Fire extinguishing devices

Abstract

The present invention relates to a fire extinguishing device comprising: a casing (2) delimiting an internal cavity (3) in which at least one dispersible fire extinguishing agent (4) is deposited; chemical means (5) suitable for producing an explosion that ruptures the casing (2) and disperses the fire extinguishing agent (4), the chemical means (5) comprising: at least one charge (6) that produces the explosion; and detonation means (7) intended to cause the explosion of the at least one charge (6), said detonation means (7) comprising: an ignition device (8) designed to cause the explosion of the at least one charge (6) when in an activated state; and an impact sensor (9) designed to detect a mechanical impact suffered by the device (1) and to activate the ignition device (8) upon detection of the mechanical impact.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention generally relates to the field of fire extinguishing.

[0002] More specifically, it relates to a fire extinguishing device.

Background Art

[0003] Whether in an urban area or in an inaccessible natural environment, a fire can cause human and physical damage.

[0004] Generally, the human resources and devices mobilized to fight fires are adapted to the scale of those fires and the associated locations.

[0005] A wide range of fire extinguishing devices are known, from simple foam or powder extinguishers to fire trucks and fire planes.

[0006] As described in U.S. Patent No. 6,786,382, there is also known a fire extinguishing product comprising a breakable container in the form of a sphere made of a rigid, low-density plastic material foam (e.g., expanded polystyrene foam) with a diameter of about 10 centimeters to several tens of centimeters, containing a dispersible chemical product effective against fires and a chemical initiating device associated with a fuse.

[0007] In the "active" approach, it is interesting to throw this fire extinguishing product directly into a fire in such a way that its fuse is ignited, ensuring activation of the initiating device, subsequent breakage of the container, and dispersion of the dispersible chemical product.

[0008] However, over time, such fire extinguishing products unfortunately become not entirely effective for this approach, especially depending on the location or structure of the fire to be extinguished.

[0009] Ideally, these fire extinguishing products should remain in the fire for a sufficient amount of time (at least a few seconds) to ensure that their fuses are ignited, the detonators are activated, and the release of the dispersive chemical product is ensured.

[0010] In this case, due to its inertia and trajectory, the fire extinguishing product may escape the fire before its fuse can detect it.

[0011] This can occur, for example, when the fire extinguishing product bounces out of the fire if the ground is sloped or the throwing speed is not appropriate. [Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0012] Therefore, these fire extinguishing products need to be improved to enable such an "active" approach. [Means for solving the problem]

[0013] The present invention therefore proposes a fire extinguishing device that improves / enhances fire extinguishing products, particularly those described in U.S. Patent No. 6,786,382, and is especially suited to such active approaches (thrown / discarded directly into a fire).

[0014] More specifically, the present invention provides a fire extinguishing device, - A casing (also called a shell or envelope), preferably fragile, having an internal cavity, and defining the boundary of an internal cavity in which at least one dispersible fire extinguishing agent is deposited, A fire extinguishing device is proposed that includes a chemical processing means suitable for causing an explosion that ruptures the casing and disperses the fire extinguishing agent.

[0015] Chemical processing methods are, - At least one propellant charge that causes the aforementioned explosion, - Detonator for causing the explosion of the at least one charge and Includes.

[0016] According to the present invention, the detonation means is - An ignition device, which is designed to cause the explosion of at least one propellant charge when it is in an active state, - Includes an impact sensor designed to detect a mechanical shock received by the device and to activate the ignition device when the mechanical shock is detected.

[0017] Therefore, in practice, the device according to the present invention can be thrown directly into a fire thanks to its impact-generating system, and its fire-extinguishing agent can be released into (or even very close to or onto) the fire.

[0018] In fact, as soon as the thrown device damages a surface (advantageously within this fire), its impact sensor detects the mechanical impact and activates the ignition device (instantaneously, or with a time delay or waiting period).

[0019] In its active state, the ignition device (instantaneously) detonates at least one of the propellants, naturally causing the casing to rupture and the fire extinguishing agent to disperse.

[0020] Such a device according to the present invention no longer requires the fire exposure time required for fire extinguishing products known from the prior art.

[0021] Generally speaking, the impact sensor according to the present invention is advantageous in that it has two positions, namely, - Initial position where the ignition device is inactive, - The final position in which the ignition device is active and Includes a movable part that can move between The movable part is - means for elastic return towards said final position, and - holding means designed to hold said movable part in said initial position and to release said movable part during said mechanical shock which cooperate.

[0022] According to a preferred embodiment, the holding means includes a metal part, such as a ball, sandwiched between the movable part and the support part.

[0023] During a mechanical shock, the metal part is then intended to be extracted (removed) from its position / initial state (advantageously due to its inertia).

[0024] By the movement of this metal part, the movable part is then released and this movable part is actuated from its initial position to its final position under the influence of the elastic return means.

[0025] Generally and according to a particular embodiment, the ignition device is an electric ignition device also called an igniter. The shock sensor consists of an electric module connected to said electric ignition device.

[0026] Preferably, the electric module - includes a power source, and - a switch integrating said movable part, said movable part being able to move between two positions, namely - an initial position in which the switch is open and - a final position in which the switch is closed. can move between.

