the fact that the folded balloon 1 is kept within the closed area between the housing surface 21 and the lid 26 arranged on the housing surface 21 by these very elements.

[0184] In the signaling device shown in the figure, the opening 2 of the balloon 1 is connected to an inflation device 15. Essentially, the entire lower portion of the folded balloon 1 is referred to as the inflation device 15.

[0185] The inflation device 15 described below may be used independently of the balloon 1 having the light emitter 6 .

[0186] Inflation device 15 comprises housing 16 and tube 17 including a tube end region 18 facing opening 2. Opening 2 of folded balloon 1 surrounds the tube end region by forming an enclosing surface 19. In Figure 5, the opening region of opening 2 of balloon 1 is shown in dashed lines. Tube 17 and tube end region 18 are shown in solid lines.

[0187] The housing 16 comprises a flat housing surface 21 in the shape of an angled funnel, spaced from the tube 17 towards the tube axis 20 of the tube 17. The upper end of the tube 17 is formed in the centre of the layout of the funnel.

[0188] Until a fluid is introduced into the balloon 1, the opening 2 of the balloon 1 is maintained by a first friction force (FR1) acting between the surrounding surface 19 and the balloon 1. For this purpose, the relevant surface area of ​​the tube end region 18 may be roughened. It is also feasible for the tube end region 18 to be provided with an adhesive layer to maintain the opening 2.

[0189] A connecting element is disposed within the opening 2 of the balloon 1, and the connecting element is connected to an inflation device 15, in particular to a tube 17 for introducing fluid into the inside of the folded balloon 1. The connecting element ensures a fluid-tight flow of fluid from the tube 17 to the inside 11 of the folded balloon 1.

[0190] The connecting element may be formed as a sealing ring or may be formed integrally with the tube 17.

[0191] 5, the housing 16 is formed as a hollow prism having a polygonal layout, with the tube axis 20 and the cylinder axis 22 being aligned.

[0192] The funnel end region 27 of the funnel, which has a smaller diameter, is positioned above the tube end region 18 in the orientation of the tube axis 20 or cylinder axis 22 shown in Figure 5. This ensures that the folded balloon 1 is positioned above the tube end region 18. This makes it easier to inflate the folded balloon 1 because the folded balloon 1 has a minimal number of bends or creases.

[0193] The signaling device of the present invention is characterized in that the tube 17 is connected to at least one pressurized capsule 23, which is filled with helium. At least one spine 25 can be driven into each pressurized capsule 23 to open it. The embodiment of FIG. 5 comprises a rotating element 28 rotatable about the cylindrical axis 22 to drive the spines 25. Preferably, the driving of the spines 25 by the rotating element 28 is such that the spines 25 are introduced into the pressurized capsules 23 in a given order rather than simultaneously. Preferably, a single spine 25 is introduced into a pressurized capsule 23 after another spine 25 has been introduced into another pressurized capsule 23.

[0194] This sequential introduction of the spines 25 can be achieved by a mechanical system. It is also feasible that the spines 25 are placed in situ at different distances from the pressurized capsule 23 or that they are of different lengths.

[0195] Helium flows from pressurized capsule 23 through tube 17 and into balloon 1. The openings of pressurized capsule 23, spine 25, tube 17, and balloon 1 are arranged so that helium flows first downward and then upward through tube 17. This subsequent flow direction allows for advantageous placement of rotating element 28 in the lower region of housing 16. Housing surface 21 is located between rotating element 28 and lid 26. Figure 6 shows an exterior view of the embodiment shown in Figure 5. A user can grip the signaling device with one hand on the housing and the other on rotating element 28.

[0196] The embodiment shown in Figure 6 may be surrounded by a sheet that is not visible in Figure 6. The sheet may be formed as a watertight shell.

[0197] Figure 7 shows the embodiment shown in Figures 5 and 6, with the balloon 1 inflated, unlike in Figure 5. The balloon 1 is still connected to the inflation device 15.

