THE CONTAINER AND METHOD FOR RESCUING IT

Abstract

The invention relates to a container, which comprises at least two main inflatable parts, preferably of an elongated shape, a detection device, one or more hydrostatic self-releasing devices, one or more air-supplying devices, in which at least two main inflatable parts can be in at least two positions: an inactive position, in which the inflatable parts are deflated, and an active position, in which the inflatable parts are inflated. Furthermore, the invention relates to a method for salvaging a container that has fallen into the sea by detecting the container falling or having fallen into the sea, activating the hydrostatic self-releasing devices, activating the air-supplying devices, such that the activations cause the inflatable parts, incorporated in the container, to move from: an inactive position, in which the inflatable parts are deflated in the chambers of the container behind the covers, to: an active position, in which the inflatable parts are inflated.

Description

[0001] A CONTAINER WITH INTEGRATED INFLATABLE PORTIONS

[0002] FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0003] The present invention relates to a container, said container comprising a top section and a bottom section, two end sections, two side sections, at least two main inflatable portions, preferably having an elongated shape, such as an elongated balloon, detection means, such as one or more electrodes, one or more hydrostatic self-releasers, one or more gas providers, wherein the at least two main inflatable portions can take at least two positions: a non-active position, wherein the inflatable portions are deflated, and an active position, wherein the inflatable portions are inflated, and preferably, wherein when the detection means detect said container is falling or had fallen overboard, said inflatable portions takes an active position, wherein the inflatable portions are being inflated via the hydrostatic self-releaser and the gas providers, and wherein said inflatable portions are being integrated in the container.

[0004] Furthermore, the invention relates to a method for rescuing an overboard falling container from sinking, preferably a container according to any of the preceding claims, wherein said method comprises the steps of: detecting, by detecting means such as electrodes, that a container is falling or has fallen overboard, activating hydrostatic self-releasers, activating gas providers, wherein said activations lead to inflatable portions, integrated in a container, to go from: a non-active position, wherein the inflatable portions are deflated in cavities of the container behind cover plates, to an active position, wherein the inflatable portions are inflated, preferably inflated via hydrostatic self-releasers and gas providers, preferably sending a signal by an antenna of the location of the container such that the container can be salvaged.

[0005] BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0006] The world calls for an improved solution for containers that fall or have fallen overboard during shipment. Today, when containers have fallen overboard, they are very rarely salvaged, either because they sink too fast or because their location cannot be tracked by a rescue team. Containers in the ocean are deeply harming, pollutive and cause serious damage to the environment.

[0007] Hence, improved solutions for providing an optimal and better possibility for rescuing overboard fallen containers are requested. Preferably, an efficient and reliable container solution, suitable for being shipped on a container ship, and in particular a more sustainable, mechanically strong, economical container with longevity would be advantageous.

[0008] OBJECT OF THE INVENTION

[0009] It is an object of the present invention to provide an alternative to the prior art.

[0010] In particular, it may be seen as an object of the present invention to provide a container that solves the above-mentioned problems by improving its possibility for being salvaged.

[0011] DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0012] Thus, the above-described object and several other objects are intended to be obtained in a first aspect of the invention by providing a container, said container comprising:

[0013] - a top section and a bottom section,

[0014] - two end sections,

[0015] - two side sections,

[0016] - at least two main inflatable portions, preferably having an elongated shape, such as an elongated balloon,

[0017] - detection means, such as one or more electrodes,

[0018] - one or more hydrostatic self-releasers,

[0019] - one or more gas providers (500), preferably said gas providers being:

[0020] - one or more gas cartridges (500’), and / or

[0021] - one or more of chambers comprising at least one chemical substance and / or chemical compound, wherein when said substances and / or compound is activated, gas is provided, wherein the at least two main inflatable portions can take at least two positions:

[0022] - a non-active position, wherein the inflatable portions are deflated, - an active position, wherein the inflatable portions are inflated, preferably, wherein when the detection means detect said container is falling or had fallen overboard, said inflatable portions take an active position, wherein the inflatable portions are being inflated via the hydrostatic self-releaser and the gas providers, and wherein said inflatable portions are being integrated in the container.

[0023] The invention is particularly, but not exclusively, advantageous for providing a container solution for containers that have fallen overboard during shipment, wherein the container provides a better possibility for rescuing the overboard fallen container.

[0024] While being more optimal for being rescued, the container is furthermore efficient and reliable, more sustainable, mechanically strong and an economical solution.

[0025] The container solution of the invention provides a container, wherein inflatable portions are blown up when it is detected that the container is falling or has fallen overboard. The inflated portions make sure that the container(s) are floating and not sinking for an extensive amount of time, at least time enough for a rescue team to find and salvage the container(s).