[0027] The electric ignition device advantageously - indirectly through a pyrotechnic fuse connecting said primer head and said at least one charge, or - directly within said at least one charge includes a primer head cooperating with said at least one charge.

[0028] Preferably, the detonation means includes a state indicator means adapted to indicate the activated state of an impact sensor (selected from, for example, acoustic, visual, etc.).

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

[0030] In this case, a mechanical ignition device has an advantage. - The firing pin that forms the movable part, - A primer intended to be struck by the firing pin when the firing pin switches from the initial position to the final position, - At least one fuse intended to be ignited by the primer and extending to the at least one propellant charge and Includes.

[0031] In some cases, the retaining means is preferably embedded between the firing pin and the primer.

[0032] Other non-limiting advantages of the products according to the present invention, viewed individually or in all technically possible combinations, are as follows: - The impact sensor is located outside the internal cavity, on the surface of the casing, or away from the casing, or is integrated into the internal cavity, and the impact sensor is advantageously positioned on the surface of the casing using removable fastening means, such as adhesive tape or a structure that enters the casing, and preferably additional pads are used and added to form a “target mark” to facilitate the positioning of the primer head facing the chemical fuse. - The impact sensor is advantageously protected within a shell having a shape selected from a spherical cap and a sphere. - The casing consists of a spherical casing made of, for example, at least one plastic material. - The detonation means includes primer means intended to be controlled in such a manner that it enables the ignition device to switch to the active state when the mechanical shock is detected.

[0033] The present invention also relates to a fire extinguishing system, wherein the system - At least one device according to the present invention, - At least one aircraft, advantageously a drone, including at least one drop module adapted to receive the at least one device and to drop the at least one device onto a fire, and Regarding fire extinguishing systems, including those mentioned above.

[0034] The present invention also relates to a firefighting method, the method comprising the step of dropping, advantageously from an aircraft, preferably a drone, at least one device according to the present invention, such that the at least one propellant charge is activated when the device scratches a surface after it has fallen.

[0035] The present invention also provides a detonation means for a device according to the present invention, - An ignition device, which, when in an active state, is designed to cause the explosion of at least one propellant charge, - An impact sensor, which is designed to detect a mechanical shock received by the device and to activate the ignition device when the mechanical shock is detected. This relates to detonation methods, including those mentioned above.

[0036] Naturally, the different features, alternative forms, and embodiments of the present invention can be related to each other in various combinations, provided that they are not incompatible or mutually exclusive.

[0037] Furthermore, various other features of the present invention will become apparent from the accompanying description with reference to drawings illustrating non-limiting embodiments of the present invention. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0038] [Figure 1] This is a schematic cross-sectional view of a fire extinguishing device according to the present invention, which includes an electric detonation means comprising an impact sensor formed by an external electrical module fastened to a casing and an internal electric ignition device. [Figure 2] Figure 1 is a schematic perspective view of an embodiment in which the impact sensor is separated from the casing. [Figure 3] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram showing the components of the impact sensor. [Figure 4] Figure 3 is a schematic exploded view of the shock sensor. [Figure 5] Figure 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing an alternative embodiment for an electric detonation means. [Figure 6] Figure 5 is a schematic diagram showing the electrical detonation mechanism. [Figure 7] Figures 1-6 show electrical diagrams of the electric detonation mechanism. [Figure 8] This is a schematic and partially exploded view of another alternative form of a fire extinguishing device in which the electric detonation means is equipped with an external electric ignition device. [Figure 9] Figure 8 shows a schematic and partially enlarged view of the fire extinguishing device, illustrating the assembly between the fuse and the electric ignition device. [Figure 10] Similarly, this is a schematic diagram of an alternative configuration of a fire extinguishing device in which the electric detonation mechanism is concentrated inside the casing. [Figure 11] This is a schematic diagram showing the components of a mechanical detonation device. [Figure 12] This is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the detonation mechanism according to Figure 11, which is arranged in the casing (partially shown). [Figure 13] Figure 11 is a schematic perspective view of the mechanical detonation mechanism. [Figure 14] Figure 11 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the detonation mechanism after the primer means has been removed. [Figure 15] This is a partial cross-sectional view of an alternative embodiment for assembling the detonation means in the casing. [Figure 16]Figure 15 is a schematic perspective view of the detonation mechanism. [Figure 17] This is a schematic cross-sectional view with two detail drawings showing a device in which the external impact sensor is located away from the casing. [Figure 18] This is a schematic perspective view of a firefighting system according to the present invention, including at least one device (shown in the detailed drawing) and a drone-type aircraft. [Figure 19] This is a schematic exploded view showing a modified form of a surface-mounted impact sensor according to Figure 8 or 9, having a primer head in an "indirect" arrangement configuration. [Figure 20] Figure 19 is a schematic diagram of the impact sensor, including a partial cross-sectional view. [Figure 21] This is a schematic diagram illustrating an alternative configuration of a fire extinguishing device in which the electric detonation mechanism is partially concentrated inside the casing. [Figure 22] Figure 18 is a schematic partial diagram of a drone-type aircraft, showing a launching means designed to control a primer means equipped with a device according to the present invention. [Figure 23] Figure 18 is a schematic partial diagram of a drone-type aircraft, showing an embodiment of its drop module. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0039] Note that in these diagrams, structural and / or functional elements common to different alternative forms may have the same reference numerals.