[0198] The balloon 1 includes a light emitter 6, which includes a control device 4. A change in length or displacement of a switching element 5 of the control device 4 switches the light emitter 6 on. For this purpose, in the folded state of the balloon 1 shown in FIG. 5, a first end 9 of the switching element 5 is fixed to a first balloon subregion 7 of the balloon 1, and a second end 10 of the switching element 5 is fixed to a second balloon subregion 8 of the balloon 1. When the balloon 1 is filled with a fluid as shown in FIG. 6, and the balloon (1) is expanded by filling it with a fluid, the balloon subregions 7 and 8 move apart. This achieves the aforementioned change in length or displacement of the switching element 5, thereby switching the light emitter 6 on. The change in length or displacement of the switching element 5 is an ongoing process. FIG. 5 shows the control element characterizing the change in length or displacement of the light emitter 6 before it is switched on.

[0199] The light source 6 is placed at the top of the balloon 1. Since the balloon 1 is filled with helium, the light source 6 is always at the top.

[0200] In the state shown in FIG. 7, the opening 2 of the balloon 1 is connected to an inflation device 15 which comprises a housing 16 and a tube 17 which includes a tube end region 18 facing the opening 2 .

[0201] 7 shows the state of the balloon 1, in which the opening 2 of the balloon 1 surrounds the tube end region 18 by forming an enclosing surface 19. For this purpose, the opening 2 preferably has elastic properties. During the state shown in FIG. 7, a first frictional force FR1 acting between the enclosing surface 19 and the balloon 1 holds the balloon 1 in place.

[0202] Additionally, a second friction force FR2 acts between the funnel-shaped housing surface 21 and the expanding balloon 1. The second friction force FR2 decreases as the balloon 1 increases in size and is gradually released from the housing surface 21. Figure 7 shows the state of the balloon 1, in which it is only partially in contact with the housing surface 21.

[0203] The above-mentioned retention forces FR1 and FR2 are counteracted by the inflation force FL1 caused by the introduction into the balloon 1 and the repulsive force component FL2 of the expanding balloon 1 from the housing surface 21. These forces are subject to balance.

[0204] In the state of the balloon 1 shown in FIG. 7, the balloon 1 is still placed on the tube 17 together with the connecting element.

[0205] In the depiction of the signaling device shown in Figure 5, the lid 26 is arranged to clamp around the housing surface 21. When the balloon 1 expands and occupies the space, the lid 26 is released and the lid 26 is opened by rotating about the bearing 29.

[0206] FIG. 8 shows the embodiment of the signaling device shown in FIGS. 5-7 with the balloon 1 fully inflated.

[0207] The balloon 1 is inflated and thereby changes its shape, this inflation and shape change being visible from the depictions of FIGS. 5 to 7, thereby achieving a change in length or displacement of the luminous body 6.

[0208] A first end 9 of the switching element 5 is fixed to a first balloon sub-region 7 of the balloon 1. As a result of the balloon expanding and the associated length change or displacement of the switching element 4 to a second length, a second end 10 of the switching element 5 is released from a second balloon sub-region 8 of the balloon 1. This length change or displacement of the switching element 4 causes the light emitter 6 to be switched on by the control device 4 before the second end 10 is released from the second sub-region 8.

[0209] 7, helium flows from at least one gas container 23 into the balloon 1. This process is independent of whether the light emitter 6 is switched on and the force state acting on the balloon 1. Helium flows from at least one gas container 23 through the pressure chamber 39 and the valve into the tube 17 and then further into the balloon 1.

[0210] The valve 38 is arranged, in the direction of flow, at the end of the pressure chamber 39. The amount of gas that flows out of the pressure chamber 39 is controlled by means of the valve 38, thereby preventing noise generation.

[0211] The pressure chamber 39 can concentrate the gas flow from the vessel 23 and direct it to the valve 38 and the pipe 17. The pressure chamber 39 can be made of a reinforced material so that it can maintain pressure.

[0212] In the embodiment shown in Figure 8, the light emitter 6 is located at the top of the balloon 1, which is defined by the introduction of helium into the balloon 1 and the geometric shape of the balloon 1. The light emitter 6 is located in or on the balloon 1 on the side opposite the opening 2.

[0213] In addition to or instead of the light emitter, the balloon 1 may also comprise other electronic or electrical devices, such as for example a transmitter.