[0026] Moreover, the invention provides a container that is suitable for being stacked, and further for providing a system wherein a stack of overboard fallen containers can be rescued. This is provided by an integrated rescue solution.

[0027] In the context of the present invention, "container" may be understood as an object for holding or transporting something. In this invention, the container is preferably made of metal, being box shaped and having standard dimensions such as 10 foot, 20 foot, 40 foot.

[0028] In the context of the present invention, "deflated" may be understood as being empty for air / gas, preferably also being folded. In the context of the present invention, "inflated" may be understood as being filled with air / gas, preferably being unfolded and blown up.

[0029] In the context of the present invention, "detecting means" may be understood as being means suitable for detecting that a container is falling or has fallen overboard. The detection means may be one or more electrodes, batteries, accelerometers, or any other suitable detectors.

[0030] Electrodes will detect water, such as salt water. It will detect when the container has fallen overboard. The electrodes may be copper and zinc detecting a voltage difference over the two electrodes.

[0031] Accelerometers will detect an unforeseen movement of the container. They will detect when the container is falling overboard.

[0032] Other detection means may be used within the invention.

[0033] In the context of the present invention, "gas cartridge" may be understood as any vessel comprising gas. The shape of the cartridge should not be limiting for the invention. It may also be understood as a gas cylinder or the like.

[0034] In the context of the present invention, “integrated" may be understood as being built into an element, being positioned in an element, or the like, such as the inflatable portions being positioned in a cavity or the like of the container and not being an outer portion attached to the container.

[0035] Within the invention, it should be understood that:

[0036] The at least two inflatable portions are kept in their non-active position until released, preferably such as activated and / or inflated.

[0037] The one or more hydrostatic self-releasers are adapted to release the at least two inflatable portions from their non-active position,

[0038] The one or more gas providers are configured to inflate the at least two inflatable portions, when released from their non-active position. In one embodiment of the invention the container comprises at least two main cavities for containing a main inflatable portion, said main cavities being positioned at each respective side of the container.

[0039] The embodiment is particularly, but not exclusively, advantageous for providing a container solution, wherein the inflatable portions are positioned securely, protected, and integrated in the container.

[0040] In one embodiment of the invention each main cavity comprises a main inflatable portion and one or more gas providers.

[0041] The embodiment is particularly, but not exclusively, advantageous for providing a container solution, wherein each cavity comprises a module, such as a rescuing module, consisting of at least the portions to be inflated for holding the container over water and prevent it from sinking, and the gas providers that provides the possibility of inflating the portions, such as balloons.

[0042] Preferably, each cavity also comprises a self-releaser. However, it may be possible to have a central releaser system.

[0043] The one central or the more decentral releasers are in some way connected to the releasers.

[0044] In the context of the present invention, it should be understood that each cavity may comprise more than one gas providers, such as two, three, four or more.

[0045] In one embodiment of the invention, each side of the container comprises the same number of cavities, and / or the position of the cavities is substantially symmetrical on each side of the container.

[0046] The embodiment is particularly, but not exclusively, advantageous for providing a container, wherein the container is kept, as much as possible, in a stable nontilting position when floating in the water. In one embodiment of the invention the container comprises cover plates for covering the cavities when being in a non-active position, and wherein the number of cover plates correspond to the number of cavities.

[0047] The embodiment is particularly, but not exclusively, advantageous for providing a container solution, wherein the inflatable portions are secured and protected behind cover plates, such that the inflatable portions are not damaged and destroyed under normal operations and circumstances.

[0048] It is important to protect the inflatable portions, such that no holes or scratches or the like are made in the portions, such that the portions can keep in the gas inflated into them, when the container is falling or has fallen overboard.

[0049] In one embodiment of the invention, the cover plates are hinged to the container.

[0050] It should be understood, that hinging the cover plates to the container is only one embodiment.

[0051] The cover plates may also be attached to and / or mounted on the container in many other ways.

[0052] Preferably, the cover plates are attached to and / or mounted on the container such that the cover plates are detached from the container, when the inflatable portions are inflated.

[0053] In one embodiment of the invention the cover plates have one or more comers being rounded off.

[0054] The embodiment is particularly, but not exclusively, advantageous for providing cover plates with no sharp comers, which thereby have less risk of damaging the inflatable portions.

[0055] In one embodiment of the invention each side of the container comprises at least two cover plates, preferably four, and the cover plates are hinged substantially at the horizontal middle line of the side of the container, and the at least two cover plates on each side are opening towards the middle line of the container side in an active position.

[0056] The embodiment is particularly, but not exclusively, advantageous for providing covers for the inflatable portions, and wherein the covers open toward the middle to lower the risk of the plates smacking on the inflatable portions when the portions are inflated.