[0040] Figures 1-17 and 19-21 show the fire extinguishing device according to the present invention.

[0041] Generally speaking, device 1 is - A casing 2 that defines the boundary of an internal cavity 3 in which at least one dispersible fire extinguishing agent 4 is deposited, - Chemical means 5, which is suitable for causing an explosion that ruptures the casing 2 and disperses the fire extinguishing agent 4, Includes.

[0042] Casing 2 thus advantageously consists of a fragile casing, also known as a "breakable" casing, adapted to withstand the mechanical shocks described below while simultaneously being degraded by the explosions produced by the chemical means 5.

[0043] This casing 2, in this case, advantageously has a spherical shape (spherical form).

[0044] The casing 2 is advantageously made of a rigid and low-density plastic material, such as a foamed plastic, such as expanded polystyrene foam.

[0045] This casing 2 is advantageously encased in a plastic protective film.

[0046] This casing 2 is advantageously said to have an outer diameter of about 10 centimeters, or several tens of centimeters.

[0047] The at least one fire extinguishing agent 4 is preferably a dispersible chemical product effective against fire, preferably in the form of a powder.

[0048] The at least one fire extinguishing agent 4 is advantageously selected from a powder fire extinguishing agent consisting of essentially non-toxic inorganic salts mixed with a water-repellent anticoagulant, and various additives (such as stearate, silicone, starch, and inert minerals) to facilitate its flow.

[0049] Such powders can be obtained based on sodium bicarbonate or potassium, or ammonium phosphate and / or sulfuric acid (preferably ammonium phosphate).

[0050] Chemical processing method 5 is, - At least one propellant charge 6 (also called a "chemical charge") that produces an explosion adapted to rupture the casing 2 and disperse the fire extinguishing agent 4, - Detonator 7 for causing the explosion of at least one of the propellant charges 6 and Includes.

[0051] The at least one of the propellant charges 6 is advantageously embedded within the internal cavity 3, more preferably in the center of the latter.

[0052] The at least one propellant charge 6 is advantageously embedded within the at least one fire extinguishing agent 4. In other words, the at least one propellant charge 6 is advantageously surrounded (or enclosed) by the at least one fire extinguishing agent 4.

[0053] The at least one propellant charge 6 is selected, for example, from among gunpowder used in fireworks (preferably a deflagration mixture of sulfur, potassium nitrate (saltpeter), and charcoal), particularly in ammunition.

[0054] The at least one of the propellant charges 6 is advantageously contained in a casing which may be made of various materials (such as paper, fiber, or plastic).

[0055] Here, the detonator 7 that forms the system that causes the shock is - An ignition device 8, when in an active state, is designed to cause the explosion of at least one propellant charge 6, - An impact sensor 9 designed to activate the ignition device 8 when a mechanical shock is detected, - Preferably, a state indicator means 10 adapted to indicate and inform the activation state of the impact sensor 9 (as shown in Figures 7, 8, 19-21), - Preferably, primer means 11 intended to be controlled to prevent / enable switching the ignition device 8 to an active state when a mechanical shock is detected by the shock sensor 9. Includes.

[0056] The ignition device 8 advantageously comprises means adapted to produce combustion of the at least one propellant charge 6.

[0057] Such an ignition device 8 is advantageously selected from among chemical detonators. This is advantageously comprised of an electric ignition device or a mechanical ignition device, as will be described below in connection with various figures herein.

[0058] Such an ignition device 8 therefore has two states, namely, - The initial and inactive states of the at least one propellant charge 6 that do not cause the explosion, and - Having a final active state adapted to cause the explosion of at least one of the propellant charges 6.

[0059] This ignition device 8 advantageously has two main configurations with respect to at least one propellant charge 6, namely, - A “direct” arrangement configuration in which the ignition device 8 is directly positioned within the at least one propellant charge 6 (particularly Figure 1), - The ignition device 8 may have an "indirect" arrangement configuration (in particular, Figures 8, 9, 19, or 20) in which it is connected to the at least one propellant charge 6 via a chemical fuse 89.

[0060] The chemical fuse 89 described above is advantageous in this case as extending from at least one of the propellant charges 6 and reaching the outer surface of the casing 2.

[0061] The chemical fuse 89 may include an annular section 891 (which can be seen in Figure 8) that extends along the circumference of the outer surface of the casing 2 and in the transverse plane of the casing 2.

[0062] In addition to the active use of such chemical fuses 89 (where they are thrown onto a target surface), it may also be interesting to consider the passive use of device 1, which would come into contact with the fire.

[0063] Furthermore, the impact sensor 9 is designed to detect the mechanical impact received by the device 1 on the one hand, and to activate the ignition device 8 when the mechanical impact is detected on the other hand.