[0214] Inflating the balloon 1 with helium causes it to rise, thus achieving its detachment from the housing 16, in particular from the housing surface 21. There is no force holding the balloon 1. The connecting element is withdrawn from the tube 17.

[0215] The balloon 1 is connected to an inflation device 15 via a cord. The cord is housed in a coil so that it can be unwound.

[0216] The balloon 1 has a surface with light-reflecting properties, which may be located in a lower region of the balloon 1 opposite the light emitter 6.

[0217] FIG. 9 shows the housing 19 with the lid 26 open after the inflated balloon 1 and cord 30 have been removed.

[0218] 10 shows a simplified three-dimensional representation of an actuator for introducing a spine 25 into a pressurized capsule 23 so as to release fluid for inflating a balloon 1 contained within the pressurized capsule 23. The representation in FIG. 10 does not show elements necessary to ensure gas flow from a gas container into the balloon. The actuator may also operate independently of the balloon and / or the inflation device 15.

[0219] Balloon 1 and further elements not directly referenced in the following description of FIG. 10 are not included in FIG. 10 for clarity.

[0220] 10 shows a rotating element 28 that a user rotates in the direction shown. The rotation is transmitted to a first gear element 31. The rotating element 28 and the first gear element 31 are engaged via a non-visible recess in the rotating element and a visible protrusion 33 located in the first gear element 31. It is also feasible to form the first gear element 31 and the rotating element 23 integrally.

[0221] The first gear element 31 is engaged with the second gear element 32 via a guide 34. The guide converts the rotational motion of the rotating element 28 into linear motion of the second gear element 34, so that the second gear element 34 and the spine 25 applied to the second gear element 34 are moved linearly and parallel to the rotation axis of the rotational motion of the rotating element 28. The spine 25 is introduced into the pressurized capsules 23 by this linear motion. The spikes of the spine 25 have different distances from each pressurized capsule, so that the spine 25 is introduced into the pressurized capsules 23 successively.

[0222] The guide 34 is formed by a first guide element 35 of the first gear element 31 and a second guide element 36 of the second gear element 32. The first guide element 35 in the form of a protrusion slides along a suitable surface surrounding the rotation axis as the second guide element 36, whereby the rotational movement of the first guide element 35 is converted into a linear movement of the second guide element 36. The first guide element 34 is guided through a surrounding rim 37 of the second gear element 32 and / or through a cylindrical protrusion of the second gear element 32 (not shown in Figures 10 and 11) which the first guide element 35 surrounds.

[0223] FIG. 11 shows the second gear element 32 in detail.

[0224] FIG. 12 shows possible shapes of the spine 25.

[0225] 13 shows an additional extraction device 40 for extracting balloon 1 or opening 2 of balloon 1 from vessel and region 18. Extraction device 40 may be combined with the device shown in FIGS. 1-3 or the device shown in FIGS. 4-12, for example.

[0226] The extractor 40 includes a recess 41, which preferably has a circular shape. The extractor 40 further includes a handle 42, which extends radially from the circular opening 41.

[0227] 14 shows bottom and top views of the use of extraction device 41. The above-described embodiments may be combined with extraction device 43.

[0228] The retraction device 40 is positioned on the inflation device 15 so that the neck of the balloon 1 extends through the recess 41 along with the opening 2. By pulling on the handle 42 of the retraction device 40, the opening 2 of the balloon 1 is retracted from the tube end region 18. In the preferred embodiment shown herein, the handle 42 has the shape of an arrow indicating the direction of pulling to be applied.

Claims

1. A balloon (1) comprising an opening (2), a balloon (1) that can be expanded by introducing a fluid through the opening (2) and through a valve (3) disposed within the opening (2); A signaling device comprising: The balloon (1) further comprises a light source (6) including a control device (4), A change in length or displacement of the switching element (5) of the control device (4) switches on the light emitter (6), a first end (9) of the switching element (5) fixed to a first balloon part region (7) of the balloon (1); a second end (10) of the switching element (5) fixed to a second balloon part region (8) of the balloon (1); the balloon sub-regions (7, 8) are separated by filling the balloon (1) with the fluid and expanding the balloon (1) as the balloon (1) is filled with the fluid; Thereby, the change in length and / or displacement of the switching element (5) is achieved, whereby the light emitter (6) is switched on. A signaling device characterized by:

2. The light emitter (6) is located inside (11) of the balloon (1), or The light emitter (6) is integrated into the shell of the balloon (1), or The light emitter (6) is disposed on the shell of the balloon (1).