[0057] It should be understood that the cover plates opening towards the middle is not a limitation of the invention, though a preferred embodiment.

[0058] In one embodiment of the invention the container comprises eight main inflatable portions, four main inflatable portions at each side of the container.

[0059] In one embodiment of the invention the container comprises: mounting plates positioned inside each cavity, and wherein each of the main inflatable portions are mounted on a mounting plate.

[0060] The embodiment is particularly, but not exclusively, advantageous for providing an easy and reliable mounting of the inflatable portions.

[0061] Preferably, the inflatable portions are attached in the top and the bottom of the mounting plate, preferably with fittings and / or threads.

[0062] In one embodiment of the invention the gas cartridge has a tube or pipe-like shape, and preferably wherein the length of the gas cartridge is between the length of the main inflatable portion and the length of the main cavity.

[0063] The embodiment is particularly, but not exclusively, advantageous for providing a gas vessel suitable for fitting into the cavity. The cavity may be narrow, and not all vessel for gas may fit into the narrow space in the cavity. Therefore, it is preferred that the gas vessels have a suitable shape to fit into the cavity.

[0064] The length of the gas cartridge may be desired as long as possible to provide the largest amount of gas possible for inflating the inflatable portion. In one embodiment of the invention the gas provider is at least one chamber comprising at least one chemical substance and / or chemical compound, wherein when said substances and / or compound is activated, gas is provided.

[0065] In one embodiment of the invention the gas provider comprises two chambers, wherein the chambers each comprise a chemical substance and / or compound, and wherein when the gas provider is activated, the content of the two chambers is combined and provides a gas.

[0066] In one embodiment of the invention the gas provider comprises a box, wherein said box comprises at least one chamber and a blow-out pipe, preferably comprising two chambers.

[0067] The embodiments are particularly, but not exclusively, advantageous for providing an effective, reliable and safe gas providing system, which at the same time has a very little area-consuming need.

[0068] Within the invention, the “chamber” way by understood as a reservoir, a vessel, a box or the like.

[0069] Within the invention, an example of an embodiment may be that inside the one or more chambers it can be both liquid and solid substances and / or compounds, such as a fluid.

[0070] It can be a mix between two substances and / compounds, or only one sub- stance / com pounds.

[0071] The gas is provided either by an actual mixing of substances and / or compounds or by ignite and / or heating and / or burning, such as via a glow wire and / or filament.

[0072] Both of the solutions of mixing or ignite / burning / heating may develop heat.

[0073] The heat of the gas is cooled down on when traveling to the inflatable portions, such as when traveling through a blow-out pipe / exhaust pipe. The inflatable portions may preferably be inflated with a pressure of substantially 0,2-2 bar. Preferably about 0,5-1 ,5 bar, more preferably substantially about 1 bar.

[0074] It should be understood that the bar level is not to be seen as a limitation of the invention.

[0075] The substance I compound in one or more of the chambers may as one of many options by natriumazid (NaN3).

[0076] The gas formed when the contents of the two chambers are mixed may be dinitrogen, CO2 or similar.

[0077] As an example, natriumazid (NaN3) will when ignited / heated / burned to a temperature, such 275 C, split into natrium and dinitrogen: 2NaN3(s) 2Na(l) + 3N2(g)

[0078] (s) = solid, (I) = liquid, (g) = gas

[0079] The chambers may be made of metal which preferably can withstand minimum 275 degrees C.

[0080] The chambers may be placed (embedded) in a box made of plastic (composite), preferably with a metal cover, which preferably is also a mounting bracket.

[0081] The box is preferably robust and / or vandal-proof.

[0082] The blow out pipe I exhaust pipe may be a steel pipe, preferably having a great material thickness I wall thickness. The material thickness cools the desired gas type down when traveling through the pipe.

[0083] Preferably the blow out I exhaust pipe and the box are a single unit.

[0084] The pipe may act as a point of mixing substances and / or compounds from the chambers and / or as a point of cooling the gas.

[0085] The hydrostatic self-release is functioning as sensor, which triggers the reaction of proving a desired gas from by: 1 ) the mixing of substances and / or compounds from the one or more chambers and / or

[0086] 2) from the ignite and / or heating and / or burning of a substance I compound from a chamber.

[0087] There may be a trigger that ignites the reaction or make a hole in the chemical chambers.

[0088] The trigger may be a cap, such as a percussion cap and / or blasting cap, that ignites a reaction. Or the trigger may punch a hole in the chambers.

[0089] The gas provider (or the gas provider system) is preferably built into the container sides. The chamber is positioned close to the inflatable portions, as the pipe must be connected to the inflatable portions.