[0064] The term “mechanical impact” advantageously includes the amplitude acceleration resulting from the impact / collision of device 1 on a receiving surface or target surface. Such a mechanical impact also corresponds to a discontinuity in the velocity of the moving device 1.

[0065] As a non-limiting example, such a mechanical impact corresponds to an impact on the rigid demand surface of device 1 being dropped from a height of at least 0.5 m (or even more, at least 1 m, or even more, at least 1.5 m).

[0066] The impact sensor 9 has two advantageous states, namely, - The ignition device 8 also remains in its inactive state during the initial, stationary, and - The final activated state in which the impact sensor 9 controls the ignition device 8 to its active state, which is adapted to cause the explosion of at least one propellant charge 6. It holds.

[0067] For this purpose, these states of the impact sensor 9 are advantageously obtained by the movement of the movable part 91, as shown, for example, in Figures 7 and 11.

[0068] The impact sensor 9 has an advantage in this situation because it can be positioned in two locations, namely, - The initial position of the ignition device 8 corresponding to the stationary state of the shock sensor 9 when it is inactive (solid lines in Figures 7, 11, 20, and 21), and - The final position corresponding to the activated state of the shock sensor 9, which drives the ignition device 8 to its active state (discontinuous line in Figures 7 and 11) It includes a movable part 91 that can move between them.

[0069] For this purpose, the movable part 91 has at least one component with 1 degree of freedom, preferably a rotational degree of freedom (Figures 3, 7, 11) or a translational degree of freedom around the rotation axis 91'.

[0070] For that implementation, the movable part 91 is advantageous, - Elastic return means 92 for elastic return toward the final position, and - Retaining means 93 designed to hold the movable part 91 in its initial position and to release the movable part 91 in the event of mechanical impact. We will collaborate with them.

[0071] The elastic return means 92 advantageously consists of mechanical means, such as a spring means, designed to help move the movable part 91 from its initial position to its final position.

[0072] The retaining means 93 is advantageously intended to deteriorate or deform in the event of mechanical impact.

[0073] The holding means 93 here includes at least one metal part 931, such as a metal ball 931, which is intended to be extracted (removed) from its position / initial state due to its inertia when the impact sensor 9 is subjected to impact / collision with a receiving surface.

[0074] As described above, the metal part 931 is intended to be extracted (removed) from its position / initial state by the rigid receiving surface of the device 1 when it is dropped from a height of at least 0.5 m (or even more, at least 1 m, or even more, at least 1.5 m).

[0075] In this specification, the metal part 931 is advantageously sandwiched (directly or indirectly) between the movable part 91 and the support part 94 in the initial position.

[0076] During a mechanical impact, the movement of the at least one metal part 931 then releases the movable part 91, which is then actuated from its initial position to its final position under the influence of the elastic return means 92.

[0077] Generally, the impact sensor 9 (or all or part of the ignition device 8) may advantageously have different positions in this device 1, i.e., - The impact sensor 9 may be located outside the internal cavity 3, for example, on the surface of the casing 2 (as shown in Figure 1, for example), also known as "surface-mounted" (Figure 17), or at a distance from the casing 2, or - The impact sensor 9 can be fully or partially integrated within the internal cavity 3 (see, for example, Figures 10 and 21).

[0078] The impact sensor 9 is therefore a removable fastening means 12, for example, - Adhesive tape 121 (Figure 13), or - Structure 122 that enters the casing 2 (Figures 15 and 16) This allows it to be applied to the surface of the casing 2 (surface mounted).

[0079] The drive structure 122 includes, for example, a rod terminated by a hook fin.

[0080] The impact sensor 9, located away from the casing 2 (Figure 17), has the advantage that it may, in some cases, contact the target surface before the casing 2 (when the device 1 falls with the impact sensor 9 suspended below). In this case, the explosion occurs much higher than the ground, further improving the dispersion of the at least one fire extinguishing agent 4.

[0081] Generally, the impact sensor 9 (or even the entire or partial ignition device 8) is advantageously protected within the shell 13.

[0082] The shell 13 is made of, for example, a rigid plastic material that is advantageous in that it can withstand the mechanical impacts described above.

[0083] Shell 13 has an advantage, - In particular, a spherical cap 131 for surface mounting on the casing 2 (particularly in Figures 1 and 2), (advantageously having a concave bottom surface 132 to conform to the casing 2), and - Spherical parts for fixtures, especially those located away from casing 2 (particularly Figure 17) It has a shape selected from the following.

[0084] The status indicator means 10 is therefore adapted to indicate / notify the activation status of the impact sensor 9.

[0085] These status indicator means 10 are selected from, for example, acoustic components (e.g., buzzer or pager) and / or optical components (e.g., light-emitting diode or LED).

[0086] Such a state indicator means 10 is particularly useful in avoiding the risk of inadvertently switching the activated shock sensor 9 to the ignition device 8 and connecting it to the activated state.

[0087] As an alternative or complementary form, such a state indicator means 10 is a delay means (e.g., an electronic delay means) for ignition by the ignition device 8 to warn people nearby of an impending explosion that would cause the fire extinguishing agent 4 to disperse, and is intended to emit a signal immediately after an impact that would cause the impact sensor 9 to switch to an activated state.