2. A signaling device according to claim 1, characterized in that:

3. the first balloon part region (7) is located in the region of the opening (2), and / or The second balloon sub-region (8) is located opposite the first balloon sub-region (7).

3. A signaling device according to claim 1, characterized in that it comprises:

4. A balloon (1) comprising an opening (2), a balloon (1) that can be expanded by introducing a fluid through the opening (2) and through a valve (3) disposed within the opening (2); A signaling device comprising: The balloon (1) further comprises a light source (6) therein, the light source (6) including a control device (4), The control device (4) is coupled to an input unit via a wireless contact, The input unit, when activated by a person, sends a signal to the control device (4) to switch on the light emitter (6). A signaling device characterized by:

5. A balloon (1) comprising an opening (2), a balloon (1) that can be expanded by introducing a fluid through the opening (2) and through a valve (3) disposed within the opening (2); A signaling device comprising: A transmitter is disposed within the balloon. A signaling device characterized by:

6. The opening (2) of the balloon (1) is connected to an inflation device (15); The expansion device (15) comprises a housing (16) and a tube (17) including a tube end region (18) facing the opening (2); The opening (2) surrounds the tube end region (18) by forming a surrounding surface (19), The housing (16) comprises a housing surface (21) in the form of a circular or angled funnel, which is curved or flat at a distance from the tube (17) towards the tube axis (20) of the tube (17), While the fluid is being introduced into the balloon (1), on the one hand, a first friction force (FR1) acting between the surrounding surface (19) and the balloon (1) and a second friction force (FR2) acting between the housing surface (21) and the expanding balloon (1) are: On the other hand, the inflation force (FL1) generated by the introduction into the balloon (1) and the rebound force component (FL2) of the expanding balloon (1) from the housing surface (21) are Balanced A signaling device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that it comprises:

7. The opening (2) of the balloon (1) is connected to an inflation device (15); The expansion device (15) comprises a housing (16) and a pipe (17) including a connecting element facing the opening (2), the connecting element allows a fluid-tight flow of the fluid from the tube (17) to the interior (11) of the balloon (1); said opening (2) can be released from said connecting element by overcoming a resistance force; While the fluid is being introduced into the balloon (1), on the one hand, a resistance force acting between the coupling force and the opening (2) and a second friction force (FR2) acting between the housing surface (21) and the expanding balloon (1) On the other hand, the inflation force (FL1) generated by the introduction into the balloon (1) and the rebound force component (FL2) of the expanding balloon (1) from the housing surface (21) are Balanced A signaling device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that it comprises:

8. 8. A signaling device according to claim 6, characterized in that the funnel end region (27) of the funnel, which has a smaller diameter, is arranged above the tube end region (18) in a vertical arrangement with the tube axis (20) or the cylinder axis (22).

9. A signaling device according to any one of claims 6 to 8, characterized in that the signaling device comprises a withdrawal element (40) for manually releasing the coupling element from the tube (17).

10. 10. A signaling device according to any one of claims 6 to 9, characterized in that the balloon (1) is connected to the inflation device (15) via a cord (30).

11. The expansion device (15) comprises a plurality of spines (25) each to be introduced into a respective pressurized capsule (23), The spine (25) has different lengths of extension in the direction of the respective capsule to be opened. A signaling device according to any one of claims 6 to 10, characterized in that it is

12. 12. A signaling device according to any one of claims 6 to 11, characterized in that the inflation devices (15) each comprise a lever (26) or a rotating element (28) or a pressing element as a respective actuating device for releasing the flow of fluid from the pressurized capsule (23) to the balloon (1).

13. the signaling device is disposed within the shell; The shell is opened by inflating the balloon (1). A signaling device according to any one of claims 1 to 12, characterized in that it comprises:

14. the shell comprises two elements movable relative to each other; 14. A signaling device according to claim 13, characterized in that one element serves as an actuating element for releasing the gas held in the pressurized capsule (23).

Images