[0090] It may be understood that within the invention, the gas provider can be a gas provider system comprising one or more of:

[0091] - at least one chamber comprising a substance and / or a compound,

[0092] - a blow-out pipe and / or

[0093] - a box.

[0094] In one embodiment of the invention the container comprises:

[0095] - a ventilation grid,

[0096] - a grid inflatable portion,

[0097] - preferably a grid hydrostatic self-releaser, and wherein, when the container is falling or has fallen overboard, the ventilation grid is adapted to block water from entering the container through the grid by the grid inflatable portion being inflated.

[0098] The embodiment is particularly, but not exclusively, advantageous for providing a container solution that ensures the possibility of ventilation of the container during shipping, though also providing a solution wherein water is not flowing into the container as it is blocked by an inflatable portion when the container has fallen overboard and lies in the ocean water. If water flows into the container, the cargo in the container may be damaged, and if water fills up the container, the weight will increase significantly, and the risk of the container sinking will thereby also increase.

[0099] In one embodiment of the invention the grid inflatable portion is positioned behind the grid, such as in a grid cavity.

[0100] The embodiment is particularly, but not exclusively, advantageous for providing a position of the grid inflatable portion that is safe and secure from being damaged, and still provides optimal blocking when inflated.

[0101] In one embodiment of the invention the container further comprises a waterproof box or chamber for protecting electronic parts, said box or chamber at least comprising: one or more circuit boards, and one or more batteries.

[0102] The embodiment is particularly, but not exclusively, advantageous for securing that the electronic parts of the container solution are not damaged if the container has falling overboard into the ocean.

[0103] The waterproof chamber or box is preferably hermetically sealed, such as when the electronic parts are cast / moulded into the box chamber.

[0104] The (hermetically sealed) waterproof chamber or box provides a solution where the electronic parts are not exposed to for example salt (water) vapour.

[0105] The electronic parts may be the parts controlling the container solution.

[0106] In one embodiment of the invention the container further comprises a module inside the container adapted for measuring the condition I the diagnose inside the container.

[0107] The module may comprise one or more sensors.

[0108] The condition being measured may be: temperature, humidity, etc.

[0109] In one embodiment of the invention the container further comprises an antenna, said antenna being adapted to send a signal of the location of the container, preferably the antenna is positioned substantially in the center point of an end of the container, preferably at the opposite end of the container doors.

[0110] The embodiment is particularly, but not exclusively, advantageous for providing a container solution, wherein, when the container has fallen overboard, the antenna adapted to send a location signal is kept over the water, and thereby providing the lowest risk for the antenna to be defected.

[0111] In one embodiment of the invention the antenna is encased in a waterproof material, such as epoxy.

[0112] The embodiment is particularly, but not exclusively, advantageous for providing a container solution wherein, when the container has fallen overboard, the antenna adapted to send a location signal is secured from getting in touch with water, and thereby providing the lowest risk for the antenna to be defected.

[0113] The material is preferably epoxy, though it may be any composite material or another optimal material.

[0114] In one embodiment of the invention the waterproof box or chamber is positioned at least substantially next to the antenna, or wherein the antenna is positioned inside the waterproof box.

[0115] The embodiment is particularly, but not exclusively, advantageous for providing a rescue system wherein the antenna is fully secured and protected from water.

[0116] In one embodiment of the invention the container is a part of a system, said system comprising more than one container, such as a stack of containers.

[0117] The embodiment is particularly, but not exclusively, advantageous for providing a container rescue system, wherein the inflatable portion adapted to rescue the container(s) from sinking is performing optimally, even though the containers have falling overboard in a stack. In a second aspect, the invention further relates to a method for rescuing an overboard falling container from sinking, preferably a container according to any of the preceding claims, wherein said method comprises the steps of:

[0118] - detecting, by detecting means such as electrodes, that a container is falling or has fallen overboard,

[0119] - activating hydrostatic self-releasers,

[0120] - activating a gas provider, wherein said activations lead to inflatable portions, integrated in a container, to go from:

[0121] - a non-active position, wherein the inflatable portions are deflated in cavities of the container behind cover plates, to:

[0122] - an active position, wherein the inflatable portions are inflated, preferably inflated via hydrostatic self-releasers and gas providers,

[0123] - preferably sending a signal by an antenna of the location of the container, such that the container can be salvaged, wherein the steps of the method can be executed in any order and / or executed simultaneously.

[0124] The second aspect of the invention is particularly, but not exclusively, advantageous for providing a method for rescuing an overboard falling container from sinking.

[0125] In one embodiment of the invention, water entering through a ventilation grid of the container is blocked by:

[0126] - activating grid hydrostatic self-releasers,

[0127] - activating grid gas providers,

[0128] - wherein said activations lead to grid inflatable portions, positioned near the ventilation grid, to go from:

[0129] - a non-active position, wherein the grid inflatable portions are deflated, to: an active position, wherein the grid inflatable portions are inflated, preferably inflated via grid hydrostatic self-releasers and grid gas providers.