[0088] As an alternative or complementary form, the state indicator means 10 is intended to enable the positioning of the ignition device 8 after an explosion, for example, to restore the power source 95 (e.g., a battery pack or a single cell).

[0089] The primer means 11 is advantageously intended to cooperate with the movable part 91, potentially via the retaining means 93, in such a way as to lock / hold the movable part 91 in its initial position in the event of a mechanical shock (e.g., before use, during transport).

[0090] For example, the pin-type primer means 11 is advantageously intended to be removed / degraded to allow the ignition device 8 to switch to an active state when a mechanical shock is detected.

[0091] Preferably, these primer means 11 (with external gripping portions) are accessible through the shell 13 (preferably with a spherical cap 131) for removal and reduction.

[0092] In practice and generally, the primer means 11 is removed if necessary.

[0093] Device 1 can be moved into the fire to be extinguished in a manner such as landing on the target surface (e.g., by being thrown, thrown in, dropped, or sent).

[0094] Upon impact on the target surface, the impact sensor 9 is moved from its initial, stationary state to its final, activated state.

[0095] For this purpose, in this specification, the movable part 91 is moved from its initial position (solid line in Figures 7 and 11) to its final position (discontinuous line in Figures 7 and 11).

[0096] This displacement is ensured by the elastic return means 92 after the retention means 93 has deteriorated.

[0097] In the activated state, the impact sensor 9 controls the ignition device 8 to its activated state (either immediately or with a time delay), which causes the explosion of the at least one propellant charge 6 and the dispersion of the at least one fire extinguishing agent 4.

[0098] This dispersion advantageously forms a cloud of fire extinguishing agent 4, enabling a sudden three-dimensional firefighting effect.

[0099] Furthermore, according to the present invention, device 1 may take on different embodiments.

[0100] A first group of embodiments according to the present invention are shown in Figures 1-10 and 19-21.

[0101] In these first embodiments, each device 1 includes an ignition device 8, which is an electric ignition device 8 also called an igniter or electric igniter.

[0102] Conventionally, such igniters 8 enable instantaneous ignition via power lines.

[0103] Igniter 8 generally consists of a short-circuit resistor, which is brought into contact with the ball of chemical mixture.

[0104] As shown in Figure 7, the igniter 8 consists of a primer head 81 welded to a double conductor 82 (for example, made of mercury fulminate). When a short circuit occurs in the double conductor 82, the primer head 81 is heated by the Joule effect and reaches its auto-ignition temperature.

[0105] The primer head 81 can be arranged in various configurations to cooperate with the at least one propellant charge 6, i.e., - A "direct" arrangement configuration in which the primer head 81 is directly housed within the at least one propellant charge 6 (Figures 1, 5, 10, or 21), or - An "indirect" arrangement configuration in which the primer head 81 cooperates with the chemical fuse 89 connecting the primer head 81 and the at least one propellant charge 6 (Figures 8, 9, 19, and 20) It may have.

[0106] Regarding "direct" mounting, according to the first embodiment shown in Figure 2, the double conductor 82 extends radially within the casing 2 and cavity 3 in such a manner that it is terminated by an external electrical connection 83 for connection to the impact sensor 9, which is provided with a complementary electrical connection 99.

[0107] Regarding the "direct" mounting, according to the second embodiment shown in Figures 5 and 6, the double conductor 82 extends radially within the casing 2 and cavity 3 along the entire length of the tube 84 originating from the impact sensor 9.

[0108] The tube 84 advantageously includes a terminal section 84a oriented to facilitate its introduction, which is provided with a window 85 in which the primer head 81 is located.

[0109] This terminal portion 84a is intended to be, advantageously, housed within or inserted into at least one of the propellant charges 6. The flame generated by the primer head 81 is intended to exit through the window 85.

[0110] For the "indirect" mounting, the primer head 81 is advantageously attached to the annular section 891 of the chemical fuse 89.

[0111] For example, as shown in Figure 8, retention is achieved by, for example, an adhesive element 811 (e.g., an adhesive pad).

[0112] Alternatively, the concave lower surface 132 is a hole 1321, which includes a hole in which the primer head 81 is positioned (Figures 19 and 20). In this case, the primer head 81 is advantageously attached to the annular section 891 of the chemical fuse 89. Holding the primer head 81 in the chemical fuse 89 is advantageously achieved by attaching the ignition device 8 to the casing 2.

[0113] In this case, an additional pad 15 forming a "target mark" is advantageously used and added to facilitate the positioning of the primer head 81 facing the chemical fuse 89.

[0114] This additional pad 15 is advantageously intended to be positioned between the casing 2 and the ignition device 8.

[0115] The additional pad 15 is advantageously made of an adhesive plastic film.

[0116] The additional pad 15 is crown-shaped, which is advantageous. - Internal edge 151 defining the boundary of the through hole, adapted to face the primer head 81 and chemical fuse 89, - Intended to follow casing 2, advantageously adhesive lower surface 152, - The upper surface 153 intended to receive the concave lower surface 132 of the shell 13, and - Outer edge 154 It holds.

[0117] Regarding the positioning of the ignition device 8, the upper surface 153 advantageously includes a mark corresponding to the outline of the concave lower surface 132 of the shell 13. Alternatively, the outline of the outer edge 154 corresponds to the outline of the concave lower surface 132 of the shell 13.

[0118] In practice, the additional pad 15 is attached to the casing 2 in such a manner that its internal edge 151 surrounds a portion of the chemical fuse 89. The ignition device 8 is then positioned favorably within the casing 2 thanks to the presence of the additional pad 15, and for this purpose, an adhesive element 811 with a concave lower surface 132 of the shell 13 is optionally attached to the upper surface 153 of the additional pad 15.

[0119] In these first embodiments, the impact sensor 9 advantageously consists of an electrical module connected to the electric ignition device 8.

[0120] The term "electrical module" refers to a device that includes an electrical circuit consisting of an assembly of electrical and / or electronic components.

[0121] In this specification, as schematically shown in Figures 7, 19 and 20, the electrical module 9 is advantageous in that - Advantageously, an insulating blade 951 associated with a power source 95, such as a battery pack or single cell, which is intended to be removed to initiate power supply. - A switch 96 that integrates the movable part 91 and Includes.

[0122] This electrical module 9 is intended to be electrically connected to the electric ignition device 8.

[0123] The movable part 91 is therefore in two positions, namely, - Switch 96 is in the open position, and the ignition device 8 is not receiving power from the power source 95, is constrained, and is in its initial position (solid line). - Switch 96 is in the closed position, the ignition device 8 is powered by the power source 95, stationary, in its final position (discontinuous line) and You can move between them.

[0124] In the initial position or state, the metal part 931 (in this case, the ball 931) is sandwiched between, on the one hand, the movable part 91 of the switch 96 in the initial position and its open state, and on the other hand, the opposing support part 94.

[0125] As an alternative configuration (not shown), instead of the movable part 91, the electrical module 9 may include an accelerometer-type sensor, preferably a non-servo accelerometer, and more precisely, advantageously, - Piezoelectric detection accelerometer, - Piezoresistive accelerometer, - Capacitive accelerometer It may include an accelerometer-type sensor that can be selected from among the following.

[0126] In this case, the electrical module 9 also has an advantage. - Power source 95, for example, a battery pack or individual cells, - Control means (e.g., microcontroller) that work in cooperation with an accelerometer-type sensor Includes.

[0127] The state indicator means 10 is advantageously adapted to emit a signal (such as an acoustic or visual signal) when the impact sensor 9 is in an activated state.

[0128] For this purpose, the electrical module 9 integrates, for example, sound means (buzzer), visual means (LED), etc.

[0129] The status indicator means 10 is optionally adapted to emit a signal when the movable part 91 is in its final position (when the switch 96 is closed).

[0130] The state indicator means 10 is therefore intended to prevent the shock sensor 9 from being assembled to the ignition device 8 while it is in the activated state, at the risk of causing an immediate switch to its active state.

[0131] As an alternative or complementary form, in the presence of a time delay, such a state indicator means 10 may emit a signal after impact to warn surrounding operators of an impending explosion that would cause the dispersion of the fire extinguishing agent 4.

[0132] As an alternative or complementary form, the state indicator means 10 may also be useful for positioning and resetting the ignition device 8 after an explosion.

[0133] The primer means 11 here optionally consists of a pin 111 that penetrates the metal part 931, or even the support part 94, in such a manner as to extend between the support part 94 and the movable part 91.

[0134] In this first group, different combinations (non-restrictive) are therefore possible, as shown in the figure, i.e., - On the one hand, Figures 1 and 2, and on the other hand, Figures 5 and 6, assume an impact sensor 9 located on the outside of the internal cavity 3, on the surface of the casing 2, with a primer head 81 (internal) directly housed within at least one propellant charge 6. - Figures 8, 9, 19, and 20 show an impact sensor 9 located on the surface of the casing 2, outside the internal cavity 3, with an external primer head 81 cooperating with the chemical fuse 89. - Figures 10 and 21 show an impact sensor 9 located inside the internal cavity 3, which has a primer head 81 (internal) directly housed within at least one propellant charge 6. - Figure 17 shows an impact sensor 9 located outside the internal cavity 3, away from the casing 2, which has a primer head 81 (internal) directly housed within at least one propellant charge 6, and the impact sensor 9 is here fixed to the casing 2 via a flexible link formed, for example, of a double conductor 82.

[0135] In particular, Figure 10 assumes an impact sensor 9 that is entirely located inside the internal cavity 3, with a primer head 81 (internal) directly housed within at least one propellant charge 6.

[0136] Figure 21 illustrates an impact sensor 9 that is partially located inside the internal cavity 3 (with a portion of its shell 13 accessible through the casing 2), and includes a primer head 81 (internal) directly housed within at least one propellant charge 6.

[0137] As shown in Figure 21, the shell 13 advantageously includes a spherical cap 131 that forms a continuous portion of the casing 2 of the device 1 (the radius of the spherical cap 131 is the same as the radius of the casing 2).