[0130] The first and second aspect of the present invention may each be combined with any of the other aspects. These and other aspects of the invention will be apparent from and elucidated with reference to the embodiments described hereinafter.

[0131] Embodiments from the system / product should be seen as applicable to the method, and embodiments from the method should be seen as applicable for the product / system.

[0132] DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWING

[0133] Various examples are described hereinafter with reference to the figures. Like reference numerals refer to like elements throughout. Like elements will, thus, not be described in detail with respect to the description of each figure. It should also be noted that the figures are only intended to facilitate the description of the examples. They are not intended as an exhaustive description of the claimed invention or as a limitation on the scope of the claimed invention. In addition, an illustrated example need not have all the aspects or advantages shown. An aspect or an advantage described in conjunction with a particular example is not necessarily limited to that example and can be practiced in any other examples even if not so illustrated, or if not so explicitly described.

[0134] Exemplary embodiments of the invention are described in the figures, whereon:

[0135] Figure 1 a illustrates a 3D drawing of a container according to the invention. Figure 1 b illustrates a 3D drawing of cover plates opening and a cavity.

[0136] Figure 1 c illustrates a 3D drawing of a ventilation grid.

[0137] Figure 2a-d illustrate a container with inflatable portions in a non-active position. Figure 3a-d illustrate a container with inflatable portions during a transition from a non-active position to an active position. Figure 4a-d illustrate a container with inflatable portions in an active position. Figure 5a-d illustrate a container with inflatable portions in an active position. Figure 6a illustrates a waterproof box positioned at a container.

[0138] Figure 6b illustrates an encased antenna.

[0139] Figure 6c illustrates a detector means.

[0140] Figure 6d illustrates positions of an antenna and detection means.

[0141] Figure 7a illustrates a ventilation grid with an inflatable portion.

[0142] Figure 7b illustrates a gas provider system with chambers.

[0143] Figure 8 illustrates a stack of container fallen overboard.

[0144] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0145] Exemplary examples will now be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings. In this regard, the present examples may have different forms and should not be construed as being limited to the descriptions set forth herein. Accordingly, the examples are merely described below, by referring to the figures, to explain aspects.

[0146] Throughout the specification, when an element is referred to as being “connected” to another element, the element is “directly connected” to the other element, “electrically connected”, “fluidic connected” or “communicatively connected” to the other element with one or more intervening elements interposed there between.

[0147] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular examples only and is not intended to be limiting. As used herein, the terms “comprises" "comprising" "includes" and / or "including" when used in this specification specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof.

[0148] Unless otherwise defined, all terms used herein (including technical and scientific terms) have the same meaning as commonly understood by those skilled in the art to which this invention pertains. It will be further understood that terms, such as those defined in commonly used dictionaries, should be interpreted as having a meaning that is consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant art and will not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless expressly so defined in the present specification.

[0149] FIG. 1a illustrates a 3D drawing of a container according to the invention, being a container 100, said container comprising:

[0150] - a top section 110 and a bottom section 120,

[0151] - two end sections 130, 130’,

[0152] - two side sections 140,

[0153] - at least two main inflatable portions 200, preferably having an elongated shape, such as an elongated balloon,

[0154] - detection means 300, such as one or more electrodes,

[0155] - one or more hydrostatic self-releasers 400,

[0156] - one or more gas providers500, wherein the at least two main inflatable portions 200 can take at least two positions:

[0157] - a non-active position NP, wherein the inflatable portions 200 are deflated,

[0158] - an active position AP, wherein the inflatable portions 200 are inflated, preferably, wherein when the detection means 300 detect that said container 100 is falling or has fallen overboard, said inflatable portions 200 take an active position AP, wherein the inflatable portions 200 are being inflated via the hydrostatic self-releaser 400 and the gas provider(s) 500, and wherein said inflatable portions 200 are being integrated in the container 100.

[0159] In all the illustrations of the figures, the container 100 comprises eight main inflatable portions, four main inflatable portions 200 at each side 140 of the container.

[0160] However, it is important to note that this is a preferred embodiment and not a limitation to the invention.

[0161] There should be at least one inflatable portion 200 at each of the two sides 140 of the container 100, though a plurality of inflatable portions 200 at each side are preferred. In FIG. 1a the container 100 comprises four cavities 600 on each side 140 of the container. Within the invention, at least one cavity 600 comprising an inflatable portion 200 must be positioned at each side 140 of the container. Within the invention, each side 140 of the container 100 comprises the same number of cavities 600, and / or the position of the cavities is substantially symmetrical on each side of the container.