[0138] In this embodiment, the casing 2 preferably includes a through-hole adapted for the insertion (preferably with a gap) of the impact sensor 9. This through-hole is therefore preferably closed by the additional impact sensor 9.

[0139] The casing 2 is advantageously provided with a second through-hole to facilitate the filling of the casing 2 with the fire extinguishing agent 4. This second through-hole is intended to be closed after filling, for example, with a polystyrene plug.

[0140] For this purpose, the casing 2 preferably comprises two identical semi-enclosures (or semi-shells or hemispheres) each having a through hole (preferably at their tops).

[0141] These two half-enclosures are intended to be assembled together to form the casing 2 of device 1.

[0142] In practice, in these first embodiments, during a collision, the metal part 931 may be ejected from its initial position.

[0143] The movable part 91 can therefore move from its initial position (solid line) where the switch 96 is open to its final position (discontinuous line) where the switch 96 is stationary in its closed position.

[0144] As an alternative, and depending on the circumstances, mechanical shocks are detected by an accelerometer.

[0145] The activated shock sensor 9 then controls the ignition device 8 to its active state, causing a short circuit in the double conductor 82 in such a way that the primer head 81 is heated by the Joule effect and reaches its auto-ignition temperature.

[0146] The primer head 81 is - If the primer head 81 is directly housed within the at least one propellant charge 6 (Figures 1, 5, 10, or 21), then directly, or - When the primer head 81 cooperates with the chemical fuse 89 connecting the primer head 81 and the at least one propellant charge 6 (Figures 8, 9, 19, or 20), indirectly, This causes the explosion of at least one propellant charge 6 and the dispersion of at least one fire extinguishing agent 4.

[0147] A second group of embodiments according to the present invention are shown in Figures 11 to 14.

[0148] In these second embodiments, device 1 includes an ignition device 8 which consists of a mechanical ignition device 8.

[0149] For example, as shown in Figure 11, the mechanical ignition device 8 is - The firing pin 91 that forms the movable part 91, - A primer 97 intended to be struck by the firing pin 91 when the firing pin 91 switches from the initial position to the final position (under the influence of the elastic return means 92), - Intended to be ignited by the primer 97 and (preferably via the chemical fuse 89 above) at least one fuse 98 extending up to the at least one propellant charge 6 Includes.

[0150] The fuse 98 is advantageously positioned to reach below the ignition device 8, with its helical portion intended to cover the aforementioned chemical fuse 89. This particular shape of the fuse 98 aims to optimize the chemical fuse 89.

[0151] Preferably, as specified herein, the retaining means 93 is embedded between the firing pin 91 and the primer 97.

[0152] The holding means 93 is located here, - The above metal part 931, - A movable stopper 932 that cooperates with the elastic return means 933 and Includes.

[0153] The fastener 932 is adapted to, on the one hand, sandwich the metal part 931 with the support part 94, and on the other hand, to hold the movable part 91 in its initial position.

[0154] The fastener 932 has two limit positions, namely, - The fastener 932 is inserted into the path of the movable part 91 to hold the movable part 91 in its initial position, and the extended position (Figure 11) is held by the metal part 931, - The storage position of the metal part 931 after removal, under the operation of the elastic return means 933, in which the stopper 932 is separated from the path of the movable part 91 (firing pin) in order to allow the movable part 91 to be switched to its final position. Between these points, movement can occur by translating along the translation axis 932'.

[0155] In the extended position, the metal part 931 is therefore sandwiched between the fastener 932 (in the extended position) and the support part 94.

[0156] The primer means 11 is here, - A pin 111 that penetrates the metal part 931 in such a manner that it extends between the support part 94 and the movable stopper 932, - A plate 112 that forms a screen positioned in front of the primer 97 and positioned in the path of the movable part 91, Includes.

[0157] Here again, different (non-restrictive) arrangements are possible.

[0158] Figures 11-16 show an assumed impact sensor 9 located on the outside of the internal cavity 3, on the surface of the casing 2, which works in conjunction with the chemical fuse 89.

[0159] As an alternative and non-limiting configuration, the impact sensor 9 may be located inside the internal cavity 3.

[0160] In practice, in these second embodiments, the metal part 931 is ejected from its initial position upon impact.

[0161] After the removal of the metal part 931 and under the operation of the elastic return means 933, the stopper 932 is actuated to its retracted position in such a manner that it moves away from the stroke of the movable part 91 in order to allow the movable part 91 to be switched to its final position.

[0162] The movable part 91 can therefore move from its initial position (solid line) to its final position (discontinuous line), where it is stationary and damages the primer 97, which ignites the fuse 98 and causes the propellant charge 6 to explode (here via the chemical fuse 89).

[0163] Device 1 according to the present invention is advantageously implemented within a fire extinguishing system 20 (Figures 18, 22, and 23).

[0164] Such a system 20 is - At least one device 1 according to the present invention, - At least one aircraft 21, advantageously drones and Includes.

[0165] The at least one aircraft 21 includes at least one drop module 22 adapted to receive at least one device 1 according to the present invention and to drop the at least one device 1 onto a fire.

[0166] The drop module 22 is advantageous for this purpose, having two positions, namely, - A closed transport position for storing at least one device 1, - An open drop position for at least one device 1 to fall and It holds.