[0162] In FIG. 1 a the cavities 600 are positioned near the four respective corners of the container 100. Each of the cavities 600 comprise at least an inflatable portion 200, preferably further comprising a gas provider500 and a self-releaser 400 (not shown).

[0163] The container illustrated in FIG. 1a is in a position between a non-active NP and an active position AP.

[0164] FIG. 1 b illustrates a 3D section of cover plates 700 opening and a cavity 600. The cover plates 700 are hinged to the container 100.

[0165] The illustration of the content of the cavities 600 is one embodiment of many possibly solutions. Within the cavity 600 illustrated in FIG. 1 b is a deflated and folded inflatable portion 200 mounted on a mounting plate 800.

[0166] Furthermore, a gas cartridge 500 with a tube-like shape positioned at the top of the cavity 600 is illustrated. However, the position of the gas cartridge 500 should not be seen as limiting to the invention.

[0167] Also, in FIG. 1 d the gas cartridge 500 is between the length of the main inflatable portion 200 and the length of the main cavity 600. However, the length of the gas cartridge 500 should not be seen as limiting to the invention.

[0168] FIG. 1 c illustrates a 3D section of a ventilation grid 900. The ventilation grid preferably comprises a grid inflatable portion 920 (see FIG. 7) connected to a grid hydrostatic self-releaser 940, and wherein, when the container 100 is falling or has fallen overboard, the ventilation grid 900 is adapted to block water from entering the container through the grid by the grid inflatable portion 920 being inflated. The ventilation grid 900 is illustrated in FIG. 1 c to be positioned at the corner of the container. It should be understood that the ventilation grid can be positioned at any suitable position at the container.

[0169] FIG.2a-d illustrate a container 100 with inflatable portions 200 in a non-active position NP. The container illustrated comprises four cover plates 700 covering four cavities 600 comprising an inflatable portion 200 (not shown).

[0170] Within the invention the container 100 comprises cover plates 700 for covering the cavities 600 when being in a non-active position NP, and wherein the number of cover plates 700 correspond to the number of cavities 600.

[0171] The cover plates 700 are hinged substantially at the horizontal middle line ML of the side 140 of the container 100, and the cover plates 700 on each side 140 are opening towards the middle line ML of the container 100 side in an active position AP.

[0172] FIG. 2a illustrates the container 100 from a side-perspective.

[0173] FIG. 2b illustrates the container 100 from an end-perspective.

[0174] FIG. 2c illustrates the container 100 from a top- / bottom perspective.

[0175] FIG. 2d illustrates the container 100 from a in a 3D perspective.

[0176] FIG.3a-d illustrate the same container 100 as in FIG. 2a-d with inflatable portions 200 during a transition from a non-active position NP to an active position AP.

[0177] FIG. 3a illustrates the container 100 from a side-perspective.

[0178] FIG. 3b illustrates the container 100 from an end-perspective.

[0179] FIG. 3c illustrates the container 100 from a top- / bottom perspective.

[0180] FIG. 3d illustrates the container 100 from a in a 3D perspective.

[0181] FIG.4a-d and 5a-d illustrate the same container 100 as in FIG. 2a-d and FIG. 3a-d with inflatable portions 200 in an active position AP.

[0182] FIG. 4a and 5a-d illustrate the container 100 from a side-perspective. FIG. 4b and 5a-d illustrate the container 100 from an end-perspective. FIG. 4c and 5a-d illustrate the container 100 from a top- / bottom perspective.

[0183] FIG. 4d and 5a-d illustrate the container 100 from a in a 3D perspective.

[0184] FIG. 6a illustrates a waterproof box 150 positioned at a container 100.

[0185] The waterproof box 150 or chamber 150 is adapted to protect electronic parts, said box or chamber at least comprising:

[0186] - one or more circuit boards, and

[0187] - one or more batteries.

[0188] In the illustration, the box 150 is positioned at an end 130 of the container and substantially in the center point CP of the end. It is preferred that the box 150 is positioned substantially near the antenna 160 (not shown).

[0189] In FIG. 6a four potential positions of gas providers500 are illustrated. It should be understood that within the invention one gas providers500 can potentially be positioned in one of the illustrated positions within the cavity 600, or there can be a plurality of gas providers500 within the same cavity 600 positioned such as illustrated or in any other optimal positions.

[0190] FIG. 6b illustrates an encased 170 antenna 160.

[0191] The container of the invention preferably comprises an antenna 160, said antenna being adapted to send a signal of the location of the container 100, preferably the antenna 160 is positioned substantially in the center point CP of an end 130 of the container 100, preferably at the opposite end of the container doors 130. The antenna 160 is encased 170 in a waterproof material, such as epoxy as illustrated in FIG. 6b.