[0167] Such a drop module 22 includes, for example, a housing 221 associated with a movable closing means 222 (Figures 18 and 23).

[0168] Control between these two locations is performed remotely by an operator.

[0169] According to the embodiment shown in Figure 23, the movable closing means 222 includes, for example, a closing element 2221 (e.g., a strap) that penetrates the lower opening of the housing 211 in such a manner as to hold the device 1 in a transport position.

[0170] The closing element 2221 works in cooperation with an actuator 2222 (e.g., a servo motor) to operate the closing element 2221 between the transport position (Figure 23) and the drop position (not shown).

[0171] In this specification, strap 2221 is, - Fixed end attached to the frame of aircraft 21, - A movable end that works in cooperation with actuator 2222 and It holds.

[0172] According to an advantageous embodiment, the at least one aircraft 21 also includes a launching means 23 provided for controlling a primer means 11 equipped with the device 1 according to the present invention before the device 1 falls (Figure 22).

[0173] The starting means 23 includes, for example, an actuator 231 (e.g., a servo motor) connected to the primer means 11 via a connecting element 232.

[0174] The activation means 23 is adapted to operate the primer means 11 in a removed / degraded state, advantageously immediately before control of the drop module 22, in order to enable switching the ignition device 8 to an active state when a mechanical shock is detected.

[0175] In practice, such a system 20 makes it possible to implement firefighting methods.

[0176] This method includes the step of dropping at least one device 1 according to the present invention from an aircraft 21 positioned above a fire which will be advantageously extinguished.

[0177] For this purpose, at least one drop module 22 is controlled from its transport position to its drop position.

[0178] As described above, when device 1 damages the surface after falling, the at least one propellant charge 6 is activated (immediately), which causes the at least one fire extinguishing agent 4 to disperse (immediately).

[0179] Naturally, various other modifications can be made to the present invention within the scope of the attached claims.

Claims

1. It is a fire extinguishing device, The aforementioned device (1) - A casing (2) that defines the boundary of an internal cavity (3) in which at least one dispersible fire extinguishing agent (4) is deposited, - A chemical processing means (5) suitable for causing an explosion that ruptures the casing (2) and disperses the fire extinguishing agent (4) and Includes, The aforementioned chemical processing means (5) - At least one propellant charge (6) that causes the explosion, - Detonation means (7) for causing the explosion of the at least one propellant charge (6) and In a fire extinguishing device including, The aforementioned detonation means (7) - An ignition device (8) which, when in an active state, is designed to cause the explosion of the at least one propellant charge (6), - An impact sensor (9) is designed to detect a mechanical shock received by the device (1) and to activate the ignition device (8) when the mechanical shock is detected. Includes, The ignition device (8) consists of an electric ignition device (8) also called an igniter, and the shock sensor (9) consists of an electrical module connected to the electric ignition device (8). The aforementioned electrical module (9) - Accelerometer-type sensor, - Power source (95), - Control means that cooperate with the accelerometer-type sensor and It includes, and The aforementioned electric ignition device (8) - A fire extinguishing device comprising a primer head (81), wherein the primer head (81) indirectly cooperates with the at least one propellant charge (6) through a chemical fuse (89) connecting the primer head (81) to the at least one propellant charge (6).

2. The fire extinguishing device according to claim 1, characterized in that the detonation means (7) includes a state indicator means (10) adapted to indicate the activated state of the impact sensor (9).

3. The impact sensor (9) - Located outside the internal cavity (3), on the surface of the casing (2), or away from the casing (2), - Integrated in the internal cavity (3) A fire extinguishing device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that...

4. The fire extinguishing device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the detonation means (7) includes a primer means (11) intended to be controlled in such a way as to enable the switching of the ignition device (8) to the active state when the mechanical shock is detected.

5. A fire extinguishing system, wherein the system is - At least one device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, - At least one aircraft (21), advantageously a drone, including at least one drop module (22) adapted to receive the at least one device (1) and to drop the at least one device (1) onto a fire. A fire extinguishing system that includes this.

6. A firefighting method, the method comprising the step of dropping, advantageously from an aircraft (21), preferably a drone, at least one device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, in such a manner that the at least one propellant charge (6) is activated when the device (1) damages a surface after it has fallen.

7. Detonation means (7) for the device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, - An ignition device (8) which, when in an active state, is designed to cause the explosion of the at least one propellant charge (6), - An impact sensor (9) is designed to detect a mechanical shock received by the device (1) and to activate the ignition device (8) when the mechanical shock is detected. In the detonation means (7) including, The ignition device (8) consists of an electric ignition device (8) also called an igniter, and the shock sensor (9) consists of an electrical module connected to the electric ignition device (8). The aforementioned electrical module (9) - Accelerometer-type sensor, - Power source (95), - Control means that cooperate with the accelerometer-type sensor and It includes, and The aforementioned electric ignition device (8) - Detonation means (7) comprising a primer head (81), wherein the primer head (81) indirectly cooperates with the at least one propellant charge (6) through a chemical fuse (89) connecting the primer head (81) to the at least one propellant charge (6).

Images