[0192] FIG. 6c illustrates a detector means 300. The detection means illustrated is two electrodes in a chamber / box. The electrodes 300 are adapted to detect salt water, if water enters the box / chamber. The detector means perform as an overboard switch.

[0193] The detection means 300 is in FIG. 6d illustrated as being positioned at substantially the center of a side 140 of the container 100. However, it should be understood that the position of the detection means 300 is not limiting to the invention. FIG. 6d illustrates possible positions of an antenna and detection means. The antenna is positioned at the center of an end, and the detection means at the center of the side of a container.

[0194] FIG. 7a illustrates a ventilation grid with an inflatable portion and a grid hydrostatic self-releaser. When the container is falling or has fallen overboard, the ventilation grid is adapted to block water from entering the container through the grid by the grid inflatable portion being inflated.

[0195] In FIG. 7a the grid inflatable portion is positioned behind the grid, such as in a grid cavity.

[0196] FIG. 7b illustrates a gas provider 500 (system) comprising chambers 500”.

[0197] The gas provider 500 is at least one chamber 500” comprising at least one chemical substance and / or chemical compound, wherein when said substances and / or compound is activated, gas is provided.

[0198] The embodiment of the gas provider 500 (system) illustrated in FIG. 7b comprises two chambers 500”, wherein the chambers each comprises a chemical substance and / or compound, and wherein when the gas provider is activated, the content of the two chambers is combined and provides a gas (not show).

[0199] Furthermore in FIG. 7b the gas provider comprises a box 560, wherein said box comprises two chambers 500” and a blow-out pipe 550.

[0200] FIG. 8 illustrates a stack of containers 100 fallen overboard, whereby a container is a part of a system, said system comprising more than one container, such as a stack of containers 100.

[0201] FIG. 8 further illustrates a situation wherein the method for rescuing an overboard falling container 100 from sinking should be performed.

[0202] The method comprises the steps of:

[0203] - detecting, by detecting means 300 such as electrodes, that a container is falling or has fallen overboard,

[0204] - activating hydrostatic self-releasers 400,

[0205] - activating a gas provider500, wherein said activations lead to inflatable portions 200, integrated in a container 100, to go from: - a non-active position NP, wherein the inflatable portions 200 are deflated in cavities 600 of the container behind cover plates 700, to:

[0206] - an active position AP, wherein the inflatable portions 200 are inflated, preferably inflated via hydrostatic self-releasers 400 and gas providers500,

[0207] - preferably sending a signal by an antenna 160 of the location of the container 100, such that the container can be salvaged.

[0208] Although the present invention has been described in connection with the specified embodiments, it should not be construed as being in any way limited to the presented examples. The scope of the present invention is set out by the accompanying claim set. In the context of the claims, the terms "comprising" or "comprises" do not exclude other possible elements or steps. Also, the mentioning of references such as "a" or "an" etc. should not be construed as excluding a plurality. The use of reference signs in the claims with respect to elements indicated in the figures shall also not be construed as limiting the scope of the invention. Furthermore, individual features mentioned in different claims may possibly be advantageously combined, and the mentioning of these features in different claims does not exclude that a combination of features is not possible and advantageous.

[0209] LIST OF REFERENCES

[0210] Container (100)

[0211] Top section (110)

[0212] Bottom section (120)

[0213] End sections (130, 130’)

[0214] Side sections (140)

[0215] Waterproof box (150) or waterproof chamber (150)

[0216] Antenna (160)

[0217] Encasing (170)

[0218] Main inflatable portions (200)

[0219] Detection means (300)

[0220] Hydrostatic self-releasers (400)

[0221] Gas provider (500)

[0222] Gas cartridges (500’)

[0223] Chamber (500”)

[0224] Blow-out pipe (550)

[0225] Box (560)

[0226] Non-active position (NP)

[0227] Active position (AP)

[0228] Main cavities (600)

[0229] Cover plates (700)

[0230] Mounting plates (800)

[0231] Ventilation grid (900)

[0232] Grid inflatable portion (920)

[0233] Grid hydrostatic self-releaser (940)

[0234] Grid gas provider (950)

[0235] Grid cavity (960)

Claims

CLAIMS1 . A container (100), said container comprising:- a top section (110) and a bottom section (120),- two end sections (130, 130’),- two side sections (140),- at least two main inflatable portions (200), preferably having an elongated shape, such as an elongated balloon,- detection means (300), such as one or more electrodes,- one or more hydrostatic self-releasers (400),- one or more gas providers (500), preferably said gas providers being:- one or more gas cartridges (500’), and / or- one or more of chambers (500”) comprising at least one chemical substance and / or chemical compound, wherein when said substances and / or compound is activated, gas is provided, wherein the at least two main inflatable portions (200) can take at least two positions:- a non-active position (NP), wherein the inflatable portions (200) are deflated,- an active position (AP), wherein the inflatable portions (200) are inflated, preferably, wherein when the detection means (300) detect that said container (100) is falling or had fallen overboard, said inflatable portions takes an active position (AP), wherein the inflatable portions are being inflated via the hydrostatic self-releaser (400) and the one or more gas providers, and wherein said inflatable portions (200) are being integrated in the container (100).

2. A container (100) according to claim 1 , wherein the container (100) comprises at least two main cavities (600) for containing a main inflatable portion (200), said main cavities being positioned at each respective side (140) of the container (100).

3. A container (100) according to claim 2, wherein each main cavity (600) comprises a main inflatable portion (200) and one or more gas providers (500).

4. A container (100) according to claim 2-3, wherein each side of the container comprises the same number of cavities (600), and / or wherein the position of the cavities (600) is substantially symmetrical on each side (140) of the container.

5. A container (100) according to claim 2-4, wherein the container comprises cover plates (700) for covering the cavities (600) when being in a non-active position (NP), and wherein the number of cover plates correspond to the number of cavities, preferably the cover plates (700) are hinged to the container (100).

6. A container (100) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein each side (140) of the container comprises at least two cover plates (700), preferably four, and wherein the cover plates (700) are hinged substantially at the horizontal middle line (ML) of the side of the container (100), and / or wherein the at least two cover plates (700) on each side (140) are opening towards the middle line (ML) of the container side in an active position (AP).

7. A container (100) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the container comprises eight main inflatable portions (200), four main inflatable portions at each side (140) of the container.

8. A container (100) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the container comprises:- mounting plates (800) positioned inside each cavity (600), and wherein each of the main inflatable portions (200) are mounted on a mounting plate (800).

9. A container (100) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the gas provider is a gas cartridge (500’) having a tube or pipe like shape, and preferably wherein the length of the gas cartridge (500) is between the length of the main inflatable portion (200) and the length of the main cavity (600).

10. A container (100) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the gas provider (500) is at least one chamber (500”) comprising at least one chemical substance and / or chemical compound, wherein when said substances and / or compound is activated, gas is provided.

11. A container (100) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the gas provider (500) is at least two chambers (500”), wherein the chambers each comprises a chemical substance and / or compound, and wherein when the gas provider is activated, the content of the at least two chambers is combined and provides a gas.

12. A container (100) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the gas provider comprises a box (560), wherein said box comprises at least one chamber (500”) and a blow-out pipe (550), preferably comprising two chambers (500”).

13. A container (100) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the container comprises:- a ventilation grid (900),- a grid inflatable portion (920),- preferably a grid hydrostatic self-releaser (940) and / or a grid gas provider (950), such as:- a ventilation gas cartridge, and / or- a ventilation chamber comprising at least one chemical substance and / or chemical compound, wherein when said substances and / or compound is activated, gas is provided, and wherein, when the container (100) is falling or has fallen overboard, the ventilation grid (900) is adapted to block water from entering the container through the grid by the grid inflatable portion (920) being inflated.

14. A container (100) according to claim 10, wherein the grid inflatable portion(920) is positioned behind the grid (900), such as in a grid cavity (960).

15. A container (100) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the container further comprises a waterproof box (150) or waterproof chamber (150) for protecting electronic parts, said box or chamber at least comprising:- one or more circuit boards, and one or more batteries.

16. A container (100) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the container further comprises an antenna (160), said antenna being adapted to send a signal of the location of the container, preferably the antenna (160) is positioned substantially in the center point (cp) of an end of the container, preferably at the opposite end (130) of container doors, preferably the antenna (160) is encased (170) in a waterproof material, such as epoxy.

17. A container (100) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the container is a part of a system, said system comprising more than one container, such as a stack of containers (100).

18. A method for rescuing an overboard falling container from sinking, preferably a container (100) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein said method comprises the steps of:- detecting, by detecting means (300) such as electrodes, that a container is falling or has fallen overboard,- activating hydrostatic self-releasers (400),- activating a gas provider (500), wherein said activations lead to inflatable portions (200), integrated in a container, to go from:- a non-active position (NP), wherein the inflatable portions (200) are deflated in cavities (600) of the container behind cover plates (700), to: an active position (AP), wherein the inflatable portions (200) are inflated, preferably inflated via hydrostatic self-releasers (400) and gas providers (500),- preferably, sending a signal by an antenna (160) of the location of the container (100), such that the container can be salvaged, wherein the steps of the method can be executed in any order and / or executed simultaneously.

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